Lisa Waltenberger joined Green Park as Principal in 2022.  She holds a degree in Math Education and an M.A. in Education, Master of Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum with an emphasis in Math.  Prior to Green Park, she was a math teacher for 12 years. She continued her education and pursued advanced degrees to become a leader in education.

Lisa’s son, Bryce, began at GPLS in 2020 in JK4 and her daughter, Clara, joined the JK3 class in January 2023.

Favorite Bible Verse: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Philippians 4:13

In her own words: When you walk into Green Park, you feel the love of Jesus. God is working in our building through our staff, volunteers, and families. Green Park feels like home!

Fun facts: I love to hike, I love coffee, I love family trips to the St. Louis Zoo, we love the beach and the mountains but the Pacific Northwest has some of the most beautiful sights we have ever seen, I am an all-around sports fan.

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email: lisa.waltenberger@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Math Education
Master’s: Education Master of Learning, Teaching, and Curriculum with an emphasis in Math

Ken Werkmeister joined Green Park in 2022.   He holds a degree in Business Administration, focusing on leadership.  Prior to Green Park, Ken served as Vice President of service for Siemens Healthineers supporting large groups of employees, leaders and customers throughout the midwest.  Ken is a member and elder at Peace Lutheran Church.

What he loves about Green Park: My involvement with Green Park started as a parent years ago, while I witnessed a family of caring people.

Favorite Bible Verse: “For I know the plans I have for you, “declares the LORD,” plans for welfare and not evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11

In his own words:  I am excited to share the talents our Lord provides me, supporting and ensuring a safe, caring, and educational environment for our children, staff and families.

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email: ken.werkmeister@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Business Administration

Katie joined the Green Park staff in 2019 as the Marketing and Admissions Director. Katie has a background in Marketing, Advertising and Media Communications and has worked with multiple marketing agencies on campaigns, managing websites, and social media. She also acts as the in-house photographer for Green Park — events, student athlete sports photos, marketing materials, website photos, and more.

What she loves about Green Park: Katie fell in love with Green Park upon attending the Stay-n-Play events and couldn’t imagine sending her kids anywhere else for their education. My goal is to instill a sense of pride and recognition regarding Green Park as a leader in Christian education in the community and with our current and prospective families. I’m constantly in awe of the values, morals, and support the faculty, staff, and students provide to each other.

In her own words: “I’m excited to expand on our proven initiatives and put forth new ideas to attract the right families to Green Park, so our school continues to thrive and succeed!”

Favorite Bible Verse: Above all, love each other deeply.  1 Peter 4:8

Fun Facts: Her daughter, Zoe, started at Green Park in 2017 in the JK4 program. She and her family are members at Resurrection Lutheran Church where their two other children, Finn and Emma, were baptized in the summer of 2018 and her twins, Alli and Max, were baptized in the summer of 2020. She is a family, birth, and real estate photographer who specializes in documentary and lifestyle photography.

Phone: 314-544-4248
Email: katie.gaeta@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Media Communications – Webster University
Additional Certifications: Minor in Marketing and Advertising Communications

Laura Reis joined the Green Park faculty and staff in 2010 as a teacher aide and substitute after earning her teaching certification 2009.  In 2015, she transitioned to the offices as the Director of Development.  She brings experience in finance, IT and teaching but her true gift is in creating special events for causes she cares most about.

“I love this school and what my kids get from it – spiritually, academically and an extended family.  Because of that, I love what I do and value the support we receive.  Thank you.”

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.     Jeremiah 29:11

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email:laura.reis@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: BS, Business Administration – University of Missouri, St. Louis
Additional Certifications: Elementary Education, Missouri Baptist University

Amanda Daniels joined the Green Park faculty in 2017 as the JK3 Teacher. Her Pre-K teaching experience and love of learning with students made for a wonderful fit. After working at a daycare in high school she knew early childhood was her passion. “If they see that you’re excited about learning, they get excited, too!”

In her own words: My goal is for all students to succeed. To me, this means I will use different teaching strategies to help every learner so they feel safe and secure in the classroom.”

