My name is Tammy Bortscheller (Mrs. B) and I have been teaching Special Education and at Jackson since 2004. I hold two degrees from Iowa State University; a B.S. in Child Services and a B.S. in Early Childhood Special Education. I also have a K-6 Instructional Strategist I endorsement from Grandview University. For me, one of the greatest rewards of being a teacher is knowing that I am making a difference in the lives of my students, no matter how big or small. I have lived in the Des Moines area all my life and I currently live here on the south side with my husband Chuck, daughter Olivia, son Elliot, and dog Scout. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, working out, and eating good food. My favorite place to visit is Disney World and I’m pretty sure I would live right there in the castle if they would let me!
My name is Brenda Carr. I have worked for DMPS for 15 years, in the Metro Kids program as an supervisor at Studebaker. I worked in the summer at Park Ave, Morris, River Woods and Samuelson. I have been a long-term sub at McKinely, Park Ave and Wright. I have also subbed at Garten, Howe, Brubaker, Perkins, South Union, Love Joy, Jefferson, Winsor, Hubbell, Hanawalt, and Jackson.
I am married and have two daughters and one son. I have four grandsons, a grand dog and grand kitty. I have lived in Des Moines over 33 yrs. I also lived in Virginia, New Jersey, Germany, Kansas, Korea, Colorado, and Okinawa. My father was in the Army, which gave me the opportunity to live in Germany, Korea and Okinawa. I truly enjoyed living in foreign countries and learning the different cultures and some of the languages.
This is my first year at Jackson. I’m a Sped Associate. I enjoy working with students. The staff at Jackson awesome! Everyone has made me feel as if I’ve been here for years. I look forward to meeting our student body and families.
Linda Pothast
K-1 Integrated Special Education Associate
Hello, I am Miss Raper. I am beginning my 7th year as a Special Education Teacher at Jackson Elementary. Before becoming a Teacher, I spent 25 years working with Intellectually Disabled adults in a group home or sheltered workshop setting. I decided to update my education and pivot my career in a different direction. I completed my Master’s in Teaching from Drake University in 2014 with endorsements in Special Education and Reading. I have been at Jackson since 2014 and love the school and its students.
Student Environment/Class Description
My number one priority for my students is to let them know that I believe in their ability to learn. My classroom is a safe space for all students. My daily message to my students is that they are smarter than they realize, my students come to know that I am one of their biggest cheerleaders. I am committed to helping my students achieve academic growth and proficiency.
My message to the parents of my students is that I am a passionate advocate for your child. I understand that concerns about your child and their education do not stop at the end of the day so I make my personal phone numbers available for parents with the understanding that they can get in touch with me at their convenience.
Michelle Winkler
Instructional Strategist