Principal
Mrs. Anne McNeill Gattman
agattman@stjeromeschool.org
Hello and welcome to St. Jerome School! I am grateful to be serving in my eighth year as the principal of this joyful school. I am proud to lead a crew of dedicated, loving and brilliant educators. We are all committed to providing an excellent, personal and fulfilling Catholic education for our mighty students. Christ is alive in our school and in each of our community members. I would love to share our school with you.
I am a graduate of St. Mary's College, the University of St. Thomas and Hamline University. I have a B.A. in Elementary Ed and Psychology, a M.A.in Curriculum and Instruction and a K-12 Principal License. I taught and held various roles in the St. Paul Public Schools before joining the St. Jerome family. My greatest lessons, and joys, have come from my 25+ years as a mom to three fabulous young men, Tim, Peter and Luke, and my life with my husband, Jim. When I am not at St. Jerome, you might find me at the cabin, walking the dogs, headed to Indiana to see my parents, or tucked in with a great book. Peace to you!
Director of Advancement
Mr. Craig Fiedler
cfiedler@stjeromeschool.org
A Chicago area native, University of St. Thomas and Franciscan University of Steubenville alumnus, I relocated back to the Twin Cities in 2018. My previous school work took me down to the Archdiocese of New Orleans, where I helped rebuild a school destroyed by Hurricane Katrina. I am a 30 plus year Catholic school student/educator and so thrilled to be working with the team here at St. Jerome.
I encourage you to contact me should you be interested in learning more about our programs, enrolling your child, and/or if you’re financially able to make a gift to our student community! “It’s a great day to be a Lion – All day, every day!”
Director of Enrollment and Preschool
Mrs. Grace Zappa
gzappa@stjeromeschool.org
This will be my seventh year at St. Jerome! I attended St. Jerome from Kindergarten through 8th grade, graduating in 2010. Since I did not attend preschool as a St. Jerome student, I had to return to experience it as a teacher. My husband and I have a one-year old son, Gino, and are expecting another baby boy in January. I am so excited to begin a new school-year at St. Jerome and experience Christ’s light in our preschool and the SJS community through my new role in enrollment!
Administrative Assistant
Ms. Sue Costello
secretary@stjeromeschool.org
I have been a part of St. Jerome Parish for my whole life.
I am the proud mom of three sons who attended Kids Korner and religious education at St. Jerome. I also have five incredible grandsons and one beautiful granddaughter. Family is very important to me and that is why I love working at St. Jerome School. I love being a part of this family and meeting so many wonderful children and their parents.
In my down time you can find me reading, going for a walk or just playing outside with family. I hope you will stop in and say “Hi”.
Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Nay Paw
secretary@stjeromeschool.org
My name is Nay Paw Maria and I'm a proud mom.
I have a Bachelor degree in Communication from Metropolitan State University. I lived with my family and this July 2023 I got to welcome my baby Angela. During my free time, I love to take my family for adventures, camping, and going on pilgrimage. I love to explore different types of food and enjoy cooking. I have 2 siblings who are currently attending St. Jerome and 2 who already graduated.
I'm blessed to be part of the Lions team.
Karen Liaison
Mrs. Dah Po
dahpoe1980@gmail.com
My name is Elda Dah Po. You can call me Dah Po.
I’m married and have no children yet. Only God can do a miracle.
I have been working here at St. Jerome School for 6 years as a Family liaison. I’m speaking Karen, Burmese, and English. We have 65 families that I’m working with those that speak Karen and Burmese in our school.
In 2012, me and my mom, when we came to the USA, it was very difficult to start our lives in a new country. Everywhere I go, I need an interpreter because of the language barrier. It was so hard to find an interpreter for help. I started learning English for a few years, also worked part time, and learned how to drive. It was a little bit too much for me as a new arrival.
One day I told myself not to give up; so many people still needed your help. I have the gift to serve. I've been volunteering for so many years as an interpreter in the St. Casimir, Karen, community. I learned so many things through my experience.
Now that I’m here at St. Jerome, my dream to help people comes true.
I’m so glad to be a part of the team.
