Mr. Cloutier - 8th Grade US History

I was a chef for 15 years before becoming a teacher. I have taught for 11 years, with a Master's degree in Technology. I was born in Boston. I am a long die hard Red Sox fan. I speak French and Spanish. Favorite saying-Je ponse, donc je suis - I think there for I am. Last but not least, I have the best wife in the whole wide world!

http://www.mrcloutier.com/MrCloutier/Home.html

Mr. Koch-8th Grade Science

He is enjoying teaching 8th Grade Physical Science for his third year at James Workman. He has been teaching in the district for six years: most recently having taught Alternative Education. He completed his Single Subject Science Credential at CSU-SB. He has a Masters Degree in Science from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan and a BA from Albion College. He originally came from Detroit, Michigan in 2003. He worked as the Head Zoo Keeper and Zoologist at the Detroit Zoological Institute (Detroit Zoo, Belle Isle Zoo, Belle Isle Aquarium) for over eighteen years. You name it, he has either raised it or chased it (or it has chased him.) He has done extensive travel in Peru, Kenya, China, Europe, and the US. Iraq can be added to this list. He is an Army Medical Service Corps Major (Michigan National Guard) and was awarded a Bronze Star for duty in Iraq (2006-2007). He lives in Cathedral City with his family. He has a twenty-three year old daughter who graduated from UCR and a six-year old son who is in First Grade. His wife, Helene, is a civil attorney in Indian Wells.

Mr. Libutti-8th Grade Language Arts

I grew up in Corona, California and moved to the desert in 1990. I started my teaching career in 1994 and came to James Workman in 1998.  In my free time, I enjoy riding my Harley, listening to 80's rock music, and watching the Lakers.  My wife (who also enjoys the Harley but doesn't appreciate the NBA) and I have 4 children who are young adults and out of the house. 

http://www.mrlibutti.com

Ms. Ballard- 8th Grade Math/Algebra

This is my sixth year teaching and fifth at JWMS.  This year, I am teaching Math 7, Math 8, and Algebra! I attended the University of Idaho to earn a Bachelor's of Science in Mathematics & English Education. I think it is important to laugh and try new things. Loves: coffee, dessert, the beach, dancing, yoga. 

http://sites.google.com/site/ballardmath/home