Guided by Faith. Dedicated to Student Success.
Faculty & Staff at Pope John Paul II High School
Our faculty and staff at Pope John Paul II High School are committed to forming students through faith, academic excellence, and personal mentorship. Every teacher, counselor, and staff member plays a vital role in creating a supportive Catholic learning environment where students are known, challenged, and inspired to grow. Together, we build a community rooted in respect, service, and the mission of Catholic education.
Humanities
Dr. Heather Wallace
Education
- Whitworth University — B.A. (Class of 2011)
- Duke University — Ph.D. in Philosophy
How I Teach & Why I Support the JPII Mission
Reading stories is foundational for our faith. The skills developed through reading, discussing, and writing help us understand ourselves more deeply and build kinder, more meaningful relationships with others.
God meets us through the living Word and through our words to one another. It is an honor and a joy to explore the power of language with JPII students.
Previous Experience
I taught philosophy and literature courses at Duke University and Elon University while completing my Ph.D. in Philosophy at Duke.
During graduate school, I held a fellowship for teacher-scholars committed to serving at church-related colleges and universities.
Hometown
A native Texan, raised in Oregon.
In My Spare Time
I enjoy knitting and sewing, kayaking and hiking, cooking, and spending time with my cats. I also love reading—especially science fiction by women authors and Louise Penny’s Three Pines mystery series.
Spanish
Dr. Paul Cristofaro
Education
- Washington State University — B.A. in Business Administration
- University of Mississippi — M.B.A.
- University of Mississippi — M.A. in Spanish
- University of Alabama — Ph.D. in Spanish
Why I Support the JPII Mission
I teach in the spirit of Pope St. John Paul II (my personal hero), who loved young people and saw them as one of the Church’s greatest strengths.
About My Previous Experiences
I have taught Spanish and business courses at the university level, and I also have experience teaching Spanish at the high school level.
My Teaching Philosophy
My aim is to create a student-centered learning environment where students feel empowered and supported. Through meaningful engagement, I hope to inspire students to grow both personally and academically.
Hometown
Chehalis, Washington.
In My Spare Time
I enjoy reading, hiking, and playing tennis. I also love to travel, and my favorite destination is Europe.
Science & Athletic Director
Dr. Tracy Russell
Education
- New York University — B.A.
- St. George’s University School of Medicine — M.D.
- Saint Martin’s University — M.I.T.
Programs & Involvement
- GradPoint
- STEM Team
- StellarXplorers Aerospace STEM Program
- Cross Country Coach
How I Teach & Why I Support the JPII Mission
My goal is to foster the natural inquisitiveness of our learners while helping them become thoughtful consumers of information, able to distinguish between what is real, false, and misleading.
About My Previous Experiences
I spent 20 years as a pediatrician and have taught as an adjunct faculty member at Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences. I currently teach at Saint Martin’s University.
Hometown
Okinawa, Japan, with time spent living on U.S. Air Force bases around the world.
In My Spare Time
I recharge by reading, writing, cooking, and sewing.
Principal
Mr. Braeden Neal
Education
- Washington State University — B.A.
- Western Governors University — M.Ed. in Educational Leadership (in progress)
Why I Support the JPII Mission
The beauty of Catholic education is that we get to foster growth in the spiritual side of the student as well as the academic side. I am excited to provide opportunities for these young men and women to grow into the missionary disciples the world needs.
About My Previous Experiences
I have worked as a Catholic educator at the middle school level for four years. I taught math for one year in Bellevue at St. Louise, then spent three years at St. Patrick School teaching math, religion, and history.
Hometown
Olympia, Washington.
In My Spare Time
I enjoy spending time with my wife and our two beautiful boys, golfing, and spending time with friends.
Family
I have been married to my wife, Lauren, for four years, and together we are parents to two boys. Beckett is turning three this August, and Harvey turns one in September. Being parents has been the biggest blessing in our lives.
Social Studies & Technology Coordinator
Mr. Joshua Myers
Education
- The Evergreen State College — B.A.
- Washington Governors University — M.A.T.
How I Teach & Why I Support the JPII Mission
One very important aspect of how I teach our students is to develop a personal relationship with each of them. History can be fun, so I bring my love for the subject into the classroom to excite students by going beyond the text and diving deeply into the stories that make history rich and alive.
About My Previous Experiences
Before teaching, I worked in construction, mostly in the greater Seattle area. My specialties were residential residing, window and door replacement, and deck building, but I also have experience in all aspects from framing to finish carpentry.
Hometown
Olympia, Washington.
In My Spare Time
I enjoy the outdoors—camping and fishing are two of my favorite hobbies. I also love to cook, especially grilling and smoking meats for family and friends.
Mr. Travis Conn
The Evergreen State College, B.A.
Master Metalsmith
Event Coordinator
Mrs. Annfany Cortes
Education
- B.A. in Early Childhood Education — Germany
About My Previous Experiences
I worked for 17.5 years for the U.S. Army at CYS, supporting soldiers and their families.
