Danyel Snelson
English
I'm returning to RMHS after getting married in 2014 and relocating back to the Coachella Valley. I attended California Baptist University and earned a BA in English, teaching credential in English, and a MA in Education--Curriculum and Instruction. I've been teaching in the Coachella Valley for twelve years. My passion for teaching has allowed me to teach various courses at DHSHS, RMHS, Home and Hospital, NNC, and College of the Desert with the Upward Bound program. In 2011, I was named the PSUSD High School Teacher of the Year. Above all, I'm committed to preparing my students with 21st Century skills- critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.
English
I'm returning to RMHS after getting married in 2014 and relocating back to the Coachella Valley. I attended California Baptist University and earned a BA in English, teaching credential in English, and a MA in Education--Curriculum and Instruction. I've been teaching in the Coachella Valley for twelve years. My passion for teaching has allowed me to teach various courses at DHSHS, RMHS, Home and Hospital, NNC, and College of the Desert with the Upward Bound program. In 2011, I was named the PSUSD High School Teacher of the Year. Above all, I'm committed to preparing my students with 21st Century skills- critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity.
Damien W. Dziepak
Science
A native of Detroit, Michigan and graduate of the University of Michigan with a B.A. in Biology and M.A. and Teacher’s Certification, my career started by teaching for 6 years in Botswana, Africa while in the Peace Corps, followed by 13 years with Detroit Public Schools (6th, 7th, 8th grade science), and 10 years with Los Angeles Unified Schools (7th & 8th grade science).
I am very excited for the new chapter in my teaching career. My down time consists of resale shopping for deals, golf, gardening and fun times with my partner of 20 years, our beautiful boxer/bulldog mix little girl, NeNe, and cherishing the memory of Stanley, our Bassett Hound for 17 wonderful years.
Science
A native of Detroit, Michigan and graduate of the University of Michigan with a B.A. in Biology and M.A. and Teacher’s Certification, my career started by teaching for 6 years in Botswana, Africa while in the Peace Corps, followed by 13 years with Detroit Public Schools (6th, 7th, 8th grade science), and 10 years with Los Angeles Unified Schools (7th & 8th grade science).
I am very excited for the new chapter in my teaching career. My down time consists of resale shopping for deals, golf, gardening and fun times with my partner of 20 years, our beautiful boxer/bulldog mix little girl, NeNe, and cherishing the memory of Stanley, our Bassett Hound for 17 wonderful years.
Dwight Counsel
SPED/Social Studies
I am so excited to join the Rancho Mirage High School Faculty this year!
I am a graduate of the University of Delaware with a B.S degree in Education. I completed my Master’s Degree in Education at California State University, Los Angeles. I also completed my Administrative Credential at California State University, Los Angeles.
I began my teaching career as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Upon my return to the United States, I taught special education classes in the Philadelphia School District for five years. After moving to Los Angeles, I taught special education at Barbara Dawson Educational Center, a non-public school, for two years. I left to take a lead role in the opening of Optimist High School, another non-public school, where I became the Vice Principal for six years. After obtaining my Administrative Services Credential, I became Vice Principal at Eucalyptus Elementary School in the Hawthorne Unified School District. I returned to New Jersey to be close to my mother who was ill. While in New Jersey, I served as an Assistant Principal and Principal in the Gloucester Township Public Schools. Upon my return to Los Angeles in 2003, I served as Principal of David Starr Jordan High School in the Los Angeles Unified School District.
I was Principal of the Kayne ERAS Center School Program from July 1, 2004 until June 30, 2006. I later became the Director of School Programs at the Kayne Eras Center from July 1, 2004 until January, 2015.
I have been a Special Education Teacher in the Palm Springs Unified School District since January, 2015.
I look forward to a rewarding experience as part of the instructional team at Rancho Mirage High School.
Go Rattlers!
SPED/Social Studies
I am so excited to join the Rancho Mirage High School Faculty this year!
I am a graduate of the University of Delaware with a B.S degree in Education. I completed my Master’s Degree in Education at California State University, Los Angeles. I also completed my Administrative Credential at California State University, Los Angeles.
I began my teaching career as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Upon my return to the United States, I taught special education classes in the Philadelphia School District for five years. After moving to Los Angeles, I taught special education at Barbara Dawson Educational Center, a non-public school, for two years. I left to take a lead role in the opening of Optimist High School, another non-public school, where I became the Vice Principal for six years. After obtaining my Administrative Services Credential, I became Vice Principal at Eucalyptus Elementary School in the Hawthorne Unified School District. I returned to New Jersey to be close to my mother who was ill. While in New Jersey, I served as an Assistant Principal and Principal in the Gloucester Township Public Schools. Upon my return to Los Angeles in 2003, I served as Principal of David Starr Jordan High School in the Los Angeles Unified School District.
I was Principal of the Kayne ERAS Center School Program from July 1, 2004 until June 30, 2006. I later became the Director of School Programs at the Kayne Eras Center from July 1, 2004 until January, 2015.
I have been a Special Education Teacher in the Palm Springs Unified School District since January, 2015.
