51本色

Meet Your Mentor

Jennifer Ascolese

My name is Jennifer Ascolese, and I am excited to be a Partnership and BookShark mentor this year. 

I grew up in Berrien County and have lived here all my life.  In 2003, I married my husband Matt, and we now have three children.  We have been homeschooling our two girls since 2020.  Prior to being at home with my kids, I was a 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade teacher for 11 years.  I graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in elementary education, and then got my Master’s degree in reading and literacy. 
Looking forward to a great year!

Noel Bash

Hello to all! I'm so excited to be back with the Berrien Springs Parent Partnership as a mentor. I have taught in various capacities over the years, from elementary school to adult education, and from public speaking to historic dance. I love seeing your children grow in their confidence and abilities through the school year. 

My husband Bob and I have two grown children and one daughter-in-law to be, as our son is getting married next year. We love living in Southwest Michigan, with the beautiful beaches, abundant local produce, and small town charm. When I'm not working, I enjoy canning, knitting, embroidery, reading, and dancing. We are also big history buffs, and we seek out museums to visit wherever we travel. 

I'm looking forward to getting to know you and your students this year, as we work together to achieve their goals!

Jill Dodge

Salutations Students and Parents!
I have had the joy of teaching since 1997, filling elementary positions such as multi-grade, pre-kindergarten , art, and principal.  In 2013 I started teaching two classes for the Berrien Springs and Niles Partnerships and have enjoyed adding to my art curriculum each year. Most recently I added a Family Adventure Trip to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

鈥婽he things I enjoy are my husband Terry, our four children, Autumm, Winter, Trey and Holden, table games, dark chocolate, ceramics, photography, and being in nature, visiting U.S. National Parks, hiking and much more!

I look forward to communicating weekly with your family throughout this school year
Blessings,                                                                                                                                                                  
Mrs. Jill Dodge

Phil Giddings

My name is Philip Giddings and I am a teacher who has enjoyed working with students and my colleagues over the past years.  I have worked with middle school, junior high, high school, and college students in various capacities.  I have also enjoyed administrative duties as I was the principal of a pre- kindergarten through 12th grade school in Chicago, Illinois. I also performed joint duties as I had the privilege of working in smaller school settings where I functioned as Teacher/Principal.

My joys are seeing student success and student development as they make positive choices that will enhance their future.  I am an American but I have lived in and traveled to many different countries not limited to but including Africa, France, and the Caribbean.

I realize that the success of today’s youth is in reality a strong indicator of our accomplishments. This paved road makes smooth the passage for the next generation.  We invest now and anticipate a lucrative return on our investment which will be withdrawn during the next generation and beyond.  I am willing to take part in the crafting and the shaping of this emerging generation.
I look forward to being a part of your accomplishments, inspiration, and your ultimate triumph.

Sincerely, 
Philip3
Philip E. Giddings III