Hello Willard Wildcats! I am excited to yet again be working with the outstanding teachers and families here at Willard. I received a degree in elementary education with endorsements in reading, learning disabilities, and mild disabilities from the University of Northern Iowa and have been teaching for over twenty years. Throughout my years of teaching I have been driven by the same teaching philosophy: be a passionate, caring, and competent teacher striving everyday to make meaningful connections with students. Outside of the classroom I enjoy exploring and sightseeing with my husband, son, daughter and dog, Stanley. I also enjoy visiting the library and reading.

My name is Kaitlin Danner and I teach K-3 special education. This is my fourth year teaching at Willard! I obtained a degree in Early Childhood Education and endorsements in special education from Iowa State University. I am currently working on my Master’s Degree through Morningside College, along with a Reading Endorsement.

When I am not teaching, I enjoy attending sporting events (especially ISU football games!!), shopping, and spending time with my family and friends. I look forward to a fantastic school year with the great students and families 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 will be teaching 5th grade special education.  This is my first year teaching at Willard Elementary, and I am very excited!  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 my first 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 third year teaching and I will be teaching special education, primarily upper grades. I attended Des Moines Public Schools while growing up, so I am thrilled 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, snowboarding, 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!

Hello my name is Heidi Liventals. Seventeen years ago I graduated from Iowa State University and have been teaching ever since. I have spent the past 17 years teaching special education and loving it.   This upcoming school year at Willard I will be half time special education teacher and half time behavior strategist. I’m looking forward to a great new school year with new and returning students.