Our Staff

I am grateful to be in my second year supporting Mrs. Terpening in the first and second grades. I hold a master’s degree from George Fox University and am continuing my education as I work toward becoming a teacher; a path shaped by the inspiration and excellence within this community. I love working with young children as their curiosity, open hearts, and eagerness to learn make every day meaningful.

My family has called Abiqua home for more than a decade, and three of my children have thrived here from preschool through eighth grade. Abiqua represents the very best of what education can be: a place where relationships are valued, curiosity is celebrated, and every learner is encouraged to grow to their fullest potential.

Hello! My name is Jacqueline Acosta and I was born and raised in El Paso, TX. I grew up spending summers in the forests of New Mexico camping, hiking, riding ATVs, and swimming in lakes; experiences that sparked my lifelong love for the outdoors and nature. I went on to earn my degree in Ecology and Evolution from The University of Texas at El Paso, then moved to Austin to be closer to family while exploring career paths.

I began working as a science tutor, which inspired me to pursue a teaching license in science. During the summers, I worked as a Biological Science Technician with the National Park Service, where I deepened my passion for fieldwork and conservation. In one of those summer seasons, I met my now fiancé.

Looking for new experiences, we moved to New Mexico, where I taught science at a private school that strengthened both my love of teaching and my connection to science. Life in Albuquerque was filled with hiking in the Sandia Mountains, enjoying Hatch green chile, immersing ourselves in Indigenous and Hispanic art and culture, and tending to our own diverse backyard garden.

After three years, my fiancé accepted an opportunity as a chemist in Albany, Oregon. Together, we relocated to the Pacific Northwest with our dogs. Since arriving, we’ve embraced every season admiring fall harvests of gourds, apples, and hazelnuts; tide pooling and King Tides on the coast in winter; hiking to waterfalls at Silver Falls in early spring; and enjoying concerts in Portland year-round. We’re excited to continue discovering all the Pacific Northwest has to offer.

My name is Abby, and I joined the vibrant Abiqua community in 2021 as the Middle School Choir Teacher, but I’ve been lucky enough to wear many hats since then. I now also teach general music to our youngest learners, manage all school merchandising and marketing, and direct our after-school drama department.

With years of experience in choral music, musical theatre, and solo performance, I bring a deep passion for the arts to everything I do at Abiqua. Whether it’s leading a choir rehearsal, designing new Griffin Gear, or casting the latest K-8 musical, my goal is to create spaces where students can explore their creativity with confidence.

In my classroom, it’s never just about hitting the right notes. I want students to understand the why behind what they’re doing. I believe music and theatre should be should be joyful, expressive, and accessible to every student, no matter their age or ability.

When I’m not harmonizing with my little musicians or knee-deep in play rehearsals, I teach voice lessons from home, perform locally, or get lost in a good book.

In the sixth grade, I attended Carnegie Mellon Institute of Art exclusively on Saturdays. A select few students were awarded a grant for their Saturday attendance to pursue art.

In my earlier years, I engaged in Kay B Toy and Hobby assemblies, where I demonstrated bikes and toys in the mall. Later, I moved to California and established a Jenny Craig in the state.

Throughout my career, I underwent numerous management trainings and received awards for sales and achievements. I achieved the remarkable position of being ranked #1 in the United States and Canada for top sales, earning the Circle of Acrivent Award. Additionally, I received high recommendations for an interview with Gallup for a sales book.

In the pursuit of personal development, I underwent training to identify my top five strengths, which include responsibility, positivity, relator, and achiever.

Having served as a Curves Jenny Craig coach for two years, I transitioned to Abiqua in 2013, where I have been actively involved in childcare. Currently, I lead the childcare team and also cover responsibilities in the kitchen, serve as a teacher assistant, supervise recess, manage the front desk, and handle various tasks such as assisting with laminating, making copies, creating cutouts, checking mail, and other duties as required.

After graduating from high school, I continued my education at Tillamook Bay Community College. My career journey has revolved around working with both developmentally and intellectually disabled adults and children. I've gained valuable experience in providing support and care in group home settings, where fostering a nurturing environment for individuals with diverse needs has been a rewarding aspect of my work. 

