About Our Staff

Each of our classes is staffed by a team of two teachers. Teachers are trained in CPR and pediatric first aid, and they receive training in the use of Dr. Becky Bailey’s Conscious Discipline. St. Mark’s teachers have diverse educational backgrounds including early education, social work, speech therapy and sciences. We benefit from each other’s strengths and areas of expertise. Our teachers are compensated for attending workshops and conferences each year, and regularly discuss current research, trends, practices and issues related to early childhood education. Through thoughtful discussion and ongoing self-assessment, teachers remain curious and their continued growth allows us to provide the best care for children. Teachers have consistent hands on support from the director and assistant director, both experienced teachers, who provide assistance within the classroom and beyond. Continuing education needs are supported by our Education Coordinator. We are very proud to also have on staff 3 musicians who visit our classrooms weekly, and a school librarian!

Kate Morris - Director

I became the director of St. Mark’s Nursery School and Kindergarten in 2022 after six years of teaching here. My husband and I have two sons who attended St. Mark’s, a place that now feels like my home away from home. When my children left St. Mark’s to begin public school, I stayed, excited to join this community of knowledgeable and passionate educators. For many years my work here paired beautifully with my work as a licensed speech language pathologist providing early intervention for families through First Steps. I am happiest when connecting in the present moment with young children, witnessing and reflecting their experiences, or when singing interactive songs like Wheels on the Bus where children can participate by using their bodies and changing the words. I am humbled by the opportunity to serve St. Mark’s families and teachers as the director, and am excited by more opportunities for connection, collaboration and growth.

The childhood memories I hold most dear are those of love and empowerment: the soft touch of my grandmother, the wind in my hair riding bikes down neighborhood hills, or the sense of autonomy and connection to something bigger that I felt when high up in a mulberry tree or on the roof of my house.

Today, when I am not absorbed in the world of early childhood, I enjoy yoga, tending my garden, baking, Sunday brunches and hikes with my family, and walks with my husband and two dogs.

Julie Hammond - Assistant Director

After teaching at St. Mark’s for 13 years, I am now the assistant director. My journey here started when my husband Bret and I chose St. Mark’s for our children Aiden and Addie. The guidance and reassurance we received from the various teachers, as well as the opportunity to take parenting classes, were invaluable during the early days of our parenting journey. The opportunity to see our children thrive in this child-led community, and to make lifelong connections, was exactly what we were looking for for Aiden and Addies first school experience. While the kids attended St. Mark’s, I enjoyed volunteering in the classroom and on the parent committee; I also substitute taught during that time. During my time teaching, I have worked in a few different classrooms with different age groups.  While in the classroom, I especially love witnessing the social emotional growth, and beautiful connections made between students, teachers and families within our classrooms and community. In this role, I am most excited by the opportunity to support teachers, and take on challenges. 

As a child of the 70’s, my fondest memories are attending the same elementary school where my mom taught  (Rogers elementary), riding bikes all over the east side of Bloomington with lifelong friends, and playing kick the can during the long summer nights. In my spare time I enjoy gathering with my book club, walking and lunching w/friends, and spending time with our family and elderly pugs.

Susie Walker - Office Manager

I am the office Manager at St. Mark’s.  My history at St. Mark’s starts far before my employment as all four of my children were students here!  My daughters Caroline and Catherine started at St. Mark’s in 2012- Caroline in the young toddler class and Catherine in the infant class.  St. Mark's was my respite, community, and safe place as I grew my family.  Nora and Joejoe soon came along and found their place here as well.  Joejoe had an abrupt end to his St. Mark’s time as his last year finished at the start of the pandemic.  I was sad to have that chapter of our life close and I missed my St. Mark’s family and was thrilled to start working here just a year later.  

In my former life before kids, I went to IU School of Nursing and met my future husband working in the hospital in Indianapolis.  I spent several years working in intensive care units before transitioning away from the bedside to risk management.  I stayed home while I had my four kids (in five years!)

My fondest childhood memories are playing outside with my dog, running errands with my dad, and having endless alternating sleepovers with my best friend.  