Preschool
Ms. Michelle McKenzie - Preschool Teacher - 3-4’s
mmckenzie@stjeromeschool.org
I have been working here at St. Jerome's for about nine years. I have been a member of the St. Jerome's community for as long as I can remember and was a student here myself, attending preschool through 8th grade at St. Jerome! I love to do arts and crafts with the children. When not playing with kids, I like to read books and watch movies.
Preschool
Mr. Paulie Yarbrough-Wright - Preschool Aide - 4-5’s
Hello friends! My name is Paulito Yarbrough-Wright and I have been working at Saint Jerome School since the summer of 2022. I was born and raised in St. Paul, MN. I am the second youngest of 5, and some of you may know me through my older brother Machie, who has worked in Kids Korner for 10 years. Even though this is my third year working at Saint Jerome, I actually went to school here from kindergarten through 4th grade. After Saint Jerome School, I went to King of Kings and then for high school, I went to Concordia Academy. Working with kids has always been my passion and I’m very excited for my career here at Saint Jerome School. Some other passions I have are playing basketball and spending as much time with family as I can.
1st Grade
Ms. Annette Ruhnke
aruhnke@stjeromeschool.org
My name is Annette Ruhnke and I have the privilege of being the 1st grade teacher at Saint Jerome. This is my sixth year at St. Jerome. Previously I taught for 13 years in the South Washington County School District, Minnesota. I had numerous long-term and full-time positions in all grades through fifth grade. Before that, I taught in a private Catholic school teaching fifth and sixth graders. In addition to being a teacher, I am also a parent of three children. All my children have graduated from high school. My two eldest children are working at a place that makes parts for NASA and in a daycare respectively. My youngest just started college in North Dakota.
My education philosophy is all students can learn and grow academically. I like to make learning fun, give students choices, and help students feel safe. I believe in using a variety of teaching strategies to meet the needs of all learners. My expectations for learning are that together with the help of God, we will be happy, be safe, be respectful, grow, help each other, work together, work hard and have a great year!
Preschool
Ms. Rose Livingston - Preschool Aide - 3-4’s
rlivingston@stjeromeschool.org
I love kids and have volunteered as a reading tutor, which is what inspired me to work here in the preschool. St. Jerome is an amazing experience with a lot of wonderful kids and great people.
Kindergarten
Ms. Teagan Hughes - soon-to-be Mrs. Teagan Moberg!
tmoberg@stjeromeschool.org
Hi there! I’m Teagan Hughes, soon to be Teagan Moberg in September as I’m getting married! I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Special Education, with a background in teaching special education and social-emotional learning. After 3 years of teaching, my fiance and I recently moved to Minnesota. I was drawn to St. Jerome for its welcoming community and commitment to nurturing both academic and personal growth. I’m excited to join a school that values every student and fosters a supportive environment. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy hiking with my dog Luna, cooking, gardening and spending time with loved ones. I look forward to a fantastic year together and can’t wait to get to know you all!
2nd Grade
Ms. Naw Dee Paw
npaw2@stjeromeschool.org
Hi there! I am excited to join St. Jerome School as a 2nd-grade teacher for the 2024-2025 school year. I earned my B.S. in Elementary Education from St. Catherine University and have been closely connected with St. Jerome for many years, serving as a teacher assistant and completing my student teaching here. The supportive and welcoming community at St. Jerome drew me back, and I’m thrilled to be part of this incredible team once again.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy swimming, going on long rides, and spending quality time with my family, friends, and cousins. I’m excited to bring my passion for teaching to my new role and look forward to working with the wonderful students and families at St. Jerome.
Preschool
Mr. Machie Wright - Preschool Teacher - 4-5’s
mwright@stjeromeschool.org
Hey everyone, I’m Machie and I’ve been working at Saint Jerome School for a little over 10 years now. I was born and raised in Saint Paul, MN. I am the oldest of 5, and all of my siblings have gone to Saint Jerome School for at least part of their schooling. This is my 4th year teaching in the “Faithful Beginnings” preschool program, and 10th year working in the “Kids Korner” after school program. I love working at Saint Jerome School because of how close of a community it is, and how great each child is that goes here. Outside of school, I enjoy watching movies, spending time with my wife and daughter, Leia, and exploring Minnesota. You may find me watching over the check lanes at the Roseville Super Target (which is my other passion in life).
