Faculty and Staff

Ordained: June 6th, 2019

Father John Mosier, who will serve as Pastor at St. Mark’s in Boise, was born on Dec. 1, 1962, in Kansas City. He attended Marquette University and then enlisted in the Marine Corps. He became Senior Vice President of Sony Corporation’s Biotechnology business unit before entering the chaplaincy program at Marylhurst University in Oregon.

After the death of his wife, he entered Mount Angel Seminary and also earned a degree from Saint Anselmo in Rome.

He was ordained in Boise on June 6, 2019, by Bishop Peter Christensen. He was appointed parochial vicar at St. Thomas the Apostle after his ordination and has served there as well as in Salmon, Idaho.

Contact him at jmosier@stmarksboise.org

Education: BA Business, BA Education, MS Educational Leadership

Experience: After earning a business degree from the University of Vermont, I spent a great deal of time discerning where God was calling me. I have always been drawn to working with children, teaching religious education for several years, coaching T-ball and soccer, and helping launch a nonprofit after-school program in my home state of Vermont. One day, I finally realized God was placing me in all these roles for a reason. I knew I was meant to be an educator. I graduated from Boise State University and began my formal educational journey at St. Paul’s Catholic School in 2006, where I taught fifth grade for five years and middle school math and science for four years. During that time, I also served in an administrative role. I took a one-year sabbatical to earn my master’s degree in leadership, feeling called to more fully integrate both my business background and my passion for education in service of Catholic schools. After earning my master’s degree, I felt called to apply for the principal position at St. Mark’s. In 2016, I began serving as principal of this incredible Catholic school, where I continue to be inspired daily by our students, families, and dedicated staff.

In the classroom: I believe every child is created by God with unique gifts and the ability to learn. True education forms the whole child — spirit, body, and mind — nurturing faith, character, and intellect. I honor parents as the primary educators and am committed to partnering with them to help each child grow into who God created them to be.

Children keep me inspired and remind me why faith and learning matter. I see God every day through their eyes — and that is the greatest gift.

All About Mrs. Gordon: I love to camp and hike in this beautiful state. Read a good book by a mountain lake, bake goodies and cheer on any sporting event where our Lions are competing.

Education: M. Ed-Educational Leadership

Experience: 19 years of teaching

In the classroom: Humor is an important part of my classroom because it creates connection, reduces anxiety, and makes learning more enjoyable. Building strong relationships and maintaining high expectations are essential to helping students grow academically and personally.

All About Mrs. Martin: I have two kids in college; love trying new restaurants, reading and traveling.

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Biography

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Biography

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Ordained: July 22, 2000

He joined St. Mark’s in August 2025 as our Parochial Vicar. He is from Nigeria. He was raised Catholic and was attending a prayer group (while in College to become a Doctor) and heard God’s call on his life to be a priest. He was ordained in 2000, served in Cameroon (4 years) and Canada (17 years) and is now with the Diocese of Boise at St. Mark’s.

Contact him at cagwu@stmarksboise.org

Education: BA in Christian Counseling, Elementary Education Certification

Experience: I have taught at St. Mark’s School since 2018. I previously worked and taught at a Catholic School in Wyoming for 6 years. My work experience prior to education was as a Child Protection Worker and Juvenile Probation Officer both for the State of Wyoming.

In the classroom: Teaching is both a profession and a ministry. We are so blessed to be able to educate the whole child; socially, emotionally, academically and spiritually!

I absolutely love working with children. It is a big responsibility to journey alongside them and their families in their education and spiritual formation.

All About Mrs. Martin: I grew up in Wyoming. I am a wife and mother of 4 young adult children. Our oldest three were adopted when they were young. I have always had a heart for children. I love to watch sports, plant and care for my flower gardens and walk. I love music. Elvis Presley is my favorite! I rely on St. Anthony of Padua often to help me find my lost items.

