School Staff Type: Staff

I love spending as much time as possible with my family and friends, making fun memories that will last a lifetime. Whether we’re going for walks, hiking, swimming at the lake or pool, fishing, or traveling to new places, we enjoy any opportunity to be outdoors together. Cooking has always been a passion of mine. Growing up in a large family, the kitchen quickly became a place where I found joy, creativity, and connection. When we’re not out on our next adventure, I’m usually planning the next family outing, working on a project for our family or business, or trying a new recipe. My two daughters always keep me on my toes and make sure life is never boring!

My husband and I have been married for nearly 16 years and are proud parents of two wonderful daughters. Our family also includes our two dogs, River and Booker, as well as our flock of chickens. They bring plenty of love, laughter, and joyful chaos to our everyday lives.

A few of my favorite things: cooking, animals, fall, bonfires, spending time outdoors, and making memories with family and friends.

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee with a degree in Kinesiology. This is my second year working at SJ23 and my fourth year as part of the school community. I am incredibly grateful to be part of such a welcoming and supportive school.

I am truly thankful to be part of the SJ23 community.

We have built so many meaningful friendships and connections here, and I look forward to continuing to support our school while creating new opportunities for both my family and the wonderful families of SJ23.

Mrs. Pekera grew up in Wisconsin and attended St. Mary’s Church right here in Port Washington with her family growing up.

She has four children: Mason (11), Logan (9), Eli (7), and Brinley (5). She loves being a part of the St. John XXIII family with her children!

Some things that bring her joy are hiking, going on bike rides, baking, coffee, and music. She loves watching her kids do what they love from soccer to dancing and spending lots of time outside!

This is her second year at St. John XXIII. She graduated from Concordia University in 2010 with her Bachelor of science degree in Education. She most recently taught kindergarten and K4 for ten years.

I have a passion for literacy and instilling a true love for learning in my students.

I am feeling so blessed to be a part of the St. John XXIII community!

Mrs. Burkhalter grew up in Manitowoc, WI and currently lives in Germantown, WI.

Some of Mrs. Burkhalter’s favorite hobbies include taking walks with her husband and dog, cooking, reading, and traveling.

She lives with her husband and her adorable dog Maverick.

Mrs. Burkhalter received her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay in psychology with a mental health emphasis and human biology. She then obtained her Master of Arts in Counseling with a school counseling emphasis from Lakeland University.

She started her career by working as a special education assistant before transitioning to school counseling.

I am thrilled to be part of the SJ23 school community and love working with students to help provide them with skills and support them in their social, emotional, and academic development!

I love spending time with my family and friends and making the most of every season together. Whether we’re biking, golfing, boating, skiing, or traveling to new places, I’m happiest when we’re making memories outdoors. You’ll also find me enjoying live music whenever I can and cheering on my kids as they do what they love. My boys keep us busy with hockey, football, and just about any activity they can find, while my daughter loves dancing and gymnastics. Watching them grow and pursue their passions is one of my greatest joys.

My husband and I have been married for almost 10 years and have three children, along with seven nieces and nephews. Our two dogs, Graham and Hazel, complete our family and add plenty of love, laughter, and joyful chaos to our everyday lives.

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point with a degree in Communication. The 2026–2027 school year marks my 10th year as part of the SJ23 family, and I continue to feel grateful to serve such an incredible school community.

A few of My Favorite Things: coffee, animals, sunshine, fresh snow, being on the water, laughing with friends/family, being a mom & auntie, chocolate, and live music.

I am so grateful to be part of the SJ23 school community. This school has truly changed my life, and I feel incredibly blessed by the relationships I’ve built with our students, families, and staff over the years. It is an honor to serve this community, and these students and families mean the world to me.

Mrs. Amy McMullen has been a resident of Port Washington and a member of St John XXIII Parish since 2013. She joined the SJ23 team in 2016.

Her interests outside of education include hiking and attending sporting events with her family.

Mrs. McMullen and her husband, Ryan, have two children, Tyler and Leah. Both Tyler and Leah are students at SJ23.

Mrs. McMullen is a graduate of Oostburg High School and an alumnus of the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee. She holds a degree in Elementary Education and Reading Teacher certification.

Her favorite thing about teaching is watching kids grow and and find their confidence and enthusiasm for reading.

“The community at SJ23 feels like one big family. I love working so closely with staff and families to bring out the best in each and every student. “

Gracie is not just any furry friend; she’s a certified therapy dog through Pets Helping People. She’s been a beacon of comfort and joy at various events, including Comfort Days at UWM and Concordia University, where she engages with students.

Gracie spends Tuesdays at Lincoln Elementary School, helping students work on their reading skills, and on Fridays, she brightens the day for students at Port Washington High School during lunch and exam times.

She extends her heartwarming visits to hospice patients and will soon become a therapy dog at Aurora Hospital in Grafton.

Partnering with Gracie is Mrs. Michel, a retired School Counselor with 29 years of experience in the Port Washington-Saukville School District. Together, they embark on a new journey focused on promoting kindness, respect, and happiness within our school community. With Gracie as her four-legged companion, Mrs. Michel is excited to collaborate with our students and staff.

The possibilities for PAW-sitive impact are endless!