I look forward to a rewarding experience as part of the instructional team at Rancho Mirage High School.
Go Rattlers!
Coming Soon...
New Staff for the 2016-17 School Year!
New Staff for the 2016-17 School Year!
Continuing Staff
AdministrationPrincipal
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Sue Emery
Career Specialist
Sue Emery, Career Guidance Specialist, encourages students to discover careers and educational opportunities that are a good match with their achievements and ambitions. Ms. Emery earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from California State University, Long Beach. She holds a CTE teaching credential in Business & Finance, and an Adult Education teaching credential in Elementary and Secondary Subjects from California State University, San Bernardino. She coordinates College and Career Fairs, schedules visits from college representatives and career guests, manages the scholarship program, and facilitates completion of applications for college and financial aid. Visit www.rmhscareers.weebly.com
Career Specialist
Sue Emery, Career Guidance Specialist, encourages students to discover careers and educational opportunities that are a good match with their achievements and ambitions. Ms. Emery earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from California State University, Long Beach. She holds a CTE teaching credential in Business & Finance, and an Adult Education teaching credential in Elementary and Secondary Subjects from California State University, San Bernardino. She coordinates College and Career Fairs, schedules visits from college representatives and career guests, manages the scholarship program, and facilitates completion of applications for college and financial aid. Visit www.rmhscareers.weebly.com
World Language Department
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Ana Gastelum
Ana Gastelum is excited for another year at RMHS. She grew up in the desert and graduated from Cathedral City. She attended the University of California Riverside where and received her B.A. in Spanish Linguistics and later received her credential from UCR Graduate School of Education. Ana is now completing her Masters in Reading and Literacy at CSUSB. As a Spanish teacher, she is thrilled to share her passion for the language and culture with students at RMHS. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with family, reading, and exercising. Go Rattlers! 
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English Department
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David Catanzarite
Stanford University hired David Catanzarite to teach dramatic literature in 1978, after he graduated with a BA in English. He’s been teaching literature and theatre ever since, including eighteen years in California public schools. His scholarly writings about German playwright Bertolt Brecht have been published internationally. He’s toured as performer and master teacher throughout the U.S. and in London, Prague, Toronto, South Africa, and Fiji Islands. In addition to the joy of sharing English language with students at RMHS, he’s an Adjunct Professor in the Teacher Ed and Theatre departments at CSUSB/Palm Desert. His MFA in Stage Directing is from USC. Amy Grey
Originally from Green Bay, Wisconsin, Amy is a long-time Coachella Valley resident and PSUSD educator. In addition to English, she has also taught history, "Seven Habits of Highly Effective Teens", ASB, WEB, and cheer/dance. She is a proud graduate of Palm Springs High School. She received her degree from CSU Long Beach and CSU San Bernardino, where she earned her English-language arts teaching credential. She has successfully developed middle and high school cheer programs in the Coachella Valley and founded the nationally-ranked Desert Elite "Mavericks" All-Stars in 1997. She is married and has three daughters (twins Ryann & Addison and “Rattler” Mackenize).
Jenann Elias
Ms. Elias was raised in the Redlands area, but went to college in the Midwest to study Communications and English. After returning to CA, she went to University of Redlands for her teaching credential. In the past she has worked in editing, digital writing and transmedia, social media, and library tech. This is her seventh year working in education, and her second year at RMHS. She got married over the summer, but you can still call her Ms. Elias! She likes reading, writing, film/television, tea, pirates, comics, nature, naps, and music. 
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Marshall Mallory
My name is Marshall Mallory. I was born and raised in Richmond, Virginia. I enlisted in the Navy in 2003 and moved to San Diego. I served five years active duty, still serving as a Reservist. After the Navy, I went back to school to become a teacher. My dream was realized in 2011 when I graduated with a Master’s in Teaching and a credential in Social Science and English. Last year was my first year here at RMHS. I enjoy antiques, reading, movies, and participate in historical reenactments throughout California. Let’s dive in and make 2015-2016 the best school year ever! Sara Sanchez
Dana Sessions
My name is Ms. Sessions. Currently I am enjoying my third year at RMHS, which also happens to be my nineteenth year teaching for PSUSD. My BA is in English, and I also earned a MS in Education -- Curriculum and Instruction. This year I'm helping students independently earn credit for graduation requirements and teaching the language art of English to juniors and freshmen. Being involved with RMHS's Culinary Art and Food Education academy has been fun, and I'm looking forward to continuing to help students in the program grow. 
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Science Department
Jenn Donohue
Welcome back to the 2015-2016 school year at RMHS. I am Jennifer Donohue and I teach Chemistry and AP Chemistry. This will be my 13th year of teaching Chemistry. Students are often fearful when they are faced with the course work of Chemistry. My advice is to maintain a strong work ethic, especially when the going gets tough, don’t be fearful of asking for help, and be determined to succeed. See you in the lab! 
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Jorge Jimenez
Hello Rattlers! I have been teaching for 20 years and have been part of the RMHS family since the day it opened. I teach Biology, Anatomy, and AP Biology. I'm also our Debate team co-coach along with Mrs. Robles. I have a dual degree in Biology and Political Science, went to Medical school, and followed that with another Doctorate in Law. However, I found my passion in the classroom. I love teaching and making a difference in my students lives. My door is always open! Remember, you will get out of life as much as you are willing to put into it!
