Library Staff

Mountain View

My name is Ben Cerwinske. After working in the district for a number of years I became the Mountain View librarian in 2021. I grew up in Sioux Falls, SD and attended Black Hills State University where I got my degree in Elementary Education.

I enjoy reading about Abraham Lincoln and listening to Bruce Springsteen. I hope to pass on my love of libraries to the students!

Email: bcerwins@spearfish.k12.sd.us 

Phone: 605.717.1209

West

My name is Crystal Pawlus, and I’m thrilled to be the new librarian at West Elementary! I have a deep passion for books and love watching kids discover their joy for learning through stories and movement.

Before joining this fantastic community, I worked at the Deadwood Public Library as the events and programs coordinator. Now, I’m excited to bring my experience and creativity to our school and help nurture a love of reading and exploration in our students.

When I'm not in the library, you can find me outdoors with my husband and our three children—Orson, Anemone, and Nyx. I also enjoy working on my embroidery art, which allows me to express my creativity in another way.

I can’t wait to embark on this exciting journey with all of you and share the magic of books together!

Email: cpawlus@spearfish.k12.sd.us

Phone: 605.717.1205

Creekside

Hello Creekside Readers!

My name is Sheleen Bauer and I love being the librarian at Creekside Elementary in beautiful Spearfish! I grew up on the eastern side of South Dakota and went to college in Minnesota. After graduating from the University of Minnesota with a degree in English Literature, I pursued a career in teaching high school English, adding degrees in Library Science and a Master of Arts in Reading along the way! My husband and I, along with our three children (Harrison, Gabe and Elsa) moved to Spearfish in 2017, and we feel so fortunate to live in this wonderful community.

In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, skiing, traveling, and camping with my friends and family!

Email: sbauer@spearfish.k12.sd.us y

Phone: 605.717.1210

Spearfish Middle School

My name is Monica Waugh.  I grew up on a ranch in the little town of Reva, South Dakota.  I have worked in the Spearfish Middle School since January of 2011.

I have 2 sons (Bryan and Charlie) who both graduated from Spearfish Schools. 

In my free time I enjoy reading, golfing and just lounging around the house.

Email: mwaugh@spearfish.k12.sd.us 

Phone: 605.717.1215

Spearfish High School

My name is Emily Benvenga, and I became the Spearfish HS librarian in 2015. I formerly taught Spanish and English, and I have a Master's degree in educational administration along with my library media endorsement. Originally from eastern SD, I now call the beautiful Black Hills home. My husband and I enjoy spending time together as a family with our two children, Allie & Victor.

Email: ebenveng@spearfish.k12.sd.us 

Phone: 605.717.1212