Faculty & Staff
Admin Staff
Father Tim Mockaitis, Pastor
Fr. Tim Mockaitis was born and raised in Chicago, IL and has dedicated 47 years to the priesthood. While discerning his religious vocation he joined the Vincentians, a religious Order founded by St. Vincent de Paul. He then decided to become a Diocesan priest and eventually was called to the Archdiocese of Portland. Fr. Tim has been our Pastor at Queen of Peace since 2006. His favorite saints are St. Vincent de Paul and St. John Vianney, patron of parish priests.
What do you love most about Queen of Peace School? Definitely all the children
Kelly Rasmussen, Business Manager
Born and raised in Salem, OR, Kelly has worked for the school for almost three years but she has been part of the QP community as a parent for longer than that!
Kelly attended the University of Notre Dame in Indiana where she studied accounting. With a strong background in finance she has helped streamline our business office this year in her new position.
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
I love working at QP because it feels like being part of a family. I get to support staff, parents, and students, fostering a strong sense of community and collaboration that makes every day fulfilling. Plus I get to see my daughter every day!
Debbie Davis, Administrative Assistant
Born and raised in Salem, OR, Debbie’s journey with Queen of Peace began in 1964 when she started at QP as a 1st grader. Now, she continues to be a beloved part of the community, serving as the Administrative Assistant for the past four years.
Debbie attended Oregon State University and brings a deep love for the QP community to her role at our school.
Her favorite saint is: St Veronica
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
It's home.
Carl Mucken, Principal
Born and raised in Salem, OR, Carl began his journey here at QP as a second-grade teacher from 2011 to 2016 before stepping into the role of principal in 2016. Prior to joining QP, he taught in the Salem-Keizer School District for six years.
He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Linfield University, followed by a Master’s in Teaching from Western Oregon University, and an administrative license from Portland State University.
His favorite saint is: “St. Francis because I imagine he loved to be outside as much as I do”.
What do you love most about Queen of Peace?
I love that Queen of Peace is a place where everyone wants to do the best for kids and the system gives us the freedom to make that happen.
Faculty
Bethany Ayres, Kindergarten Teacher
Bethany is from Madras, OR, and brings over 25 years of teaching experience to QP, with 13 of those years have been spent here in our Kindergarten! She earned her teaching degree from Western Oregon University and loves early childhood education.
She helps some of our youngest students develop their foundational skills and creativity, while developing a love of learning in every student she teaches. For the 2025-2026 school year, Bethany will take on the new role as Preschool Director in addition to her teaching position.
Her favorite saints are: Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Joan of Arc
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
The sense of family, tradition, the people I work with, and being able to teach about God's love for us and all people.
Megan Marchesi, Kindergarten Teacher
Megan is from Salem, OR. Although she has been in education for seven years, QP only just became her new home in the fall of 2024.
As a kindergarten teacher, Megan enjoys building a strong foundation for her students, developing a love for learning, and creating a nurturing classroom where young minds can grow academically, socially, and spiritually. She earned her degree from Western Oregon University.
Her favorite saint is: St Joan of Arc.
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
I am truly grateful to be part of the Queen of Peace family. From day one, I felt welcomed and supported by both the staff members and the community. It's inspiring to collaborate with dedicated colleagues who are not only passionate
Beth Rodriguez, Kinder Instructional Assistant
Marissa Pena Wilson, Kinder Instructional Assistant
Born in Anaheim, California—home to her favorite place, Disneyland—Marissa (also known fondly as Ms Risa) has been in education for 15 years, with the last four at QP as a kindergarten Instructional Assistant.
She loves working with some of the youngest learners here at the school, helping them navigate the "new world of school" with patience and encouragement!
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
The amazing kids.
Macie Garza, 1st Grade Teacher
Born in Sacramento, CA, Macie joined Queen of Peace in the fall of 2024, bringing with her 12 years of experience in education. Passionate about teaching, Macie is excited to be part of the QP community.
She earned her degrees from Southwestern Assemblies of God University and Chapman University, and she loves creating a supportive and engaging classroom environment where all students can thrive.
