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Faculty & Staff |
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Mr. Tom Kalal, Principal I attended Concordia College in River Forest (now Concordia University, Chicago) and received my Bachelor’s degree. This is my 38th year in the teaching ministry. I have been at St. John’s in Lombard for 22 years. I am married to my wife, Ruth, who teaches at St. Peter’s in Schaumburg. My son, Ben, teaches at Hinsdale Central and my daughter-in-law Collette, works at Northwestern Hospital in Chicago. They have two daughters, Grace and Ellie. My daughter, Elizabeth, teaches Kindergarten at St. John’s and she is married to Joe, who teaches at Morton High School. I enjoy bowling in the winter. In the summer I like to play golf and fish. Being the Principal at St. John’s is fun. I get to see many of the students each day. I see many of the adults at church or at athletic events during the week. We are all one big family that takes care of each other and wants what is best for St. John’s. My favorite bible verse is my confirmation verse: God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 Mr. Tom Kalal
Principal |
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Mrs. Dolores Stastny, School Admin Assistant I live in Lombard which I love, with my husband Jay, Daughter Evangeline who is a 3rd grade student here at St. John’s and our new rescue puppy Rags. Hobbies: I enjoy reading, gardening, baking and spending as much time with my family as possible. Favorite Bible Verse: Isaiah 43:1 Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. Mrs. Dolores Stastny
School Admin. Assistant |
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Mrs. Christina Noellsch, Admissions Director Mrs. Christina Noellsch
Admissions Director |
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Mrs. Lucy Bednar, Middle School Math Teacher 8th Grade, Math
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Ms. Nicole Slinkman, 7th Grade, Reading, Language Arts Teacher Education: I graduated from Trinity International University with a BA in English and Secondary Education. Experience: I student taught at Vernon Hills High School in the Spring of 2022. My favorite part of this experience was loving and caring for my students, both inside the classroom and out. I teach because I believe the Lord has called me to it. As a teen, I was always immensely grateful for the Christian adults who took the time to invest in my spiritual growth. Because of their impact on me, mentoring adolescents has become my favorite way to serve the Kingdom of God. Family: I grew up in Orland Park, IL with my parents and three siblings. I have two older sisters and a younger brother. In 2016, we added my brother-in-law into the mix too! My family also owns a 16 year old Shih-tzu named Gracie and a parakeet named Dot. Hobbies: I love music and art. I started playing the clarinet at 10 years old. In recent years, I picked up guitar and piano! When I’m not playing an instrument or singing, I love to create calligraphy designs for myself and my friends! Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 1:6– For I am confident in this very thing, that He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus. Ms. Nicole Slinkman
7th Grade, Reading, Language Arts Teacher |
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Mr. William Bales, 6th Grade, Social Studies Teacher |
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Ms. Megan Iftner, Fifth Grade Teacher Education: Bachelors of Arts in English and Education- Marquette University Experience: I have taught a variety of age groups, including 4th grade classroom teacher and 6th grade math and science in Catholic schools, one of which was in Boston, MA. I have also taught 2nd-3rd graders in a mixed-age classroom at a very small school in rural Wisconsin. I teach because it is what God called me to do and because it may be genetic. Three of my four grandparents were teachers, as well as many other relatives. My role model, my grandpa, was an educator, then high school principal, for almost 40 years. He was also a man of great faith in the Lord. I have felt the calling to be a teacher my whole life, and have always been drawn to Christian schools. I care very much for the whole child- academically, spiritually, emotionally, and physically, and it is my goal to help students grow in all these areas. Family: I am originally from Harvard, IL. My family and I live in Villa Park; we moved here 8 years ago and feel so at home in our community. My daughters, Savanna and Sienna, attend St. John’s School (3rd and Pre-4) and my son, Noah, is a Freshman at The University of Iowa. We also have a crazy Vizsla named Maisy, and a cat, Snowbelle. Hobbies: I enjoy running and taking my dog for walks. I also really like cooking and baking. On a quiet night I will either be in my backyard around a campfire with my family or watching documentaries. I like spending time with friends and family, exploring new places, and trying new foods. Favorite Bible Verse “She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.” PROVERBS 31:25 Ms. Megan Iftner
