Meet our team
Teachers
We're Passionate About Your Learning
Kansas Virtual Academy's (KSVA's) teachers are dedicated to providing personalized learning experiences for all students to succeed.
James Bachert, Social Studies Teacher
James has taught many social studies courses for Insight School of Kansas (ISKS) and KSVA, going back to the startup of ISKS in 2008. In addition to his formal teaching education and training, he has enjoyed a diverse background including active military service, volunteer service on local community boards, coaching, and supporting many youth sports, music, and club activities as a parent. He holds a BS in management/accounting from Park College, Parkville, Missouri, and a BA in history from Washburn University, Topeka, Kansas, and possesses a professional "highly qualified" secondary comprehensive social studies license.
Courtney Burdick, Kindergarten and 1st Grade Teacher
Courtney is in her first year on the KSVA team! She has five years of experience, including three years in kindergarten, one year in first grade, and one year in fourth grade. Courtney received a BA in elementary education and an MA in ESOL from the University of Kansas.
Tynan Dowell, 6th–8th Grade Science Teacher
Tynan teaches middle school science at ISKS and KSVA. She joined the team in 2018. Prior to working here, she taught and coached at a public school for five years. Tynan earned a double major in secondary education and biology from Tabor College, Kansas, and her master’s degree in educational administration from Emporia State University, Kansas.
Elizabeth Geiger, 5th Grade Lead Teacher
Elizabeth joined the team in 2016. She brings more than 10 years' experience in education, community service, and leadership. Elizabeth earned two BAs in education from the University of Nebraska, and two MAs in elementary education from Concordia University. She holds certificates in elementary education K–6, special education K–6, reading specialty K–12, and academic administration K–12. Elizabeth also spent seven years serving in the Nebraska Army National Guard, is active in her community, and is the mother of two boys.
Heather Grimes, Kindergarten and 1st Grade Teacher
This is Heather's 10th year in education and sixth year teaching virtually. She earned her BA in elementary education from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and is currently working toward her MA in educational technology.
Amy Hanna, 6th–12th Grade and Adult Health Teacher
Amy joined the team in 2017. She teaches health on three different levels: middle school, high school, and adults. She has been teaching for 12 years and graduated from the University of Kansas with a master's degree in curriculum and instruction. She holds certificates in elementary and middle school education and has endorsements in science, physical education, and social studies.
Cory Kramer, 6th–8th Grade Math Teacher
Cory joined the team in 2018. He has been a teacher for over 11 years. He earned his BS in education from the University of Kansas and holds a Kansas teaching license for grades 6–12.
Ashley Lairmore, K–8th Grade General Music and 9th–12th Grade Music Appreciation Teacher
Ashley recently started her fourth year with KSVA. She teaches General Music for grades K–8 and Music Appreciation for high school and our adult high school. She has long been passionate about music and started performing at age four, singing and playing the violin. Ashley holds a BMEd from MidAmerica Nazarene University and is excited to start working on her master’s degree next year.
Allyn Ochsner, 2nd Grade Teacher
Allyn joined the team in 2015. She brings seven years' experience in education with preschool students all the way to third grade. Allyn earned her BA in education from the University of Nebraska at Kearney in Nebraska. She holds certificates in early childhood education and ESL.
Kristopher Swearingen, 6th–8th Grade English Teacher
Kristopher began his tenure with the team in 2016. He graduated from Emporia State University in 2010 with a BSE in secondary education with an emphasis in language arts. After graduation, Kristopher worked as a substitute teacher for the Shawnee Mission School District before taking a job as a para at De Soto High School for four years, during which time he also served as a long-term substitute and acting special education teacher. Since being with KSVA, he has taught 6th–8th grade ELA, Grammar and Composition, and Gothic Literature with the passion and creativity of Michelle Pfeiffer in "Dangerous Minds."