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Education: BA- Boise State University, Adult Catechist Certificate- Gonzaga University

Experience: 34 years of teaching and currently in 28th year of teaching kindergarten at St. Mark’s.

In the classroom: My philosophy in the classroom comes from the words of Mother Teresa: “We cannot do great things, only small things with great love,” “Peace begins with a smile,” and “Spread love everywhere you go.” I believe understanding and patience are key. Each child is special and unique, and it is my job to find the experiences that help each one learn.

I have always wanted to be a teacher, and that calling has grown into a true love for every child. I try to find the humor in each situation and simply keep trying.

All About Mrs. Jensen: I love spending time with my family, camping, traveling, Disney and turtles. Yard work relaxes me.

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Education: BA Elementary Education with an Emphasis in Spanish-University of Montana, Masters in Educational Leadership-Boise State University

Experience: Teaching 1st and 6th Grades for 6 years in Boise School District and St. Mark’s, Owner/Instructor at Kumon Math and Reading Center for 7 Years.

In the classroom: God gives everyone special talents and calls us to bear fruit with them. Children are capable of amazing things and it’s a special responsibility to create an environment where they can grow in skill, curiosity, faith, and love. Parents are the first educators of their children and it’s our job at school to support and enhance the vision that parents have for their child’s upbringing.

I’m here to see, know, and love our St. Mark’s students. I’m generally creative and feel like building background knowledge is an essential component of early elementary learning. We read, read, and read some more! I want school to be something kids look forward to and something that changes the course of their lives in a positive way. We want to have fun!

I love being a mom and it was special to be home with them when they were little. After taking a “sabbatical year” to homeschool and travel, I came right back to school with the kids! I continue to discern God’s will for my life and am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the ministry team at St. Mark’s.

All About Mrs. Brady: I graduated from Sacred Heart and Bishop Kelly. My husband and I have been married for 18 years and have 4 great kids. We live on a little farm in Boise and love to travel.

Education: BA in Elementary Education- University of Idaho, Certified Literacy K-12, Certified K-8 all subjects, currently pursuing a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction- WGU

Experience: Two years of teaching.

In the classroom: I am committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment where every student not only feels safe and heard, but also recognized as a valued individual within the school setting. Creating a safe environment allows for trust, and for students to feel as they can be their true authentic self. As a teacher, I strive to encourage students to take risks in their learning, and to teach them that failure is one of the best ways you can grow and improve. I do this by incorporating the “learning pit” in my teaching daily and show that it is okay to be frustrated at times, but that is how we learn. While educating, I strive to incorporate different teaching methods to ensure that all learning styles are met. This age and grade level is so important, as it is the foundation of learning. It is my mission to build confidence and promote the love of learning within the students.

All About Miss Smith: My name is Julia Smith, I am a 1st grade teacher at St. Marks Catholic School. A little about my background, I was born and raised in Boise, Idaho. I went to St. Mary’s K-8th grade and graduated from Bishop Kelly in 2019. After which, I went to the University of Idaho and received a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, with an endorsement in literacy. After I graduated in December of 2023, I employed my time as a substitute teacher and BK women’s lacrosse coach. When I am not in the classroom, I spend the majority of my time adventuring in the outdoors. Some of my favorite activities are skiing, backpacking, and whitewater rafting. I am so blessed to be teaching at St. Mark’s and to be a part of such an amazing community.

Education: BA NYU in Literature with a Concentration in Creative Writing, MA Adelphi University in Elementary Education

Experience: Years of teaching Catholic education since 2006 with a stretch of years off to raise young children.

In the classroom: We create the climate, it’s 75 and sunny or dark and stormy based on how we enter the room. All children want to be seen and loved beyond what they can do at school. When we know and love them as people, they can move mountains.

I want to do something important, and there is nothing more important than guiding and inspiring young people to go out and light the world on fire with passion and purpose.

All About Mrs. Slattery: I love to cook, read and travel.

