Oconto Falls

English Language

Our Mission

It is the intention of the English Department at Oconto Falls High School to provide all students with opportunities to become acquainted with a wide range of literary and critical works in all the genres, e.g. epic poetry, drama, lyrical poetry, short stories, novels, literary criticism, biography, autobiography, essays, etc. Students also will be trained in the writing skills they will need to succeed in high school, college, and the world of work. The ultimate goals are to foster students’ analytical and critical thinking skills that will enhance independent and informed thought, encourage appreciation for literature, and allow for articulate self-expression.

Meet Our Team

Mr. Mertz

Mr. Gander

Mr. Gayle Gander has been a teacher and member of the Oconto Falls High School English Department since 1998. He holds a Bachelor of Science of Education degree in Secondary English and a Minor in Theatre Education from the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Geography from the University of Wisconsin - Platteville. He has taught English at all of the grade levels, with his current load including Genre and Film, Language Arts 9 and 10, Drama 1 and Dramatic Literature. His co-curricular duties include directing the one-act and mainstage theatrical productions, which he has led the Drama Team to several State appearances. He coaches the Forensics Team and is the Graduation Adviser for the senior class. He is also the Managing Director of the Falls Area Performing Arts Center, as well as Section Chair and President-elect for the Wisconsin High School Forensic Association. Outside of teaching, he maintains interests in reading (mysteries and comics), playing piano, and coaching baseball for the Miracle League of Green Bay.

Email: gayle.gander@of-ps.org

Mrs. Jones

Mrs. Mollie Jones began her career in education teaching German in Dallas in 2008 and came to OFHS in 2020. She graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay in 2008 with a BA in English and German and a minor in secondary education. In the span of her career, she has taught nearly every English course under the sun. Her current course load includes English 10, English 11, Creative Writing, and Peer Coaching. She also oversees the writing center. For her, education is a passion and calling. In another life, Mrs. Jones loves spending time outdoors, whether hiking, running, gardening, or reading on her patio. She strongly believes life should be a musical and it is always appropriate to burst out into song and dance. Mrs. Jones brings her dogs along wherever they are welcome, can often be seen sipping coffee, and reserves Sundays for football.

Email: mollie.jones@of-ps.org

Mrs. Spang-Magee

Mrs. Stephanie Spang-Magee has been an educator since 2013 and joined the OFHS English department in 2020. She graduated from Saint Norbert College in 2012 with her BA in English and a minor in secondary education. She later continued her education, earning her Master's degree in the science of education (MSE) with a literacy focus from UW-Oshkosh in 2019. She has a passion for learning and trying new things. Mrs. Spang-Magee has experience teaching a variety of ELA courses at the high school level; she currently teaches ELA 11: American Literature and NWTC English Composition. In addition to teaching, Mrs. Spang-Magee loves working with students to help them figure out their future plans and pathways to get there. Her favorite thing in life is being a mom and spending quality time with her family. Outside of school she also enjoys spending time with her dogs, being outdoors, and drinking iced coffee.

Email: stephanie.spangmagee@of-ps.org

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