Explorer Elementary Staff
Derek Braman
Derek Braman has taught fifth grade science and language arts at Explorer Elementary for the past six years. Prior to working at Explorer, he was a middle school resource room teacher. Derek tries to incorporate new technology into the classroom as often as possible to enrich instruction. He has incorporated new technology from Palm handhelds to a Polyvision Interactive Whiteboard in the classroom. He is loves teaching and working with the students, staff, and parents at Explorer. He is also very excited about the awesome opportunity the kids have to work with Kodu.
Deborah Coch
Deb Coch has been the technology coordinator at Explorer since it opened in 1993. She works with K-5 students in two computer labs, one of which is a mobile wireless laptop lab. Deb has served on three Kentwood district computer technology curriculum and standards committees. She has compiled a lab manager's handbook for the district, as well as over 160 curriculum-related computer lessons for grades K-5. She is anxious to master an Xbox controller and support students in the Kodu program.
Cindy Charles -- Explorer Principal
Cindy Charles is in her first year as principal at Explorer Elementary School. She has been an elementary principal for seven years and before coming to Explorer, was the principal at Hamilton Elementary School. Previous to becoming a principal, Cindy spent 15 years as an elementary teacher. Cindy feels the Kodu Club provides students the opportunity to explore the world of computer programming while enhancing their problem-solving and creative writing skills.
Donald Dahlquist -- Former Explorer Principal
Don Dahlquist was principal at Explorer Elementary School for three years. He began his career teaching middle school special education. Before Don came to Explorer he was an assistant principal at Valleywood Middle School. Don feels that the opportunities given to our staff and students through the Kodu Club will have long lasting benefits. Don is now principal at Pinewood Middle School in Kentwood.
Kathi Hagen
Kathi is a special education EI Para-pro with Explorer Elementary.
Mecah Hull
Mecah is a third grade teacher at Explorer Elementary.
Dion Price
Hi! My name is Dion Price and I am a fourth grade teacher at Explorer Elementary. I am recently married to a wonderful man and I am excited to start our new journey together. I have been teaching for seven years and have taught at Explorer for six. Teaching, for me, is one of the greatest jobs in the world! I am so blessed to have the opportunitiy to touch the lives of our youth. I am also very grateful to have the opportunity to work with Kentwood Public Schools and Microsoft. Our students and staff will greatly benefit from the tools and knowledge provided. I have always enjoyed integrating technology with curriculum in the classroom, and I am eager to see how this program will enhance our curriculum and our school. I am very excited to start this program at Explorer and I believe it will be a wonderful addition for our students and staff.
"To accomplish great things, we must not only act but also dream. Not only plan but also believe."