Hello! My name is Linda Ehrhardt! I currently teach first grade at Lovejoy Elementary. I have been teaching within the Des Moines district since 2006. I earned my degree in Elementary Education from the University of Northern Iowa. I also have a K-8 Reading Endorsement from Upper Iowa University. I have two adult children named Jess and Josh. In my free time I like doing any kind of outdoor activities and reading books.

Hello!  My name is Karen Knust.  I teach first grade at Lovejoy Elementary.   I received my degree at Iowa State University.  I went back to school at Upper Iowa University in 2007 to be certified in K-8 reading and as a K-8 instructional strategist I.   I have also taught fourth grade, second grade and was a part -time instructional strategist with fifth graders.  I have been at Lovejoy since 2007.

I knew I wanted to become a teacher at a very early age.  I have always enjoyed working and helping children.  The best part is seeing the “light bulb go on” when they get it.  I never get tired of that!  It’s also rewarding to see your first grade students grow through their elementary years!

Hello! My name is Kristin Miller. I have been teaching in Des Moines since 2010. I am originally from South Dakota and earned my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Black Hills State University in 2003. I taught first grade in South Dakota for 6 years before moving to Des Moines. In 2010, I earned my master’s degree as a Reading Specialist from the University of Sioux Falls. My first two years in Des Moines I taught kindergarten, but since that time I have been teaching first grade. When I am not at Lovejoy I enjoy decorating cakes, reading, shopping, watching movies, being with friends, and spending time with my husband and little boy. I love teaching because of the huge growth that the students make in first grade. Many first graders begin the year struggling with reading but leave reading any book they can get their hands on. Also, I enjoy watching former students advance through the grades and becoming enthusiastic learners and great citizens.