Rebecca Block
Joined: 2007 College Info: Oklahoma City University, Bachelor of Science in Biology and Secondary Education Why did you choose TSAS? The opportunity to teach here presented itself at the perfect time, and I have enjoyed working here ever since!
Joined: 2007 College Info: Oklahoma City University, Bachelor of Science in Biology and Secondary Education Why did you choose TSAS? The opportunity to teach here presented itself at the perfect time, and I have enjoyed working here ever since!
Todd Brumfield
Computers
Joined: 2007 College Info: Northeastern State University
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Graduated Cum Laude
Why did you choose TSAS? Finished a one year contract working for IBM at Williams Company. A friend of mine knew Eric Doss and informed me that TSAS was looking for a computer teacher.
Eric Doss
Director
Joined: 2002
College Info: Bachelor of Music Education; Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Masters of Education in Educational Administration, Curriculum, and Supervision; the University of Oklahoma
Why did you choose TSAS? TSAS was unlike any school I had ever seen; I wanted to be a part of the environment and talked Dr. Lee into hiring me.
Other: I am married to Rachel and have two lovely daughters.
Rachel Doss
Joined: 2001 College Info: BS in Foreign Language Education (French) Oklahoma State University Why did you choose TSAS? I really liked the idea of a smaller school formed entirely by teachers. Other: I love TSAS!
Joined: 2001 College Info: BS in Foreign Language Education (French) Oklahoma State University Why did you choose TSAS? I really liked the idea of a smaller school formed entirely by teachers. Other: I love TSAS!
Jenny Dungan
Health and Wellness
This is Jenny’s fifth year to teach Health and Wellness at TSAS. She has been in the fitness industry for over 10 years. She is certified in personal training, indoor cycling “spinning”, yoga, pilates and basic group exercise. She accepts everyone in her “non-traditional” P.E. class regardless of their fitness level and encourages them to be the best they can be. Jenny’s hobbies include hanging out with her two daughters and husband of 20 years. She has participated in many races including a marathon, half marathons and triathlons. Her favorite quote is form John F. Kennedy, “Physical fitness is not only one of the most dynamic keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity,”
Jennifer Fields
Joined: 2009
College Info: University of Oklahoma-History and Communications
State University of New York School of Law- Juris Doctorate and LLM
State University of New York- PhD pending in Sociology with a criminology emphasis
Why did you choose TSAS? I truly believed when I came on staff and I still do today that TSAS treats students' as individuals with unique needs. From day one the students see themselves as important and part of the TSAS family and they pay that forward by respecting one another in a way rarely seen at the High School level. The school does not take a one size fits all approach and the faculty, Board of Directors and parents go above and beyond to ensure that every student has the opportunity to be successful during their high school career and with their post graduate plans.
Other: A little about me..... I have five beautiful children, Kaitlyn (19), Kyle (16), Kevin (14), Jacob (11) and Baileigh (1), a dog named Emmet and I enjoy reading, cooking, dancing and traveling.
History
Kelly Foshee
Joined: 2006 College Info: University of Tulsa-- Bachelor of Fine Arts, 1998 University of Tulsa-- Certificate in Museum Studies, 2000 University of Tulsa-- Master of Fine Arts, 2002 Tulsa Community College-- Certificate in Italian Language Studies, 2002 Why did you choose TSAS? Because I wanted a school where I was free to develop my own curriculum that was free from the constraints of traditional schools, and focused on encouraging the growth of students in their creative life. This school values the benefits of an all-around education in which art is seen as an essential tool for the development of both the student's critical thinking and creative problem solving skills. Other: In his 87th year, Michelangelo inscribed on a sketch the words 'Ancora Imparo'-- Italian for 'I am still learning'. It's a reminder that learning is a life-long pursuit, and we're never truly finished. I have also taught at the Philbrook Museum of Art for the last 10 years, and live with two dogs, a cat who thinks he's a dog, and my husband, Aaron.
Joined: 2006 College Info: University of Tulsa-- Bachelor of Fine Arts, 1998 University of Tulsa-- Certificate in Museum Studies, 2000 University of Tulsa-- Master of Fine Arts, 2002 Tulsa Community College-- Certificate in Italian Language Studies, 2002 Why did you choose TSAS? Because I wanted a school where I was free to develop my own curriculum that was free from the constraints of traditional schools, and focused on encouraging the growth of students in their creative life. This school values the benefits of an all-around education in which art is seen as an essential tool for the development of both the student's critical thinking and creative problem solving skills. Other: In his 87th year, Michelangelo inscribed on a sketch the words 'Ancora Imparo'-- Italian for 'I am still learning'. It's a reminder that learning is a life-long pursuit, and we're never truly finished. I have also taught at the Philbrook Museum of Art for the last 10 years, and live with two dogs, a cat who thinks he's a dog, and my husband, Aaron.