Now I enjoy spending time outside with my family, either at the pool, in the garden, or hiking.  I love traveling with my husband and can’t wait to explore more of the world with my family.

Amy (Ames) Land - Milkweed Teacher

I started working as a teacher at St. Mark’s in August 2021. I am a Bloomington local and I live with my wife Brooke who I met while attending Harmony High School. I have worked and volunteered in the Early Childhood Education field since 2013, and acquired my Child Developmental Associate (CDA) in 2019.

I love being a part of children’s lives and helping them discover the world. Supporting children as they develop their own means of navigating through life, emotionally and physically, is a really important and fulfilling position. Growing up on a farm outside of Bloomington I was constantly exploring the outdoors and experiencing the beauty and magic that is nature. In my everyday life I still enjoy exploring nature, creating art, learning about the world, and being extremely silly.

Erica - Milkweed Teacher

I was so excited to join St. Mark’s as a teacher in 2023. While this was my first year with St.Mark’s, I’m not new to working with children. I went to school for early childhood development and education and have worked with little ones in one way or another since 2000. I’ve worn many hats along the way from teaching in special education, teaching daycare and preschool, and working as a certified car seat technician to name a few! I love watching and encouraging the natural curiosity of children and seeing their unique personalities develop. I truly love the philosophy of St. Mark’s and the focus of social and emotional learning.

I was raised in Bloomington going on adventures in the woods and playing in the creek where my family lived, and my parents still live! I am grateful to have the ability to raise my own family here surrounded by extended family and friends I’ve grown up with. We have a wide variety of animals and spend a lot of time as a family working with the dairy cows, taking the newest family puppy out for enrichment opportunities in the community, and creating our own family fun wherever we go. With 4 kids and an abundance of animals, we stay busy and always try to take in and appreciate the small moments of everyday life. When I have down time and quiet time, I love reading and deep diving into new research and learning.

Adriana Fernandez - Chicory Teacher

My first year teaching at St. Mark’s in 2023 was my second year as a parent here. My family found St. Mark’s in early 2022 and it has quickly become the community and backbone of support we have longed for on our parenting journey. Over the past year, St. Mark’s Nursery School and Kindergarten has quickly become my children’s and family’s second home.

My passion for children and early childhood education are deeply rooted in my own childhood experience. My mother dedicated her almost 40-year career to teaching young children and supporting their families. Some of my earliest memories are of spending time in the early childhood center she helped found and directed. Play and exploration were at the center of everything I did as a child. My childhood was spent exploring the outdoors whether at home, at school, or on our family’s annual beach and mountain vacations; getting creative and messy with water and sensory play; and discovering my ability for self-expression through movement, arts, and imaginary play. One of my greatest joys of working with young children is getting to see them discover the world through the lens of their boundless imaginations.

Prior to St. Marks, I taught at Indiana University in the Arts Management and Administration Program, and worked as a freelance stage manager in the performing arts. While earning my BFA and MFA, I worked as a swim instructor, tutor, and nanny, as well as volunteered in local early childhood and elementary classrooms. Teaching has always been my passion but becoming a mother has reminded me how much I love helping guide and support young children as they grow and navigate the world.

In my free time, I enjoy dance parties with my daughters, Eva, Isabel, and Luna, cooking, baking, hiking, and spending time with my husband, Erik, our daughters, and our dog, Boomer. Some of our favorite Bloomington activities include the farmer’s market, Food Truck Fridays at Switchyard Park, and exploring downtown. A few of my personal passions include dancing, reading fantasy novels, sewing, movies, and music.

Lisa Land - Chicory Teacher

I began teaching at St. Mark’s in 2022, with a year of preschool teaching experience under my belt.

My husband, Chris, and I have two wonderful boys, Sam and Oliver. I stayed at home with them when they were younger and they are now in second and fourth grades. Teaching preschool has felt like a very natural transition, as it allows me to do what I love, while maintaining time to devote to our house and homestead. We live in rural Monroe County, where we have an assortment of animals running around and loads of edible and beautiful plants growing. Currently we have goats, pigs, chickens, and lots of cats. I'm very interested in preserving our homegrown food to enjoy all year long. Our lives are simple and we love spending time together as a family at home, or in the many beautiful places in this part of the world. I also love to get lost in a good book, either on my own or with the kids, and play games of all kinds.

