Paige Bower is a Success Case Manager at Hanawalt and Monroe Elementary. Success Case Managers focus on attendance—working with students and families to improve the issue of chronic absenteeism in the schools. We also assist families that are unhoused in finding stability in their housing and day-to-day needs. When not at work she loves to explore small towns around Iowa, go to movies and hang out with my friends and family.
Christal has been the Office Manager at Hanawalt since 2020. She enjoys working with the exceptional staff, students and families at Hanawalt! In her free time, she likes to travel with family and spend time with her two dogs.
My name is Amy Dace BSN, RN, CCM. I am fortunate to provide healthcare and education to Hanawalt’s students and families as the school nurse. I have a diverse background including mental health, pediatrics, internal medicine and care management. I worked for Unity Point for 23 years prior to coming to DMPS. My favorite things are to travel with my two daughters and spend time with my three French bulldogs.
Hello! My name is Jacob Heddinger and I am the school counselor at Hanawalt Elementary. This is my 3rd year in the district, and my 8th year overall as a counselor. I received my BA in Psychology from the University of Northern Iowa before receiving my MS in School Counseling from Drake University. I love being a school counselor! Outside of school I enjoy spending time with family, reading books and watching movies.
I am dedicated and enthusiastic about leading the after-school care program, as well as passionate about fostering a safe, supportive, and fun environment for the children. I believe in the importance of nurturing creativity, teamwork, and personal growth in young minds. I have 20 years of experience working with children of various ages and backgrounds, and I am committed to providing engaging activities that promote learning and social skills. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my daughters, family and friends. Music and art are my ultimate forms of passion and escape.
Fun fact about me-
I am an avid collector of rare house plants.
Lynda is a Special Education Consultant for the Des Moines Schools. She retired from the district several years ago and still finds it hard to say no when called. She spends most of her work life reviewing IEPs and participating in meetings. Outside of work she enjoys reading, sketching, dabbling in photography and spending time with friends and family.
Jim has been a School Social Worker for DMPS since 2009. He works at 3 elementary schools and is excited to call Hanawalt one of his home bases again. He last worked at Hanawalt during the 2017-2019 school years. He believes all kids should have the opportunity to excel and it takes strong efforts from parents collaborating with schools to make it happen. Get involved in your child’s education and they will flourish!
Saydie Peter is a School Psychologist with DMPS, serving several elementary and private/parochial buildings. With MAE and EdS degrees from the University of Northern Iowa, she specializes in data review and student educational success in collaboration with school staff and families. In her free time, Saydie enjoys traveling, photography, attending concerts/live theater performances, and spending time with her husband and two dogs (French bulldog, Roy, and labrador retriever, Betty).