New Employee Highlight
Natalie Harmon - Health/Physical Education
Attended both Purdue University and Rutgers University for undergrad where I was on the club and then D1 rowing team respectively. Was part of historic team to help Rutgers Rowing return to NCAA championships for first time in 18 years. Graduated with a bachelor's degree in exercise science. Attended Northern Illinois University for grad school to earn a master's degree in kinesiology and physical education. Previously worked at a middle school in the western Chicago suburb of Aurora. Moved to southern Illinois to be closer to in-laws and to come work at OTHS to fulfill my dream of becoming a high school PE teacher!
Samantha Bierly - Mathematics
I have just graduated from McKendree University in May of 2024. I will be starting my Education career at OTHS. I am an OTHS alum and am so excited to be returning as it has been a dream of mine ever since I started my path in Education. I am currently a dog mom of two beautiful Labrador Retrievers, Cooper and Sadie, and I live in Trenton with my boyfriend Luke, who is also an OTHS alum.
Ethan Graham - Director of Curriculum and Special Projects
I am originally from Alton. I've worked overseas and in central and southern Illinois, but I've always wanted to return to the St Louis metro area. This will be my 15th year in education and 7th in administration. My wife is in education as well and will be teaching 8th grade English/Lang Arts at Carriel Jr High. We are excited to start a new school year in O'Fallon!
Micheal McGarrity - Social Studies
Teaching was a very natural career for me since both of my parents teach (high school and college levels) plus, my older sister is a middle school educator. I graduated from Belleville East in 2017 and from Illinois Wesleyan University in 2021 with a degree in History, Secondary Education, and minor in English. After graduation, I began work in New Athens High School for three years until I arrived here at OTHS. I chose to apply for OTHS because of the prestige that comes with teaching at a top school in Illinois. A school that prides themselves in academic rigor, strong relations with students in the classroom and parents at home is a place that I want to stay at.
Zoey McDonald - Mathematics
I am a new math teacher at OTHS Smiley Campus, where I will be teaching Geometry with Algebra and Algebra 1. As a 2020 graduate of OTHS, I chose to return to my alma mater because of the supportive and vibrant atmosphere I experienced as a student. After earning my Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Illinois State University in May 2024, I am thrilled to begin my first year of teaching at OTHS. In addition to my teaching role, I am also excited to be serving as an assistant cheerleading coach this year, allowing me to further engage with the community and contribute to our school spirit.
Mark Hostert - Special Education
Entering my 13th year of teaching I come from a family that valued teaching. My father was a Superintendent and Principal throughout many small districts in Southern Illinois. My older brother is also a teacher. I've worked across many school districts from a small school district in Wayne City, to Carbondale, with other stops in between. My last stop was at Fulton Jr. High School. Working at Fulton gave me a glimpse of the City of O'Fallon and how wonderful the community is. In that position, I also had the opportunity to work with the Special Education Department at OTHS. I could see how organized, efficient, and effectiveness of OTHS Student Services. When the opportunity came I jumped at the chance to work with the best as it will allow me to continue to grow as an educator and person. My wife, Tiffany, and I reside in Mascoutah. We have two dogs, Pablo - a chihuahua - (the goodest of boys), and Bella - Schnoodle - (Bellatrix, the little menace). OTHS has been very helpful in transitioning to the district. There are several people that have reached out to help in anyway they can. That warm welcome is incredibly appreciated and I look forward to being an OTHS Panther.
Kevin Krausz - Special Education
I am excited to be at OTHS. I was born in Belleville but grew up in the Chicago Suburbs where I graduated from Stagg High School. Following high school, I attended North Central College before graduating from Knox College. White at Knox, I studied History and Secondary Education and played on the football and baseball teams. I coached football at MacMurray College and then Knox College for a total of 11 years. Following Knox, I spent 1 year in Staunton before my family and I moved to O'Fallon. I taught Algebra and Geometry at Alton High School the last 6 years. I reside in O'Fallon with my wife and 3 children.
Rebecca Hereford - World Language
Hallo! My name is Rebecca Hereford and I am the new German teacher at OTHS. Although new to OTHS, this is my 22nd year as a teacher. I have taught in Illinois, Missouri, Iowa, and Germany. I have a bachelor's in Elementary & Secondary Education and German and a Master's Degree in World Language Instruction. My husband and I met in the area and we are excited to be back and closer to his family. I first heard of O'Fallon when I was in high school band, but I chose to work here due to the wonderful World Language department and friendly atmosphere. I look forward to a great year ahead!
Kristine Ettema - School Nurse
I am Kristine, originally from Colorado. I have been a nurse for 10.5 years. My husband is in the USAF. We have 3 kiddos. I chose OTHS because it is a great school and I wanted support my community