Phone: 314.544.4248, ext. 229
Email: amanda.daniels@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville

Michelle Barnes joined the Green Park faculty in 2016.  She has had a passion for working with children since she was a teenager.  She brings extensive experience in Early Childhood Education.  She started as an assistant teacher in a daycare caring for newborns to 4 year olds.  She directed summer camp for a private elementary school and worked as the after school director and substitute.

In her own words: “I believe children should be encouraged to learn and grow by providing a foundation of developmentally appropriate experiences where all children can succeed in a safe and nurturing environment.”

Fun Facts: Michelle has coached the B volleyball team the past 2 years and plans to continue!

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email: michelle.barnes@greenparklutheranschool.org
Additional Certifications: Associate in Applied Science Early Childcare and Education

Stephanie Torbeck joined the Green Park faculty in 2000 after teaching at Grace Lutheran in San Mateo, CA.  She is an integral part of the GP faculty having conceptualized and written a grant marrying the Balanced Literacy curriculum with 1:1 iPads for K-2 learners.

In her own words: “I love it when I get to share in the moment a child realizes he/she is, in fact, a reader.”

Fun Facts: Her favorite books is Barbapapa and her favorite to read to her class is Junie B. Jones series (late kindergarten – students are able to separate fiction from reality) or Mo Willems.  I also love “The Dot” by Peter Reynolds and “Press Here” by Herve Tullet.

Phone: 314.544.4248, ext 227
Email: stephanie.torbeck@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education – Concordia University – Chicago
Master’s: Master of Arts, Early Childhood Education – Webster University

Melissa joined the Green Park Staff in 2020 as a Junior Kindergarten Teacher Aide and returns in 2022 as our second Kindergarten teacher. She attended Missouri Baptist University where she graduated with her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education.

In her own words: I’m excited to be teaching at Green Park because I want to be an inspiration and role model to not only the students in my classroom but all throughout the school. I want to teach them that they can achieve many things if they put their mind to it!

Fun Facts: Melissa loves all things Disney! “All our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them.” – Walt Disney

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email: melissa.marty@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Elementary Education

Jennifer joined the Green Park family in 2023. She has taught 2nd grade, kindergarten and preschool. She also had the joy of staying home for 6 years when her children were babies.

In her own words: I love seeing the joy of life and the excitement for learning in my students. I want to help them feel successful and learn to navigate the highs and lows they’ll have in their life.

Fun Facts: Jennifer loves spending time with her family and especially loves to travel. She has been to 49 states and a handful of countries. When she’s not busy taking care of her family, she loves to read, spend time in her craft room and run. She just recently completed her first full marathon. She’s also a big Fighting Illini fan and enjoys going to the football games every year with her family.

Favorite Bible verse: I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end he will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God.   Job 19:25-26

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email: jennifer.dixon@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Elementary Education – Concordia University Nebraska

Dan joined the Green Park family as the 2nd grade teacher in 2022. Dan taught Kindergarten at Zion Lutheran School in Belleville, IL for 6 years and when he and his wife moved over to the Missouri side, Green Park felt like home and a great opportunity to continue working and growing in Christ along with the students and staff. Dan and his wife recently welcomed their first child in to their family.

What he loves about Green Park: When you walk into Green Park you feel at home. The students, teachers, and staff are all welcoming and invite you into the loving arms of Christ with their words and deeds.

In his own words: There is not a better place to learn and grow, both as a student or staff member, than at Green Park.

Favorite Bible Verse:
Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email: dan.griffith@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Elementary Education – Southern Illinois University- Edwardsville

Nicole joined the Green Park Family in 2023.  She holds a degree in Elementary Education from University Missouri St. Louis. She previously worked as a Paraprofessional in a self-contained classroom and as an assistant kindergarten and 1st grade teacher.

In her own words:
The community that Green Park has is a very welcoming, warm, and encouraging community. I’ve been welcomed with open arms. I’m excited to support my fellow co-workers and our students giving them the best opportunities to learn and grow!