Education: BA Liberal Arts, Teaching Credential

Experience: Six years of teaching elementary education.

In the classroom: I strive in creating a nurturing yet structured environment, where all students can learn the tools they need to be successful in life. I try to build a family/community in the classroom where all students feel comfortable and can explore their own learning styles.

It is extremely rewarding witnessing children achieve goals and overcome challenges. My lifelong love for learning called me to this position. I enjoyed positively shaping future generations.

All About Mrs. Pilch: I enjoy playing golf, tennis, snow skiing, and painting.

Education: BA in Elementary Education, MEd with an emphasis in ELL

Experience: I have worked as an elementary teacher in grades 1st, 3rd and 5th. I taught ELL 6-8 as well as adults in a Community College. I also served as an ELL Specialist

In the classroom: I believe every child is capable of learning and deserving of encouragement, patience, and respect. My role as a teacher is to create a safe and welcoming classroom where students feel confident taking risks, asking questions, and learning from mistakes. I strive to meet students where they are academically and emotionally while guiding them toward growth through engaging lessons, clear expectations, and positive relationships. By fostering curiosity, collaboration, and love of learning, I aim to help students develop both strong academic skills and good character.

A few superpowers that I bring to the classroom are turning confusing moments into “Aha! moments,” making learning hands-on, and using words that build confidence and courage.

All About Mrs. Westmark: I have a few hobbies, but the number one thing I love is spending time with my family.

Education: BA in Elementary Education with literacy endorsement, Boise State University

Experience: This is my 11th year of teaching. I taught 2nd grade for 6 years at Bridgewater Elementary in Idaho Falls. When I first started at St. Mark’s I taught 1st grade. This is my fourth year teaching 3rd grade.

In the classroom: I feel that students are most successful when they feel supported, respected, and cared for. I want my students to feel safe, be willing to make mistakes, and ask questions. I feel blessed to be able to help them grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually. I think my patience and calm nature allow me to build positive relationships with my students.

I had such a positive experience in school growing up, and I knew I always wanted to work with kids. After taking an education class in high school, I knew this is what I wanted to do.

All About Miss Murray: I love spending time with family and friends, especially my niece and nephew. I also love figure skating, singing in the choir at Holy Apostles, and reading a good book.

Education: BA from Sam Houston State University. Currently completing a Masters in Education from the University of Portland.

Experience: Two years of teaching 4th grade.

In the classroom: I love building rapport with the students and becoming a little family. From there, I hold students accountable, so they can see what they’re capable of and how much God loves them! I’d say I’m firm, fair, and hopefully fun. I bring a mix of creativity, encouragement, humor and compassion to the classroom.

I had never been anywhere in the Pacific Northwest until June 2024. I knew I wanted to teach, but I didn’t quite know which direction, then I learned about the PACE (Pacific Alliance of Catholic Education) program and felt called by the Holy Spirit to apply. I guess that’s what God wanted, because I was accepted and it led to my current position at St. Mark’s. St. John Paul II used to say life with Christ is an adventure, and I completely agree. I do what I do for Him, Mother Mary, and the kids. I am blessed to be a part of this awesome, faith-filled community!

All About Miss Eaton: I’m from Texas– born and raised! I love exercising, especially running. I am a major Dallas Stars ice hockey fan and watch all the games. I love art, especially watercolor and acrylic painting. I LOVE my family and Jesus and Mother Mary of course. The Rosary is my favorite prayer. Fun fact: I have a vast collection of Catholic socks with a bunch of different saints on them, and I try to wear them on their feast days.

Education: BA in Education and MA in Educational Management and Leadership

Experience: She has dedicated herself to education for the past 30 years, fostering academic excellence and a love of learning in students in Kindergarten through Fourth grades. She has worked in public schools, public charter schools, and private schools. This is her 9th year working in the Diocese of Boise.

