fifth grade team 

Katie Thompson 

I am in my 8th year of teaching 5th grade at Auburn Middle School. I taught Special Education at Waverly Elementary for a year before the opportunity opened up in 5th Grade at Auburn! I knew right away I wanted to teach in this district and am blessed to have found such a wonderful school family. In addition to teaching, I have coached the high school cheerleading squad during both basketball and football seasons.

I received my degree in Elementary Education from Benedictine University at Springfield in 2015. After student teaching at Auburn in 1st Grade, I knew this was the district where I wanted to teach. I was given incredible support from everyone I crossed paths with and wanted to be a part of a district that truly cared for their students. Teaching 5th Grade allows me to work with students as they begin to figure themselves out and the type of people they hope to be.

My husband, Corey, and I have been married for 8 years. In March of 2022, we welcomed our daughter, Kinley, into the world. We can’t wait for her to be a part of this wonderful community! 

Marley Schmidt

My name is Marley Schmidt and this will be my 5th year teaching 5th grade.  I always knew deep down that I wanted to be a teacher. I remember "playing school" when I was little and dreaming of the day where I could have a classroom of my own! My favorite part of teaching so far has been learning things from the kiddos that I get to have in my room. I always love hearing their perspectives and getting to witness their minds growing! 

Darcie Cullers

I am thrilled to be your child’s teacher this year.  I have had the joy of teaching 5th – 8th Grade Math & English at St. Agnes and Springfield Christian School, K – 8th Computer at St. Agnes, 6th Grade Math at Auburn Jr. High, and 5th Grade here the last four years.

When  I’m not teaching, I enjoy being at fairs and festivals with my husband, Jim, (we own a concession business) and visiting our daughter, son-in-law & grandsons; Caitlin, Tyler, Waylon, and Beckham (born this Summer).  We are expecting a granddaughter this winter.  We currently have a four-year-old puppy, Oakley.  I, also, love to do crafts and have an online boutique.

Alex King

My name is Alex King and this will be my first full year teaching at AMS! I graduated in December of 2023 from UIS after student teaching in 5th grade at North Mac. I started at Auburn in January 2024. 

When not at school, I am spending my time with my 3 dogs, my fiancé, and friends!  

I am so excited for this school year and can't wait to watch my students grow and succeed! 

Char Goyke