I have a bachelor of fine art from Herron School or Art and Design, with focuses in ceramics and painting. This basically means I found a way in college to continue doing just what I did as a child! I grew up in the country running around barefoot and making all sorts of messes. My parents gave me freedom to explore the world. We have done the same with our children and as they've transitioned to being in school, it feels natural that I would continue caring for young children in the same way. I am beyond thrilled to have found my spot in a community that highly values play and puts trust in children to develop at their own pace. I look forward to spending time with your children during this magical time in their lives!

Joanie Blackwell - Chicory Teacher

St. Mark’s was my family’s first community when we arrived in Bloomington in 2017—and still remains one of our strongest! Our daughter Penelope started in the Green (now Dandelion) class, our son Philip in the Onesies (now Milkweed/Chicory)…and our youngest, Natalie, currently attends this magical place we have all come to consider home. My husband Nick and I are grateful for the foundation of love and support St. Mark’s has meant for every member of our family as we have grown as parents, children, and people.

A native Pittsburgher, I have lived in New York City; Athens, Greece; Philadelphia, and Raleigh before settling in Bloomington. My B.A. is in English and Spanish (double major) from Davidson College (NC), and I recently completed a graduate certificate in Philanthropic Studies from the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at IU Indianapolis. I’ve worked in book publishing, non-profit, and freelance editing/writing while maintaining a connection to young children through teaching and coaching swimming, ESL tutoring, and of course raising my own kids.

After six years of volunteering and participating in parenting classes at St. Mark’s, this is my first year of formal teaching. I am honored to develop the craft alongside the skilled, compassionate teachers from whom I have learned so much about play-based, child-led education. I love children’s enormous capacity to embrace the joy and wonder around them, and their powerful curiosity that helps me see things anew. Getting to know each of them through their moments of exuberance and frustration alike is a privilege. I also hope to provide families with the feelings I’ve always had when walking out of the building after drop-off: peace, trust, and confidence that my children will have a wonderful morning surrounded by adults who love them like they are their own.

My childhood memories are of hours spent swimming in pools, lakes, and the ocean; playing pretend and making up stories, dances, and songs with my two sisters; and piling into my mom’s lap with a stack of books for her to read aloud to us. Swimming, connecting with family, and reading are still some of the things that center me most. I also enjoy cooking, learning languages, and the adventure (in new places) and nostalgia (in old) of traveling.

Anna Knust - Clover Teacher

My time at St. Mark’s began in 2015, when my family and I moved back to Bloomington. My son started in the 3s class and my daughter started in the onesies. I loved my time as a parent helper in the classroom and learned so much from my children’s teachers. That experience inspired me to pursue teaching and I started teaching in the older 2s class in 2018. My background is in environmental science/hydrogeology, and I’ve worked as a research scientist, volleyball coach, environmental consultant, and fitness instructor, before finding early childhood education. I love sharing the wonders of the world with children through the lens of science. Children are the ultimate scientists, always observing, experimenting, trying new things, and learning from the results. By encouraging children to ask questions and observe their surroundings, they learn to appreciate the world and inform their own opinions. I spent a lot of time reading and playing outside as a child, exploring the woods with my sister. I still love reading (especially historical fiction) and exploring the woods (but not ticks). I love to exercise, drink soda, try new recipes, and spend time with my family.

Holly Alana Gilmore - Clover Teacher

Our family came to know St. Mark’s as we chose the KinderGarden classroom for our youngest child, Hart.  He flourished in the care of his dedicated educators—we all felt so warmly accepted and encouraged by this community.  My time as a stay-at-home mom has come to an end as Hart will now join his big brother, Thad, in public school.  I am delighted to begin my next chapter teaching in the Clover room alongside an amazing teaching team!        

