We call our teachers guides, because that’s what they do: guide the student in their learning, always focusing on the student’s demonstrated needs and interests. Meet our 2024-2025 guides!
GINGER NOLKER
Head of School and Lead Guide
Drawing on 20 years of experience teaching public and private school and homeschooling, Ginger guides upper elementary and middle school students in all core curriculum areas, and teaches history and lit to our high school students, as well as co-teaching physics, chemistry, and biology. Ginger is entering her fourth year at Prairie Song.
KATE SANDEFUR
Lead Lower Elementary Guide
Ten years of experience teaching play-based preschool plus a degree in English and continuing Montessori studies have equipped Kate to guide our Lower Elementary students! Kate always has engaging work ready for everyone in her classroom, and students absolutely love her! Kate is in her fifth year guiding lower elementary at Prairie Song.
ERIN TRUTWIN
Lead Guide, High School Math
A Truman MAE graduate, Erin brings 16 years of experience in teaching high school math and homeschooling, and guides our high schoolers in math. Everyone appreciates her patient approach to helping students master new concepts, and guiding them through the entire math course sequence at their own pace!
SHANNON YUTZ
Assistant Guide, Junior High
Shannon is in her third year at Prairie Song, and does an excellent job managing the Junior High classroom. Students love her sense of humor and ability to relate well to them. She’s able to guide them and keep them on task as they work through projects and work, and making sure that everyone feels safe in the classroom!
JULIA JACK-SCOTT
Assistant Guide, Lower Elementary; Lead Guide, Art
Julia graduated from the University of Chicago with a degree in Fine Arts, and works with our Lower Elementary class as well as leading art for our Upper Elementary and Junior High classes! Julia provides a consistent, calming presence in Lower El, and provides artistic work with a variety of media for our older students!
JAYELYNN DUVALL
Assistant Guide, Upper Elementary; Lead Guide, High School German
Jayelynn is a graduate of Truman State University, and earned an English degree. She is our primary assistant guide in Upper El, helping to manage the classroom and working with students. She also teaches a high school German elective, introducing students to basic vocabulary and grammar!
KEATON MILLER
Assistant Guide, Upper Elementary
Keaton is a graduate of Kirksville High School who works with Upper Elementary as well as Lower Elementary. He’s a student favorite for his creative games, his theater and film knowledge, and general enthusiasm for working with students!
HANNAH SCHAFFNER
Assistant Guide, Upper Elementary
Hannah is a student at Truman State who is working toward earning her MEd. She helps guide Upper Elementary students at Prairie Song!
Not pictured, but equally valued members of our team: each students’ caregivers. We communicate and collaborate to achieve best outcomes for each of our students.
Our spectacular board, always focused on access, equity, and excellence as they guide our school:
2025-2026 Board Members
Kelsey Aurand de Razo, President and Tuition Treasurer
Monika Williams, Secretary and Fundraising
Denise Tharp, Member at Large
Maria Evans, Member at Large
Prairie Song Academy 