5th Grade Teacher |
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Mrs. Kim Hicks, 4th Grade Teacher Education: National Louis University: Master of Arts in Teaching: Elementary Education (K-9) Middle School Math Endorsement Illinois State University: Master of Science in Counseling Psychology Illinois State University: Bachelor of Science in Psychology Minor in Spanish I have four years of teaching experience at St. John’s, and six years of working at St. John’s as an aide and substitute teacher. Prior to teaching, I also worked as a mental health counselor for a county mental health center and local hospital. Family: I am blessed to have a wonderful husband of thirty-one years, Lonnie, and three precious adult children, L.T., Amanda, and Trevor. I also have a sweet dog, named Callie. Hobbies: I most enjoy spending time with my family and friends, dining out, vacationing, attending sporting events, or just relaxing. I also enjoy cooking, reading, and playing games. What I like about SJ: I was blessed to be a child who attended a Lutheran grade school when I was younger. That experience was life-changing for me. It fostered my relationship with the Lord, afforded me a quality education, and developed my sense of confidence and self-esteem. All under the umbrella of God’s love, grace, and compassion. I wanted the same for my children, who all attended a Lutheran preschool and grade school as well. I am grateful for the circumstances that brought my family and me to St. John’s. At St. John’s we have found a loving church home and Christ centered community of wonderful friends. It was after coming here that I felt called to return to school in order to serve the Lord as a teacher at St. John’s. I went back to graduate school, got my teaching degree, and was blessed to be offered the fourth grade teaching position here. I consider it a blessing everyday to be able to educate my students about all of the wonders of our world, while watching them grow in wisdom and confidence. It is a blessing everyday to be a part of this ministry. Favorite Bible Verse: “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and He helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise Him.” (Psalm 28:7) Mrs. Kim Hicks
4th Grade Teacher |
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Ms. Ashley Samuta
3rd Grade Teacher |
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Mrs. Tricia Scholtens, 2nd Grade Teacher Education: Elementary Education degree from Concordia University in River Forest Teaching Experience: I am in my 22nd year of teaching. I have taught grades Preschool through Eighth grade in a variety of different capacities. Favorite Verse: Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6 Family: I have been married to my husband Brian for over 25 years. We have 2 children. Our oldest daughter is currently working with the preschool aftercare at St. John’s. Our son is currently in 2nd grade here at St. John’s. Our family has loved being a part of the St. John’s community since 2012. We feel that God led us to this wonderful church family and I am so happy to be teaching our wonderful second graders again this year. Mrs. Tricia Scholtens
2nd Grade Teacher |
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Mrs. Laura Weston, 1st Grade Teacher Education: Elmhurst College: BA in Elementary Education with Minors in History and Theology National Louis University: Masters in Education with specializations in Curriculum and Instruction and Early Childhood Education Teaching License: State of Illinois, Birth through Ninth Grade with specialized endorsements in Middle School, Science and Social Studies Concordia University Chicago: Graduate of the Colloquy Program 2015 Experience: 15 years teaching, all at St. John’s but in different grades/positions around the building Personal Story: My husband, Nick, and I were married at St. John’s before I ever imagined that I would teach here. We have had the pleasure of having our two children, Andy and Rachel, grow up within the Church and School community of St. John’s. We have witnessed the fantastic foundation in faith and education given to students here! When I am not working on school or church related things, you could find me spending time with my family, quilting, baking, working on cross-stitch, or reading. I feel so blessed to be teaching within our Christ-Centered community! I love to partner with parents as their children learn to attend school for the first several years. It is so much fun to spend my days helping students to learn about our Heavenly Father and the wonderful world that He created for us! Favorite Bible Verse: Matthew 6:25-34 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” Mrs. Laura Weston
