Hello Park Avenue Families! My name is Mercedes Michael. This is my second year as a classroom teacher. I began my journey with Des Moines Public Schools in December of 2020 as an Academic Interventionist, specializing in reading. I taught first grade last year, and am I am so excited to continue working with our first grade students here at Park Ave. I graduated from Iowa State University in November of 2020 with an Elementary Education bachelor’s degree. I am planning to continue my education by enrolling in a master’s program at Drake University in the future. In my free time I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family and cats! Can’t wait to make this year an amazing one at Park Avenue!
Hi Park Avenue Families! My name is Melanie Stroud and this is my sixth year teaching at Park Avenue Elementary. I graduated from The University of Iowa with a BA in Speech and Hearing Sciences and Disorders. While working at Heartland Area Education Agency in speech therapy, I received my BA in Elementary Education from Buena Vista University. This past year, I received my masters at Drake University. In my spare time, I love being with my family and dog outdoors.
Hello Park Avenue families, welcome to first grade! My name is Abigail Tran and this is my 8th year of teaching and my 6th year in the Des Moines Public Schools district. I was born in Des Moines and graduated from North High School. After high school I earned a degree in Early Childhood Education, a Minor in Learning Technologies, and a Reading Endorsement from Iowa State University. I received my masters from Drake University. In my spare time I enjoy being with my family, riding my bike, and spending time outside.
“Don’t follow the path. Go where there is no path and begin the trail.” -Ruby Bridges