Alora Nuyen Class of 2028 & Amiel Bradd Class of 2028
Ever wondered who’s behind keeping the yearbook and The Emerald running? Say hello to Kelly Royer, the one who makes it all happen. Ms. Royer has been teaching for 21 years, and all of those have been at Pennfield. When Royer first started teaching, she wanted to teach speech classes as her major was in speech and drama. She began teaching speech, acting, journalism, and video when the high school was located in the old building. Then, when she moved to the new high school in 2008, Royer began teaching more video classes, which eventually evolved to include graphic design and digital photography. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, working out, and relaxing. Royer says that if there's one thing she wants her students to leave her class with, it's “imagining how much better life would be if everyone treated each other with kindness and respect.” Some fun facts about her are that she has run 7 half marathons, her favorite food is Taco Bell, Royer is a CMU/MSU graduate, she loves to binge-watch dramas with her daughter, and her greatest phobia is bees.
Chase Hunsicker
Class of 2029
Mr. Martin has been teaching at Pennfield for two years, going on three. He has two kids and has been married to Mrs. Martin for twenty-five years. Martin is also a football coach and the head coach of powerlifting; this is his second year as the Powerlifting Head Coach. He worked with powerlifters as an assistant coach for 6 years before Pennfield. His goals for the season are to increase the number on the team, saying, “Hopefully we have up to 20 boys and at least 10 girls this year.” Another goal for the team is to create an atmosphere that is fun but instructional. Another approach would be to educate athletes on how to develop a lifelong habit of working out, making it an integral part of their identity and building confidence in themselves. Something else he is working on is to create something Pennfield can be proud of, in his words, “If our lifters grow stronger, enjoy competing, and speak highly of their experience, then we have accomplished our goal.” One of the things Martin plans to do differently this year is to create separate schedules for both our boys and girls teams, due to the expected number of lifters. Another thing he is going to emphasize is making sure the athletes really hit their auxiliary lifts this year.
Kylie Daghuer
Class of 2026
Meet Mrs. Kelsie Gammons, who teaches Algebra I, Precalculus, and College and Career Readiness and Exploration at PHS. She was inspired to become a teacher by her preschool teachers, Miss Peggy and Miss Jennifer, whose kindness and patience made a lasting impact. One of her strangest teaching moments was during her first year, when someone dunked over her head at the D.U.N.K. assembly! Gammons attended Western Michigan University, where she loved connecting with others who shared her passion for teaching math. She and her husband, Chris, who is also a math teacher at Harper Creek High School, have a daughter named Bryleigh, and are expecting a baby boy in March, along with their pets Luna, Maggie, Ghost, and Salem. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, painting, embroidering, and baking, always with her daily Coca-Cola in hand. A fan of WMU, the Red Wings, and University of Tennessee sports, she reminds her students that teachers have tough days, too. Fun fact: she used to be a contortionist and once broke her ankle sliding down a slide!
Prosper Lukole
Class of 2028
Mrs. Fleisher is the Biology teacher at Pennfield High School. Fleisher says the reason she wanted to be a teacher is that she enjoys teaching teenage students about science and the natural world around them. Fleisher enjoys doing many things outside of school. She spends time with her sister and friends and attends events in the area. Fleisher also enjoys supporting local businesses. She says she has several fun events planned for the next few months, and also loves to travel, especially out west.
Fleisher attended Western Michigan University, where she earned her Master's and Bachelor's degrees. Fleisher says she loves learning new things, so being a student and making connections with other people was her favorite part of her experience at Western Michigan University. A fun fact about Fleisher that not many people know is that when she was in high school, Fleisher and her sister thought that they recognized a "missing person" on an episode of Unsolved Mysteries. They called the show, and the man's father drove from Grand Rapids to Battle Creek. Then they showed him where the man spent his time. It turns out that he was not the missing man, but the father agreed that he bore an eerie resemblance to his son.
Tyler McKenzie
Class of 2027
Mr. Doerr is a second-year staff member here at Pennfield. Doerr is a proud father of two boys, Brycen and Calden. When he’s not cheering them on, he’s spending time with Scooter, the best dog in the world, and his girlfriend, Alicia, who’s always by his side. He proudly supports the Michigan Wolverines, Chicago Bears, Chicago Cubs, and Detroit Red Wings. Whether it’s football in Ann Arbor or hockey in Detroit, he loves the energy, excitement, and teamwork that sports bring. One thing Doerr hopes every student knows is that he’s always there for them. His classroom isn’t just a place for learning. Whether a student needs help with schoolwork or just someone to talk to, Doerr is ready to listen. “My goal is to make sure they know they’re not alone,” he says. Outside of school, he enjoys attending sporting events, especially those in Ann Arbor, hitting the gym, and going on walks with his family and Scooter. These moments help him recharge so he can bring his best self to the classroom every day.
Mr. Doerr’s dedication to his students and his community truly makes him a valued member of the school family. His kindness, passion, and positivity make every day a little brighter for those lucky enough to work and learn alongside him.