1st Grade Teacher |
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Mrs. Lizzy Helton, Kindergarten Teacher Education: I graduated from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign in 2016 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education. Prior to U of I, I attended Willowbrook High School. I am also a proud alumni of St. John’s! Experience in Teaching: This is my sixth year teaching at St. John’s and my seventh year total. At St. John’s I have taught Preschool, Kindergarten, and 3rd Grade! I love teaching here because I get to incorporate Jesus’ love into everything that we do. I also love the community at St. John’s. The staff and families here at St. John’s truly make me feel like this is my home away from home. Favorite Bible Verse: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28 Family: My husband, Joe, and I got married this past summer. We live in Villa Park with our Golden Retriver, Chief! Joe is also a teacher. He teaches Special Education at Morton West High School in Berwyn. He coaches football and wrestling there, and I love attending all of his games and duals. Mr. Kalal, our principal here at St. John’s, is my dad! Both he and my mom are Lutheran school educators, and they have had a huge impact on my teaching career. Joe and I are blessed to have both sides of our immediate family close by. One of our favorite things to do is to spend time with our two nieces. Hobbies: In my free time, I love to craft! I enjoy making t shirts and wood signs the most. I also enjoy playing volleyball and bowling. Mrs. Lizzy Helton
Kindergarten Teacher |
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Ms. Zhanna Kasperovich, Preschool 4 Teacher Experience: I have taught at the primary level (ages 3-6) for thirteen years and my background is in the Montessori approach to education. I received my Montessori diploma through MNW in Portland, OR and I received my BS in Child and Family Ministry through Moody Bible Institute. For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed working with children—whether in a Sunday School, camp, or school capacity. This is my first year teaching at a Christ-centered school and it is such a gift to me. I love Jesus with my whole heart—he is my first love, and it is a high honor to share Jesus with children who will spend the rest of their lives getting to know him too. Personal Story: I was born in Kiev, Ukraine and immigrated to the United States when I was two years old. I am the middle of five children. I have two older sisters, two younger brothers, and two parents who are very dear to me. I enjoy spending time with my friends and family; traipsing through my neighborhood and city; reading; writing; traveling when I can; watching my favorite comedians; and a plethora of other particulars. Favorite Bible verse: My current favorite Bible verse is one that captured my attention this past summer. The passage is found in Hosea 11:4 and it speaks about God’s love for Israel. “I led them with chords of human kindness, with ties of love. To them I was like one who lifts a little child to the cheek, and I bent down to feed them.” The imagery of this passage is so beautiful to me. Ms. Zhanna Kasperovich
Preschool 4 Teacher |
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Ms. Ashley Strong, Preschool Mixed Age Teacher Preschool Mixed Age Teacher
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Mrs. Amy Hufford, Preschool 3 Teacher Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Concordia University Chicago with an endorsement in Reading, Special Education and Music. Post-undergraduate certification from Missouri State University in Early Childhood and Special Education. Experience: The Lord blessed me over the years with wonderful teaching ministries in Missouri and Illinois, where I have taught Kindergarten, PS 3’s, PS 4’s, Pre-K 5’s, Special Education K-8, Early Childhood Music classes and private music lessons. I am blessed to be in my fifth year of teaching at St. John’s School. Personal Story: I grew up in a family of teachers, and both of my parents taught in Lutheran schools. My two sisters are teachers as well, and my brother is married to one, so as you can see, it must be in our genes! The Lord blessed my husband Marty and me with four children - three sons and a daughter, and they are the joys of my life, honestly. Besides being a teacher, wife and mom, I love being part of the music ministry at church, teaching Middle School Sunday School, teaching piano lessons, and enjoying laughter and fun with my family and friends. I am so thankful to the Lord for the opportunity to teach at St. John’s School because sharing Christ with children, parents, and fellow co-workers is the most incredible blessing a person can ask for! At St. John’s I get to do it every single day. Mrs. Amy Hufford
