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Absolutely, the best in Wisconsin Please choose from the list below and click submit. Select an Instructor Barb Balistreri John Bowen Kitty Bowen Jeffery Bertrandt Juany Dahlen Dr. William Davidson Janeen Dietsche John Ditter Deborah Engen Cathleen Fagan David Funk Patricia Gilbert Rick Grundman Mary Lou Harris-Manske John E. Jones Tom Kraft Dr. James Leary Tom Lidtke Ted Mainella Sherry Mills Chick Moorman John Peterson Dr. Ed Pino Larry & Sandy Reinhold Willard Romantini Barney Slowey Christi Slowey Dan Slowey Rhea Sprecher Bob Tomisch Mary Beth Wood Mary Zahn "For it is in the quality of the teacher that all else depends."                               — James B. Conant, Past President, Harvard University                                   and former teacher of Dr.Pino We will respect every student as an individual without prejudice and help each one reach their highest academic potential. We will acknowledge and respect each student's human dignity. We will keep an open mind in our academic discourse together and actively seek to encourage a challenging dialog on divergent points of view. We will encourage a positive, supportive, congenial, respectful, and success loaded classroom climate. We will organize out "classroom management system" to be as flexible to the needs and goals of the students as possible. We will reach continually for even higher levels of individual scholarship. We will always be mindful of the need to make our courses as practical as possible. We will do our best to model the behavior we expect you to implement in your professional setting. We will strive to make our courses as relevant and useful as possible

Barb Balistreri, M.A., Lesley University Email: barbbalistreri@wi.rr.com     Teaching art at all levels to both children and adults for the past thirty years, Barbara Balistreri holds a BFA from Cardinal Stritch University and a Masters of Education from Lesley University. She has taught art to children in both private and public education, and fine arts integrated throughout the curriculum to masters level students and in certification programs. She works in oils and clay, creating works influenced by the Native American culture of the Southwest. back to top John Bowen, M.S., University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Email: jmbkeb@execpc.com     John Bowen has been a teacher, counselor, and coach for 34 years in the Milwaukee Public Schools. He spent the first part of his career at South Division High School, a school rich in ethnic diversity with a multitude of programs designed to reach the needs of youth. He then became a counselor at Steuben Middle School, a school whose specialty is computers. At Steuben John has helped students with programs involving support groups, mentors, and many resources from the community. Currently John is a Project Coordinator from a Milwaukee Public Schools elementary school counselor grant.     John Bowen is also keynote speaker, presenter and a graduate level instructor, teaching courses around the state on gangs, anger management, school safety, and stress management/wellness issues.     AWARDS:         1998 - Wisconsin Track Coaches Hall of Fame         1998 - Wisconsin School Counselor Association Leadership Award         2002 - South Division High School Hall of Fame back to top Kitty Bowen, M.S., University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Email: jmbkeb@execpc.com     Kathryn "Kitty" Bowen was a teacher and counselor for 31 years in Iowa and Wisconsin. She spent the first part of her teaching career at Jerstad Agerholm Middle School in Racine, Wisconsin, and the latter as a counselor at Gilmore Middle School also in Racine. At Gilmore Kathryn also served as the Student Assistance Coordinator. She has developed parent workshop programs helping families learn and practice skills for anger management, listening and studying.     Kathryn Bowen is presenter and a graduate level instructor, teaching courses in anger management, school safety, dealing with change and stress management. back to top Jeffrey D. Bertrandt, M.A., Cardinal Stritch University Email: jeff.historyguy@gmail.com     Jeff is a Social Studies teacher and wrestling coach at Muskego High School. Jeff did his undergraduate work at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, receiving a double major in Broad Field Social Studies and Secondary Education, as well as a minor in history. Jeff received his master’s degree from Cardinal Stritch University in History. Jeff also has an associate’s degree in Marketing from Waukesha County Technical College and is a proud new father of his son Cael. back to top Juany Dahlen, M.A., University of Wisconsin-Madison Email: jaunta-kielleydalhen@nged.k12.wi.us Juany has a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and a M.S. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Past president of Wisconsin State Counselors Association, Juany was Wisconsin Counselor of the Year and won the Distinguished Educators Award, UW-Madison. Since 1986, Juany has been a counselor at Verona and New Glaris High Schools in Wisconsin. back to top Dr. William Davidson, PhD., University of Kansas Email: wdavidson@wwp.edu     Professor, Division of Communications, University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point back to top Janeen Dietsche, M.A., Silver Lake College Email: dietsche@marshfield.k12.wi.us     Janeen has taught a wide variety of computer skills to high school students and to fellow teachers for 13 years through IGS. Here is an excellent technology team to guide teachers into the new world of cyberspace using their knowledge, patience and individually approach. back to top John Ditter, M.A., Life