Hometown
Bielefeld, Germany.
Why I Support the JPII Mission
I support a faith-based education that nurtures spiritual growth and academic excellence, preparing our children for a higher calling. JPII also fosters community service, teaching young men and women to volunteer their talents.
In My Spare Time
My family and I love to travel, especially abroad. I enjoy cooking, baking, and doing crafts.
Family
I have a son who is a junior at JPII and a daughter with special needs who is about to start high school at Timberline. We were a military family until my husband, Roger, retired from the Army a few years ago.
Admissions Coordinator
Mrs. Danielle Gil
Education
- University of Maryland — B.S. in Management Studies
About My Previous Experiences
I am a retired U.S. Army Human Resources Warrant Officer with over 15 years of experience leading high-impact HR operations, projects, and strategic initiatives across large, multi-unit organizations that impacted both soldiers and their families.
Hometown
Beaufort, South Carolina.
Why I Support the JPII Mission
I support this mission because these children are our next generation. The world needs well-rounded leaders and servants who are unafraid and bold in their faith, and who are prepared to lead lives filled with purpose and impact.
In My Spare Time
I enjoy reading, trail running, traveling, Oregon beach hopping, and spending time with my family.
Theology & Campus Minister
Mrs. Francesca Brownsberger
Education
- Georgetown University — B.A. in Theology
- Catholic University — M.A. in Theology
Why I Support the JPII Mission
I teach in the spirit of Pope St. John Paul II (my personal hero), who loved young people and saw them as one of the Church’s greatest strengths.
About My Previous Experiences
I have reported for Vatican Radio, taught at the University of Dallas, and worked in parishes in Texas, Missouri, and Virginia.
Hometown
Long Island, New York.
In My Spare Time
I love spending time with my husband and seven children.
Bookkeeper/Office Manager
Mrs. Lali Espinoza
Education
- Universidad del Azuay — B.A. in Business Administration
- University of Washington ELS
- Seattle Pacific University — M.B.A.
Why I Support the JPII Mission
JPII’s strong commitment is to help students achieve success as whole human beings, not just academically. Students are enriched spiritually so they can better serve this world. This is truly inspiring and it is an honor to be part of this good work.
About My Previous Experiences
I have worked in the banking industry in both Ecuador and the United States.
Hometown
I am from Cuenca, Ecuador.
In My Spare Time
I love spending time with my family, visiting and having long conversations with my friends, and traveling to Ecuador at least once a year to visit family and friends.
Family
I have two sons, Juan Fer and David. Juan Fer is graduating this year from Washington State University with a major in architecture, and David is a freshman at JPII. My husband, Pablo, works for the State of Washington in cybersecurity and is a cyber security expert. We are originally from Ecuador and have been living in the United States for more than 24 years.
School Counselor & Academic Advisor
Mrs. Laura Dietz
Education
- Pacific Lutheran University — B.A.
- Saint Martin’s University — M.Ed.
How I Teach & Why I Support the JPII Mission
I give my all to helping students succeed. I am passionate about developing well-rounded students who, in return, give their all to their education.
About My Previous Experiences
My work experience has been in high school counseling at Yelm High School. I frequently volunteer with various schools, leading resume workshops, FBLA judging, and mock interviews.
Hometown
Olympia, Washington.
In My Spare Time
My family and I love boating, swimming, alpine skiing, and playing games. I enjoy spending time with friends and learning to golf. I also appreciate quiet walks with my dog and dreaming of a Scandinavian vacation.
Student Support Specialist
Mrs. Liz Seese
Education
Saint Martin's University - BSW
Why I Support the JPII Mission
As a social worker, I support students in becoming intellectually strong and spiritually grounded by addressing barriers to their well-being and success. I also encourage empathy, resilience, and a commitment to serving others within the school community.
About My Previous Experiences
I am a Certified Victim Advocate through the NACP, and interned at JPII for two years while earning my BSW.
Hometown
Olympia, WA
In My Spare Time
I enjoy camping with my husband, two sons Skylar and Thomas, and our dog Penelope. I'm an avid reader, and love discussing books. I also enjoy aquascaping and creating art.
Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Margie Antles
Education
- Medical College of Virginia — B.A.
- University of Chicago — M.A.
- Northwestern University — M.B.A.
How I Serve & Why I Support the JPII Mission
Impacting these precious students, even in a small way, is truly the best job in the world.
About My Previous Experiences
I have worked as a pharmacist and as Director of Health Care Initiatives for a strategic communications firm.
Hometown
The Windy City (North Side roots, with South Side DNA), Chicago, Illinois.
In My Spare Time
You may find me weeding the yard on a summer day or playing cards. I have an adorable daughter who keeps me grounded and makes me giggle, and a fabulous husband who adores me. Truly blessed.
