Welcome to Jefferson Elementary! My name is Robert Kaas. I have been serving Des Moines Public Schools for over 25 years. I received my Bachelors in Education from Iowa State University and my Masters in Education from Graceland College. Before I came to Jefferson, I taught both 4th and 5th grades at Park Avenue Elementary School. I enjoy watching sports, spending time around nature and spending time with my family. I am looking forward to a great year at Jefferson Elementary
My name is Beth Martin, 5th grade teacher. I have been with the district since 1993. My titles have changed over those years, from teaching in a therapeutic setting, identifying students for special services, Dean of Students with DMPS’s Alternative Middle and High Schools, Dean of Students with Smouse Elementary, summer school Principal, non-Release Dean of Students here at Jefferson, to currently with General Education Classroom right here at Jefferson since 2013. Jefferson holds a very dear spot in my heart as I too attended Jefferson in 1972 in the first Kindergarten in the “new” building. I have seen Jefferson grow from a neighborhood school, a magnet school with Edmunds (which I also attended), Traditional School (which my two daughters attended), to back to a neighborhood school (which my grandchildren now attend). I have to say, with all my experience with education, by far Jefferson has been my favorite! I am truly happy that I chose to spend my teaching career back in the classroom with the exceptional students, families, and staff here at Jefferson.
Credentials:
K-6 Teacher Elementary Classroom
K-12 Athletic Coach
K-8 Health
K-8 Behavioral Disorders
Ages 5-21 Consultant: Behavioral Disorders
PK-12 Principal / PK-12 Special Education Supervisor – Evaluator
Greetings, Jefferson Jets! My name is Meg Notch and for the past 30 years, I’ve been teaching everything from preschool to community college. Fifth grade is my sweet spot! I’ve spent 6 years as an Instructional Coach and got my Administrative Degree in 2007. Among students, I’m best known for my varied classroom pets and weekly classroom store. With nine children of my own, my world is full of love and adventure. Once you’re part of the “Notch Nest”, you’re always family to me.