With my husband, Marc, we have made our country home in Eastern Greene County.  I have embraced this rural lifestyle by declaring myself an amateur naturalist—I love spending time outdoors identifying the flora and fauna that share our property.  In the spring and summer, I tend to my flower beds and veggie garden.  In all seasons, I dabble in creative pursuits like painting and am always available to visit an antique store in the hopes of finding a treasure to add to my various collections.  Otherwise, we all stay busy between EGES basketball travel team, BUGS gymnastics, and Cutters soccer.  

I look forward to partnering with families to provide gentle and joyful caregiving in the child led tradition that St. Mark’s is known for.

Molly Barwick - Clover Teacher

I feel fortunate to be part of the St. Mark’s community! My son attended preschool and kindergarten at St. Mark’s. After he aged out, we both missed the environment so much. He continues to return to read to classes, and I began substitute teaching  in various classrooms and eventually began teaching in 2021. I live with my husband Clark, my 10 year old son Finn, and Finn’s 2 parakeets, Cookie and Popcorn. 

I hold a BA and MA in Cultural Anthropology. Before St. Mark’s, I worked for several years at the Kelley School of Business Institute for Social Impact, facilitating opportunities for students to bridge their business skills with strategies toward poverty alleviation. This work taught me how the strength of empathy and curiosity, along with an appreciation for diversity of thought and experience can truly change the world for the better. 

Small children in our classrooms continue to remind me of this every day. I especially love the connections made when I see the world through their eyes. 

As a child, I loved reading and being read to, and I spent countless hours exploring the streams behind our home in Connecticut. When I’m not teaching at St. Mark’s I spend my time running, doing advocacy work on gun violence prevention, and traveling.

Amy Calloway - Thistle Teacher

I started my St. Mark’s experience as a parent in 2013 when my daughter began preschool in the older 2’s class.  My son also began his school journey in that classroom two years later.  In 2016 I began to substitute, shortly worked in a teacher support role, then joined the young two’s class as a teacher!  Though I went to school for elementary education and worked as a 3rd and 5th grade teacher for a handful of years, I have found that I really, really love working with younger children!  Watching Littles grow and change throughout the year is amazing and such a rewarding experience. Reading about, learning about, and advocating for PLAYFUL LEARNING and outdoor play has become a passion of mine.  I was lucky enough to spend my childhood outside, engaging with nature, running the neighborhood, and exercising my creativity in all I did. An experience I wish for all children today!

During my ME TIME, I love to read and learn new things, work in my garden, be outside, sit by a campfire, and hike with my family.

Jessica McIntosh - Thistle Teacher

I’ve been working with children pretty much all my life. I’ve worked as a nanny, daycare teacher, substitute teacher and have watched children in my house. I’m very excited to start this new chapter of my life as a St. Mark’s teacher. I have two BAs in Art History and Graphic Design. Being creative in all things is my passion. I love being outdoors in all weather. My happy place/zen moments are when I can be near water. 

I came to know St Mark’s when I was a nanny; the kids I cared for all  came through here. Then when I became a parent there was no other place I wanted my kids to attend. Both my son and daughter went to school here. My kids are both in the Spanish Immersion program at Summit now. My husband works at the School of Education at IU. We love all things Bloomington.

Tori Kreller - Dandelion Teacher, Education Coordinator

I first joined St. Mark’s Nursery School in 2011 as a parent in the two year old classroom. Both of my children attended St. Mark’s for preschool (and one for Kindergarten), and I then transitioned to substitute teaching. My first year I was able to provide support in every classroom and enjoyed the varied experiences that came with teaching a wide range of ages. In fall of 2017, I officially joined the preschool teaching team, working with children 3 ½-5 years old. Some of my favorite moments in our classroom are reading aloud to children, supporting little ones who are processing powerful or challenging emotions, and connecting with parents. As the Education Coordinator, I maintain the Ceci Maron-Puntarelli Family Resource Library, and collaborate with Kate to plan professional development activities for our fabulous staff and families. When I was a child, my mother patiently nurtured my love for books and playful exploration, and my goal is to always encourage that spark in others. When I’m not teaching at St. Mark’s, I spend time with my husband, our boys and pup, read (a ton), knit (just a little), and volunteer advocating for gun violence prevention and improvements to early childhood public policy.

