Special Education
OUR MISSION
North Mahaska is fully staffed and committed to providing all levels of support to students with disabilities. Our mission is to ensure every learner has access to meaningful, individualized instruction and the tools necessary to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We believe in meeting students where they are, honoring their unique strengths, and helping them grow to their fullest potential.
OUR VISION
Our vision is that students receiving special education services will be empowered to achieve independence, confidence, and success both in and beyond the classroom. By providing a continuum of services, implementing evidence-based interventions, and fostering inclusive learning environments, we prepare our students not only to master essential skills, but also to contribute positively to our community and future workforce.
Carrie Kral
Director of Special Education
Carrie Kral is a proud North Mahaska graduate who now lives in New Sharon with her husband and two children. She earned her bachelor’s degree from William Penn University and taught special education for five years before completing her master’s degree in Educational Administration at Northwestern College, along with her evaluator’s license and PK–12 Special Education Supervisor endorsement. In addition to serving as North Mahaska’s Special Education Director, Carrie also leads as the district’s Activities Director. She stays very busy supporting Warhawk athletics and events, and her family enjoys following students’ activities and celebrating all of their passions both in and out of the classroom.
Email: kralc@nmwarhakws.org
Bonnie Dawley
Special Education – Middle School
A family of North Mahaska graduates, Bonnie Dawley her husband and 3 children have all made wonderful memories within the school. Bonnie was previously a Horticulture Instructor at Indian Hills Community College in Ottumwa before she started teaching at North Mahaska. When not spending time teaching you might find her cooking, baking, gardening, walking her two dogs or spending time with her grandchildren.
Email: dawleyb@nmwarhawks.org
Phone: (641) 637-4187
Joni Downs
Special Education Teacher
Joni Downs is the high school special education teacher. She also participates as a 7th grade sponsor, social committee, and Leadership team. She graduated from Iowa State in 1985 with a BS in Elementary Education, MAE from Ball State University, and a minor in Special Education from Morningside. Her husband, Kraig works at Pella Corp in Pella where they reside. They have three children: Larissa, Sarah, and Aaron.
Email: downsj@nmwarhawks.org
Phone: (641) 637-4187
McKenzie Van DenBerg
Special Education, Elementary
McKenzie Van DenBerg teaches 3rd-4th grade special education at NM Elementary. She received her BA in Elementary Education with endorsements in Special Education and Reading from William Penn University. She received her Masters of Science from Walden University with specialization in reading and math. Over the course of my career, I have worked with students ranging from kindergarten to high school. My husband, Carter and I have two beautiful daughters. We enjoy going camping, boating, and playing with our dog Rocky. I am looking forward to a wonderful year with our amazing students and staff at North Mahaska! Please feel welcome to contact me with any questions or concerns.
Email: vandenbergm@nmwarhawks.org
Phone: (641) 637-4041 ext. 2203
Amy Terpstra
Special Education, Elementary
Providing a warm and compassionate learning environment is key for Amy Terpstra. She strongly believes in helping children grow emotionally and continue to mature as individuals. Amy was born and raised in Pella, graduating with a psychology degree from Central College, and a Master of Science in Teaching from Drake University. Amy lives on an acreage outside of New Sharon with her husband, and their daughter and son, who both have grown up as North Mahaska Warhawks.
Email: terpstraa@nmwarhawks.org
Phone: (641) 637-4041
Katie Empie
Special Education, Elementary
Katie holds a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education with endorsements in Reading and Special Education from William Penn University. Prior to North Mahaska, she spent 3.5 years as a para and substitute teacher in Oskaloosa. She is dedicated to student success, providing them with the tools they need to thrive. She and her husband of 15 years, Jeremy, enjoy traveling, family, and community involvement.
Email: empiek@nmwarhawks.org
Phone: (641) 637-4041
Leah Tokle
Special Education, Elementary
Bio Coming Soon.
Email: toklel@nmwarhawks.org
Phone: (641) 637-4041
Samantha Watson
Special Education, Preschool
Samantha Watson is an early childhood educator with a passion for helping young learners grow and thrive. A graduate of North Tama Highschool, Samantha went on to earn a degree in Early Childhood Education with a Special Education Endorsement from the University of Northern Iowa. After graduation, Samantha began a career in Iowa as a Pre-K Special Education teacher, later continuing that work in Florida before returning home to Iowa to be closer to family. In Samantha’s free time, she enjoys reading, hiking, traveling and spending time outdoors.
Email: watsons@nmwarhawks.org
Phone: (641) 637-4041