Office Staff

RESPECT each individual's uniqueness, cultural heritage and opinions and ideas

When you walk into Achieve Language Academy, “Welcome to Achieve,” aren’t just words spoken. They come to life in the actions of the friendly people who greet and support everyone who enters the main office.

Clear, frequent and accurate communication is critical for schools to be successful. Our office staff is bilingual, experienced, and knowledgeable. They, like everyone who works at Achieve, have a unique love and commitment to our school and our children – and it shows. The people are what make this a caring and wonderful preK to 8th grade public school.

Meet the executive director (principal), office staff and coordinators of Achieve, a community gem.

Keith Lester, Executive Director
651-738-4875

I’m the luckiest guy in the school! I get to lead a group of exceptional teachers and other staff who are passionate about helping our students be successful. I also get to know and support some of the nicest, kindest and brightest young people I’ve ever met! (This is my 50th year working in education. I think it will be the best year yet.)

Andrea Halverson, Principal
651-738-4875

I've been working in education since 2006 and became a principal in 2019. I have held various positions over the years, including being a music teacher, a technology specialist, and a curriculum director.

Heather Freeman, Operations Manager
651-738-4875 x221

My work as the office manager affords me many opportunities to interact with students, staff, vendors and the community at large. I am proud to say I have been at Achieve Language Academy for over 23 years and have watched the school grow into an amazing community!

The only thing I enjoy more than working at Achieve is vacationing with my husband and spending time with our family. I have one daughter, one son and an awesome grandson.

Kathy Oelze, Social Worker/Special Ed. Coord.
651-738-4875 x212

I have worked at ALA for over 20 years and can’t imagine being any place else. Please stop by and visit any time. Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my husband, children and extended family and friends. I love animals and have a Lakeland terrier, named Nina. I admit I like warm weather best and enjoy hiking, biking, gardening, kayaking and just about anything that takes me outdoors. I also love to read, play piano and travel the world!

Rebecca Roberts, Office
651-738-4875 x101

You will see me around the front office assisting parents, students and staff. When I'm not in the front office, I'm in the back office working on A/P, nutrition services and other various tasks. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, friends, dogs and gardening.

Daniel Vega, Office
651-738-4875 x102

I am the father of 6, grandfather of 10 and the husband of 29 years to my wife, Bridget. We live in West Saint Paul and share our home with our niece Melissa, who attends 10th grade at Sibley Senior High School. My family, and two part-time jobs as a chauffeur, keep me very busy!

I truly love helping the staff, students, and families of Achieve Language Academy!

Office

Kris Leverty, Curriculum Coordinator
651-738-4875 x419

In my 11 years at Achieve, I have met and worked with some fantastic children and adults, and I'm proud to call it my community. When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with family and friends.

Marlene Sorenson, Reading Coordinator
651-738-4875 x319

This is my 20th year as a member of the Achieve staff. The reason I have stayed so long is really about the great students I have worked with over the years.

If something involves reading at our school, I am probably in some way involved. I started out teaching first and second grades the first few years in my career at Achieve.

I have a large family with eight grandchildren, and most of my time is spent doing things with them. Some of my leisure hobbies are reading, cooking, sewing, crocheting and square dancing.

Coordinators

School Substitute

Zach Anderson, School Substitute
651-738-4875 x423

Erin Hartman, School Substitute
651-738-4875 x423

This is my tenth year at Achieve, and I feel very lucky to work at such a great school. When I'm not a work, I like to spend time with my family. I have two daughters, ages 3 and 5, who keep me very busy. I'm excited to be in another school year with our wonderful students, families and staff.

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