Marilyn Gates
Joined: 2009 College Info: American Conservatory Theatre Bachelor of Arts (not from ACT) Why did you choose TSAS? Thoroughly impressed with TSAS's culture, mission and values and the opportunity to enjoy educating students while creating an environment in which they want to learn. Other: Eternally married to Roy, with whom I went to high school but the school was so big, I never met him there!
Joined: 2009 College Info: American Conservatory Theatre Bachelor of Arts (not from ACT) Why did you choose TSAS? Thoroughly impressed with TSAS's culture, mission and values and the opportunity to enjoy educating students while creating an environment in which they want to learn. Other: Eternally married to Roy, with whom I went to high school but the school was so big, I never met him there!
Asher Gelzer-Govatos
Joined: 2009 College Info: University of Tulsa, B.A. Philosophy.
Why did you choose TSAS? TSAS struck me as an odd little school with many cool things happening. I liked everyone I met during the hiring process, and my philosophy of education seemed to line up pretty well with the school's. Also, they hired me. That seemed like a pretty good sign that I should work here. Other: Husband to Leslie, father to Owen. I play cello in the Signature Symphony. I enjoy puns.
History
Dan Hahn
Joined: 2011 College Info: Bachelor of Arts in English Education from Northeastern State University Why did you choose TSAS? To work in an environment where importance is placed on the individual. I believe that whether it is the individual teacher or student, a person's strengths, weaknesses, and idiosyncrasies must be considered to ensure success for that person. I believe that TSAS is a place where that philosophy is put into practice to help students and teachers work together for success as individuals and within the TSAS community. Other: My passions are music, family, and laundry.
Joined: 2011 College Info: Bachelor of Arts in English Education from Northeastern State University Why did you choose TSAS? To work in an environment where importance is placed on the individual. I believe that whether it is the individual teacher or student, a person's strengths, weaknesses, and idiosyncrasies must be considered to ensure success for that person. I believe that TSAS is a place where that philosophy is put into practice to help students and teachers work together for success as individuals and within the TSAS community. Other: My passions are music, family, and laundry.
Amber Ingram
Joined: 2007 College Info: Tarkio College, Tarkio, MO: B.S. in mathematics, Summa Cum Laude Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA: graduate work in math education/teaching fellow Why did you choose TSAS? At the time, TSAS needed an adjunct math teacher. I was only wanting to teach part time as I had young children at home. Other: Married and mother to three boys; loves teaching at TSAS; loves puns and never shies away from using them in the classroom; thinks life is what you make of it.
Joined: 2007 College Info: Tarkio College, Tarkio, MO: B.S. in mathematics, Summa Cum Laude Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA: graduate work in math education/teaching fellow Why did you choose TSAS? At the time, TSAS needed an adjunct math teacher. I was only wanting to teach part time as I had young children at home. Other: Married and mother to three boys; loves teaching at TSAS; loves puns and never shies away from using them in the classroom; thinks life is what you make of it.
Suzanne Johnson
Receptionist
Joined: 2010 College Info: After graduating from the University of Tulsa with a BS in Health Sciences, I received my certification in medical technology with an emphasis in microbiology. Why did you choose TSAS? I love every element of this great school: the faculty and staff, the students, and most importantly the mission and vision of TSAS. Other: When not at home with my husband Bruce, kids Katie (TSAS class of 2007) and Ian (TSAS class of 2011), and dogs, I live for exploring God's country by Jeep, especially the San Juan Mountains of Colorado. 
Ernest Jones
Joined: 2010 College Info: AA in computer programming, TJC BS in Zoology, OU Why did you choose TSAS? I am happy to say that TSAS choose me, and I strive every day to be worthy of the honor.
Joined: 2010 College Info: AA in computer programming, TJC BS in Zoology, OU Why did you choose TSAS? I am happy to say that TSAS choose me, and I strive every day to be worthy of the honor.
Suzanne Lee
American Studies, AP US History, Ancient and Medieval History, and Psychology
Joined: I helped write the charter in 2000 College Info: AB from Washington University in St. Louis
masters in education ( with an emphasis on gifted ed) from the University of Tulsa
masters in history from the University of Tulsa
Ed.D. from Oklahoma State Why did you choose TSAS? Proud that TSAS chose me. Other: Three kids: one is an electrical engineer, one a CPA, and one an M.D. Five grandchildren. Married 43 years..........
History
Amanda Lewis
Joined: 2008 College Info: Bachelor of Arts in English and Spanish from The University of Tulsa Why did you choose TSAS? I love teaching at TSAS because the environment is personal, friendly, and open, and the teachers and students have good rapport with one another, which I believe is a much-needed foundation to support genuine learning. Other: I studied abroad in Seville, Spain, and taught English as a Foreign Language in Trujillo, Peru. I recently came across a great motto by Dorothy Sayers that says, "The sole true end of education is simply this: to teach men how to learn for themselves." I agree!