Kindergarten
Ms. Moo Paw - Academic Support Paraprofessional
mpaw@stjeromeschool.org
Hello, My name is Moo Paw. I'm thrilled to be working with kindergarten again this year. I had previously worked at another school as a paraprofessional for the fourth grade and preschool. I start working at St. Jerome as a paraprofessional for kindergarteners in 2022. I'm currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in education. I enjoy working at St. Jerome because everyone is like one big family, and most importantly, I enjoy working with children and seeing their growth and development. During my free time, I like to cook, learn how to play the piano as a hobby, and spend time with my family.
K-2 Academic Intervention
Sr. Audrey Lindenfelser, SSND - ParaProfessional
alindenfelser@stjeromeschool.org
I am a School Sister of Notre Dame (SSND) which is an international congregation with sisters serving in over 30 countries. For SSND, education means enabling persons to reach the fullness of their potential as individuals created in God’s image. I’m thrilled for the opportunity to use my skills and experience to do just that during my 4th year at St. Jerome School. I also appreciate the gift of engaging with students and staff of diverse backgrounds at St. Jerome, where deep respect and care are surely felt.
I’m the oldest of 9 children, growing up on a farm near Monticello, MN. I have over 50 years of experience in teaching and administration, with a degree in elementary education through Mt. Mary University in Wisconsin, a masters in nonpublic school administration from St. Thomas University and reading licensure from Hamline University. I enjoy hiking, family get-togethers, and sharing life with my SSND community.
3rd Grade
Mrs. Sarah Moberg
smoberg@stjeromeschool.org
I graduated from UND with a degree in elementary education with a kindergarten endorsement. I later obtained a master's degree in special education from Bethel University where I helped to implement a new collegiate program for students with disabilities. I am a mom of 4 amazing young men and a wife to an incredibly supportive husband. I started teaching at St. Jerome in 2018 and I love this community! When I am not teaching, I am watching college football and hockey or at my cabin enjoying God’s beautiful creation! My favorite type of book to read is historical fiction.
I believe every child is made for greatness and I work to provide the environment and culture in my classroom to help each child realize their greatness.
4th Grade
Mrs. Beth Tollefson
btollefson@stjeromeschool.org
I’m from Woodbury, MN and my husband, Ross, and I have two daughters, a son, and a bulldog. When I’m not teaching (or grading!), I love reading and watching sports, especially hockey. My happy place is the north shore… and my favorites are the color purple, panda bears, and the letter Q!!
I CANNOT wait for the fourth grade adventure to begin! My students are such gifts: they are Strong, they are Smart, and they are Loved!
I am truly blessed and my heart is smiling!
5th Grade
Ms. Ruth Giefer
rgiefer@stjeromeschool.org
I have been teaching at St. Jerome since 2013. I was born and raised in St. Paul, attended Holy Childhood Grade School and Totino Grace High School. I graduated with a B.S. in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin and went on to earn my Master's Degree in Reading Instruction and Curriculum Development. One of my favorite pastimes is reading. Through all the rich wonderful literature in our curriculum I hope to instill this passion and curiosity in my students. I personally enjoy Edgar Allen Poe and his tales of mystery.
3-5 Academic Intervention
Mrs. Lita Friesen
Hello! My name is Lita Friesen. I am new to St. Jerome as of this school year of 2024-25. I am one of the Academic Support paraprofessionals working with students in grades 1-5. I am the youngest of eight children and grew up in St. Paul. I attended Catholic grade school, high school and university. I have my B.S. degree in elementary education, and a Master’s degree in gifted, creative and talented education from the University of St. Thomas. I have dual Minnesota teaching licenses in 1-6 and 5-8 science.