Additionally, I've extended my passion for caregiving by contributing to the well-being of children in a daycare center setting. These experiences have not only enriched my professional growth but also deepened my commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of those I serve.

Hi, I'm Courtney. I began teaching at Abiqua in 2018. I graduated from Oregon State University in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Development and Family Sciences, focusing on Child Development. Go Beavers! 

I'm grateful to be a part of the Abiqua community, and I strive to be the best educator for young minds. Learning is fun in little minds, and I have just as much fun as my students, making it an amazing experience.

In my free time, I spend most weekends camping and enjoy the outdoors. I love hiking, traveling, and savoring delicious food, with a preference for savory over sweet. I also have a passion for board games and cherish spending quality time with my husband and two young children. Our family also includes a small dog, two cats, and many fish.

I'm Shannon Fraser, but most folks around Abiqua know me as "Coach." I play a special role for the students, guiding them through PE classes four to five times a week. This dedicated time to physical activity allows me to truly get to know each student's strengths and help them map out a plan to achieve their personal best.

Beyond the gym, I'm also a leader in the middle school's social development program, Guide Groups. It's all about fostering a supportive community here.

Fun fact – my own kiddos are Abiqua alumni! One is off to explore college internationally as a Fulbright scholar, and the other is currently soaking up the culture and knowledge in Spain. 

Abiqua is not just a school; it's a family, and I'm thrilled to be part of this incredible journey with the students.

I'm Kristen, serving as the Middle School Spanish Teacher and also taking on the role of Middle School Coordinator.  I'm in charge of organizing the daily operations of the Middle School academic programs and student life. This includes ensuring smooth communication within the school and between school and home, supporting teachers and the Head of School, and leading the design of the master schedule.

I kicked off my teaching journey at Abiqua back in 2011, and since then, I've been on the lookout for fresh and exciting ways to keep students engaged and passionate about the Spanish language and culture. The best part about teaching here is the incredible HEART-centered culture and the robust, supportive community that includes parents, teachers, and students. My ultimate goal is to see students not only loving the language but also becoming competent communicators as they move through Middle School Spanish.

Outside the classroom, I'm a mom to two wonderful daughters, and in my free time, I love soaking up moments with them. I'm also a fan of anything outdoors and find joy in reading books, especially with a good cup of coffee in hand. Life at Abiqua is not just about academics; it's about creating a love for learning and building connections that last a lifetime.

Hello, my name is Dan Gordon and I was raised outside a logging community in SW Oregon by parents who stressed the value of education. I must have listened. I am currently entering my 44th year teaching. I am going to be able to decide in a few years if I like it or not. 

My other great loves are family (Karri, Brock, Yancee, Daisy and assorted cats), my Abiqua family, good friends, guiding whitewater trips and baseball. Baseball! This year I was elected to the Oregon High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame.

I am a voracious reader and student of US History and I am determined to leave no nook and cranny of Oregon unseen. Then you can look for my book on where to eat in Oregon in towns from A-Z (Adrian, The Mirage, Burns, The Pine Room, ........ to Yoncalla, K and R Drive In, Zig Zag, Barlow Trail Roadhouse).

Hi! I'm Laurel, and I wear many hats here at Abiqua. You can find me pitching in at the business office, coordinating care for our after and before school programs, and putting together fun Abiqua Adventue opportunities!

Before landing at Abiqua, my journey took me through various experiences. I've taught preschool, worked as an administrator for a radio station, and spent considerable time in a retirement community.

Currently, I call Corvallis home, where I live with my husband and our energetic three-year-old daughter. Life is a whirlwind, but I wouldn't have it any other way!

Hey folks! I'm Josh, a fifth-generation Oregonian, and I've been teaching social studies at Abiqua since 2014. Over the years, I've taken students on exciting trips to Washington D.C. and Belize, led medieval Crusades, schooled them in the art of talking like a pirate, and shared valuable life lessons from my time as a college gas station attendant.

 My goal? To make history come alive for my students, so they not only appreciate the past but also understand their role and responsibilities as humans in today's world.

In addition to teaching, I work closely with the Middle School Coordinator, organizing and managing the daily operations. This includes communication with families, providing support to staff and the Head of School, and acting as a bridge between parents and administrators at Abiqua.

