Meet The Team

Laura Haskins

Hello. My name is Laura Haskins. I live in Vernon with my husband and our two sons. I love the outdoors, being active and spending time with my family. My boys participate in many sports and I love our busy schedule and cheering them on.

After 19 years in the classroom, I am now enjoying my role as an academic support teacher for the 2nd and 3rd grade.  I earned my Bachelors Degree in Early Education at Westfield State College and my Masters Degree at Marlboro College. I began my teaching career in Tampa, Florida, followed by some time in Monroe, Connecticut and  I returned to my hometown of Brattleboro. I even attended kindergarten at Oak Grove! My time away from Vermont gave me wonderful experiences, as well as a new appreciation for our community, our school district and the beauty of our state. I am delighted to teach children and to foster their love for learning. I strive to guide students to be passionate in what they believe in.

Please feel free to contact me at any time! I love connecting with families!

Brian Buettner

Brian Buettner began his teaching career at the age of 16 when he returned to his former kindergarten classroom as part of a cross age tutoring program offered by his high school. 

Since that time, he has earned three college degrees in education and has over 25 years of teaching experience in elementary schools. Brian’s teaching experience includes being a classroom, special education and academic support teacher and working as a reading coach for 12 years. 

Brian is also an adjunct professor at Bay Path University in Longmeadow, MA where he teachers a graduate course on language and literacy development.

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In addition to his professional pursuits, Brian is passionate about outdoor activities including cycling, running, skiing and backpacking.

Nancy Kowalski

Hi!  My name is Nancy Kowalski.  I'm the Academic Support Teacher for grades 5 and 6 in the areas of Reading and Math, 4th grade and Kindergarten in Math.  This is my first year teaching at Oak Grove after many years of classroom and special education teaching in New Hampshire.

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 I graduated from Kean University in New Jersey with a degree in Elementary Education.  I earned my Master's Degree at Keene State in Special Education with certifications in the areas of Learning Disabilities and Emotional Disabilities.  My teaching experiences range from preschool through middle school.

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I enjoy spending time with my two adult children and grandson.  Quilting, reading and teaching are my passions!  Feel free to contact me at nkowalski@wsesdvt.org.  I believe the home/school connection is best for children!