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I bring more than 30 years of experience in faith education to Saints Andrew–Thomas Academy. As a proud alumna of SS. Andrew–Thomas School, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the same community that helped shape my faith and education.

Throughout my career, I have taught a variety of grade levels, including 4th through 8th grade, physical education, and multi-grade classrooms. I also served as principal of SS. Andrew–Thomas School from 2021-2026 and spent several years as the parish Religious Education Coordinator. My passion has always been helping students grow both academically and spiritually.

I am committed to teaching children about Jesus, Christian values, and the love Christ has for each of us. Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading, taking walks, and spending time with my family, especially my grandsons, Tate and Archie.

I bring over two decades of experience in early childhood education. As a lifelong member of the Potosi community, I attended and graduated from Potosi Schools and feel deeply rooted in the area I now serve.

I hold an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and have spent the past 22 years teaching preschool, helping young learners build a strong foundation for lifelong success. I believe children learn best through hands-on, sensory-rich experiences—touching, exploring, and engaging fully with the world around them. My classroom emphasizes developmentally appropriate learning that supports growth academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.

I am passionate about creating a structured, nurturing environment where children feel safe, loved, and confident. Through consistent routines, encouragement, and positive reinforcement, I help students build emotional security and develop a love for learning. I also value strong partnerships with families and believe open, ongoing communication is key to each child’s success.

My husband, Dale, and I have been married for 32 years and have six children and five grandchildren, who bring great joy to my life.

Shakyla is a proud alumna of SS. Andrew–Thomas Catholic School and currently serves as Board President of the Foundation. As a wife, mother, and community advocate, Shakyla brings both professional expertise and a deep personal commitment to advancing faith-based education in the community.

She is an advanced practice social worker, specializing in healthcare and program development. Through her work, she has focused on building and strengthening programs that support families and long-term community growth.

Shakyla is the mother of two young daughters, Harper (3) and Hazel (1), and is passionate about ensuring they, and other children in the community, have access to a strong, faith-based education. Having experienced firsthand the high academic standards and values-based learning of her early education, she is committed to preserving and carrying that legacy forward.

Outside of her professional and volunteer roles, Shakyla enjoys gardening, UTV riding, and spending time outdoors with her family.

Angie Pierce is a proud alumna of SS. Andrew–Thomas Catholic School and a lifelong member of SS. Andrew–Thomas Parish. Deeply rooted in her Catholic faith and family heritage, she is passionate about preserving and strengthening the faith community that has shaped generations of local families, including her own daughters, who are also school alumni.

As a Sinsinawa Dominican Associate, Registered Nurse / Administrator, wife, mother, and dedicated parish volunteer, Angie has devoted her life to serving others. Guided by her belief in God's Providence and the gifts of the Holy Spirit, she is committed to advancing faith-based education and fostering strong Christian values for future generations.

Angie serves on the SS. Andrew–Thomas Foundation Board with a heartfelt dedication to God's will, her parish family, and the mission of providing opportunities for children and families to grow in faith, knowledge, and service.

Favorite Saint: St. Catherine of Siena
Favorite Bible Verse: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.” — Psalm 118:22

Kathy Bartels is a lifelong member of SS. Andrew–Thomas Parish and a proud alumna of SS. Andrew–Thomas Catholic School. Her deep faith and dedication to the parish have inspired a lifetime of service to the church and community.

For many years, Kathy has faithfully served as a religious education teacher and coordinator, helping generations of children grow in their knowledge and love of the Catholic faith. Her commitment to parish life extends through countless volunteer efforts, support of parish ministries, and active involvement in the church.

As Treasurer of the Foundation, Kathy brings a spirit of servant leadership and a steadfast commitment to the mission of faith-based education. She is passionate about helping establish and sustain Saints Andrew–Thomas Academy for future generations. In her free time, Kathy enjoys golfing, traveling, and spending time with her family.

Cindy is a devoted advocate for education and community engagement,  and attended SS. Andrew–Thomas Catholic School. Together with her husband, she has spent many years supporting the school and its mission. Her leadership in education spans multiple roles, including several terms on the former catholic school’s Education Commission and two terms on the Potosi Public School Board of Education. Through this service, Cindy has helped guide decision-making, strengthen communication, and support student success at both the local and broader community level.

Cindy is a retired registered nurse and nurse coordinator, bringing a strong background in leadership, collaboration, and relationship-building. Her professional experience has shaped her ability to work effectively with teams and navigate complex initiatives with clarity and care. She is firmly committed to sustaining faith-based education opportunities within the community and contributing to a strong, values-driven future for local families.

In her free time, Cindy enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, and being on the river. She especially treasures time with her family—most of all, her three grandsons.