Her favorite saint is: St. Olivia
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
The Community
Sarah Ferguson, 1st Grade Teacher
Originally from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Sarah first became part of the Queen of Peace community as a member of the church staff before transitioning to teaching at the school, where she has been for the past two years. With 11 years of experience in education, Sarah brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her classroom.
She earned her degree from the College of William and Mary and is dedicated to nurturing both the academic and spiritual growth of her students at Queen of Peace.
Her favorite saint is: Father Damien, the patron saint of Hawaii
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
I love teaching my students about Jesus. I also love the support of our families and administrators.
Marie Curran, 2nd Grade Teacher
Marie is originally from Philadelphia and has been in education for 19 years, the last seven have been at QP. She brings a wealth of experience and passion for teaching to our school community.
She earned her degree from Immaculata University in Pennsylvania. She loves watching students grow in her classroom in multiple ways, but especially through their academics and in their faith.
Her favorite saint is: St. Teresa of Calcutta
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
Being able to teach my faith
Meagen Healy, 2nd Grade Teacher
Meagen is from Sublimity, OR and has been in education for 11 years, with the last three spent at QP. She brings a wealth of experience and a passion for helping students grow academically and spiritually.
Meagen earned her Bachelor's from Oregon State University and Willamette University for her Master's in teaching. She loves teaching our second grade students and enjoys their energy!
Her favorite saint is: St. Monica
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
It sounds so cheesy but THE PEOPLE! The parents, the staff, the administration, the kids. They all make Queen of Peace what it is!
Caitlin Smith, 3rd Grade Teacher
Originally from Dallas, TX, Caitlin has been teaching for seven years, with the past five spent at QP. She brings a deep love of STEM to our school and has completed a special certification through Notre Dame University’s STEM Teaching Fellows program. She also mentors other teachers in STEM implementation in their classrooms.
Caitlin earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Oklahoma and her Master’s degree from the University of Portland. She is committed to fostering academic growth and inspiring a lifelong love of learning in her students.
Her favorite saint is: Mother Teresa “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” — Mother Teresa
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
I love having a community that is supportive.
Marieke Jones, 3rd Grade Teacher
Marieke, a Salem, OR native, has been a valued member of the QP community for the past four years. With 22 years of experience as a teacher prior to joining QP, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her classroom. Marieke is also an ELD (English Language Development) trained teacher.
She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Corban University and a Master’s degree from Grand Canyon University. She is dedicated to supporting students' language acquisition and academic success.
Her favorite saint is: St. Paul
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
The love and joy of God is felt throughout the school community.
Christina Urmini, 4th Grade Teacher
Christina is originally from San Francisco, CA, and brings 19 years of educational experience to QP, where she has been teaching for the past three years. Her diverse background and expertise allow her to create an engaging classroom environment for her students.
She earned her degrees from San Francisco State University, the University of San Francisco, and Sonoma State University. Christina is dedicated to helping students grow academically and in their faith.
Her favorite saint is: St Thomas Aquinas
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
Queen of Peace is the definition of a loving and nurturing community. From the classroom teachers, parishioners, Father Tim, and Mr. Mucken, everyone works to make our students and their families feel safe, and students are able to learn in a caring environment.
Michelle Orozco, 4th Grade Teacher
Joining us from Salem, OR, Michelle has been in education for 28 years. Five of those year have been spent at QP. She has been with QP parish though for 25 years.
Michelle earned her Bachelors Degree from Oregon State University and a Masters in Teaching from George Fox University. She is deeply connected with our community and she is dedicated to making her students feel welcome in her class.
Her favorite saints are: St. Francis of Assisi and St. Catherine of Siena
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
The community. It feels like home here.
Jean Craig, 5th Grade Teacher
Born in San Fernando, CA, and raised in Bend, OR, Jean has been a beloved part of the QP community for 29 years, contributing her expertise and knowledge to countless students. With 37 years of experience in education, she has dedicated her career to developing life-long learning for young minds. She also brings a deep love of STEM to our school. She is one of two staff members who have completed a special certification through Notre Dame University’s STEM Teaching Fellows program. She also mentors other teachers in STEM implementation in their classrooms.