Recently, I retired as a full-time teacher. However, I wanted to continue to work with children within a Catholic school community so I am very happy that I can do just that here at St. Jerome’s. I love building relationships with students, families and staff. I also love to work collaboratively to help students become competent and independent learners who strive to be all that God has called them to be! Away from St. Jerome’s, I enjoy spending time hiking with my husband in the great outdoors, playing cards and board games with my husband and two adult children, sitting and watching birds and other critters in our backyard, and reading a variety of literature - from mysteries to memoirs to poetry. I am so glad to be a part of the St. Jerome school community!
Academic Support
Ms. Ana Lopez - Grades 1-3, Spanish Interpreter
My name is Ana Lopez, I’m from St. Paul, MN. I went to school at the university of Minnesota Duluth where I graduated with a major in political science. I have worked with kids since my early years in high school, where I nannied, tutored and coached children of all ages. I am at St. Jerome today because I am working on going to law school and getting my law degree in child advocacy for children of all backgrounds and figured working with children would help me really understand to communicate and how to be a voice for children who need support. My parents are both from Mexico so I am fluent in both English and Spanish and love to learn about all kinds of different cultures and their cuisine. Outside of teaching I enjoy making handmade jewelry and going on long runs with music.
Academic Support
Ms. Paulina Moo - Grades 4-5
This is my first year working at Saint Jerome School. Two of my siblings and a niece are currently attending Saint Jerome’s and one sibling who’s an alumna. I graduated from Saint Agnes in 2022. I am currently in my third year, majoring in Art Education, at Concordia University. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and being on the pottery wheel making bowls and vases.
Middle School
Ms. Emma McGlone - English/6th Grade Homeroom
emcglone@stjeromeschool.org
Here we go, year five! I am proud to work at St. Jerome School, and grateful to serve such a bright and joyful community of young scholars. As the Middle School English teacher, I am committed to fostering a learning environment where every student can be and feel successful. Our students are BRILLIANT, and I cannot wait to see another year full of lightbulb moments!
When I'm not teaching or coaching volleyball, I'm finding more coffee, building a puzzle, or with my family. Fun fact: nineteen of my family members have gone to school here!
As a SJS alum myself (class of '14 woo!), this place will always be special to me. It only feels right to give where so much was given to me growing up. Once a Lion, always a Lion!
Middle School
Mr. Daniel Lopez - Math/7th gr. Homeroom
dlopez@stjeromeschool.org
I attended Catholic Schools growing up and obtained an Aerospace Engineering degree from the U of MN. I then worked as an engineer in the airline industry for 25 years. One of my most memorable projects was working on a VIP interior modification to fly NBA teams around the country and overseas!
I’ve coached youth sports for over 20 years (baseball, basketball, softball, wrestling, football, soccer). This fall I am coaching Junior High football, and recently coached High School freshman football, spring basketball at St Agnes and my daughters’ softball team this summer.
My hobbies include playing guitar, radio controlled toys, playing basketball and rooting for Minnesota sports teams.
I'm looking forward to teaching at St. Jerome and I can't wait to get to know each of my students. Hope to have found a home here at St Jerome!
Middle School
Mr. Pat Wallner - History
pjwallner@stjeromeschool.org
My name is Pat Wallner or “Mr. W.” I have had the great fortune to have been teaching at St. Jerome School for over 30 years. I have taught various subjects, but teaching History has been my main area of instruction. St. Jerome School has truly been a great blessing in my life. St. Jerome School is a friendly school with a wonderful Christian/Catholic environment.
I am originally from West St. Paul and attended St. Joseph’s grade school, St. Thomas Academy, and St. Thomas College.
I still enjoy playing a bit of hockey for fun as well as biking and cross country skiing with my two Golden Retrievers.
Thank you, St. Jerome School, Church and Community, for all of your support over the years!!
Middle School
Mrs. Shelly Berthiaume - English Language Arts/Religion/8th Grade Homeroom
I am Shelly Berthiaume, a wife, mom and Middle School ELA/Religion teacher. My husband, Judd, and I married in 2005 and have six kids: Rosella, Mary, Judd, Robert, Alice, and Leo. I went to Holy Childhood Grade School, St. Agnes High School and the University of St. Thomas. At UST I earned a double major in Elementary Education and Catholic Studies and a Master's degree in Special Education. I started teaching at SJS in 2006. St. Jerome is a second home to my children and myself. Go Lions! I look forward to teaching our Middle School ELA and Religion. Teaching that God is forgiving and is truly present with us is amazing. In my "free" time I love playing any sport especially softball, volleyball, and soccer. When I can squeeze in a little me time I like to read books such as The Lord of the Rings, War and Peace, Pride and Prejudice, and Harry Potter.
