“When you are kind to others, it not only changes you, it changes the world.”

Hello!  Park Avenue-What a great place to be!

I have been in education for 19 years and have enjoyed teaching K-6 music, in the classroom with Kindergarten, 1^st, 4^th, 5^th, and 8^th graders, as well as, supporting teachers with using arts integration strategies as an Arts Integration Coach.

I grew up in Lake Tahoe, Nevada and graduated from San Diego State University with an emphasis in English Language Learners.  I received my Master of Arts Education from Viterbo University with a Reading Endorsement.

I came to Iowa from the West Coast because I met my husband Mark and now, we have two beautiful children Ainsley and Ficher, as well as a puppy named Latte.  I enjoy spending time with family and friends, running, playing my violin, cello, flute, and piano, and supporting myself and others with our health journeys.

I am looking forward to a wonderful year here at Park Avenue!

This is my 17th year of teaching and my 13th year at Park Avenue. I love being a Park Avenue Panther!! 

I grew up in Sioux City Iowa and went to college at the University of Northern Iowa. I majored in elementary education and early childhood education with a special education endorsement. I graduated in 2005 and since then I taught kindergarten in Waterloo, English to preschoolers and elementary aged students in Japan, preschool in West Des Moines, and kindergarten and 4th grade at Park Avenue.  I have been an instructional coach for the last 8 years and love the opportunity to work in all of the classrooms in our building. 

In my spare time I enjoy reading & listening to all different types of books. I love to travel and have visited over 12 countries, including China, Australia, France, Korea, New Zealand, and England. I like to play golf with my husband, listen to audiobooks, and spend time with our two kids, Ella (8) & Jack (4).

“Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.”  – Nelson Mandela

My name is Maggie Dau and I am honored to be the associate principal at Park Avenue.  I have been a teacher and leader in Des Moines Public Schools for fourteen years as a middle school math teacher, fifth grade teacher, and instructional coach.  I hold a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Simpson College, a master’s degree from Drake University and earned my administrative endorsement through Northwestern College. 

My husband (Nick) and I keep busy with our two sons, Will (2^nd grade) and Sam (K), along with our dogs, Penny and Libby.  Libby is currently being trained to be a therapy dog so she may accompany me to school.  We enjoy visiting parks, being involved in sports, and spending time with other family and friends

Hello Park Avenue Families! My name is Sherida and I have been with Des Moines Public Schools for 13 years. This is my 5th year here at Park Avenue. Prior to Park Ave, I worked at Roosevelt High school as the bookkeeper, and in HR as an Executive Secretary.   I love working with kids and providing a safe and fun place to learn. I have been married for 25 years and have a son, daughter, and daughter-in-law. In my free time I enjoy watching  movies or TV , cooking, and shopping.