Jean earned her degrees from the University of Portland and continues to bring dedication,and a wealth of knowledge and experience to her classroom every day.
Her favorite saint is: St. Therese of Lisieux
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
The positive learning environment and supportive peers and parents.
Julie Marjerrison, Art
Born and raised in Salem, OR Julie has been inspiring young artists at QP for the past nine years as our art instructor. With 30 years of experience in education, she brings a deep passion for creativity and expression to her classroom.
She attended the University of Oregon and loves helping students explore their artistic talents and developing a love for the arts in a faith filled environment.
Her favorite saint is: St Francis
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
I love being able to both follow and help guide student curiosity.
Rachel Grove, Music
Originally from Iowa City, IA, Rachel has been sharing her passion for music with the QP community for the past three years as our music teacher. With 14 years of experience in education, she brings creativity to her position and encourages students to explore and develop their musical talents.
Rachel earned her Bachelor’s degree from Azusa Pacific University and her Master’s degree from Morningside College. She is dedicated to fostering a love of music in every student.
Her favorite saint is: St Cecilia patroness of musicians (no surprise here!)
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
The sweet students, fun and supportive staff, and wonderful families.
Suzie Sendelbach, Environmental Education
Born and raised in Salem, OR, Suzie has been a lifelong member of the Queen of Peace parish and joined the school as a teacher two years ago. With 26 years of experience in education, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her classroom.
A graduate of Willamette University, Suzie loves sharing her enthusiasm for the earth and the environment with her students, inspiring them to be good stewards of God's Creation through hands-on learning and discovery.
Her favorite saint is: St. Kateri Tekakwitha
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
The supportive community
Ali Lettiere, Learning Resource Teacher
From Stayton, OR, Ali has been with QP for two years, bringing a unique and diverse background to her role as Learning Resource Teacher. With 18 years of experience in environmental education and a strong foundation in formal and special education.
She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Oregon State University and a Master’s degree from Concordia University. Ali is dedicated to helping students thrive academically and personally, providing the support and guidance needed to enhance their growth and success.
Her favorite saint is: St Katherine of Alexandria
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
I love how the campus blends nature into a functioning school campus. I think it is so special that kids have a place to run and play outside as well as learn about becoming stewards of the environment. I also really appreciate the warm and welcoming community at Queen of Peace.
Claire Jones, School Counselor
A Salem, OR native, Claire has been serving as our school counselor for the past five years, offering emotional and behavioral support to all of our students. She is also dedicated to helping students grow in their faith by organizing our school family faith groups.
Claire earned her degree from Corban University and is deeply committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where students feel valued and empowered to succeed both academically and personally.
Her favorite saint is: St. Catherine of Siena
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
The students, their families, the staff and that we get to grow together in our love of Jesus.
Kari Beyer, Instructional Assistant
Kari, originally from Pullman, WA, has been a dedicated member of the Queen of Peace team for three years, working as an Instructional Assistant. She provides valuable support to small student groups, offering additional help to those who need it most.
Her favorite saint is: St Joseph
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
Working with kids and being able to share my faith.
Lisette Arreola, Instructional Assistant
Lisette, originally from Central Oregon, has been a valuable member of the QP community for three years. As an Instructional Assistant, she plays a key role in supporting small learning groups, ensuring that students who need additional help stay on track with their peers.
In addition to providing academic support, Lisette assists teachers with classroom projects, contributing to an engaging learning environment. As a bilingual educator, she brings an extra layer of support to our student body.
Her favorite saint is: Virgen de Guadalupe
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
It’s a friendly environment
Pam McHugh, Instructional Assistant
Pam is originally from Eugene, OR and has been in education for over 40 years, she was our 1st grade teacher at QP for almost all of those 40 years---in the same classroom too! She has even taught some of our current staff members and their children! Pam retired from teaching in the spring of 2024, but couldn't stay away long. She rejoined our staff in the fall of 2024 as an Instructional Assistant focusing on students who need additional support in various subjects.
She also attended University of Oregon and is a life long Duck fan!
Her favorite saint is: St Bernadette
What do you love most about being at Queen of Peace?
I love the small community and the relationships I've made. We have great kids because they come from great families.