Middle School & Forge
Ms. Marie Joseph - Middle School Science and Prek-8 Forge
m2joseph@stjeromeschool.org
When I'm asked where I work, I like to answer, "I work for God as a teacher at St. Jerome.” I'm starting my second year as a Science specialist, learning alongside middle school students. I also teach preschool through grade 8 in The Forge, which is a creative blending of science, engineering, and art.
I have a Master’s degree in Education from St. Catherine University and an undergraduate degree in print journalism from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. I’ve worked in public relations for scientists, lawyers, and doctors.
I have many favorite books, places to hike, and Bible verses. Most recently, I've been reading Flavia de Luce books, kayaking on the St. Croix River, and pedaling on the Hiawatha Trail on the Idaho/Montana border.
I am so excited for the new school year! Welcome to success!
Art Enrichment
Mrs. Maura McEvoy
I was born and raised in S. Paul with my six sisters and one brother.
I went to St. Marks grade school and St. Joseph's Academy for high school. I did a secondary education degree at the U of M, a Kindergarten and El Ed certification program at Hamline University and a master's degree in Educational Leadership at St. Thomas University.
Terry and I married in '72. We liked to travel and hike then and we do now. When at home I also like reading, gardening and creating things. Our children, Christopher, Meredith, Carson and Connor, are all adults in the best sense of the word. Life is good.
My favorite piece of literature depends upon the moment and the mood. But I enjoy mysteries and histories and I love Shakespeare. I've even gotten to direct his works with students.
I join Ms. Joseph one week a month to teach art to the students. I love the "Aha!" moments in learning and teaching. I like to deliver them, receive them and celebrate them. As I said 'Life is good.'
Physical Education
Ms. Melissa Rogers
mrogers@stjeromeschool.org
Hello! My name is Melissa Rogers and I am so happy to be here!
I grew up in East St. Paul, about 10 minutes away from St. Jerome, attended Presentation school K-8 and Hill Murray 9-12. Afterwards, I moved to Duluth, for school, and graduated from the University of Minnesota - Duluth with a bachelor's degree in Community Health with a minor in Psychology. I then moved back to St. Paul and worked at a group home for developmentally disabled adults. I was there for 12 years as a coordinator and then as a manager. Over the years, I have coached 12 seasons of HS girls basketball and 5 seasons of school, recreational and club volleyball. In 2016, I started substitute teaching and found that I absolutely loved it. I am now at St. Jerome as a full time teacher and could not be happier! The St. Jerome community is one like no other, and I am truly blessed to be a part of it. I hope to have found my home here
Away from work, I spend my time with family and friends. You can either find me out on a lake: fishing, boating or swimming, watching a sporting event, (I love my Minnesota teams, even though I am constantly disappointed) or around a campfire with those I love.
Music & Library
Ms. Sophie Emery
semery@stjeromeschool.org
Hello! I’m Ms. Emery and I’m thrilled to be joining the SJS team! I grew up in Bloomington, MN and I have been stationed in Duluth attending school and teaching since 2017, so I am thrilled to be back home in the Twin Cities as of this summer!
In my spare time enjoy reading, walking my dog, and of course, making music and singing! I am really looking forward to exploring music together with the SJS students and community this year!
English Language Specialist
Ms. Molly Ryan
mryan@stjeromeschool.org
Hi everyone! My name is Ms. Molly. I came to St. Jerome in 2021 seeking practicum hours while I was pursuing my master’s degree in education. I didn’t know that I would be entering such a welcoming community of students and staff. I immediately felt how special St. Jerome was and ended up seeking employment here.
I am someone who values learning, personal growth, and joy. I feel called to teaching in order to help students realize their potential both academically and as good people in the world.
