Hello! My name is Joanna Hammond. This will be my second year at Willard teaching Special Education. I graduated from Western Governors University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education and Elementary Education. When I am not working, I enjoy being with my family and exploring the great outdoors. I am looking forward to a great year at Willard!
My name is Mrs. Hildebrand and I have worked at Willard for 10 years, currently as a Special Education Associate, and I love working with kids and the great staff we have at Willard, I call my family! My favorite color is purple and I love camping and spending time with my family and friends.
Hello! My name is Cassidy Jackson and I teach 3rd-5th grade special education. This will be my fourth year of teaching at Willard Elementary. I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Special Education.
When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, being involved in activities outdoors, and reading. I am looking forward to another great year at Willard working with the positive students and staff!
Hi, I am Jayde Kennedy. I graduated from Grand View University in April of 2017 with my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and an endorsement in special education. This will be my fourth year teaching and I will be teaching special education, with a focus in behavior this year. I attended Des Moines Public Schools while growing up, so I love that I get to continue to be a part of DMPS while teaching.
When I am not teaching, I enjoy being outdoors (traveling, hiking, fishing, swimming, reading a book outdoors, running) and photography. I also cherish spending time with my husband, family, friends, and my dog Colty (Bernese Mt. Dog, he is precious). I love being a part of the Willard team and I’m so excited for another great year!
Megan Raffensperger
Special Education Associate
Hello! My name is Tyson Valentine and I’m a second year special education teacher. I graduated from Buena Vista University with a degree in physical education in 2016 and have added my special education endorsement onto my license since then. Outside of school I coach baseball, enjoy watching sports, and spending time with friends and family. I’m excited for another great year at Willard!