Max comes to Excel after having spent 10 years in teaching and education in a variety of schools and roles from a technical secondary school in Rwanda, to a gifted magnet school in Manhattan, and most recently a charter school in St. Paul. Max is originally from Syracuse, NY, but moved to Minnesota for college. He got his BA in social studies education and history from St. Olaf College where his focus was historical memory and European history. After college, Max served in the United States Peace Corps as an education volunteer in Rwanda where he taught English at a school for students studying computer science, facilitated a community finance education initiative, and led a boys and girls leadership camp for the Southern Province. After serving, Max moved to New York City were he completed his MA in teaching at Columbia University with a thesis on teaching empathy. Max then moved back to Minnesota where he worked as a social studies teacher and teacher leader. While he had a fulfilling time as an educator and will miss his students, Max is excited for this new transition and the chance to work in an exciting new field of education!

In his free time, Max enjoys traveling, baking and cooking, kayaking, learning new things through community ed classes, and spending time with his wife Hannah and their terrier Louis. The most exciting place Max and Hannah have traveled together is the island of Zanzibar off the coast of Tanzania in the Indian Ocean, and they enjoy making pasta carbonara together.

Brett came to Excel with over 26 years of experience in the educational industry. Brett began his teaching career as a 4th-grade teacher in Minneapolis, MN, and eventually was moved into a leadership position. Brett has been blessed to work with outstanding educators and students across America. Brett has held the positions of Math Director and Lead Math Director, where he managed and supported various math department members. Under Brett’s leadership, students increased their math understanding and state math testing scores by over 20%.

Brett served as a school principal in Duluth, MN, where students grew their love of reading and raised state reading scores by over 18%. In his most recent position before coming to Excel, Brett was the Executive Director of a large private school in St. Cloud, MN. Brett has a Bachelor’s degree in Education from St. Cloud State University and is currently working on completing his Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.

Abby Berndt is a state-licensed science teacher with five years of experience in both high school and higher education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Life Science Education from Crown College. During her time at Crown, Abby worked as a registrar’s assistant, assisting students with transfer credits and enrollment. She has served as a middle and high school science teacher and has spent several years tutoring math and science. Prior to this, Abby was a camp counselor and administrative intern for a non-profit youth organization in southern Minnesota.

As an Academic Coach, Abby is passionate about helping students find enjoyment in challenges, particularly in math and science. She believes in meeting students where they are and providing them with the tools to meet established standards, rather than lowering the bar. Abby achieves this through compassionate guidance and collaboration.

In her free time, Abby enjoys outdoor and creative activities with her husband and son. She loves exploring local biking and hiking trails around Minnesota and looks forward each year to camping on the North Shore. Always embracing new challenges, she also enjoys painting and learning to play various musical instruments.

Kylie brings vibrant energy and a strong academic foundation to her new role as Academic Coach. She has most recently worked as a 10th Grade Language Arts Teacher at White Bear Lake High School, teaching both general and honors sections. Kylie’s expertise includes curriculum building, active communication with students and families, and standards-based grading practices. Beyond the classroom, Kylie has also served as a Head Danceline Coach, American Sign Language Tutor, and Children’s Ministry Associate Leader, showcasing her leadership skills, creativity, and ability to connect with students of all ages.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications Art and Literature Education from Bethel University which is a program designed to prepare students for licensure as middle and high school English teachers in Minnesota. The program combines coursework in English, education, and communication studies to equip graduates with the skills necessary for effective teaching in grades 5 through 12. Kylie’s dynamic teaching background, coupled with her passion for mentoring and developing student skills, will be instrumental in her work as an Academic Coach.

Megan Balcer Lapensky is a state-licensed educator with a background in Psychology and holds a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree from Saint Cloud State University. During her time at SCSU, Megan gained valuable classroom experience working with Kindergarten, 3rd, 5th, and 6th-grade students as part of her student teaching.

After graduation, she went on to teach 8th-grade math and later 6th-grade math in the St. Michael, Minnesota school district. These roles deepened her commitment to education and helping students thrive in math.

Now serving as an academic coach, Megan is passionate about empowering students to find their voice in their educational journey. She believes in supporting students through obstacles by encouraging curiosity, resilience, and critical thinking. Megan focuses on building meaningful connections and creating a safe space where students feel confident asking questions and thinking outside the box.

Outside of her professional work, Megan enjoys spending time with her husband, child, and dogs. Together, they enjoy outdoor adventures, family visits, singing, and dancing. She also teaches dance classes, which provide her with a creative and joyful outlet. 

Coming Soon!