Related Arts
ART
Mrs. Amy Tomkiins
Hi! My name is Amy Tomkins and I’m very excited to begin teaching K-8 Art and Middle School STEM at St. Luke’s this year. My family recently relocated to Ankeny from Colorado Springs, where I taught 2nd grade. Before Colorado, we lived in both North Carolina and Upstate New York, where I taught Kindergarten and 1st grade. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Art History from University of Buffalo and my Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Binghamton University.
I am looking forward to supporting my students in relevant, engaging lessons through faith-based learning opportunities. We will utilize a hands-on approach that focuses on creativity and fun.
In my “free” time, I enjoy spending time with my husband and 5 kids (attending St. Luke’s, Dowling and DMACC), exploring Iowa and cheering the kids on at their wrestling and rugby matches or playing in the Dowling Band.
Guidance Counselor
Mrs. Alyson Mathis
Hello! My name is Alyson Mathis, and I recently relocated to Ankeny in July 2022 from Lake Charles, Louisiana with my family. My husband, Michael, and our three boys—Evan, Alex, and William—are thrilled to be here in Iowa. We are enjoying settling into our new home and community, particularly at St. Luke Evangelist.
I hold a degree in Elementary Education with a special education endorsement from McNeese State University. During my career in education, I spent over 10 years as a first grade teacher before transitioning into my current role as a guidance counselor. Currently, I am pursuing a Master of Science in Counseling with an emphasis in School Counseling at Creighton University.
My professional mission is centered around ensuring that all students achieve both academic success and social-emotional growth. I am committed to preparing students to thrive as empowered members of our community, where they demonstrate empathy, compassion, and respect for all.
I look forward to contributing to the St. Luke Evangelist community and working together for the success of our students.
READING & MATH (INTERVENTIONIST)
Mrs. Kaleena Nowak
Hello! My name is Kaleena Nowak and I feel so blessed to be teaching here at St. Luke the Evangelist Catholic School. Previously, I have taught Preschool in the diocese and in Des Moines schools.
I am originally from the suburbs of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and grew up attending Catholic School myself. I earned my degree in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education from the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point and my Master's in Elementary Education from GCU.
I have been married for 10 years to my high school sweetheart and we have 2 beautiful daughters. In our free time you can find us adventuring outdoors hiking, tent camping, kayaking, or jumping on the trampoline. I love to read and play board games. I am excited for another great year at St. Luke's!
MUSIC & BAND
Ms. RaeAnne Hopkins
Hello! My name is RaeAnne Hopkins, and I am the K-8 Music and Middle School Choir teacher at St. Luke's! I am originally from Creston, Iowa. I graduated from Northwest Missouri State University, where I received a degree in Vocal Music Education (with extended certification in Instrumental Music Education). I play trumpet, piano, and love to sing!
I have been so proud of the students' musical growth in my time at St. Luke’s, and I can’t wait to see what this year has in store! Whether it's through singing, playing instruments, or listening to new songs, I hope to bring a sense of joy and unity to each student. I believe that music has the potential to connect us to others while simultaneously giving us the means to express our own thoughts and feelings. Through music, I have developed deeper relationships with friends, community, and God. I hope to use music to give the students those same opportunities to grow in their lives.
This year, I will be getting married in March! My name will change to Mrs. Burch. I know that can seem like a sudden change for students, so I will ultimately respond to Ms. Hopkins the rest of the school year as well. When I’m not wedding planning, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, crochet, grilling, traveling, and singing in the Des Moines Choral Society.
Physical Education &
Athletic Director
Mr. Rudy Kuss
Hello, I am Rudy Kuss, and I am very excited to join the St. Luke family. Originally from Grafton, WI (a suburb North of Milwaukee), I received my degree in Kinesiology and Health with a Physical Education option from Iowa State University in 2023. While attending Iowa State, I worked as a Men's Basketball program student manager. During my time with the team, I experienced the highs and lows of collegiate athletics, working with a team that went 2-22 in my first season to the Sweet 16 in the NCAA Tournament the next season.
Teaching physical education is important to me because creating an active lifestyle in students is the key to lifelong success in physical activity. I am looking forward to meeting and building relationships with the students, staff, and families.
When I'm not teaching, I enjoy exercising, traveling, coaching basketball at Ames Middle School, and cheering on the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, Milwaukee Bucks, and, of course, Iowa State Cyclones.
Librarian
Mrs. JoAnn Curran
My name is JoAnn Curran. I come from a large family in northern Iowa. I attended Catholic Schools from 1st-12th grades. I attended the University of Northern Iowa in Cedar Falls and received my degree in Elementary/Special Education. I taught for 34 years before retiring. I came to St. Luke's after retirement, volunteering and subbing in its first year open. I have worked here since as a Kindergarten associate and the librarian. I feel blessed to work here.
I am a member of OLIH where I taught RE, was co-director of VBS, and am a Eucharistic Minister. I am married to my wonderful husband Dan, and have two sons and four grandchildren who are my everything. I enjoy walking, exercising, reading, and spending time with family and friends. I look forward to another wonderful year at St. Luke's.
What is taught in P.E.?
Students will improve their cardiovascular endurance, flexibility, and muscular strength while participating in various fun activities within Physical Education class. The students will complete this while participating in many different sports throughout the year. These activities work to improve team building and coordination skills.
Special Events: Middle school students will compete in a badminton tournament during PE in February and field day is always something the elementary school students look forward to!