Outside the classroom, you'll find me engrossed in books, whipping up delicious meals, delving into history, and engaging in board games with my friends and family. Home for me is in Salem, where I reside with my wife and our pet Roomba.

Hey there! I'm Jonathan Hansen, and I'm the guy who keeps all the technology and security systems up and running here at Abiqua School. From your student's trusty Chromebook to the intricate network servers, it's all in a day's work for me. 

I firmly believe that technology's role in the classrooms should be to enhance the learning process, not create obstacles. I trust that the HEART message at Abiqua will guide our students in becoming exemplary digital citizens. It's all about fostering a positive and tech-savvy learning environment!

Hi, I'm Janice. I've had the pleasure of teaching in various schools across the picturesque Rocky Mountain regions of Wyoming and Utah, as well as at Abiqua for many years. While I've retired from teaching, I've found a new kind of fulfillment within the fantastic community here at Abiqua.

Now, I've taken on the role of Abiqua's Curriculum and Testing Coordinator. In this capacity, I work collaboratively with teachers and staff to continuously enhance the school program while upholding the integrity of HEART. Alongside that, I manage various professional and administrative tasks related to overseeing standardized testing of students. My goal is to support the school staff in preparing for test administrations and analyzing results with a team to boost student achievement.

During my downtime, you'll find me biking, hiking, strolling on the beach, and exploring the wonders of the west with my family and friends. Life's an adventure, and I'm excited to be a part of it in this new capacity!

I have been working with the Abiqua community since 2010. Since then, I have worked at three other schools in private schools in the Willamette Valley and have finally made my way back to Abiqua full-time. I am excited to bring my theatrical and mathematics skills to our middle school minds. Outside of school, I work at Salem's largest local fitness center, Courthouse Fitness, and helping other local high school theatre programs.

I'm Mr. Levandowski and I recently made the bold move from Hawaii to the more weather-confused state of Oregon. Prior to my adventurous relocation, I dabbled in clinical lab science while serving as a lab tech/medic in the 82nd Airborne.

Teaching mathematics and science is my jam. Why, you ask? Because nothing says fun like showing students how these subjects relate to the real world.

In my free time, catch me gracefully hacking away at a golf course, attempting to ride the waves on a surfboard, or just casually jet-setting around.

Hello, my name is Manny Martinez and 2024-2025 will be my first year teaching at Abiqua School! I graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2006 with a Bachelors degree in Professional Music. Since then I have taught private guitar lessons to students of all ages and skill levels, and have been an active performer in a variety of different bands. In addition to teaching at Abiqua, I also have a teaching studio where I teach private guitar lessons. I’m very excited to be teaching the guitar class and general music here at Abiqua.

Teaching music has been a great joy in my life. I have seen the power of music have life changing effects on many of my students. I look forward to sharing the gift of music with the students of Abiqua, and look forward to becoming part of the Abiqua community.

When I’m not teaching or performing, I enjoy fitness, hiking, trips to the coast, dancing, and networking. I am a member of multiple networking groups in Salem/Keizer and love meeting fellow business owners and community leaders. You will also catch me at the local coffee shops enjoying my favorite tea!

Hi friends, I’m Mrs. Maraca. This is my first year at Abiqua. I spent most of my 20s as a traveling career nanny. 

Outside of Oregon, Nashville, Tennessee has been my favorite place to live. I always knew I would come back and settle down here though. We were thankful to move back a week before Covid shut everything down. 

I recently became a mom. I have a one year old named Magnolia Grace. Before I had her, I was a dog mom to my pup named Miley. 

I love going on adventures, crafting, gardening, being silly and spending time with friends or family. Being outdoors and traveling bring my heart joy. My favorite vacations are cruises or visiting natural wonders like national parks. My husband and I try to see at least six new waterfalls a year. We love living in such a beautiful state!

I have been part of the Abiqua community since 2021 and absolutely adore it here! I hold an Associate’s degree from Chemeketa Community College and a Bachelor's of Science from Western Oregon University. Abiqua’s commitment to holistic growth and HEART values deeply resonates with me, making every day a fulfilling experience.