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email: nicole.berry@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Elementary Education – University Missouri St. Louis

Danielle Madsen joined the Green Park family in 2023 as the 3rd grade teacher. She is a proud alumni of Green Park and was a part of the 50th graduating class. Prior to Green Park she taught 4th grade at Mallinckrodt Academy of Gifted Instruction in the St. Louis Public School District. She grew up attending Peace Lutheran Church, but now attends Christ Memorial’s Midtown location, Reliant, with her husband.

What she loves about Green Park: Green Park is my second home. It’s where I grew up and where the love of God was shared with me daily. My hope is to continue sharing God’s love and promises with students.

In her own words:  I am a big fan of musicals and enjoy catching a show at the Fox Theatre and the Muny whenever I can.

Favorite Bible verse: Lamentations 3:22–23: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email: danielle.madsen@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Psychology with a minor in Child Studies from Truman State
Master’s: Elementary Education – Truman State; Master’s: Gifted Education from Lindenwood University

Brenda Huster joined the Green Park faculty in 2004. She has served as teacher, aide, coach and principal in Missouri and in Kansas. She holds a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction and delights in teaching her 4th graders about Missouri History and budgets through her notorious classroom “store”. You can spot Brenda coaching the boys’ volleyball team with Mrs. Cibulka.

What she loves about Green Park: The best thing about our school is that teachers, parents and students care about each other. We are one big family.

Fun Facts from Brenda: Brenda is a Green Park graduate and the daughter of the late iconic Green Park teachers Ted and Barb Palisch. Maybe this is why it’s no surprise she quotes: “I love it when my students understand my jokes and laugh at them.”

Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 23

Phone: 314.544.4248, ext 212

Email: brenda.huster@greenparklutheranschool.org

Bachelor’s: Bachelor of Science – Missouri Baptist University

Master’s: Master of Arts, Curriculum & Instruction – Concordia University – Chicago

Ann Ryherd joined the Green Park faculty in 2013. Her career has encompassed administration, teaching and coaching from elementary to high school levels. She has found a renewed fervor for educating elementary/middle school students in all things Science. Currently, she leads up the middle school Science program at Green Park and robotics team, The Viborgs. She enjoys sharing the wonders of God’s Creation and “how it works” with her students on a daily basis.

In 2011, she completed her Master’s degree through Concordia University, Portland in Curriculum and Instruction in Science, K-12. In the 2012 and 2013 summers, participating in the Scientists in Residence program, through the Parkway School District, she received significant additional training for classroom instruction in elementary science.

What she loves about Green Park: I’m glad to be at a school where not only do I have a multitude of science supplies but I also have families who value what we do in our lab.

In her own words: I love it when my students ask those questions that start with: ‘Mrs. Ryherd, is that like when…?’ because it shows they are learning, thinking and applying and that’s what it’s all about.

Phone: 314.544.4248, ext 209

Email: ann.ryherd@greenparklutheranschool.org

Bachelor’s: Bachelor of Arts, Secondary Education Science 6-12 – Concordia University – Chicago

Master’s: Masters of Education, Curriculum and Instruction K-12 – Concordia University – Portland

Donna Auer joined the Green Park faculty in 2014 teaching middle school Language Arts & Literature. This GP alum has served at several area Lutheran Schools teaching and coaching and is “happy to be home.” Donna serves as the Assistant Athletic Director.

In her own words: I love it when my students have opportunities to witness their faith and love of our Lord and Savior. Green Park means a strong faith-based foundation for past, present and future.”

Favorite Bible Verse: For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8-9

Fun Facts: In addition to delighting students in her favorite books, she can be found at her favorite family spot, Camp Wartburg.

Email: donna.auer@greenparklutheranschool.org

Bachelor’s: Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education – Concordia University Nebraska

Master’s: Master of Arts – Concordia University, Portland

Dave Rusert joined the Green Park faculty and staff in 1998.  Prior to Green Park he served as teacher and athletic director at Trinity Lutheran School in Toledo, OH.

In his own words: “The best thing about our school is the opportunity to bring Jesus into every situation or class.”

Favorite Bible Verse: Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. Romans 5:3-5

Fun Facts: David enjoys working around Green Park as our “unofficial groundskeeper.”  He can be found weeding and watering and planting among other things around school.  He also enjoys working with his former students who now have children at Green Park or are on staff at Green Park.

