Student Support Teachers
Katie Clater
Instructional Coach
P: 515-242-8439 | E: katie.clater@dmschools.org
Biography
Hello! My name is Katie Clater and I am the Teaching and Learning Instructional Coach at Willard Elementary. I started my teaching career in 2003, working as a middle school special education teacher at Moulton Extended Learning Center with Des Moines Schools. After teaching special education for three years at Moulton, I left the district and went to work for Carlisle Community School District. While in Carlisle, I taught both special and general education, ranging from fourth through sixth grade. I returned to the Des Moines Public Schools in 2011 and taught fourth grade at Willard Elementary before transitioning to instructional coaching.
I love teaching at Willard because we have the BEST students and teachers in the Des Moines area!!! All students and teachers come to school with a passion to learn!
In my spare time, you will find me enjoying time with my husband and three children. My children keep me very busy with sporting activities and their love for the outdoors! I also love to travel, work in my flower gardens and read.
Sarah Hanrahan
Instructional Coach
P: 515-242-8439 | E: sarah.hanrahan@dmschools.org
Biography
My name is Sarah Hanrahan and I am an Instructional Coach here at Willard. This will be my 12th year in education, and the start of my 6th year here at Willard. I obtained my undergraduate degree at Northwest Missouri state in Elementary Education with a minor in early childhood. I have received my graduate degrees at Viterbo University. I have a Masters in Reading, as well as my Principal endorsement. Willard is an amazing building. I love working here!
Charlene Hickling
Title Reading/Math
P: 515-242-8439 | E: charlene.hickling@dmschools.org
Biography
My name is Charlene HIckling and I am working as a Title teacher this year. I earned my bachelor degree in elementary education from Monmouth College in Monmouth, Illinois. I earned my masters degree in literacy education from Drake University here in Des Moines. This will be my 6th year at Willard. For the past three years, I have taught 2nd grade, but I have also taught kindergarten and third grade at Willard. Many years ago, I taught kindergarten for six years in Illinois. In my spare time I love to read and hang out with my husband, two sons, and our dog, Spot. I love to work at Willard because I get to work with the best students and staff in Iowa!
Alexandria McGinnis
K-3 Interventionist
P: 515-242-8439 | E: alexandria.mcginnis@dmschools.org
Biography
Hi! My name is Ms. McGinnis and I am the K-3 Math and Reading Interventionist. I received my elementary education degree from Iowa State University, go cyclones! This will be my second year teaching, but my first year at Willard Elementary. When not teaching I enjoy spending time with family, friends, reading, and exercising. I look forward to working with all of the students, staff, and families here at Willard!
Alyssa Tigges
Title Reading/Math
P: 515-242-8439 | E: alyssa.tigges@dmschools.org
Biography
Hello! My name is Mrs. Tigges. This will be my first year as a Reading/Math Interventionist, but my fourth year at Willard! I absolutely love working at Willard because the students, families, and staff are wonderful! I have previously taught second and third grade here at Willard.
I graduated with my Bachelor’s degree from Iowa State University and LOVE the Cyclones! In my free time, I like to spend time with my husband, our new baby girl, Millie, take our dog for walks, and read. I am looking forward to a great year supporting Willard students!