Joined: 2008 College Info: Bachelor of Arts in English and Spanish from The University of Tulsa Why did you choose TSAS? I love teaching at TSAS because the environment is personal, friendly, and open, and the teachers and students have good rapport with one another, which I believe is a much-needed foundation to support genuine learning. Other: I studied abroad in Seville, Spain, and taught English as a Foreign Language in Trujillo, Peru. I recently came across a great motto by Dorothy Sayers that says, "The sole true end of education is simply this: to teach men how to learn for themselves." I agree!
Adriana Lopez
Registrar
Joined: 2011 College Info: Tulsa Community College-Associates in Liberal Arts Why did you choose TSAS? Inspiring teachers and wonderful staff. Other: "If I am not for myself, who will be for me? If I am not for others, what am I? And if not now, when?" ~ Rabbi Hillel 
Steven Okapal
Joined: 2007 College Info: The Ohio State University B.A. in Philosophy B.S. in Physics Why did you choose TSAS? The ability to teach Physics to everyone without the "Math Shield". Also the lure of teaching a Philosophy class to high school students. Other: The secret to happiness: Learn to love and enjoy making the world a better place.
Joined: 2007 College Info: The Ohio State University B.A. in Philosophy B.S. in Physics Why did you choose TSAS? The ability to teach Physics to everyone without the "Math Shield". Also the lure of teaching a Philosophy class to high school students. Other: The secret to happiness: Learn to love and enjoy making the world a better place.
Zach Roddy
Joined: 2010 College Info: I attended Oklahoma State University. I graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and a Minor in Philosophy. Why did you choose TSAS? I genuinely believe that the arts are an essential part to a complete education. The emphasis of the arts and the open-minded attitudes which pervade the TSAS culture create a learning environment that allows for a more complete education. I chose TSAS because I believe in that culture and wanted to learn from it and to become a part it. Other: I am first and foremost a trumpet player but dabble on just about every other instrument. I also write and arrange music.My favorite band is The Beatles. My favorite composer is Gustav Mahler. My favorite book is The Perks of Being a Wallflower.
Joined: 2010 College Info: I attended Oklahoma State University. I graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education and a Minor in Philosophy. Why did you choose TSAS? I genuinely believe that the arts are an essential part to a complete education. The emphasis of the arts and the open-minded attitudes which pervade the TSAS culture create a learning environment that allows for a more complete education. I chose TSAS because I believe in that culture and wanted to learn from it and to become a part it. Other: I am first and foremost a trumpet player but dabble on just about every other instrument. I also write and arrange music.My favorite band is The Beatles. My favorite composer is Gustav Mahler. My favorite book is The Perks of Being a Wallflower.
Suzanne Sandoval
Joined: 2003 College Info: BS in Mathematics from the University of Texas MS in teaching college mathematics from the Northeastern University Why did you choose TSAS? Well to be honest,when I was offered the job, I chose it over another offer because it was closest to my home. The real question is, "Why have I stayed?" for 7 1/2 years. I think TSAS is a great school and is getting better with each passing year. The teachers and administrators have a great working relationship. Teachers are free to suggest new ideas for the school and try new techniques in their classrooms so the education is always improving. Other: I am married and have 3 grown children. My hobbies are knitting and gardening.
Joined: 2003 College Info: BS in Mathematics from the University of Texas MS in teaching college mathematics from the Northeastern University Why did you choose TSAS? Well to be honest,when I was offered the job, I chose it over another offer because it was closest to my home. The real question is, "Why have I stayed?" for 7 1/2 years. I think TSAS is a great school and is getting better with each passing year. The teachers and administrators have a great working relationship. Teachers are free to suggest new ideas for the school and try new techniques in their classrooms so the education is always improving. Other: I am married and have 3 grown children. My hobbies are knitting and gardening.
Liesa Smith
Principal
Joined: 2002 & 2009
College Info: TCC - Associates Degree : Fine Art
TU - Bachelors Degree : English, Education and Fine Art
NSU - Masters Degree : School Administration
OSU - Doctorate in progress : Curriculum Studies
Why did you choose TSAS? I choose to work at TSAS because it is a learning community focused on the potential and achievement of each individual student. The teachers at TSAS care about each student's academic growth as well as their human journey. On an almost daily basis I am amazed at how our relational environment is supportive and encouraging to both the students and the faculty. Our school community is made up of people at every level of involvement that care deeply about intellectual pursuits, creativity, innovation and humanity.There's no place like TSAS and I am honored to work here.
Other: I have 4 kids. The oldest three attend TSAS. I love to cook and read, and really wish I had more time to garden and explore all kinds of artistic pursuits. I enjoy good conversation, coffee, dogs, fishing and the great outdoors. 