University Email: IGSJD@TDS.net     John has Master's degree in Exercise Physiology and is certified by NSCA as Strength and conditioning Specialist. John is Vice President of the Fitness Connection Inc. 4.500 sq. foot athletic Training Facility. John has been training and working with at athletes of all levels for the past 20 years. He brings practical and applicable experiences from years of high school coaching. His approach is to train the "complete athlete" or team though well-designed functional sport specific training programs. back to top Deborah Engen, M.A., University of Wisconsin-Madison E-mail: deborahengen@hotmail.com     Deborah Engen has been teaching for the past 24 years and currently she's a 4th grade teacher in McFarland,Wi. She has taught college courses for the past 15 years and she is the mother of two teenagers. Deborah received her bachelors degree in elementary education and her masters degree in curriculum and instruction both from UW Madison. Deborah also has a nursing and counseling degree along with 42 extra credits. Deborah loves being a life long learner and she enjoys teaching children and adults. She loves to share positive classroom management techniques with teachers and parents. back to top Cathleen Fagan, M.A., Cardinal Stretch University Email: chfagan@ticon.net Cathleen Fagan is a hospital school teacher at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, and is employed by the Wauwatosa School District. She has taught at Wauwatosa East and West High Schools and Longfellow Middle School as both an English and Special Education teacher. Cathleen has taught graduate classes at Cardinal Stritch University and Institute for Graduate Studies. She has a B.S. from Northern Michigan University, an M.A. from Cardinal Stritch University along with 40 post graduate credits. Also, she serves as an educational consultant in the Oncology/Bone Marrow Transplant Long Term Follow-Up Clinic which assesses health, psychosocial and educational needs of cancer survivors, and serves the new staff orientation program on the Hematology, Oncology and Transplant Unit. Her graduate class is a practical application of sound educational principles in a collaborative and collegial atmosphere. back to top David Funk, M.S., Special Education, University of Wisconsin Email: davefunk@loveandlogic.com Program Support Staff, New Berlin, WI Public Schools Co-Author "Teaching with Love and Logic" Since 1972, David has received over 400 letter and certificated recognizing contributions to teaching and staff development. In 1985, he received the Wisconsin Association of Teacher Educators (WATE) Program Achievement Award in recognition of service in teacher education. In 1992 he received the Excellence in Teaching Award from the New Berlin Learning Disabilities Association, and in 1997 he received the Special Recognition Award from the Wisconsin Learning Disabilities Association. back to top Patricia Gilbert, M.A., Cardinal Stretch University Teacher of Special Education, East and West High Schools, Wauwatosa, WI, and District-wide Chairperson for Special Education. back to top Rick Grundman, M.E., National Lewis University E-mail: rgrundma@nlhs.com Rick has a B.A. from Dr. Martin Luther College and an M.E. from National Lewis University. He is currently Principal at Northland Lutheran High School in Mosinee, WI. back to top Tom Kraft, M.A., University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Email: tkraft@wirr.com Tom taught students with emotional and behavioral disabilities for 16 years, has a B.S. from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Exceptional Children), and M.S. from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Exceptional Children). He has been an administrator in the Milwaukee Public Schools since 1993 (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Administrative Leadership). Tom has been the Assistant Principal at Clement J. Zablocki Elementary School, a National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence in the Milwaukee Public Schools, since 1997. back to top Dr. James Leary, Ed.D., Wayne State University, Detroit, MI Email: macrovision@centurytel.net     Current Interim Superintendant, Eau Claire, WI Public Schools.     Retired Superintendant, Adrian, Michigan Public Schools. back to top Tom Lidtke, M.A., University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Email: tl@wbartmuseum.com     Tom Lidtke has been an art educator at all grade levels from first grade to undergraduate and graduate level courses. He has taught in two countries and has served as a governmental grant reviewer in the United States and Australia. As Executive Director of the West Bend Art Museum he has headed Wisconsin’s only regional art museum for over two decades. As author of numerous publications on Wisconsin regional art he has been responsible for awakening the public to the states rich tapestry of visual art and cultural history. His teaching style is entertaining, engaging and has been described by some of his students as, ‘the best graduate course (they) have ever taken’. His philosophy about art history is that it is inseparable from general history, needs to be understood in proper contexts and must in that capacity, be enjoyed before it can be understood and appreciated. back to top Ted Mainella, B.S., MLS, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Email: tmainella@wi.rr.com     Ted has a rich background in all areas of school technology and has practiced it daily as director of the Media Center for the Mukwonago, WI public schools. With specific expertise in the audio, video and computer areas, Ted knows how to blend these skills in helping teachers pass on these skills to their students in their