Grace Donnelly - Dandelion Teacher

I have been working with children for around 9 years now. I started out babysitting some family friends, then completed a counselor training program at my childhood summer camp, and eventually became a full time counselor at that camp. This is where I discovered my passion for working with kids in a play based educational setting. More specifically I enjoyed helping and watching kids discover new things in a relaxed environment with endless possibilities. This got me thinking: how do children develop and grow, and how do their brains process our big world?

With this in mind, I began college and declared my degree in psychology with a focus in child psychology. Last year I graduated from Flagler College with a degree in psychology and a minor in theatre arts. During my time in school I had the opportunity to volunteer at a local preschool where I gained wonderful experience working with children ages 1-5. I even took a theatre class where we wrote and performed an interactive  play with a group of 4 year olds. The play, Sam and the Sea Turtle, was a big hit and it was so fun to create, play, and learn with them. After my sister had her first baby, my desire to work with preschool aged kiddos grew even more.  Seeing little Lucy grow up in front of me and learn about the world around her with such a unique perspective has been inspiring.

I began teaching at St. Mark’s during the spring of 2024, and am excited about my future here. Outside of my passion for working with kiddos, I enjoy camping, sports, painting, singing and all things theatre. I have also been doing photography since I was 15 and continue to do freelance photography as a creative outlet to not only make myself smile but to capture the smiles of the lovely people of Bloomington. And, last but not least, I spend lots of time with my very large family and lots of time with my very fluffy cat, Simon, who I absolutely adore!

Sarah Harriss - Foxtail Teacher

My connection with St. Mark’s began in 2014 when we moved to Bloomington and enrolled our younger daughter in the 3-4 yo class.  Shortly thereafter, I began subbing at St. Mark’s and eventually worked as a teacher in the kindergarten class and the Purple class (4-5 yo).  As a current nursery school teacher, I am grateful to work in such a supportive community. 

My background includes master’s degrees in divinity and special education.  Before having children, I was a special education teacher in Chicago Public Schools as a K-8 resource and inclusion teacher. And, before growing up, I was a 4 year old who loved to sing in the car on the way to preschool where my mom was a teacher. 

When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy gardening, reading, baking, walking my dogs Lazarus & Harriet, and spending time with my family.

Jill Steiner - Foxtail Teacher

I started out as a substitute teacher and as an assistant teacher in the Dandelion classroom in 2023 because I felt drawn to working with kids again after being a stay-at-home mom for many years.  

Professionally, I worked as a pediatric RN for several years until my husband, Tim, and I moved to Bloomington in 2007. At that time, we had two little boys and no family support close by, so I found myself filling the role of stay-at-home mom. I used to joke that I was a “stay-out-of-the-home” mom as I would take my boys on outdoor adventures as much as I could, and then I began volunteering in their classrooms as they moved thru elementary grades. I also picked up volunteer work at Meals on Wheels and with the Boys and Girls Club Auxiliary. In 2013, I worked as the City Director of Lemonade Day for the Boys and Girls Club, teaching area youth the skills of entrepreneurship.  

For me, many of my core memories of playing as a child involve being outdoors in the fields, woods and lakes of northern Indiana. There is something about the outdoor world that encourages curiosity, and for this reason, I particularly love the play yards at St. Mark’s so much!

In addition to raising my sons Jack (a college sophomore at Georgetown University) and Will (a BHSN Senior), we have also hosted three international high school students since 2016! 

In my free time I like to exercise, read, and spend time with my friends and family as well as our two Golden Retrievers. I continue to volunteer for Meals on Wheels and participate in the PTO at Bloomington High School North.

Ashley Hilkey - Foxtail Teacher

I am new to teaching at St. Mark’s but have been a part of the St. Mark’s family as a parent since fall of 2021. I happened upon this community without knowing what a gem it was and when it was time for my son to move on, I didn’t want to! 

