Mr. Smith:
This will be my 19th year with the Aitkin School District, where I have been fortunate to teach 3rd grade my entire career. I earned my Master’s Degree from St. Mary’s University and attended Bemidji State University where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, with an emphasis in Mathematics and Coaching Licensure.
Through the years I have enjoyed coaching many sports including boys and girls basketball, football, baseball, and traveling teams for basketball and baseball. Another passion of mine is finding new ways to utilize technology in my classroom.
My greatest pride is my family; my marriage of 19 years to my wife Jennifer and our three fabulous boys! Braedyn is now a 6th grader at Rippleside Elementary, while Caleb is a 4th grader, and Drew who just turned one keeps our house full of excitement. In my free time I enjoy playing sports, hunting, 4-wheeling, and spending time with my family and friends.
Mr. Williams:
I am entering my 18th year of teaching here at Rippleside Elementary. All of my years of teaching have been in Aitkin, and here in 3rd grade as well! It has been a wonderful place to work and help students learn and grow!
I was born and raised north of Crosby, MN. I graduated from Crosby High School in 1995 and was accepted to Gustavus Adolphus College. I attended Gustavus from 1995-1999, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education. I earned my Master’s Degree in Education from St. Mary’s University - Twin Cities Campus, in 2006.
I met my wife Brita at Gustavus Adolphus College. We were married in August of 2001 and she also works at Rippleside as a Special Education teacher in the Learning Center. We have three wonderful children. Jaelend is 14 and entering 8th grade. He loves sports, including basketball, football and baseball. Breckyn is 11 and entering 6th grade. He too enjoys all three sports as well as playing the saxophone in the band. Our youngest is Adah, who is 7. She loves sports and being outside and active! We as a family love sports, the outdoors and camping.
Personally, I enjoy hunting, fishing and anything outdoors! I also am active in coaching sports team in the community and district.
Mrs. Lundgren: