Martin Luther High School is thrilled to welcome their new teachers and staff for the 2016-17 school year! Take a look, and get to know a few of them in this Q&A.
Abbie Amling – Director of Enrollment
What is your educational/career background before Martin Luther?
I am a graduate of Milwaukee Lutheran High School, and received my BS in Organizational Communication, with a minor in advertising at UW-Whitewater. I worked as the Luxury Suites Manager at Miller Park for 7 years, then a Non-Profit Group Coordinator at Miller Park for 5 years. I have also been coaching girls basketball at Hales Corners Lutheran since 2008 and at Martin Luther since 2014.
What do you enjoy most about being at this school so far?
I love the people! The staff, parents and kids are great to work with! It is a joy to come to work every day and work in the ministry for the greater goal of eternal life. I realize how truly blessed I am, to be here and have this opportunity.
What things are you looking forward to in your first school year here?
I look forward to continuously learning every day that I am here. Every day is a little different and I love the opportunity to learn new things and better myself.
What is your favorite Bible verse, and why?
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
My high school varsity coach gave us a beautiful scenic picture, of the mountains with this verse, at the end of the season. I have carried this photo with me and turned to the verse in good times and bad. I know that God has a plan and it is not always what I have wanted or what I thought was best for me. Continuously pray and trust Him, when you fall remember God’s grace, and work to be an example that shines bright in a world of darkness. #KTB
Haley Naber – English and Foods
What is your educational/career background before Martin Luther?
Prior to teaching at Martin Luther, I was a student here! Spartan Pride!! After graduating Martin Luther, I attended the University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point where I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and English Education. Martin Luther is my first official teaching position and I am so excited to be back!
What do you enjoy most about being at this school so far?
My favorite thing about Martin Luther is the amazing support given to the arts, athletics, etc. It’s amazing to see so many students out supporting each other whether it be at a football, a play or a concert. The pride that the students and staff have in every aspect of Martin Luther is inspiring!
What things are you looking forward to in your first school year here?
I’m most looking forward to developing relationships. Some of my greatest friends are people I have met through Martin Luther. I am looking forward to creating more friendships and relationships both in the teacher and coaching role.
What is your favorite Bible verse, and why?
My favorite bible verse is Philippians 4:13 “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” This bible verse was my confirmation verse and a verse I live my daily life by. Whenever I feel weak and need help, I take comfort in knowing that whatever I need to accomplish, I get my strength through God.
Chris Pfaller – Physical Science, Assistant Football Coach
What is your educational/career background before Martin Luther?
This is my 9th year of teaching. I taught for 3 years in MPS and 5 years in the West Allis – West Milwaukee school district.
What do you enjoy most about being at this school so far?
My first 2 weeks have been excellent. The most enjoyable part about Martin Luther is being around a community that has welcomed me with open arms.
What things are you looking forward to in your first school year here?
In the near future, I am looking forward to my first Spartathon. I have heard great things about it. Over the course of this year, I am also looking forward to working with a great staff, and meeting as many students that I can and helping them grow spiritually, academically, and emotionally.
What is your favorite Bible verse, and why?
My favorite bible verse is 1 Thessalonians 5: 18. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” I have many blessings in my life, and I give thanks every day for them. This verse helps remind me that I need have trust in God’s plan and give thanks in good times and in bad.
Ally Kitten – Social Studies, Transitional Study Halls
What is your educational/career background before Martin Luther?
I am a Martin Luther High School graduate! My teachers at Martin Luther inspired me to want to become a teacher because they were always so supportive of my education and I could tell they wanted me to succeed and those are characteristics I embody as a teacher. I chose the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater because of their fantastic educational program and there I worked for many Department Chairs in History to analyze student data at the college level. I graduated last fall with Summa Cum Laude honors and was hired before graduation to teach Social Studies at the high school level.
What do you enjoy most about being at this school so far?
My favorite aspect of Martin Luther is working with my students! I absolutely love their desire to learn and achieve greatness here at Martin Luther both academically and spiritually! It is awesome to be at a school where both students and teachers alike enjoy coming to school. The atmosphere at Martin Luther is different than all the other schools I have been at and I really love the environment Martin Luther has towards learning and succeeding.
What things are you looking forward to in your first school year here?
I am looking forward to many things this school year. First is seeing my students learn and grow throughout the year. For me, I think seeing growth and achievement in my students is my favorite part of teaching. Secondly, I am really looking forward to starting a Student Council at Martin Luther this upcoming October. Student Council is a great way for students to tell us what they would like to see at Martin Luther as well as learning communication skills, working together with their classmates and other grades, and learning problem-solving and critical thinking skills as we work through the many creative ideas that we have for Martin Luther throughout the year!
What is your favorite Bible verse, and why?
Philippians 4:13 “For I can do everything through him, who gives me strength.”
I really like this verse, because it gives me endless motivation to work hard and continue to strive for greatness. It is an encouraging verse as well that we can do anything we set our mind to because the Lord gives us strength to complete the many tasks in life. Lastly, this verse reminds me to always remember that everything I do should be for Jesus Christ who died for our salvation.