In my spare time, I love to embark on adventures with my family and our two huskies. We enjoy taking road trips, camping, and rockhounding together, always seeking new experiences and the beauty of the great outdoors.

I'm Madison Munro, a recent graduate of Willamette University. I proudly hold degrees in Studio Art and Art History.

My artistic endeavors take me on quite the eclectic journey. From freeform crochet and knitting to collage, printmaking, and painting, I dabble in a multitude of mediums. I'm deeply passionate about sharing the world of art and art history with those around me.

When I'm not busy teaching or crafting, you'll likely find me tinkering away in my greenhouse, tuning into podcasts, or showering affection on my cat, Kate.

Hi, I’m Melissa! I have been working closely with students in one form or another for several years. Growing up with a parent in education, school quickly became my second home. 

I began my career as a First-grade teacher after graduating with my undergraduate degree at Western Oregon University in early childhood/elementary education with an ESOL endorsement. I then returned to WOU for my master’s degree in education with a focus on reading instruction. Working with primary students has always been a passion of mine. Our youngest learners bring excitement and curiosity to the classroom, and it is my job to foster their love for learning!

Outside of school I am also a wife and mom. I have two incredible boys, and a hard-working husband. We also live with our dog and two cats. All of which keeps me busy and on my toes. Together we love exploring new places and being outdoors. You would likely find me relaxing on my boat, hiking a new trail in the forest, or somewhere on Main Street in Disneyland!

Hello, I'm Mr. Novom, and I've dedicated over 20 years to independent schools, wearing various hats in both administration and education. In my most recent role, I served as the Associate Head of School at The Kiski School in Saltsburg, PA, from 2014-2022. Prior to that, I held the position of Upper School Dean of Students at Brentwood School in sunny Los Angeles, CA, from 2007-2014. 

Before that chapter, I worked as an English Teacher and Director of Theater at La Jolla Country Day School in San Diego, Sierra Canyon School in Los Angeles, and The Taft School in Connecticut.

Originally hailing from Los Angeles, I earned my master’s degree from Yale University and my bachelor’s degree from the University of California, San Diego.

Outside of the professional arena, I cherish moments spent with my wife Brooke and our three sons, Ezra, Zeke, and Solomon.

Hi, I'm Jennifer, and I'm currently working towards my bachelor's degree at Western Governors University. My daughter attends Abiqua and seeing her thrive here has been one of the highlights of my life. We enjoy spending quality time together, whether it's on family hikes or exploring new places during our travels.

When I'm not studying or on a new adventure with my daughter, you can find me reading a good book or diving into a quilting or sewing project—crafting is my go-to for relaxation. As a family, we love getting out into nature, discovering new trails, and appreciating the beauty of the outdoors.

In 2005 I made the move to Oregon and quickly fell in love with Abiqua School. I was so impressed that I enrolled my son in kindergarten here. Over the years, I've worn various hats at Abiqua, serving as faculty and administrator. In 2021, I took on the role of Associate Head of School.

As a proud parent, I'm delighted to share that both of my children are now Abiqua alumni. My son recently completed a BS in Engineering from OSU, and my daughter is currently attending Linfield University.

Outside of the academic realm, I cherish spending time with my family, exploring new places with friends, and fostering a love of reading among students in my office. Abiqua has truly become a special part of our lives.

I'm Jim, and I jumped on board the Abiqua train in 2022. With a whopping thirty years of experience under my belt, I've been around the block when it comes to teaching in K-12 schools.

Over the course of my career, I've tried my hand at both the Middle School and High School levels. Although my certifications are in English Language Arts and Drama, I've dabbled in teaching Spanish, Computer Science, and Speech and Debate. What I love most is the dynamic environment of a small school, which demands a flexible staff like ours. Thanks to this, I've had the opportunity to wear many hats, teaching everything from Health and P.E. to Math and Science. On top of that, I've coached football, volleyball, tennis, and archery. Oh, and let's not forget my roles as assessment coordinator and educational technology consultant.

I'm not one to shy away from something new—I don't have to be an expert before diving in. It's all about modeling true lifelong learning for my students.

