About Us

Mrs. Kruggel

Thank you for sharing your most precious gift with me this school year! I am so grateful to be a part of the St. Joe family.

I grew up in South Bend, went to St. Anthony’s grade school and St. Joseph High school. I lived in Colorado for six years with my husband Connor.

I went to Indiana University where I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in elementary education. I taught Pre-K for three years and 2^nd grade for three years in Colorado. In 2018, we moved back home to South Bend to be closer to family. I joined the St. Joe family that school year and love teaching 1^st grade!

My husband Connor works as a national sales manager for Lionshead Specialty Tire and Wheels. He and I are blessed to be parents to our beautiful son Easton who just turned 2 this August! We love going on adventures to the zoo, pool, library, and park! At home, we like to play outside as a family with our miniature schnauzer, Rockne.

I am an avid reader and hope to instill upon my 1st graders a love of reading.

Every year is a special year but this one is even more so because I have the privilege of teaching alongside my best friend since Kindergarten, Carrie Olen!

I am so excited to learn, grow, work, and pray with your kiddo this year!

*A Few of My Favorite Things*

Favorite Color: Green

Favorite Season: Summer

Favorite Drink: Coffee

Favorite Sport: Football

Favorite Animal: Dogs

Favorite Book: Where the Red Fern Grows

Favorite Hobby: Reading

Favorite Restaurant: Bonefish

Favorite Store: Target/Homegoods/Amazon

Mrs. Olen

I am so excited to be a part of the St. Joseph family! My family and I have been parishoners for several years, so I am thrilled to be a part of your children's education. Here are a few things about me!

I was born in South Bend and have lived here my entire life! I went to St. Anthony's grade school (where I met my best friend Mrs. Kruggel in Kindergarten!) and graduated from St. Joseph High School. I then went to Indiana University where I received my bachelor's degree in Elementary Education.

I taught at ECDC Notre Dame for four years and then continued my vocation at St. Thomas the Apostle in Elkhart. I taught first grade for seven years and loved every minute!

I am married to a wonderful man, Mr. Olen. He works at Liberty Mutual Insurance. We have two beautiful and vibrant boys! Calvin is 2 years old and Jonah was born in March. They are the light of my life! - just like all of you!