I have been working with children and families for my whole adult life.  I began my career working at group homes for minors while pursuing my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.  After graduating, I transitioned to case work and then to family and child therapy.  I had a brief stint of time working as a School Counselor and then transitioned back to mental health counseling in private practice after having my son in 2018.  

My husband and I grew up near Monroe County and moved to Bloomington in 2014.  We have one son, Micah (who recently transitioned out of St. Mark’s kindergarten), and a cat named Rocket.  We all enjoy the outdoors and moving our bodies! I love to take any chance I can to go on adventures - small or big - and usually take Micah with me.  When I’m not spending time with my family or friends, I enjoy a variety of activities such as. - reading, exercising, kayaking/paddle boarding, journaling, gardening, hiking, traveling and visiting book stores and cafes.  

My childhood was full and lively. I spent half of my time living in the woods and so much space for things like tree climbing, vine swinging, creek wading, and all the pretend play! The other half of my childhood was spent living in a small town with access to sidewalks where I could ride my bike, walk to friends’ homes, etc.  We prioritized outside time at both homes and I’m forever thankful! 

St. Mark’s Nursery School and Kindergarten has been such a gift to me and I am honored to take part in that community on the other side now - giving the same support that I have received the past several years. 

Angela Simoneaux - Kindergarten Teacher

After over 14 years teaching at St. Mark’s, the children’s smiling faces full of joy, wonder, eagerness, and excitement remind me daily of why I chose the field of education. I graduated from the University of Louisiana at Monroe, certified to teach elementary education, and later added an early childhood endorsement to my credentials. I currently hold teaching licenses in Louisiana, Texas, Missouri, and Indiana, and I have been involved in the presentation of educational workshops on the local, state, and international levels. I have taken graduate courses in science education and have a background in dance and theatre. These areas combined create a well-rounded learning environment for my students. As an enrolled tribal member, I also feel the responsibility to provide quality, accurate Native American children’s literature relevant to the topics we are covering in class.

I am the mother of three, the last of which graduated from IU this past May. I grew up in the sunny south spending lots of time outdoors, instilled with a love and respect for nature. I appreciate St. Mark’s allowing and encouraging outdoor learning when possible and the opportunity to begin building environmental awareness from a young age. These aspects connect well with my passions for gardening and nature photography.

Krista Holmstrom - Kindergarten Teacher

I first got to know St. Marks in 2014 when my son began his preschool years as a student in the Two’s classroom. Little did I know that fateful year would usher in an enduring love for learning and play in my son, and that the same would happen for my daughter who entered the Two’s classroom a year later. St. Mark’s helped my children find joy and learning through play, and it also nudged me down an entirely new career path--teaching!

Since those early days I have worn a variety of hats at St. Marks: parent, parent volunteer, substitute, support teacher, and full-time classroom teacher. I often feel that I learn more from the children in the classroom than they learn from me, but what I especially enjoy is the chance to spend time with and become friendly with the children who pass through St. Mark’s. It is a joy to play and learn alongside them. My philosophy is that each child is a wonderfully unique soul with something special to bring to the world, and that helping them shine and grow is a unique privilege.

When I was an only child growing up in Northern California I could often be found in the upper branches of a tree, having climbed up there with a book tucked into my back pocket. Heavily influenced by Harriet the Spy and Laura Ingalls Wilder, I zipped around on my bike and roller skates, made mud pies, and chased my cat Germaine.

My former career was spent in PR and book publicity, and I currently enjoy both freelance writing and teaching. I live in Bloomington with my two elementary-school age children, my husband, and our two cats. My family loves exploring the beautiful trails and creeks that surround us and attending lots of gymnastics classes, soccer and baseball games. 

