Information & Resources

What I Teach:

• 7-12 Science

Why I Teach Online:

I love to work with students that are self-driven and active learners, that’s why I was drawn to online learning. Teaching science topics has always been a great joy in my life. More importantly, I love to make personal connections with students and support them as they navigate their education. Students in FOA science classes work independently on their online lessons on their own schedule, but they are never more than a quick message away from me for assistance in their school work. With Falcons Online Academy, any student in grades 7-12 in Minnesota can apply. The best part about FOA is you can choose one class, a few classes, or go completely online. Why not give it a try today!

I have been a science teacher for over 25 years. I was born in Huntington Beach, California, but have spent the vast majority of my life in Southern Minnesota. I am a lifelong learner, and am proud that all my children have gone through Faribault Public Schools.

Chris Johnsrud
Falcons Online Science Teacher

Contact Me:
Email
507-333-6250

What I Teach:

• 7-12 Business/Elective Classes

Why I Teach Online:

My passion is teaching and I am excited to get to know each of my FOA students and families! I am looking forward to exploring all the options of elective class choices with my students and allowing them the opportunity to experience different course content. Teaching and learning online offers many opportunities for flexibility, exploration, and creativity.

I am excited to help students build skills in time management, organization, communication and self-confidence. I look forward to connecting with each one of my students to help support them through their educational journey and make sure they are prepared for their future! Many of the elective classes will provide students with skills and knowledge which will be used in their own personal lives. I have been teaching elective classes for over 30 years and value the lifelong learning options gained through these elective classes.

Lu Ann Giles
Falcons Online Business/Electives Teacher

Contact Me:
Email
507-333-6367

What I Teach:

7-12 English Language Arts

Why I Teach Online:

Hi! My name is Monica Chavis, and I’ve been a teacher for twenty-one years. In my career I’ve enjoyed working with a variety of students. I am dyslexic, so I especially relate to students who struggle. My own struggles with reading and learning inspired me to pursue a reading degree, so I can better help students with their reading skills.  I look forward to helping all students in FOA to develop their English goals.

Flexibility is one of the most important strengths in taking classes with FOA. Our program is staffed with teachers like myself from District 656 (but any student in MN can join us) who are experienced and able to adapt assignments for students’ needs. We offer credits for students who are behind in their graduation goals, who want to get ahead, and who are looking for a challenge.

Monica Chavis
Falcons Online English Language Arts Teacher

Contact Me:
Email
507-333-6318
 

What I Teach:

• 7-12 Social Studies

Why I Teach Online:

Greetings! My name is Brian Meier and I will be your social studies teacher. I am in my 21st year teaching in Faribault Public Schools. My first 5 years were at the middle school level and the rest at the high school. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education from St. Cloud State University and a Master’s Degree from Walden University. In addition to teaching at Faribault Public Schools, I also have been involved in the soccer and volleyball programs.

I live in Elko New Market with my wife, son, and daughter. As much as we can, we like to get out and do as much as possible outdoors. My kids are young so life is pretty hectic, but we are getting to try a lot of new things!

I am excited to offer students an opportunity to learn in a way that is conducive for their needs. Online learning offers many avenues for students to be successful in their coursework. I also appreciate the connections that I get to make with the students and to be able to assist them in whatever way possible as they navigate through their courses. 

Brian Meier
Falcons Online Social Studies Teacher

Contact Me:
Email
507-333-6364

What I Teach:

• 7-12 Math

Why I Teach Online:

Welcome to Falcons Online Academy! FOA is a great program that allows students to learn at their own pace. Students in our program can create their own personalized daily schedule. We accept both part-time and full-time students to meet the needs of our students. With a flexible schedule students learn how to prioritize their daily activities. I have taught math for 16 years, and I believe that Falcons Online Academy provides an opportunity for all students to be successful.  

Nick Tackmann
Falcons Online Math Teacher

Contact me:
Email
507-333-6410

What I Teach:

• 7-12 Physical Education/Health

Why I Teach Online:

I am excited to be your online physical education/health teacher! The first question I often get from students and families when they are considering taking online classes is, “How do you do online PE/health?"  While our online classes will certainly look and feel totally different than a traditional PE/health class, I believe you are going to learn so much more! We often associate in-person PE/health with moving and being physically active. You change your clothes and you go to the gym to participate in some sort of physical activity. Online PE/health is a completely different learning experience!  In online PE/health, you will focus more of your time and energy on why you need to stay active, how to be active, how to build an exercise program based on your goals, how to improve your mental health and the role that nutrition plays in your overall physical health. While you will still need to be active, you get to choose what you want to do based on your interests instead of the teacher telling you what you need to do for the day.  It’s my belief that this sets you up to have greater success when you become a young adult and need to be healthy and active on your own.  Now you will actually know how to be healthy! I have been teaching PE for over 20 years; I absolutely love this format and I believe you will too!

Ryan Lueken
Falcons Online Physical Education/Health Teacher

Contact Me:
Email
507-333-6407

Valerie Kluzak

Falcons Online Academy Coordinator

Contact Me:
Email
507-333-6190

Kris Brazil 

Administrative Assistant

Contact Me:
Email
507-333-6190

What I Teach:
7-12 Art

Why I Teach:
I have been an art teacher for 28 years, with the last 10 in Faribault, teaching students from preschool through adulthood. I became an art teacher to help students understand that art is all around us—from the clothes we wear, to the cars we drive, to the online content we consume. Art touches every part of our lives.

In recent years, I have transitioned into the role of Community School Coordinator. I now serve full-time as the Community School Coordinator at Lincoln Elementary while also teaching FOA Art courses. This dual role allows me to continue sharing my love of art in new and unique ways. I look forward to connecting with you and helping you discover how art is woven into your everyday life.

Contact Me:
Email
507-333-6680