I graduated from the University of Northern Iowa. I have my BA degree in elementary education with endorsements in language arts and special education. I have taught kindergarten, 7th grade science, k-12 special education and 2nd grade. I can remember always wanting to be a teacher.  I found myself trying to help others all the time.  I love seeing children’s smiling faces every day and seeing the growth that they make.  It is so much fun to see the moments when it just “clicks” in their heads.  I can’t imagine a better job.

Hi, my name is Cari O’Connell and I teach 1st grade.  I have been teaching in Des Moines Public Schools since 2001.  I currently live in West Des Moines with my husband Paul and our 2 children Ethan and Morgan.   I am very excited for this school year, I love coming to school every day and seeing the smiles on the students faces.  My favorite part of teaching is seeing the growth that each student makes every year.