classrooms. Ted has taught university level classes for IGS for many years, and is one of its most popular instructors. back to top Mary Lou Harris-Manske, B.A. and M.E.P.D., University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Email: manske@dwave.net     Mary Lou lives and breathes reading. For many years she was reading specialists and Chapter 1 reading teachers in the Stevens Point, Wisconsin public schools. Currently she serves as the district-wide reading coordinator, She also owns a children's book store called Book Look and has taught IGS graduate courses for 12 years. back to top Chick Moorman, B.A and M.A., Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, MI Email: IPP57@aol.com     Known nationwide as the author of "Our Classroom" and several other books and booklets, Chick works full time as a keynote speaker, consultant, teacher trainer and university instructor. In addition he directs the Institute for Personal Power, the mission of which is to provide support services to teachers, parents and students. Chick is a seasoned teacher in Michigan and an instructor for 17 universities in 13 states. Exciting, dynamic and innovative, Chick has a zillion activities, ideas, material and strategies to pass on to you. back to top John Peterson & Sherry Mills, M.A, C.M.P, R.M.P/ M.A, R.M.P Email: sherry@ctcm-acr.com     Sherry has published a music method series for Special Education and several articles on using music a teaching tool. John created and maintained the Employment Based Education program at the high school level for 8 years.     Both are experienced presenters on the national and international level having presented to such organizations as Council for Exceptional Children, American Society for Training and Development and the International Alliance for Leaning.     Both have been faculty for several colleges and universities and taught grant Writing for Educators and motivational teaching techniques in the classroom since 1985.     Both have received recognition and awards in the educational and professional organizations. back to top Dr. Ed Pino, M.A., Ed.D, Ph.D, Michigan State University, George Washington University, Stanford University, Harvard University and Oxford University Email: igsmz@aol.com Founder and Lead Professor, I.G.S. An Elementary, Junior High School, Community College and University level teacher and administrator. An Assistant Principal, Principal (Elementary and Secondary), Assistant Superintendent, and Superintendent of Schools for 20 years in four states, the Far East and in Europe. His last Superintendency before retirement was in the prestigious Cherry Creek Schools of metropolitan Denver where his creative and innovative efforts won 12 national awards in his seven year tenure. After retirement from Cherry Creek, Dr. Pino served as President of the International Graduate School of Education and currently serves as President and Lead Professor of the Institute for Graduate Studies Unlimited, Inc. Dr. Pino has authored 43 books and booklets, several audio/video training programs and is the author of a micro-based instructional and management system entitled; Basic Skills for Quality Teaching (P.I.P). His latest two books are; Remaking Our Schools (2000) and Dynamic Inaction (1994). He is a full-time popular and internationally known consultant on a variety of topics having given more than 5,000 workshops, seminars, graduate courses and keynote addresses in 49 states and in 15 foreign nations. He has taught graduate level courses for 51 colleges and universities including public and private state university systems in the U.S. and foreign countries. Dr. Pino is an alumnus of Michigan State, George Washington, Harvard, Stanford and American Universities with specialties in Psychology, curriculum, school management and religious education. Dr. Pino also did Post-doctoral studies and lectured in Comparative Studies at Oxford University, England in 1995. In February, 1996, he spent a month in Antarctica studying research techniques at the Bellinghausen Russian Research Station. He is listed in several Who's Who, including Who's Who Among Hispanic Americans and the most prestigious – Who's Who in America. He is a winner of the AASA Distinguished Professor Award and has also been inducted as "Scholar" in The Oxford Society of Scholars. Ed is married, has six children, ages 49 to 14. He permanently resides in Parker, Colorado where the Home Office of IGS is located and also maintains a Branch Office in Sussex, Wisconsin. back to top Larry & Sandy Reinhold, A.B. and M.A. \ A.B. and M.A., Silver Lake College Email: srandlr@prodigy.net     What an expert team or what! An early childhood and primary teacher plus a later elementary and high school teacher - including head football coach at Arrowhead High School - both are dealing daily with the differentiated needs of learners in inclusive and pull-out settings. If you're pulling out your hair out or, are looking for fresh ideas, materials, strategies and activities, here is the teaching team for you. back to top Willard Romantini, M.A., Aurora University Email: foodman@execpc.com     In addition to almost three decades working in elementary classrooms, Willard has worked reporting for Milwaukee Magazine, WKTI Radio, CBS-58 News and currently is Host and Executive Producer of Time Warner Cable's Wisconsin Food on Demand specializing in showcasing the faces behind the flavors of the hardworking people of the restaurant industry. During his travels and opportunities to interview people from all over the world he has learned that food is a common denominator among cultures and a great way to bring life, an element of trust and a sense of community in the classroom. There is no better way of