Addysen Gregory
Class of 2027
For 30 years, Mr. McCafferty has been a cornerstone of Pennfield High School’s faculty, inspiring generations of students through his passion for learning and his dedication to teaching. A versatile educator, he teaches U.S. History, Civics, Psychology, and German, extending his enthusiasm for the subject of German even to the 8th graders. A proud Spartan, McCafferty earned his bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. He recalls the crisp autumn air, the golden leaves, and the excitement of football Saturdays as some of his fondest memories from his college years. In the classroom, McCafferty starts each day fueled by coffee and is kept energized by his students, especially those who can engage in lively, thoughtful conversations. Beyond the walls of Pennfield, he finds balance in spending time with his wife, son, and daughter. He also enjoys moments of solitude on the golf course and the quiet satisfaction of a good book. Adding a touch of humor to his distinguished profile, McCafferty holds the tongue-in-cheek title of “Lord of Ardmore” and is also a certified minister.
Amiel Bradd
Class of 2028
Mrs. Rzepka is a teacher here at PHS with 29 years of teaching experience. She is passionate about helping students gain real-world life skills and confidence in themselves. She has taught Family and Consumer Science throughout her career and loves seeing her students grow more independent each year. Outside the classroom, she enjoys boating, relaxing with family, and reading. She and her husband, Joel, her high school sweetheart, have been married for 29 years and have three children: Kate, pursuing her master’s in perfusion at MSOE; Karli, a KCC radiography upcoming graduate; and Cole, a BCPD cadet preparing for the police academy. Her home is filled with love (and fur!) thanks to two dogs, Lola and Lucy, and four cats. A WMU alumna and MSU fan, Rzepka describes herself as shy and introverted but determined. “I know what it’s like to be anxious,” she says, “but I’ve learned not to let it define me.” Her positivity, strong work ethic, and care for her students inspire everyone around her.
Avreen Kaur
Class of 2028
Mr. Klepec has been teaching World History for 10 years, and his passion for education runs deep in his family since his mom and basically his whole family were teachers, so becoming one himself just made sense. Over the years, he’s seen plenty of interest in things as a teacher, including the time he had to break up a fight in the bathroom. “When they saw me coming, they scattered like roaches,” he said. Outside of school, Mr. Klepec enjoys spending time with his wife, two kids, and their Beagle named Honey. He and his wife have been married for nine and a half years and have a seven-year-old son and an almost two-year-old daughter. He attended Eastern Michigan University, where he enjoyed learning without pressure and stepping into adult life. Mr. Klepec is a lifelong fan of the Detroit Lions; he’s been cheering for the team long before it became a “trend.” He also enjoys relaxing and spending time with people in his free time. Teaching brings him joy and purpose, and he considers it the best job in the world. He admits that his students probably know more about him than he would like. A few fun facts about Mr. Klepec are that he once got 77 stitches from a childhood accident, was held back in school, and even tried stand-up comedy — and he recalled that he was kinda funny. Whether in the classroom or at home with his family, Mr. Klepec’s enthusiasm and humor make every day a little brighter.
Phoenix Miller
Class of 2027
Mr. Anderson has been working as an ASL interpreter for five years, and had a fantastic deaf teacher who encouraged him to become an interpreter. He loves sign language, working with children/young adults, and interpreting baseball games for a deafblind man. Mr. Anderson is very close with his family, including his mom, dad, brother, and little grey cat named Cecil. His favorite team is the Detroit Tigers. He studied ASL at Kalamazoo Valley Community College, then joined an interpreter training program at Lansing Community College. He tries to always have something fun on his schedule to look forward to, whether it’s a concert or a regular hangout with his friends.
Akiah Swartz '28
Pennfield High School chemistry teacher Mr. Strozier says this school year has been off to a great start. In addition to teaching several science courses, he also leads the school’s Esports club, which continues to grow in popularity. “The Esports club is going really well,” Strozier said. “I’m looking forward to seeing the progress we make as we approach the season.”
In the classroom, Strozier teaches Chemistry, Anatomy and Physiology, and Environmental Science, three subjects that keep his days varied and engaging. “I enjoy all of my classes for different reasons,” he said. “In Chemistry, we’ve been tackling some tough content like atomic theory and electron configurations. They’re not particularly complex, but they require new ways of thinking that are a fun challenge to communicate.”
He also enjoys teaching Anatomy and Physiology, calling it both his favorite content area and a way to push students who plan to attend college. “It’s a great opportunity to help them develop new study skills,” he said. Strozier’s Environmental Science class allows for broad discussions about real-world issues. “We get to cover a huge range of topics,” he explained. “Because most students have already taken physics or chemistry, we can build on that knowledge and explore how different environmental factors interact in a very conversational, Socratic way.”
When asked about his favorite part of the school year so far, Strozier didn’t hesitate. “My favorite thing has been seeing the Esports club take off,” he said. “I plan to keep learning. There isn’t a single subject I teach that I don’t learn more about every year, and I try to share that with my students.”