Alexis Gutierrez - Traveling Musician, School Librarian

I began as a teacher at St. Mark's in 2023, and I am so glad to continue to contribute to this community! I've lived in New York, New Jersey, and most recently, the middle of Pennsylvania, before finally moving back to Indiana where I grew up. I have a Bachelor's in English from Indiana University and a Master's in Library and Information Science from Drexel University. I'm a former children's librarian and started working in preschools after my three children started school. I love working with preschoolers because their creativity, curiosity, and spirit of wonder is so inspiring! It's just magical the way children grow during our school year-- they come in so hesitant at the beginning of the year, and blossom in confidence as the year goes on, while learning how to participate in our little classroom community and care for each other. As an educator, I especially enjoy sharing books, seeing what we can create with play dough, doing music and movement activities... and basically, anything that gets everyone laughing! As a child, I loved playing games in the woods with my cousins, listening to the radio, playing with my cat, and hanging out in the backyard with books and snacks. Now, in my spare time, I enjoy reading, baking, spending time outside with family and friends, and anything involving music. I'm excited to be part of the team of caring educators at St. Mark's and look forward to working with your children!

Hillary Harpold - Traveling Musician

I joined the St. Mark’s community as a onesies teacher in 2018. Before teaching here I taught full-day preschool for several years. I was thrilled to find another play-based, child-centered program where I could teach part time while completing my master’s degree in early childhood special education. I love spending time observing children explore and being able to facilitate their interests and provide the materials they need as they do their important work, which is play!

My husband, Tyler, and I welcomed our daughter in 2020, and since then, I have been so grateful to have the opportunity to spend most of my days with her, while also spending time with children at St. Mark’s a couple days a week. Since 2022 I have been the traveling musician at St. Mark’s, bringing my guitar to share music in each of the classrooms every week. It has been such a joy to connect with so many children through music, watching as they dance, learn new words through song, and share their own ideas with me.

Music was a large part of my childhood here in Bloomington as well, as I played piano and violin, and made up many songs with my parents and younger sister, which we still love to do today. My sister and I also spent countless hours absorbed in pretend play with dolls and Legos. Outside of school I love spending time with my family, especially outdoors exploring a creek or lake. I love to hang out in our hammock, try new recipes, and learn new songs on the guitar.

Kevin MacDowell, Kid Kazooey - Traveling Musician

I began teaching at St. Mark’s in September of 2022, and now I never want to leave! The sense of community and commitment to excellence (via PLAY!) is so impressive!

Originally from Fort Wayne, I’ve made Bloomington my home for the last 30 years. My wife, Lara Weaver, and I have raised three sons that bring us so much joy (and opportunities for reflection and growth!). Our oldest, Jade Prieboy, and our daughter in law Allie, just had a baby 8 months ago, our dear granddaughter Blair! Miles Prieboy is getting ready to marry in October, giving us our SECOND DAUGHTER IN LAW NAMED ALLIE! Sylvan MacDowell is the one we’ve raised together from his birth, 19 years ago. He’s not following suit with “Allie’s,” but does keep the family tradition of music making with his expressive and creative flow as he freestyle raps!

Professionally, I’m a certified youth worker with over 30 years of experience, a bachelor’s degree in youth ministry, and a master’s in Library Sciences: youth services. As a musician, other than childhood piano lessons, I am self taught, and have been making music non-stop for over 50 years! My passion for music and working with youth first combined a little more than 25 years ago when I began writing, recording, performing, and teaching music to, for, and with young children as Kid Kazooey, the singing & swinging librarian. My wife started the preschool music curriculum I offer at St. Mark’s and other pre-schools about 30 years ago. She handed the baton to me to keep those classes rolling about 15-20 years ago (Magic Rocks was HER creation!). After all these years, I still love teaching music, and probably the number one reason why is because I always learn so much from the children I work with - I really believe they are smarter than most adults!

When I was four years old, barely tall enough to look over the top of the keys of the family piano, I picked out by ear a tune my Daddy used to play for us, King of the Road. That amazing feeling of discovery, searching for the right notes, has never left me - Thank you!!

When not in the classroom or teaching in my studio, I love composing, arranging, rehearsing, performing, and recording original music for the bands I’m in - most notably Kid Kazooey & the Ballroom Roustabouts, and the Bazargan Book Club. I also love kayaking and being outdoors with my family, reading, meditating, and cooking!