The new assistant principal, working alongside Assistant Principal John Kulick and Principal Todd Wynne, is also the dean of the junior class this school year. Mr. Saenz provides some much-needed Spanish-speaking representation within the CHHS administration and community! 

Columbia Heights High School’s new agriculture teacher is in charge of the Blooming Heights edible garden and outdoor classroom. She provides for the crops during the school year and ensures they grow well in addition to welcoming teachers and their classes to learn about everything from germination to cooking using fresh ingredients and everything in between. 

 The new Global Foods and Foundation of Foods teacher is excited to be able to open back up these beloved and finally returning elective courses for students to experience the worlds of cultural cuisine and basic cooking and baking skills. 

Teaching a brand new elective this year in Coding, this course allows students to get the chance to work with code to produce their own projects. He is looking forward to exploring STEM pathways in the Engineering class too, providing opportunities for students to start looking at two very in-demand careers. 

The instructor for the new technology courses Mobile App Design and Web Design,these courses offer students the chance to develop essential digital literacy and problem-solving skills. Computer science and coding classes in high school such as these equip students with early essential skills for the future, including problem-solving abilities and logical thinking. 

 A new addition to the science department, Mr. Fondren teaches AP Physics and Physics this year. He loves the Dr. Seuss quote “Why fit in when you were born to stand out!” and is hoping to bring this kind of camaraderie and energy to Heights. 

The latest addition to the math department, Mr. Radtke hopes to expand students’ knowledge in the field of mathematics. He teaches Advanced Algebra and Intermediate Algebra at Heights. 

Mr. Williams is one of the two new physical education teachers this year alongside Ms. Carol Peterka. He wants to play a pivotal role in educating high school students about their physical well-being, sports and the overall importance of health. 

Ms. Peterka is a new P.E teacher at CHHS but has worked at CHPS for a number of years in various roles. Alongside teaching Rec Sports and Strength Training, she is also the instructor for Introduction to Education this year, wherestudents both learn the strategies of and take part in some first-hand experience in the classroom.  

Ms. Govis is a brand new member of the CHHS community, and she teaches World history and Human Geography. She hopes to bring some positive and new ideas to help her students love history.

One of two new social workers in the back office, along with Ms. Caitlin Whitney, Ms. Lydia’s main job is to help out students regarding their personal and educational needs as well as additional mental health and attendance support. 

 Ms. Whitney is one of two new social workers in the back office, along with Ms. Lydia Anderson. She offers resources to students for any problems regarding their home situation or any matter regarding academic issues. Ms. Whitney works to ensure students are able to complete schoolwork in a safe and stable environment beyond school hours.     

Students that require assistance and additional support are referred to special education teacher Ms. Engen. She works with students to ensure their needs are supported, whether with regard to learning disabilities or physical disabilities, to ensure that their educational needs are primarily met. 

Alongside Ms. Engen, Ms. Hout has also joined the special education department to take care of students with special needs and learning disabilities. She and Ms. Engen are responsible for meeting all students’ needs and priorities while inside the classroom. 

One of three new English Learning (EL) teachers this year, Mr. Payne helps to allow students whose first language is not English to access equal educational opportunities. 

Another new member of the EL department is Ms. Federation. She aims to help support students’ English academic language development alongside academic skills in students’ home languages. She offers extended help in co-taught classes with Health teacher Mr. Luehrs to students who require the extra hand. 

Joining CHHS as the new school nurse this year, Ms. Smith is working to ensure students are healthy and taken care of while in the building. She is stationed near the back office for any and all health concerns, and students are encouraged to see her if needed. 

Taking over as the mentor of the American Indian Advisory Council, Ms. Dorr is in charge of planning events like the annual PowWow. She also helps in establishing and maintaining education, cultural, recreational, economic and health programs for American Indian students and their families.