Staff Directory
List of Staff Directory
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Principal
lmbackstrom@seattleschools.orgI have been a Coe Cougar since 2013. Throughout my time at Coe, I have been a primary grades teacher, assistant principal, and now principal. I began my own childhood educational journey attending schools both domestically and abroad as a part of a military family. I received my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and English as a Second Language and masters degree in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from the Florida State University. During my career, I have been an ELL teacher, classroom teacher, administrator, and university program director. It is my hope that Coe students, staff, and parents feel welcome at school, connected to learning, and to one another. It is my privilege to serve as your proud principal!
2nd Grade Teacher
cmbeard1@seattleschools.orgMy name is Mackenzie Beard and I am so excited to be the newest addition to the 2nd Grade Team at Coe Elementary. I’ve just finished my master's in teaching at the University of Washington and residency year as part of the Seattle Teacher Residency. My background is in the nonprofit world. Before coming to teaching, I worked across nonprofits, primarily in youth and housing programs. I most recently worked in family support for Ronald McDonald House Charities of Washington and Alaska for the past six years. I am passionate about family connection and creating community for all students in my classroom. In my free time I love to spend time in beautiful Northwest outdoors and make art inspired by life and nature. Creativity is something I’m passionate about, and I love to bring into the classroom to spark joy and expression with children. I’m so happy to be joining the Coe team this year.
5th Grade Teacher
jdbrannan@seattleschools.orgI have been teaching at Coe Elementary School since 2001. Although I currently teach 5th grade, I have also taught 3rd and 4th grade here at Coe. Prior to teaching, I worked in the technology industry and taught English in Hokkaido, Japan. In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, skiing, and cooking.
Performing Arts Teacher
klcarreiro@seattleschools.orgAs Coe's Performing Arts specialist, I teach music, dance, and drama. It has been my pleasure to work in this capacity since 2008. I enjoy working with all Coe Cougars and watching them grow from wide-eyed kindergartners into hard-working, talented students. In my spare time I enjoy reading, traveling, gardening, and spending time with my family.
Speech Language Pathologist (SLP)
mncharbonnea@seattleschools.orgI am a native Washingtonian, growing up in the Spokane area before settling in Seattle as an adult. I studied Communication Sciences and Disorders for both undergraduate and graduate school, earning my BA from Western Washington University and MS from Eastern Washington University. I have been a school-based SLP since 2012, where I’ve supported students ages 3-21 at a variety of schools and special education programs. When I’m not at school, I enjoy spending time outdoors, live music, gardening, and relaxing with a good book.
Visual Arts Teacher
jgchavez@seattleschools.orgI am truly excited to start another year working with the amazing students, staff, and families here at Coe. I have been teaching visual arts at Coe since the 2018 school year. I have a BFA in Art Education and Painting from Colorado State University as well as a Masters of Education in Educational Leadership from Concordia University. I am originally from Fort Collins, Colorado but I have taught in many places. Since I moved to the Seattle area I have really enjoyed exploring all the fun stuff and amazing food that this city has to offer! In my downtime I also enjoy traveling, hiking, and playing with my dog, Paisley.
Instrumental Music Teacher
jechi@seattleschools.orgMonday
Tuesday
Wednesday:
Thursday:
Friday
I'm delighted to go on this
Journey of learning with
Everyone who comes to my classroom. We will
Overcome challenges and
Never give up until this world
Gets better because of you and me!
Education: MEd San Jose State University / BA Hankuk University of Foreign Studies
1st Grade Teacher
kediefendorf@seattleschools.orgI am proud to be a first grade teacher at Coe Elementary! My goal is to create a classroom community where children feel respected, valued and challenged to do their best. I promote a safe and loving classroom environment where each child will learn and grow academically, emotionally and socially. As a teacher it is my responsibility to meet the needs of my students and facilitate meaningful learning opportunities that are individualized for each learner.
There are very few jobs where one can experience openness, curiosity and joy on a daily basis. I feel so lucky to share in my students’ enthusiasm and passion for learning. My greatest hope is that their early learning experiences are positive and empowering. I am looking forward to a fantastic year!