In the classroom: I believe that every student has the capacity to succeed when given the appropriate support and opportunities. By fostering curiosity and reflection, I encourage my students to embrace lifelong learning and continually strive to improve and grow.

My favorite subjects to teach are Reading and History, where I love bringing stories, people, and the past to life in meaningful ways. My call to education is rooted in a love for people, a commitment to building meaningful relationships, and a deep passion for helping each student grow academically, socially, and personally.

All About Mrs. Dressler: When I am not at school, I love reading, exploring the fine arts, and traveling. In the summer, I enjoy volunteering at the Boise Learning Lab, where I tutor adults in reading.

Education: BA in Environmental Studies, MSed in Curriculum and Instruction

Experience: 20+ years of teaching.

In the classroom: I love technology and teaching students 21st century skills to express themselves and share their knowledge. When I was growing up, I never liked school. I wanted to make school fun for kids!

“An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” — Benjamin Franklin

All About Mrs. Workman: I read extensively, quilt, love National Parks, and enjoy spending time with my family.

Education: BA in Psychology, MA in Education. Multiple Subject Teaching Credential

Experience: I have taught 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade.

In the classroom: I believe every child learns in their own unique way. It’s my job as their teacher to meet students where they’re at and ensure I’m offering the appropriate support and differentiation to meet their needs. My sense of humor, my ability to engage a room full of young learners, creative lesson plans, and that I’m a life-long learner play a large role in my teaching style. I’m always looking at what I can improve on and how to make lessons even more engaging or meaningful.

Teaching has always felt like my “career soulmate.” I interned at a Boys and Girls Club while earning my Bachelor’s degree. I completely fell in love with helping students achieve their goals and finding unique ways to help them understand the content they were working on. It was because of this internship that I decided to switch my career goal to Marriage and Family Therapist to Elementary School Teacher. I never feel like I’m “going to work” because I love what I do!

All About Mrs. Maltby: I love spending time with my family! We love the outdoors. Hanging out at the river all day, hiking, camping, and going on adventures are our favorite things to do. We also love to play games and bake together.

Education: BA Math- Gonzaga University, Masters in Teaching- Santa Clara University

Experience: Seven years teaching in Catholic schools.

In the classroom: I see lots of similarities in both math and art with a fixed mindset, but like any skill, with work and practice, every student has the ability to succeed. “Hard work beats talent if talent never works hard”.

All About Miss Hatfield: I enjoy cooking, gardening, art, reading, pottery and making sourdough bread.

Education: BA in Theology from Holy Apostles College and Seminary

Experience: 5 years teaching middle school, worked as a middle school and high school youth minister for 6 years, and two years of missionary work in Washington DC with Regnum Christi Mission Corps.

In the classroom: My job is to plant seeds; God’s job is to make them grow. I bring a love for teaching the parts of speech and integrating Socratic Seminars into our classroom learning environment. I also bring a passion for analyzing literature and comparing it to Biblical and theological themes.

All About Miss Huss: I love spending time outside! A few things I love to do are paddle boarding and biking. In my free time I like to go on walks, spend time with friends, and cook.

Education: BA in Business Administration

Experience: 30 years of teaching in Catholic education.

In the classroom: I have a heart to teach Middle School students. I bring a patient and calm demeanor to the classroom environment. I hope to form student minds and souls and create life-long learners.

All About Mr. Groninger: I am very strong in my Catholic faith. I love doing things with my family of 7 kids. I have coached youth sports longer than I have been a teacher. I Love St. Marks School!!

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Education: 6-12 English Teaching

Experience: 23 years of teaching, the past 19 years at St. Mark’s.

In the classroom: I love reading and sharing books with kids, and I love teaching writing. I love working with middle school students, and I’m passionate about learning.

All About Mrs. Schuette: I’m an avid reader, and I love to craft, travel, and hang out with my family.

Education: BS in Physics, BS in Education

Experience: 30 years of teaching in Catholic Schools.