Phone: 314.544.4248, ext 236

Email: david.rusert@greenparklutheranschool.org

Bachelor’s: Bachelor of Arts, Elementary Education – Concordia University – Chicago

Master’s: Master of Science, Classroom Technology Integration – Walden University

Christy White joined the Green Park faculty in 2023 as a middle school Math teacher. She taught mathematics for 15 years (mostly 9th grade- in Pre Algebra and Algebra 1) at Hazelwood Central HS for 7 years and most recently at Oakville High School for 8 years. Her heart and passion has always been in middle school and had always planned to teach middle school, but her path led her to teach in high schools for the first half of her career.

What she loves about Green Park: I saw how closely Green Park’s values, views of education, community and faith focus aligned with mine. I knew this was where I wanted to be. My family and I have been overwhelmed with so many welcoming people at Green Park and at the church community at Christ Memorial. In addition to being excited about the career change, my husband and I have decided to send our three children to school at Green Park. It is very evident to us that God had other plans for my family and I and we are so happy about that.

In her own words: The formative years of middle school mathematics are important for increasing fluency, refining math skills and the development of students as thinkers and problem solvers. I’m excited to work with the students and teachers at Green Park to help expand learning opportunities and encourage students to challenge themselves whenever possible.

Favorite Bible Verse:  Psalm 36:5-7  Your steadfast love, O Lord, extends to the heavens, your faithfulness to the clouds.  Your righteousness is like the mountains of God; your judgments are like the great deep; man and beast you save, O Lord. How precious is your steadfast love, O God!  The children of mankind take refuge in the shadow of your wings.

Fun facts: I spend lots of time with my three young boys, my husband, and dog. I drink more Diet Pepsi than I probably should trying to keep up with them all. My husband and I love going to the movie theater when we can and like to try out many different arcades in the area like we are teenagers still. I also stay up too late on a regular basis watching many silly reality tv shows once my kids go to bed.

Phone: 314.544.4248
Email: christy.white@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Middle School Education, minor in Mathematics – Westminster College
Master’s: School Administration – Lindenwood University
Additional Certifications: MS Curriculum and Instruction – Southwest Baptist University

Rodger taught for 26 years in the Affton School District before joining the Green Park faculty. He enjoyed a few weeks of retirement before being recruited to launch Green Park’s 1:1 initiative in fall 2018. He taught fifth grade for 18 years, 14 of those were in a 1:1 classroom. He served as the Educational Technology Specialist for eight years helping students in a lab environment as well as supporting teachers in the classroom.

In his own words: “I look forward to helping Green Park students and teachers move to a 1:1 environment.

Fun Facts: As far as hobbies I enjoy golf, fishing, hiking, and supporting the St. Louis Blues.

Phone: 314-544-4248 x220
Email: rodger.robbins@greenparklutheranschool.org
Bachelor’s: Bachelor of Science, Education, Central Missouri State University
Master’s: Master of Arts, Elementary Education, University of Missouri St. Louis, +33 additional hours
Additional Certifications: Certified 1-6 Elementary, K-12 Social Studies

Current adjunct faculty positions include:  St. Paul’s Lutheran School, Mehlville School District and Lewis and Clark Community College.

Phone: 636.541.1602 (cell)
Email: ppancella@gmail.com
Bachelor’s: B.M.E. Southeast Missouri State University

Evan Sanft joined the Green Park faculty as a band director in 2017.  This 2003 Green Park graduate began his musical career here on our campus playing trumpet.  He taught music and band at Martin Luther High School in Northrop, MN prior to taking the call at Lutheran High School South.

In his own words: I love it when I have an opportunity to incorporate faith with my favorite subject…music.  Green Park essentially means to me a top-notch education centered in Christ.  It’s what I took from here and I what I want to give back.

Phone: 314-833-1077
Email: esanft@lhssonline.org
Bachelor’s: Concordia University Chicago, Bachelor of Music Education

Rachel worked for the Peace Corp in Belize, Operation Food Search, and rehabilitated people with psychological and housing issues. She recently earned a Master’s degree from Washington University in social work

Phone: 314.544.4248
Master’s: Social Work Washington University