Preschool 3 Teacher |
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Mrs. Kim Wegrzyn, Special Resource Teacher Education: BS from Elmhurst College, Early Childhood Education with Special Education Endorsement. Year of Experience: 16 years in many different positions 11 years in positions at St. John’s Family: I am married to Rev. Dr. Dan Wegrzyn and we have 3 boys. Luke (24), Jack (22) who both graduated from St. John’s and Daniel (12) who attends St. John’s currently. We currently live in Lombard with all 3 boys at home. Dan and I both grew up in Lombard and both of our families are still in this area. My parents also attend St. John’s and have since Daniel’s birth in 2008. I come from a family of 5 with 2 younger sisters, we are very close. Much of my extended family is still in the Chicagoland area so I am close with many cousins as well. Hobbies: I don’t really have a hobby, but there are many things I enjoy doing. I like cooking, and being a mom. I enjoy workouts like bike riding and recently have taken up running again. I love to read historical fiction on school breaks. I have a hard time putting down a good book! I love puzzles and game nights with my family. What I like about SJ: My favorite thing about St. John’s is the community we are to each other, and how as a church and school we become extended family to each other. Favorite Bible Verse: Dan had this engraved in my wedding band: Ruth 1:16 “Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God” Mrs. Kim Wegrzyn
Special Resource Teacher |
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Mr. Austin Esterly Physical Education Teacher Education: I graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin with a BA in General Business and a minor in marketing. Experience: I coached basketball camp at Glenbard East my junior and senior year. I have also subbed as a P.E. teacher previously at St. John’s during the 2022-2023 school year. Although the degree I earned was in business, I have felt God calling me into a role that helps youth learn the love of Christ. Family: I have lived, since birth, in Lombard with my Mom, Dad and 2 brothers. I am the middle child of the bunch and am grateful for such a great family. My family also has 2 dogs that we love. Hobbies: I am an amateur disc golfer who competes in leagues and tournaments weekly. I also played Esports in college and enjoy coaching some video games. Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Mr. Austin Esterly
Physical Education Teacher |
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Mrs. Denise Dabisch, Spanish Teacher Mrs. Denise Dabisch
Spanish Teacher |
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Mrs. Leigh Becker, Music Teacher Education: Syracuse University, Syracuse, NY: BA Music Education, MA Music Education Teaching Experience: 12 years teaching a variety of grade levels K-6 general music (public school), 14 years piano teaching 7 year olds to adults Years at St. John’s: 2018-present Family: Husband Scott, married since 2008; children: Devin age 10, Paige age 7 Hobbies: I love reading for fun and for learning. I also enjoy cross stitching and crocheting. While not educationally trained in teaching at Lutheran schools, I have been a Lutheran all my life. I attended Immanuel Lutheran Elmhurst as a student, and have always attended Lutheran churches, contributing musically how I can. Church is a very important part of my life, and that of my family. Favorite Bible verse: Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This verse speaks to me, as I am a planner. I know that I need to let go and trust that God has a plan for my life, and am continually reminding myself of that. Mrs. Leigh Becker
Music Teacher |
