Hi, my name is Matt Ballman. This will be my third year in education and my second year in second grade! I attended Iowa State University (Go Cyclones!!!) and graduated in 2015 with a degree in elementary education with endorsements in history, social studies, reading, and coaching. I believe that Willard is a very special place. We have an amazing staff that puts students first and we have great families in the community! When I’m not teaching, I love to travel, watch (and attend) Iowa State sporting events, and hang out with my dog, Trice!
Hello! I am Willard’s K-2 Instructional Coach. This is my second year in this position. Previously, I taught fourth grade at Willard, and third grade in Minnesota. I graduated from Luther College with my education degree, Spanish minor, and reading endorsement. Additionally, I graduated with my Master’s degree in literacy from Drake University. When I am not busy at school, I enjoy cooking, biking, swimming, reading, running, and of course, spending time with loved ones.
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.
Hello! My name is Renae Conway and this will be my fifth year teaching at Willard. I have taught third, fourth and fifth grades. I obtained my teaching license from Iowa State University with an endorsement in math and reading. I enjoy spending my free time with my family and friends. I love the culture and values of our Willard students and families. At Willard I get the opportunity to work with amazing families! I look forward to a great school year!
Hi! My name is Tina Fulton. I have been teaching for over 30 years – in the classroom as a Preschool and 2nd Grade Teacher, and out of the classroom as a Reading Recovery Teacher and Title I Interventionist. I received my BA Degree in Education from the University of Northern Iowa and my Masters Degree from Viterbo University. I also hold endorsements in Early Childhood Education and Reading and am trained in Reading Recovery. As you might guess, kids and reading are my passions!
When not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, walking my 2 sweet dogs, traveling, cheering on my favorite sports teams and reading, of course!