I earned my undergraduate degree in Communication Studies from Hamline University. Following that, I pursued my master's degree and teaching license in Teaching English as a Second Language at Saint Mary’s University.
When I’m not working, I love spending time with my cats, being outside in nature, going to concerts, and traveling to new places. I’m so grateful to be a part of the St. Jerome community.
Nurse
Ms. Angie Deneen
This is my first year at St. Jerome School and I couldn't be more excited to be a part of this amazing team of individuals. It truly is a blessing to be a part of the SJS community. We have been welcomed with open arms and I am so happy we stumbled upon this gem of a school.
I am a mom of two very energetic boys. Our oldest Patrick has been attending St. Jerome's for three years, and this will be our youngest, Finley's, second year. I love children and have been working in pediatrics as a CMA for over 20 years now, and have been in my current position for 15 years.
City Connects/Counselor
Mr. Greg Bringgold
gbringgold@stjeromeschool.org
I grew up in Eagan so I'm from Minnesota born and raised. This is my second year at St. Jerome as the school counselor/city connects coordinator. Previously, I got started in education by working as a paraprofessional full-time for the middle school at a charter school in St. Paul for 3 years. Before that, I attended the University of Wisconsin-Stout where I earned my bachelor's degree in psychology. I followed that up some years later when I earned my masters degree in School Counseling from Adler Graduate School. The community at St. Jerome is so supportive and I love that about this school. I am so happy to be a part of it.
Away from work, I enjoy spending time with my wife and dog named Jax. I enjoy reading books a lot, especially anything by Dan Brown or Stephen King. I also enjoy spending time solving puzzles, being outside, hiking, golfing, and laying in my hammock. Looking forward to this school year!
Counselor
Mr. Tyler Small
I LOVE working at SJS because the students vibrantly represent all that is great in the world and in their cultures, displayed with unmatched humor and insight. They know they can ask for help because this loving community will wrap itself around anyone with personalized support, deliver it with compassion, and share success in joyful celebration!
I have been a school counselor for over 20 years in New York City and Minnesota, working in the Roseville district and at St. Jerome since 2017. I also work in five other non-public schools and at Roseville Area High School. My passions lie with any students who feel cast aside or that they don't fit in, or that school is just too much for them. I too felt lost after finishing my undergraduate degree at New York University and had at least a dozen jobs before earning my graduate degree in counseling at UW-Superior. Sometimes things work out that way.
When not at work, I love travel with my family, cooking, and doing crossword puzzles with my son.
Nutrition Assistant
Ms. Barb Heine
Barbara Filipovich Heine attended St. Jerome School and her family has been members of St. Jerome’s Parish for over 55 years. She attended Mankato University and studied English and Business Administration. Her background includes 30 years’ experience leading marketing and public relations teams at Motorola Solutions - a Fortune 100 company, as well as at various telecommunications start-up companies. She enjoys traveling with her family, cooking, wine tasting, and charity fundraising activities.
Priest
Fr. Victor Valencia
Parish Secretary
Mrs. Joanne Lamb
Chaplain
Fr. Seraphim Wirth, fbp
I am a member of the ‘Franciscan Brothers of Peace’ religious community. I professed vows on October 30, 2010 and was ordained to the priesthood on May 25, 2019.
I am a missionary at heart and this is what brought me to St. Jerome’s school. St. Jerome’s has a great mission in providing formation for youth from many different cultures.
You will mostly see me celebrating mass and offering confessions for the students during the week. The rest of my time is used in serving as the priest for the Karen Catholic community of MN and beyond. I am also the ‘ Community Servant’ for my religious community.
In my religious life I enjoy praying the Liturgy of the Hours, Eucharistic Adoration and times of sacred silence.
For recreation I enjoy Kayak fishing and camping in the BWCA.
Maintenance
Mr. Greg Johnson
I was born in St. Paul and moved to Maplewood in 1972 - and have lived here ever since. I enjoy going to the movies, watching the Minnesota Wild, and going to the State Fair. I enjoy helping others and that’s why I like working at St. Jerome’s!
Maintenance
Mr. Mike Schreier