Sarah Johnson (Board Chair/Staff)
sarah@nerstrand.charter.k12.mn.us - 612.308.5777
Elected 7/1/2020, term expires 6/30/2023
My name is Sarah Johnson, and I have been teaching here at Nerstrand Elementary School since 2012. I currently live in and was born in Northfield, but I grew up in Wausau, Wisconsin. I have also spent some time living in Colorado, Alaska, and Scotland. I graduated from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls in the spring of 2002 with a degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. I love to spend time outdoors, and that was what initially drew me to Nerstrand. The commitment here to the environment and community service is something very special that I'm glad to be a part of. When I’m not at school, I love to take nature photographs, hike, snowboard, try interesting foods, listen to music, and travel.
Tara Vondrasek (Staff)
tara@nerstrand.charter.k12.mn.us - 507.202.9950
Elected 7/1/2021, term expires 6/30/2024
Hello, my name is Tara Vondrasek. I received my associate's degree from Waldorf College, my bachelor's degree in elementary education from U of W - River Falls, and earned my master's degree in elementary education from St. Mary's University. I have also taught first grade in Eagan, MN and summer school in Rosemount. My family and I live in Northfield. My husband Tom and I stay busy with our two sons, Anthony (3 yrs.) and Aiden (4 mo.) We enjoy camping, fishing, gardening, playing volleyball, and of course, snowmobiling. During my free time I also enjoy reading, beading and watching the MN Wild.
Amber Skluzacek (Secretary/Parent)
amber@nerstrand.charter.k12.mn.us - 952.994.2438
Elected 7/1/2020, term expires 6/30/2023
Hi! My name is Amber Skluzacek. I am a passionate involved mother of 4 and a resident of rural Nerstrand. I grew up in Montgomery MN and attended the University of Minnesota to attain my bachelor's degree in agricultural education. I currently stay home with our youngest child and own and operate my own photography business.
Three years ago when my children were admitted into Nerstrand Elementary School our lives changed so much! We were now part of a school that not only offers an excellent education, but hands-on, caring, one of a kind experiences for our children. After having our eldest daughter attend a public elementary school for two years, prior to Nerstrand, we truly appreciate all of the great gifts Nerstrand Elementary School provides.
When a spot on the school board opened up I excitedly raised my hand. It is an honor to serve our students, staff and school. I look forward to continuing to help our school maintain its traditions and continue to grow to be its absolute best.
Carissa Erickson (Parent)
carissa@nerstrand.charter.k12.mn.us - 612.702.4077
Elected 7/1/2022, term expires 6/30/2025
Howdy! My name is Carissa (Feyereisn) Erickson and I am the parent of a current Nerstrand Elementary School third grader, a soon-to-be kindergartner, and a three year old. I grew up in nearby Cannon City, and married Nerstrand School alum, Doug Erickson, at the Valley Grove Church. Mike Erickson, my father-in-law and another Nerstrand alum, has served as Custodian at Nerstrand Elementary School for the past 18 years. The Nerstrand roots run deep, as Mike’s dad, Eugene Erickson, also attended the school. Following graduation from Faribault High School, I attended the Aveda Institute in Minneapolis, and have worked at salons in Chanhassen, Victoria, and Eden Prairie. Presently, you’ll find me at Coiffure Salon on Division Street in Northfield. When I’m not getting into someone’s hair (literally and figuratively), you’ll find me working with my family on a variety of projects in and around the modified “shouse” we built in Cannon City, or John Deere Gator-ing in the woods that I grew up four-wheeling, exploring, hunting, and camping in, and doing my best to navigate life!
Nicky Schaefer (Treasurer/Staff)
nicky@nerstrand.charter.k12.mn.us - 952.807.6784
Elected 7/1/2020, term expires 6/30/2023
My name is Nicky Schaefer and I started here at Nerstrand in 2015. I was born and raised in North Dakota (the accent will show itself every now and then). My family moved to Minnesota when I was going into high school. I have always known I wanted to work with children in some way or another. I am so lucky to have found Nerstrand for my daughter to attend and for me to work at. I feel truly blessed to be a part of the Nerstrand "family".
Terri Neumann (Community Member)
terri@nerstrand.charter.k12.mn.us - 507.334.5580
Elected 7/1/2022, term expires 6/30/2025
My name is Terri Neumann and I have lived in Nerstrand all my life. I attended Nerstrand School prior to it becoming a charter school. My husband and I have a son that is grown now, and attended Nerstrand Charter School. I participated in the PTO while our son attended. By far, Nerstrand School excels in teaching students using many learning opportunities. Some examples are, Prairie Appreciation Day, Discovery Day, Peace Garden, Learn and Serve and Community Celebration, to name a few. My grandfather was one of the elders for the first Community Celebration, some of you may recognize his song "Still Doin Good in The Big Woods". The teachers and staff at Nerstrand School truly love their students.
I have been a Licensed and Certified Dental Assistant for over thirty years and have worked in a Dental Office in Northfield for twenty-nine years. I love to cook, play piano, traveling, camping and spending time with family and friends. I am excited and honored to serve on the Board at Nerstrand School.
Kelly McGregor (Staff)
Elected 11/14/2022, term expires 6/30/2025
Hi there, my name is Kelly McGregor and I have been teaching since 2015. I taught for four years in Lakeville, MN before coming to Nerstrand in 2019. I am very excited to be at Nerstrand Elementary because this school is such a special place to learn and grow.
I earned a Bachelor's degree from Minnesota State University, Mankato in theater production and design. I furthered my education through the University of Wisconsin, River Falls earning a Masters of Elementary Education. Prior to becoming a teacher I spent some time working out at Glacier National Park in Montana and in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area near Grand Marais.
I currently live in Lakeville with my husband, two young children and our big black cat Mundo. I love being outside and seeking out new adventures which makes Nerstrand Elementary the perfect place for me. I am an outgoing and energetic person who loves to fish, run and draw.