In the classroom: I have a good knowledge of the faith but also realize I have so much to learn. I love incorporating dramatic arts in the classroom. I became a teacher to teach the truth of Catholicism and to pass on the Catholic faith to the next generation.

I have a good knowledge of the faith but also realize I have so much to learn. I love incorporating dramatic arts in the classroom.

All About Mrs. Behrend: I am a wife and mother of 8. I love sewing and gardening and baking bread. I enjoy watching my kids play sports and I am a big fan of Notre Dame football.

Education: Bachelor of Arts from the University of Idaho. Major in Spanish and Minor in Business. Teaching certificate through the University of Idaho and English as a Second Language teaching certificate through the University of Southern California.

Experience: Employment: Has been teaching Elementary Spanish at St. Mark’s since August 2016 and truly loves sharing the Spanish language with this great community. Taught Spanish at Bishop Kelly High School for two years and twelve years at St. Joseph’s Elementary School. Taught and helped Hispanics through non-profit organizations for six years.

All About Señora A: Spending time with family, traveling, hiking, biking, watching plays or movies, and attending cultural events.

Education: BFA in Fine Arts

Experience: 2021 – Present: Pre-K Assistant Teacher – St. Mark’s Catholic School. 2006 – 2015: Head Art Teacher – Drawn2Art – Los Altos, CA. 2006 – 20012 – Summer School Teacher – St. Francis High School – Mountain View, CA – Teaching Fine Arts, Graphic Arts and Study Skill Classes. 2003-2005 – Preschool Aide ages 3 & 4 – The Rainbow School – Issaquah, WA. 2004-2006 Teacher’s Aide – Tutor – Resident Advisor – Otis College of Art and Design – Los Angeles, CA

In the classroom: If you’re able to share your talents with others, it’s not work. It’s your calling.

All About Mrs. Arentz: Since earning her BFA at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles in 2006, Katie has created numerous commissioned pieces for a wide variety of clientele. From mural work, logo design and web advertising for commercial customers, to commissioned paintings, photo editing, and portraits for private clients, Katie has established herself as an artist of staggering talent across a wide range of media. She has shared her gifts with innumerable children and adults alike, having spent more than ten years teaching drawing, painting, sculpture and graphic design to students of all ages.

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Education: BA in Psychology, minor in Sociology- Whitworth University 2009, Graduate Certificate in Family Engagement in Education- Harvard University 2020, Catechist Certification- 2023

Experience: Three years of teaching at St. Mark’s, eight years of university administrative work (University of Notre Dame & Whitworth University), nine years as a Girl Scout troop leader and school volunteer since 2012.

In the classroom: My philosophy is that every child has a talent and something for us to learn from. I strive to create a calm and positive environment that allows everyone to settle and relax. I’m a good listener and try to provide a safe place for children to be open.

Since I can remember I’ve been amazed that God knows everything about us and His love never ends. I want to teach children about the unending and unconditional love that Christ has for them. Helping foster relationships with Christ and supporting children on their own spiritual journeys is a true blessing.

All About Mrs. Hauck: My husband and I started our wonderful family in 2008 and have two kiddos. Our oldest is at Bishop Kelly and our youngest is at St. Mark’s. I am a certified crazy cat lady and I love all things Disney. In my spare time I enjoy glass blowing, ceramics, traveling to National Parks and being outdoors with my family.

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Education: BA Mathematics- U of Nebraska, BA Accounting- Boise State University

Experience: Actuary, tax accountant, 2 prior years as middle school and upper elementary math aide

In the classroom: “Mistakes are great if you learn from them” is a good lesson to live by. I enjoy working one on one with students and was called to be in the classroom by family demands. I keep doing it because I love the kids and what I do.

All About Mr. Holm:  I love watching Nebraska football, playing basketball, spending time with my family, and listening to audio books. Go Big Red!

