Elmbrook Spotlight: Meet Burleigh Teachers Courtney Arntzen and David Peterson

Courtney Arntzen    

• School: Burleigh Elementary
• Grade/Subject: Third Grade
• Years in the Elmbrook School District: Six
• College/University: I earned a degree from the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse in Elementary Education and Early Childhood. I then attended Marian University for a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership.

What’s the best part of teaching in the Elmbrook School District:
There are many wonderful aspects to teaching in the Elmbrook School District. Above others, I would say the motivation shared by educators and families to do what is best for children really stands out.

Why I wanted to be a teacher:
After attending what was Wisconsin Hills Elementary School, I realized the difference my second grade teacher made in my life. From then on I knew working in education was what I wanted to do.

If I wasn’t a teacher, I’d be:
That is a hard question. I have always had the desire to work in an educational setting. If I had taken a different path I might have become the director of a summer camp or a photographer traveling around the world and volunteering in international schools!

My least favorite subject in high school was:
I had so many wonderful classes. I guess my least favorite would have been physics (sorry physics teachers)!

My favorite school lunch menu item is/was:
While I no longer indulge in the school hot lunch program I would have to say looking back the chocolate chip cookies at what was then Elmbrook Middle School were fantastic.  I wonder if they still have those?  

David Peterson

• School: Burleigh Elementary
• Grade/Subject: Fifth Grade 
• Years in the Elmbrook School District: 15 years (14 years at Hillside, 1 year at Burleigh)
• College/University: Bachelor's degree from Cardinal Stritch University,  Masters Degree in Educational Computing from Cardinal Stritch University

What’s the best part of teaching in the Elmbrook School District:
I enjoy working in this district because the families are very involved, the kids are wonderful, and the staff is cohesive.

There are a wide variety of teaching resources available in the school, which helps me in my job to meet all students' needs. It's fulfilling to work for a high-achieving district.

Why I wanted to be a teacher:
Throughout my educational journey, I've had numerous teachers who made learning fun and interesting. That motivated me to want to give children that same zest for learning.

If I wasn’t a teacher, I’d be:
Working in the restaurant industry. I spent many years working at the restaurant that my aunt and uncle owned, and I loved it. My wife sure appreciates the cooking skills I gained from that job!

My least favorite subject in high school was:
Band. It's ironic that my own children are now excellent musicians!

My favorite school lunch menu item is/was:
Turkey and gravy over mashed potatoes with a roll, green beans, and a piece of chocolate cake.  It's almost as good as Thanksgiving!