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Ms. Hannah Garnier, Art Teacher Education: Bachelors of Science in Education from Messiah University 2011 (studio art minor) Masters in Teaching Art Education from George Mason University 2020 Experience: I taught first and second grade for two years at a small Christian school in Maine and my school did not have art. During the second year teaching, I volunteered to teach art and I was hooked! From then on, I taught art at Christian and private schools in Michigan and Virginia. I grew up in Christian education and I wouldn’t teach anywhere else! When I realized how much I loved teaching in the art room, that’s when I had the opportunity to return to school and get my masters so I could teach K-12 art officially. Family: My husband, Aaron and I live in Downers Grove with our three puppies, Mikey, Scooter, and Stevie Girl. We attend St. John’s Lutheran Church. We are new to the area and originally from New York. When I am not teaching, you might find me in my craft room, shopping, out to eat with my husband, or taking my dogs on a walk. Hobbies: I love to craft with felt. I do a lot of cutting and gluing to make holiday banners and childrens activities for my home business. I also love to bake, decorate my home, and go shopping! Favorite Bible Verse: “Do not let kindness and truth leave you; Bind them around your neck, Write them on the tablet of your heart.” Proverbs Ms. Hannah Garnier
Art Teacher |
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Mr. Josh Kwiatowski
1st Grade Aide |
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Mr. Sean Nilles Kindergarten Aide Mr. Sean Nilles
Kindergarten Aide |
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Mrs. Sara Koonce Preschool 4 Aide Mrs. Sara Koonce
Preschool 4 Aide |
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Mrs. Nicole Guilfoyle Preschool Mixed Age Aide Mrs. Nicole Guilfoyle
Preschool Mixed Age Aide |
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Coming Soon
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Mrs. Kristina Hillyard Preschool 3 Aide Mrs. Kristina Hillyard
Preschool 3 Aide |
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Mrs. Joanna Payne LEAP Resource Aide Mrs. Joanna Payne
LEAP Resource Aide |
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Mrs. Nikki Imlah After Care Mrs. Nikki Imlah
After Care |
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Ms. Sandy Smith Librarian Ms. Sandy Smith
Librarian |
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Executive Director Executive Director
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Rev. Dan Wegrzyn, Senior Pastor Education: Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education CUC; Master’s of Divinity, Concordia Seminary, St. Louis; Doctor of Ministry, Northern Seminary, Lisle, IL. Years of service: Pastor in Parma, Ohio, 1989-2003. Pastor here at St. John’s, 2003-present. My Family: I am married to Kim Wegrzyn, LEAP teacher. We have 3 Sons at home, Luke (age 25), Jack (age 23,) Daniel (age 12, 7th grader at SJS) Activities and Hobbies: I enjoy working out, fishing, reading, watching movies, drinking dark roast coffee. Favorite bible verse: I have many verses I love, but my favorite at this time is Nahum 1:7, “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” Rev. Dan Wegrzyn
Senior Pastor |
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Rev. Peter Imlah, Pastor Education: Concordia College River Forest IL - Bachelors of Art Lutheran Education Concordia Seminary St. Louis MO – Specific Ministry Pastor Years of service: New Orleans Lutheran High School – Metairie, LA Rockford Lutheran High School – Rockford, IL Immanuel Lutheran Church and School – Palatine, IL Bethlehem Lutheran Church – Sun Prairie, WI First Lutheran Church – Charlotte, MI Lutheran Church Charities – Addison, IL St. John’s Lutheran Church and School – Lombard, IL (9 years) My family: My wife Nicole have been married for 25 years. We have been blessed with 3 kids; Abigail (23) teaches 5 grade at St. John Lutheran Church and School in New Orleans, Bethany (21) works at a physical therapy clinic in New Orleans, and Joshua (17) is a Senior at Glenbard East with hopes to attend Concordia University Wisconsin. Activities and Hobbies: I love the outdoors biking, hiking or just sitting next to a tree. I also like riding my motorcycle out in the country. Favorite bible verse: Exodus 14:13 "What you love about St. John's" I love that I get to walk alongside other as we journey together on our faith journeys. To see members, support the church and each other with their time, treasures and talents is a true joy. I also enjoy seeing God work in mighty ways in, around and through the members of St. John’s as they grow deeper in their relationship with their Lord and Savior and with each other. Rev. Peter Imlah
Pastor |
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Mrs. Barbara Esterly, Church Admin. Assistant Mrs. Barbara Esterly
Church Admin. Assistant |
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Mr. Joey Shubat, Youth Director Mr. Joey Shubat Youth Director
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Mr. Oscar Gonzalez, Custodian Mr. Oscar Gonzalez
Custodian |