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Education: BA in Communications

Experience: Previous years of volunteering at St. Mark’s school and parish

In the classroom: My approach is simple in that every child is worthy of my attention, love and patience. “Let the little children come to me and do not stop them; for it is such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.” Matthew 19:14.

Early childhood development is the best! The wonder of little minds and the moment of understanding never gets old. God placed it on my heart as a child and blessed me with what is necessary to work with preschoolers.

All About Mrs. Larrinaga: I love to camp and hike, spending time with my husband and son (St. Mark’s student), gardening, cooking and baking.

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Education: BA in Sociology- Seattle Pacific University

Experience: Special Education/CLC Instructional Aide for 1 year. Special Education 1:1 Instructional Assistant for 3 years. Adult Transition Program Instructional Assistant for 3 years.

In the classroom: My heart is to uplift and support our amazing students and to aide in supporting our incredible teachers in their daily work. It brings me such joy to be in a position where I can come along side of our students and staff in helping make this school the best it can be!

My prayer each day is that I can offer a joyful, supportive, and hardworking spirit that makes the day better for all!

All About Mrs. Whitescarver: I love being with my husband and two boys, outdoor adventures, running and Barre3!

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Mr. Rossi has been an integral part to the St. Mark’s community since 2016. Always the one to make sure our facilities are in top shape, he is also a fan favorite amongst the students.

Education: BS in Social Research, MA Scripture, MA Clinical Psychology, Psy.D. Clinical Psychology.

Experience: 37 years as a therapist, teacher, and presenter.

In the classroom:  My methods of teaching and working with children include St. Thomas Aquinas’ Thomistic Psychology, Attachment Therapy, Cognitive Therapy and Behavior Therapy. I bring patience, humility, a sense of humor and “grandpa skills” to my work.

I enjoy helping people. It is rewarding to see people “get it” about what they are doing or how they react to things. Then they can change what they want to change.

All About Dr. Joe: I like to hike, backpack, mountain bike, kayak, raft, camp, explore, and cook.

Education: M.Ed. School Counseling, B.S. Elementary Education K-8

Experience: 11 years teaching in various Catholic elementary schools, 4 years school counselor at St. Mark’s

In the classroom: I believe every child deserves to feel understood, supported, and capable of growth. I show up to help students make sense of their emotions, build confidence in who they are, and learn skills that carry them far beyond the classroom. I want every child to know and believe that they deserve to feel safe, seen, and capable of success—academically, socially, and emotionally.

My superpower is helping students feel understood through connection, consistency, and care. I work to make school a place where students feel safe enough to learn—and brave enough to be themselves.

All About Mrs. Lynch: Besides spending time with my husband and four daughters, I love Hawaii, the Seattle Seahawks, Chick-fil-A and New Kids on the Block!

Education: BSED Elementary Education-University of Missouri, MA Literacy- Boise State University

Experience: 19 years of teaching with the past 10 years being at St. Mark’s. I have been a classroom teacher for all grades PreK-8th with the exception of kindergarten and fourth grade.

In the classroom: I like to see the strengths in all students. Every student can learn and we need to find their strengths and build on those. I remember St. Thomas Aquinas and how other students called him a dumb ox but he is now a doctor of the church.

I became a reading teacher because my own child struggled with reading and I wanted to find ways to help all children learn to read. I love watching kids grow as readers. It is wonderful when they “crack the reading code” and blossom.

All About Mrs. Brady: I love to garden, scrapbook, bake and do home improvement projects.

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Education: 2 years at Community College in California (Early Childhood Development), Certified Nursing Assistant, Heart Saver CPR Instructor

Experience: I have been working for Saint Alphonsus for nearly 20 years. Over half those years have been in the School Health Program as well as working in the hospital Float pool doing direct patient care in all areas of the hospital.

All About Nurse Sherry: I enjoy hiking, biking, traveling, spending time with family (especially the grandkids), and I love to organize/decorate my home and workplace.