When I'm not in the classroom, you'll find me hitting the pavement for a run, cruising on my bike, paddling down a river in a kayak, or exploring new places with my wife and family. Life's an adventure, and I'm here for it!

I'm Ms. Reed, and my journey with the violin started in the 5th grade orchestra class—I was hooked for life! After high school, I dove into teaching private lessons and assisting orchestras from 5th to 12th grade levels in my hometown of Klamath Falls.

I made my way up North to complete my B.A. at Western Oregon University, where I focused on studying violin and majored in visual arts with a concentration in painting and printmaking. Post-degree, I set up shop in my home studio, taught private lessons at the Northwest School of Music, and explored various performance opportunities.

Over the years, I've had the pleasure of performing in the Klamath Symphony, the Ross Ragland Theatre Pit Orchestra, the Western Oregon Symphony, the Salem Symphony, the Salem Philharmonia, the touring chamber-rock band Yaquina Bay, and the Rainy Day Quartet.

In 2016, I continued my teaching journey through the Salem Keizer School District as a substitute teacher and shortly after, took on the orchestra at Abiqua. More recently, I've expanded my scope at Abiqua to include Lower School art, and I've also opened my private music studio in town: Reed Violin Studio.

With the little time I have left, you'll catch me backpacking whenever I get the chance, rain or shine! Life's an adventure, and I'm embracing every moment of it.

Mr. Shane here, I work behind the scenes repairing everything from the roof to the ever important “Gone Fishin’ ” board game.

Site inspections, systems checks, well management, pest control to name a few, all fall under my umbrella.

I advise the Head of School & Finance Department of facilities maintenance needs along with coordinating projects. I love assisting the kids and faculty throughout each day.

When away from Abiqua, I spend my time with friends and family in the outdoors.

Hi, I’m Joan, and this will be my first year assisting in pre-k. I have been assisting/ teaching 2-5 year-olds for the past 35 years. I love teaching and inspiring young minds to become creative thinkers and learners. 

I live locally with my husband and 3 rambunctious cats. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, crafting and hanging out with my grandkids. 

My name is Bridget and I started my teaching journey at Abiqua as a 3rd/4th grade teacher back in 2002. I'm a psychology graduate from the University of Oregon, and I couldn't resist the call of education, so I decided to go for a Master's degree in teaching at Willamette University. I'm just so lucky to be part of a school community that's all about the magic of education!

I'm all about inspiring my students to be lifelong learners, encouraging them to think critically, and helping them become independent problem-solvers, thanks to Abiqua's fantastic thematic and interactive curriculum.

When I'm not in the classroom, you can find me enjoying family vacations, staying up to date with the latest fashion trends, getting lost in novels, and savoring delicious cuisine at our local restaurants. My husband and I have two fantastic daughters, both of whom attended Abiqua. It was truly a joy to watch them grow and learn here.

I'm Becky and I joined the Abiqua community in 2015 after earning my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Akron, where I focused on elementary and special education. I became an Intel Master Teacher and also started training other teachers in using technology effectively. Later on, I pursued a Master's of Science in Instructional Media and Design, which helped me learn how to use technology as a tool in my classroom.

I've had the opportunity to teach students in grades first through sixth in various public and independent schools throughout the southern United States. In my previous school, I worked as a technology coordinator and taught technology classes to elementary students and staff. I truly enjoy working with children of all ages, but my heart lies with primary students, where I find great joy in helping them develop a love of learning.

During my free time, I indulge in reading, taking care of my garden, and visiting the coast. My husband, Joe, and I are proud parents of one daughter.

I'm Janis Stevens, a seasoned Early Childhood Specialist, and I'm thrilled to be joining the Lower School team part-time, primarily working with Alisa Heater in First Grade. It's a tag team effort for Before Care and Recess Supervision, as I team up with another Stevens – none other than Pam Stevens.

Before making the move to Salem, I spent several years in Portland working in Preschools and Child Development Centers. Looking forward to bringing my experience to Abiqua!

I'm Pam Stevens, and I've been supporting Abiqua teachers since 2001. I primarily work in the lower school, but I'm the type of person that's always ready to lend a hand wherever and whenever needed.