Alora Nuyen ‘28
When Ms. Birk stepped in to fill Mr. Kirkland’s position, she said she felt grateful for the opportunity and the trust placed in her. Though she’s eager to return to her usual role as a building substitute, she’s also hoping for another long-term teaching position in the future, ideally one that involves teaching English. Reflecting on her time in the art room, Ms. Birk said the experience helped her grow both personally and professionally. “It made me stronger and helped me learn more about what I do and don’t want to do as a teacher,” she shared.
One of the biggest challenges, she explained, was filling in for a well-respected teacher and striving to live up to his example. Despite that pressure, she looks back on the experience with appreciation. “I really value getting to know students of different ages and being able to recognize more kids by name instead of just by face,” she said. Overall, Ms. Birk said the position not only strengthened her teaching skills but also deepened her connection to the school community.
Akiah Swartz ‘28
At Pennfield High School, some teachers not only spend their days with students but also share the halls with their own children.
Ms. Royer, who teaches Yearbook and Newspaper, has one daughter at Pennfield. Now a freshman, her daughter is in Royer’s 7th hour class. Royer says she loves seeing her daughter at school every day and especially enjoys having her in class. At home, the two like to go to Starbucks, watch Gilmore Girls, and spend time together. While she is happy now, Royer admits she will be “an absolute wreck” when her daughter graduates in 2029.
Mr. Boyd also has a full house at Pennfield—three of his children attended the high school. He has taught all of them in at least one class and appreciates being able to get their honest feedback on lessons and classroom issues. Outside of school, the Boyds enjoy visiting beaches, lakes, and taking road trips. Still, Boyd acknowledges the downside: sometimes his kids get teased about their dad being a teacher.
Mrs. Treadway is another teacher-parent at Pennfield. She has two children enrolled and has already had both in her classes. She hopes to have her daughter in class next year as well. Treadway says her children didn’t find it awkward to have their mom as their teacher—they even called her “Mom” in class. Outside of school, the Treadways like to travel, shop, and spend time with family.
Mrs. Gillson hasn’t had her children in class but still enjoys having them at Pennfield. She likes being able to see them throughout the day and appreciates the chance to talk directly with their teachers if needed. Looking ahead, Gillson hopes to travel more with her family. She shared, “I feel very blessed being able to work at a great school that my girls will graduate from.”
Amiel Bradd ‘28 & Alora Nuyen ‘28
We’re excited to introduce a new face to Pennfield High School, Ms. Green! She’s joining our school to provide valuable support and resources to both students and staff. Whether you need a winter coat, food, or other essential items, she is here to ensure everyone has what they need. Green comes to us with 10 years of experience in early childhood education, though this is her first time working in this specific role. She is passionate about making a difference and supporting students who may be going through tough times. Outside of school, Green is a busy mom to four children and enjoys spending her free time reading. She’s excited to get to know the Pennfield community, build new relationships, and make a positive impact on our school. If you ever need assistance or just want to say hello, stop by room A208. Green is there and eager to help.
DeeAna Black ‘28 & Brooke Miller ‘28
Ms. Whiting is a new special education teacher at Pennfield High School. She is looking forward to building relationships with her students. “I'm excited to be a new teacher, but a little overwhelmed about not having a curriculum.” Whiting wanted to become a teacher since she was in first grade. She found inspiration in her kindergarten teacher, who made a lasting impact on her life, so she wanted to do the same. “My favorite part of being a teacher is building relationships with my students.”
Ms. Brown is one of our new office secretaries. She said she looks forward to starting her new position at the high school and continuing her role in the school community. Brown wanted to become a secretary because she enjoys helping people. Brown hasn’t always wanted to be a secretary, but she started working in classrooms as a teacher's assistant for many years. Brown’s first week at Pennfield was great, and she said everyone was welcoming. Her favorite part of being a secretary is getting to know various people. She was a secretary for 2 years at Marshall and 1 year at North Penn. This is her first year as a secretary in high school.
Akiah Swartz '28
Pennfield High School’s Spanish teacher, Mrs. Buning, has one main goal for her students this year: to get them speaking Spanish more confidently. She begins her classes with the basics, but once students have a strong foundation, she gives them the freedom to explore topics that interest them.
Buning’s love for Spanish started long before she began teaching. Although she also holds an English degree and previously taught English, she found her passion in the Spanish classroom. “I’ve always loved the language,” she explained.
One of the biggest challenges she used to face was students questioning the importance of learning a second language. Some argued that everybody speaks Spanish. Buning believes learning another language is about much more than that—it’s about connecting with people and culture.
While she views technology as a helpful tool, she also acknowledges that it can sometimes be a distraction. Still, she remains enthusiastic about her classes this year. “If I didn’t like my students, I wouldn’t be a teacher,” she said with a smile.
Her students keep her laughing every day, and in return, she continues to bring energy and encouragement into the classroom.