Michelle Mennis, Elementary Music Teacher
Hi there! My name is Michelle Mennis, the new elementary music teacher at Pioneer Elementary School. I teach K-3 elementary music along with 5th & 6th grade choir. Building a musical foundation at the elementary level and making joyful musical memories with students are both my greatest passions. I am thrilled to begin my 5th year of teaching as part of the Pierz School District for the 2019-2020 school year!
The oldest of 3 kids, I grew up 15 miles west of Wahpeton, ND and attended K-12 in the Wahpeton Public School District. While in high school, I was active in band, speech, tennis, volleyball, and art club. Following high school, I ventured to South Dakota where I attended Northern State University for my Bachelor’s degree in K-12 Vocal & Instrumental music education, graduating in May 2015. My main area of study was saxophone and woodwinds, studying voice as well. I was involved with several vocal & instrumental music ensembles including playing in the pit orchestra for multiple shows at both the college & community theater. I also was a drum major for our college marching band my senior year. Following graduation, I taught K-5 music and elementary choir for one year at Lincoln Elementary in Aberdeen, SD. Then, I moved to West Fargo, ND and taught elementary music at Osgood Elementary School for three years.
When I am not busy teaching or playing in community music ensembles, I enjoy baking, cooking, playing tennis, attending fitness classes, playing volleyball, spending time outdoors at the lake, and spending time with family. Making lefse with family during the holiday season is one of my favorite traditions! This summer I just finished my Master of Music Education from Northern State University as well.
One may ask…what brought you to Pierz? Through the Master’s Degree Program at Northern State University I was fortunate to be a part of the program with both Mr. Pohland and Mr. Mathwig, band directors in Pierz. When the elementary music job opened up, they both shared with me the amazing things the Pierz School District offers. Not only would I get to be a part of a dynamite music team and department, but I would get to be a part of a wonderful district. It has truly been a privilege working with many new students grades K-6. It is incredible observing how much joy music brings to the lives of many students through a multitude of activities and ensembles. One thing I love about Pierz is how kind everyone is, everywhere you go within the school and community. It definitely makes me feel like I’m “at home” and feels like a little piece of North Dakota came with me to Pierz. I look forward to attending events within the school and community along with meeting several new faces!
The oldest of 3 kids, I grew up 15 miles west of Wahpeton, ND and attended K-12 in the Wahpeton Public School District. While in high school, I was active in band, speech, tennis, volleyball, and art club. Following high school, I ventured to South Dakota where I attended Northern State University for my Bachelor’s degree in K-12 Vocal & Instrumental music education, graduating in May 2015. My main area of study was saxophone and woodwinds, studying voice as well. I was involved with several vocal & instrumental music ensembles including playing in the pit orchestra for multiple shows at both the college & community theater. I also was a drum major for our college marching band my senior year. Following graduation, I taught K-5 music and elementary choir for one year at Lincoln Elementary in Aberdeen, SD. Then, I moved to West Fargo, ND and taught elementary music at Osgood Elementary School for three years.
When I am not busy teaching or playing in community music ensembles, I enjoy baking, cooking, playing tennis, attending fitness classes, playing volleyball, spending time outdoors at the lake, and spending time with family. Making lefse with family during the holiday season is one of my favorite traditions! This summer I just finished my Master of Music Education from Northern State University as well.
One may ask…what brought you to Pierz? Through the Master’s Degree Program at Northern State University I was fortunate to be a part of the program with both Mr. Pohland and Mr. Mathwig, band directors in Pierz. When the elementary music job opened up, they both shared with me the amazing things the Pierz School District offers. Not only would I get to be a part of a dynamite music team and department, but I would get to be a part of a wonderful district. It has truly been a privilege working with many new students grades K-6. It is incredible observing how much joy music brings to the lives of many students through a multitude of activities and ensembles. One thing I love about Pierz is how kind everyone is, everywhere you go within the school and community. It definitely makes me feel like I’m “at home” and feels like a little piece of North Dakota came with me to Pierz. I look forward to attending events within the school and community along with meeting several new faces!