breaking barriers than by breaking bread. back to top Barney Slowey, B.S., MST, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Email: bslowey@charter.net Experience Social studies, law-related education teacher, grades 9-12 Principal, grades K-12 Director of Instruction & Staff Development, K-12 Trainer for Law-Related Education (Constitutional Rights Foundation, Freedoms Foundation) Training in Positive Youth Development (PYD) Training in Power of Positive Students (POPS) philosophy Training in AODA through DPI, Madison Training in Values and Choices through CESA 11 training in Multiple Intelligences through IRI Skylight Training in Brain Based Learning with Eric Jensen Training in Prime for Life AODA program Consulting Work Presentations to parents, community organizations, churches, students and educators School inservice programs and workshops Credit classes offered through universities Keynote speeches at conventions Topics: Power of Positive Students Program, Leadership in Education, Brain-based teaching, 40 Assets, Positive Coaching, Multiple Intelligences in the Classroom, Law-related Education Section 2: Degrees Earned BS - History MST– American History back to top Christi Slowey, M.A., Mariam College Email: ces2774@yahoo.com     Christi Slowey is a fourth grade teacher in the Kimberly Area School District in Kimberly, WI. Christi graduated from UW-Stevens Point in 1994 with a Bachelors of Science degree in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. In 1999 she graduated from Viterbo University with a Masters of Arts degree in Elementary Education. She has taught first, second, and third grade as well as multiage 2/3. Christi has implemented numerous innovative best practices in her classroom including a balanced literacy approach to learning. Her enthusiasm for teaching is contagious. She is the proud Mother of Jake, Madison, Rufus, and Mimi. back to top Dan Slowey, M.A., Mariam College Email: dbslowey@yahoo.com     Dan Slowey is currently the Positive Youth Development Coordinator and Health Educator for the Kimberly Area School District. He has facilitated many trainings, workshops, and seminars involving educators, parents, community members and youth. His seminars are interactive, enthusiastic, and inspirational. Dan is a UW-La Crosse graduate with a comprehensive (K-12) health education Masters of Science Degree. He is currently pursuing an additional Master's Degree from Marian College specializing in educational leadership. Dan’s passion includes the benefits of laughter; he is a Certified Laughter Leader. Dan provides the tools to measurably improve the quality of people's lives. back to top Rhea Sprecher, B.S.ED and M.S. ED, Concord (NE) University Email: rsprecher@wi.rr.com     Rhea Sprecher attended Concordia College (Nebraska), the University of Reading (England), and Long Island University (New York). At Long Island University, Ms. Sprecher studied under Victor D'Amico, an authority on children's art. Ms. Sprecher is the author of the Art Kit and is an experienced elementary teacher, director of children's theatre and has conducted many art workshops. As a classroom and art teacher for over 40 years, Ms.Sprecher has developed a program for schools that can introduce creative art concepts that will not strain a limited budget. Ms. Sprecher, nationally acclaimed as America's Art Teacher of Teachers, has conducted workshops for Lutheran, Catholic, Christian and Public schools throughout the United States including Hawaii and Alaska. Ms.Sprecher also conducts art history tours of France, Holland and Italy. "If you hear a voice within you say, 'You are not a painter', then by all means paint... and that voice will be silenced." - Van Gogh back to top Bob Tomisch, M.A., Silver Lake College Email: tomsichrk@mac.com     Bob’s last three years of classroom teaching were at 4th grade at Polaris at Ebert in the Denver Public Schools, a Denver magnet for highly gifted and high achieving students. Between 1991 and 2003 he was at Harrington Elementary, an inner city school with 550 students in one of the city's poverty belts, teaching multi-age highly gifted (grade 3,4,5), regular classroom kids at the same levels, media center librarian, and grades 1 and 2 – not all at the same time! Bob, a Minnesota native, came to Colorado in 1978 to create the Teacher's Center for Douglas County Schools. Teaching at the Model School in Staples, Minnesota, from 1967-1978, gave Bob his start in developing a rich repertoire of teaching skills. His areas of expertise include motivation, dynamic teaching strategies, classroom management, creating innovative teaching/learning materials, transferring brain research into classroom practices, and more. For most of those years he has been in demand as a speaker, seminar presenter and graduate course instructor. back to top Mary Beth Wood, M.A., University of Wisconsin - Whitewater Email: mrsmewoodsbg@aol.com     Mrs. Mary Beth Wood has been a Special Education teacher for twenty-four years, having taught EBD, LD & CD students during that time. She was the recipient of the Wisconsin School Psychologist Award, in 2000, for excellence in teaching. Mrs. Wood received both her Bachelors and Masters Degrees from the University of Wisconsin, Whitewater. In addition she has earned an additional 40 credits beyond her Masters. Her classes are known to be practical and informative with a touch of humor! back to top Mary Zahn, M.A., Aurora University Email: igsmz@aol.com Retired teacher of Spanish, Menomonee Falls, WI. Statewide Enrollment Manager for IGS. Milwaukee area instructor for the ever popular "On the Move" course conducted each summer from Milwaukee and other areas. back to top

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