Beyond Abiqua, I'm an avid volunteer. Parenting three beautiful daughters and two charming sons has been a joy, and now, I'm also relishing the role of being a grandmother to six (and counting) lovely grandchildren.

One of my life goals is to become a Master Recycler. Within Abiqua, I'm committed to the thoughtful use of the school's resources and reducing waste – it's a small step, but every effort counts!

Hello, I'm Jean! I feel passionate about finding ways to guide children in their learning so that they discover learning can be fun. My hope is that they enter elementary school with their own passion and excitement to learn more about the world around them. I want my students to be excited to come to school each day.

I live in a forest in South Salem with my three young children (two of which attend Lower school at Abiqua), my husband, dog and three fish. 

I enjoy camping, hiking and spending time with my family outside of teaching. I love to bake and eat good food and just sitting on my deck in the sunshine listening to the birds while I read a good book.

My name is Holly Terpening and I am a first and second grade teacher at Abiqua. I am also a proud Abiqua Academy parent! I have over a decade of experience in education, both as a teacher and in leadership roles.I have a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from University of Oregon and a Master’s degree in Teaching from Willamette University.

I am a native Oregonian who loves exploring the state and beyond with my husband John and my three sons, Ezra, Campbell, and Leo, who are all students at Abiqua. Spending quality time with my family is my very favorite pastime. 

I also enjoy surrounding myself in nature, reading dystopian novels in my hammock, family movie nights, and traveling whenever I get the chance! I am a notorious animal lover with a menagerie of pets, including three dogs, three cats, and two curmudgeonly alpacas.

I believe all children have their own special gifts, a unique character and spirit, and an endless amount of potential ready to take shape. I am grateful to have the privilege to witness these journeys.

My name is Lexi Thomas and I’m very passionate about working with children and supporting their development both academically and emotionally. I’m currently studying Human Development and Family Services in college and have several years of hands-on experience in educational and after-school settings. Fun fact- I’m also a certified Child Passenger Technician, which allows me to help families keep their little ones safe on the road! I love creating fun, engaging spaces where kids feel safe, seen, and celebrated. Outside of work, I love being with my animals, spending time outdoors, and finding new creative projects to dive into. 

I have dedicated my entire career to janitorial work, starting at T-Mobile. Following that, I joined Wachovia, which later changed its name to Wells Fargo. I remained with the company for a decade. Upon moving to Southern Oregon, I worked for a cleaning company for two years. Subsequently, I joined Asante Rogue Regional Hospital for three years. Afterward, I returned to the cleaning company. During my last nine months in Southern Oregon, I worked for Nissan.

Upon moving back to Salem, Oregon, I embarked on a new chapter at Abiqua School, and I must say, I absolutely love my job! I hold CPR training certification, and during my tenure at Asante Rogue Regional, I took numerous classes focused on cleaning.

Over the course of 25 years, I have dedicated my career to working with children, bringing a wealth of experience and passion to my role.

In addition to my educational background, I am proud to possess a Montessori teaching license and certification as a medical assistant. Currently, I play a multifaceted role, contributing to both administration and serving as the food service coordinator.

On a personal note, I am also a parent to my fifth-grade daughter, Eliana, who is part of the Abiqua community. Together, we share a love for all things Harry Potter, often delving into magical experiences through our year-round potions classes during Abiqua Adventures. Beyond our wizarding adventures, I have a deep appreciation for music and movies, which are not just hobbies but sources of inspiration and joy in my life.

Hi there, I'm Katie Young, and I've been part of the Abiqua School Intermediate teaching team since 2006. 

What makes teaching at Abiqua so special to me? It's the fantastic thematic curriculum and the abundance of hands-on learning opportunities that truly set it apart!

For me, fostering a positive and engaging learning environment is not just a job but a passion. I thrive on seeing the spark of curiosity ignite in my students as they dive into our diverse curriculum.

Outside the classroom, you'll find me embracing the outdoors through activities like hiking and enjoying some quality time with a good book. Tennis and board games are also on my list of favorite pastimes – there's nothing like a friendly game to unwind!

Being part of Abiqua has been a rewarding journey, and I'm enthusiastic about the continued growth and learning experiences ahead with my amazing students.