Hi I’m Mr. Schwalenberg.  This will be my fourth year here at Duker and my third year teaching 4th grade.  After graduating from Eastern Illinois University in 2013 with a degree in Elementary Education, I pursued a career in financial services.  After a few years, I realized my passion was in the education field and returned back to the classroom.  Currently I am finishing up my masters degree in Educational Leadership.  

I live in McHenry with my wife, two children ages 5 & 2, and our dog. Outside of the classroom I enjoy hiking with my family, playing golf, and being outside as much as possible.

Each year I hope to help my students build confidence in themselves, learn from each other, take challenges head on, and become a positive role model to those around them. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work with students who inspire me to grow and learn right along with them.

Hello!  My name is Katie Walter, and I am a 4th grade teacher here at Duker!  This marks my third year at Duker but 19th year of teaching overall!  I started my career teaching Deaf students through the Special Education District of Lake County and therefore know American Sign Language.    I have taught grades 4th through 12th, absolutely love 4th grade, and am proud to be a Duker Dragon!  

I grew up and continue to live in McHenry with my husband, two children, Frankie (7) and Molly (5), and our dog, Daisy.  Outside of the classroom, I love traveling, playing with my kids, hiking, reading, and being outside.

My hope for my students this year is that they gain confidence in their abilities, embrace and learn from each other’s differences, and know that our classroom is a safe place to practice using their voice!

Hi, I'm Lisa Nellessen.  I have been teaching at Duker for over 20 years.  I graduated from both Concordia University River Forest and Webster University and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Master's in Curriculum and Instruction.  I live in Wauconda with my son, husband, and 2 crazy dogs.  When I'm not at school, I love running, biking, hiking, and watching Hallmark Channel.  My favorite place away from home is the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.

I am in my 24th year and I enjoy working at Duker School.  Every day I come in with a smile and sense of humor!  In the words of Leo Buscaglia, "Too often we underestimate the power of a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around."

I have been teaching in the district for over 25 years, starting at Edgebrook as a Learning Center Director and then coming to Duker when it reopened as a 4/5 building.
I have taught both 4th and 5th grade and enjoy the students and all the subjects that I teach. I am now teaching 4th grade and enjoy teaching all the different topics each
year. During my free time, I like to spend time with family, friends, and my dogs named Dagger and Asher. I try to get outside as much as possible and read when I get the chance.

I have spent my whole career as a special education teacher at Duker. I love teaching 4th graders! My family and I live in McHenry.  I studied at Illinois State University for my undergrad and St. Xavier University for my Master's degree.

Bio coming soon!

I have been teaching for over 25 years. I enjoy teaching 4th grade this year.  Outside of work I enjoying spending time with my sons (normally that includes sports)  & tending to my flowers.  A perfect day is reading a book at the beach.