Development Director
Mrs. Shelley Sprouffske
Education
- University of Portland — BBA in Finance
About my previous experiences
Before starting my family, I served as an Assistant Vice President at a leading wealth management firm, providing guidance to multigenerational families and nonprofits. Throughout that time, I’ve spent 25 years as a successful nonprofit fundraiser and built a graphic design and marketing company that grew out of my passion for creativity and community impact.
Hometown
Gig Harbor, Washington, and now living on a Christmas tree farm in Rainier, Washington.
Why I Support the JPII Mission
I have always had a deep love and respect for Pope St. John Paul II, who believed in the young people of our world. I am grateful to serve these young men and women as they grow in faith and discover their purpose in serving others in this world.
In My Spare Time
You’ll find me on our farm with my husband and boys—following them on the golf course, camping with their Scout troop, or participating in Relay For Life with our family and friends in support of the American Cancer Society.
Jazz Band Director
Mrs. Theresa McKenzieSullivan
Education
- Central Washington University — B.A. in Music
About My Previous Experiences
I currently teach at St. Michael Parish School, serving as Band Director, Art/Crafting Teacher, and Shakespeare Production Manager.
Hometown
Waterville, Washington.
In My Spare Time
I am involved in several local community theaters, enjoy spending time with family, camping, hiking, caring for exotic pets, and composing music.
Family
We are a family of many hobbies, from outdoor adventures to the performing arts. My husband and I are very active in local community theatre, most notably the Evergreen Playhouse in Centralia and the Tenino Young-at-Heart Theatre. We also play music with an Irish band. We have a wonderful son, Nathaniel, who currently attends JPII, and a house full of pets.
Communications Director
Ms. Caiti Schmitz
Education
- Yakima Valley College — A.A.
- Central Washington University — B.S.
How I Lead & Why I Support the JPII Mission
I deeply believe that our youth are active and important participants in shaping our world, both in the present and the future. Shaping youth who live out the mission of JPII is therefore of vital importance. If I can be even a small part of this mission, I know that what I do each day matters infinitely.
About My Previous Experiences
I worked as a banker for five years before feeling a call to work for the Catholic Church. I served as an administrative assistant at Saint Michael Parish for three years before making the move to serve as Executive Assistant for JPII.
Hometown
Red Bluff, California.
In My Spare Time
Developing an ever-deepening faith life is part of my daily routine. I enjoy spending time in conversation with family and friends, reading (especially Biblical fiction), and spending time outdoors where I find God in nature. Music is also very important to me—when I am not listening to my favorite artists, I am playing guitar and singing.
Humanities
Ms. Gwen Bowen
Education
- University of Notre Dame de Namur — B.A.
- University of Notre Dame de Namur — Teaching Credential
- University of California, Berkeley — Teaching Certificate
How I Teach & Why I Support the JPII Mission
I teach by encouraging students to use their talents while challenging them to expand their knowledge, strengthen their decision-making, and develop firmness of character. I see myself as a mentor on students’ faith journeys, helping them deepen their communion with God, themselves, and the broader community.
About My Previous Experiences
I have worked as an educator for over twenty-five years in the United States and abroad. I recently taught for eighteen years at a small private school in San Jose, California, and then for a year at a large high school in Redwood City, California.
Hometown
I was born in Seattle and raised in San Jose, California. However, all my family is from Grays Harbor County.
In My Spare Time
I enjoy experiencing diverse cultures and religions through international travel. I also take great joy in visiting the natural beauty of our national parks. At home, I enjoy reading historical fiction, watching international dramas, and cooking global dishes.
Mathematics & Science
Ms. Lan Mai
Education
- Portland State University — M.Ed.
- Ball State University — M.A.
How I Teach & Why I Support the JPII Mission
All my achievements were a blessing from God. He gave me the best education, strength when I was most desperate, and a loving family. I support JPII’s mission because God has supported me and my family.
About My Previous Experiences
I started my teaching career at New Urban High School and was later transferred to Adrienne C. Nelson High School.
Hometown
I was born in Vietnam and moved to the United States when I was 14. I have been living in Portland, Oregon.
In My Spare Time
I enjoy spending time in nature, traveling, and taking photographs.
Mathematics & Science
Ms. Yelena Myakisheva
Education
- University of California, Berkeley - Bachelors in Landscape Architecture with a minor in City Planning
- Mills College - M. Ed
How I Teach & Why I Support the JPII Mission
My goal as a teacher is to empower students to make the world a better place. Through inquiry, problem-solving, and real-world applications, I help students develop the curiosity, confidence, and resilience to use their learning to the address challenges in the world around them. I support the JPII mission because I want my students to use what they learn not only for their own success, but to contribute to their communities.
About My Previous Experiences
Most recently, I have taught science and architecture at Gateway International School in Sacramento, California and science and math at Capital High School in Olympia.
Hometown
I was born in Russia.
In My Spare Time
I moved to the PNW because I love the outdoors and the rain. I garden, bike, kayak, and hike in my free time. I live with my husband and our daughter. We love to go on adventures, to make art, and to cook together.