Ellen Stackable
Joined: 2001 College Info: B.S.E. from the University of Nebraska in English and German Graduate work at the University of Oklahoma American Conservatory Theatre Bachelor of Arts (not from ACT) Why did you choose TSAS? In the summer of 2001, I came to an informational meeting before the school ever began. I had a son who was going into ninth grade and I was interested in TSAS. After hearing about the school, I was convinced that my son should go there and I wanted to teach there as well. All three of my children ended up going to TSAS and graduating, and I have had the privilege of teaching here since it began. I can't think of anywhere I would rather be. Other: I love baking bread, doing crosswords, hiking, biking, and rock climbing. My favorite place to grade papers is at Doubleshot Coffee, sitting at a big table with my colleagues from TSAS. I have been married 28 years and have three wonderful children and one lovely daughter-in-law. A few of my favorite authors: John Donne, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Elizabeth Goudge.
Joined: 2001 College Info: B.S.E. from the University of Nebraska in English and German Graduate work at the University of Oklahoma American Conservatory Theatre Bachelor of Arts (not from ACT) Why did you choose TSAS? In the summer of 2001, I came to an informational meeting before the school ever began. I had a son who was going into ninth grade and I was interested in TSAS. After hearing about the school, I was convinced that my son should go there and I wanted to teach there as well. All three of my children ended up going to TSAS and graduating, and I have had the privilege of teaching here since it began. I can't think of anywhere I would rather be. Other: I love baking bread, doing crosswords, hiking, biking, and rock climbing. My favorite place to grade papers is at Doubleshot Coffee, sitting at a big table with my colleagues from TSAS. I have been married 28 years and have three wonderful children and one lovely daughter-in-law. A few of my favorite authors: John Donne, C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Elizabeth Goudge.
Jesse Stallings
Joined: 2007
College Info: B.A. Liberal Arts, Rogers State University
Why did you choose TSAS? Choice. Not only do our students choose to attend TSAS, but teachers are afforded the opportunity to make the best decisions for their education. This coupled with an insightful and supportive group of colleagues who are dedicated to developing themselves and their peers, makes for a community enriching like no other.
English
Michiele Vargas
Joined: 2009
College Info: University of Oklahoma, Bachelors of Arts in Mathematics, Statistics Option, Magna Cum Laude
Why did you choose TSAS? TSAS is a great school that strives to provide a great education to all students. The small class sizes allow me, as a teacher, to give the students the attention they need to succeed. All of these things attracted me to TSAS.
Other: I have been married to my high school sweetheart for 22 years. We have 3 children that keep us busy ALL the time.
Math
Mark Wittig
Joined: 2002 College Info: I have a Bachelor of Architecture with a Minor in Painting from the University of Arkansas, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drawing & Photography with a Minor in Art History from The University of Tulsa and a Master of Fine Arts in Open Media & Photography from The University of Tulsa. Why did you choose TSAS? I work at TSAS because I can ask the students to open themselves up and create art that is personal and about something bigger themselves. In the conclusion of Michel Foucault’s book, Madness and Civilization, he writes, “a work of art opens a void, a moment of silence, a question without answers, provokes a breach without reconciliation where the world is forced to question itself.” TSAS is a place where these words live true every day. Other: In 2010 my multi discipline art work The Morning Paper was part of Revealing Culture, an international juried exhibition by artists with disabilities. The exhibition was organized by VSA Arts and was at the Smithsonian Institute’s International Gallery in Washington, DC. VSA Arts (formerly known as Very Special Artist) integrates artists with disabilities into a wider cultural community and seeks to create greater dialogue and promotes full and equal access for a community that is not disabled but a deviation from the norm.
Joined: 2002 College Info: I have a Bachelor of Architecture with a Minor in Painting from the University of Arkansas, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Drawing & Photography with a Minor in Art History from The University of Tulsa and a Master of Fine Arts in Open Media & Photography from The University of Tulsa. Why did you choose TSAS? I work at TSAS because I can ask the students to open themselves up and create art that is personal and about something bigger themselves. In the conclusion of Michel Foucault’s book, Madness and Civilization, he writes, “a work of art opens a void, a moment of silence, a question without answers, provokes a breach without reconciliation where the world is forced to question itself.” TSAS is a place where these words live true every day. Other: In 2010 my multi discipline art work The Morning Paper was part of Revealing Culture, an international juried exhibition by artists with disabilities. The exhibition was organized by VSA Arts and was at the Smithsonian Institute’s International Gallery in Washington, DC. VSA Arts (formerly known as Very Special Artist) integrates artists with disabilities into a wider cultural community and seeks to create greater dialogue and promotes full and equal access for a community that is not disabled but a deviation from the norm.