Sarah Robles
I have always loved Biology and AP Environmental Science and enjoy teaching these subjects here at RMHS as well as co-coaching the debate team with Dr. Jimenez. I grew up in Corona, CA and earned my B.S. in biology from the University of La Verne and my M.S. in biology from UNR. Before RMHS I taught for 8 years at DHSHS. In my spare time I love to read, hike, travel and spend time with my husband Matt (a geology professor), my son Conner and our dogs and reptiles.
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Visual and Performing Arts Department
Theatre
Kelly Newhouse
Kelly Newhouse is thrilled to be continuing her stay here at RMHS. She has been here since the beginning and has been a part of the Performing Arts team, teaching Theatre and directing Fame!, Woolfie, and most recently, Seussical, the Musical! She is looking forward to continuing working with the PA team to make the Performing Arts program the best in the District, both on stage and off.
Natascha Behrens
After helping to open the school as an English teacher, Mrs. Behrens is now proud to be a dance and theater teacher at RMHS. She also coaches the RMHS dance team and choreographs some of the school musicals. Mrs. Behrens grew up in the Coachella Valley, then earned her bachelor's from UC Irvine and master's USC. She has been involved in dance and theater since childhood, and is thrilled to pass down the beauty of the performing arts to the next generation. In her (very limited) free time, Mrs. Behrens enjoys hiking, off-roading, and traveling, especially when visiting her family in Germany.
After helping to open the school as an English teacher, Mrs. Behrens is now proud to be a dance and theater teacher at RMHS. She also coaches the RMHS dance team and choreographs some of the school musicals. Mrs. Behrens grew up in the Coachella Valley, then earned her bachelor's from UC Irvine and master's USC. She has been involved in dance and theater since childhood, and is thrilled to pass down the beauty of the performing arts to the next generation. In her (very limited) free time, Mrs. Behrens enjoys hiking, off-roading, and traveling, especially when visiting her family in Germany.
Vocal Music
Andy Eisenmann
Andrew ‘Andy’ Eisenmann has been a musician his entire life. Though his education is slightly different than actual work experiences, Andy has been an honor graduate from the VanderCook College, student of Beverley Johnson (The Juilliard School) and Irene Dalis (Metropolitan Opera), professional trumpet player, award-winning educator, international leading operatic baritone (22 roles on three continents) and MOST importantly, the first teacher hired at Rancho Mirage High School (and the first ‘Teacher Of The Year’ in 2014)! In working with the ‘Rattler Nation’, Andy hopes to instill a strong work ethic while sharing his love and passion of the performing arts!
Andy Eisenmann
Andrew ‘Andy’ Eisenmann has been a musician his entire life. Though his education is slightly different than actual work experiences, Andy has been an honor graduate from the VanderCook College, student of Beverley Johnson (The Juilliard School) and Irene Dalis (Metropolitan Opera), professional trumpet player, award-winning educator, international leading operatic baritone (22 roles on three continents) and MOST importantly, the first teacher hired at Rancho Mirage High School (and the first ‘Teacher Of The Year’ in 2014)! In working with the ‘Rattler Nation’, Andy hopes to instill a strong work ethic while sharing his love and passion of the performing arts!
Instrumental Music
Michael Gaylord
Michael Gaylord
Visual Arts
Toby Bresson
Toby Bresson
Librarian
Heather Allen
Heather Allen
Special Education Department
Physical Education Department
Rob Hanmer
Rob Hanmer has been teaching for 20 plus years in PSUSD. At age 23, Coach Hanmer was named head coach for boys’ varsity basketball at Cathedral City HS where he led the team to the school’s first CIF Championship and 8 DVL championships. The Rattlers basketball program has won the school's first tournament and varsity league championships. Hanmer directs the MaxPreps Holiday Classic. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Cal Poly SLO and his Master’s degree from Chapman University. Rob enjoys hanging out with wife Suzy and his son William year around but especially during the summer at Poipu Beach, Kauai. Go Rattlers!!!
Rob Hanmer has been teaching for 20 plus years in PSUSD. At age 23, Coach Hanmer was named head coach for boys’ varsity basketball at Cathedral City HS where he led the team to the school’s first CIF Championship and 8 DVL championships. The Rattlers basketball program has won the school's first tournament and varsity league championships. Hanmer directs the MaxPreps Holiday Classic. He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Cal Poly SLO and his Master’s degree from Chapman University. Rob enjoys hanging out with wife Suzy and his son William year around but especially during the summer at Poipu Beach, Kauai. Go Rattlers!!!
Megan Myers
Mrs. Myers is excited to be back at Rancho Mirage High School for a third year! Mrs. Myers teaches PE and dance, coaches the cheer team, and choreographs for the Reflections Show Choir. In her spare time (which she doesn't have a lot of), Mrs. Myers likes to cuddle with her three furry children or travel the world with her husband.
Mrs. Myers graduated from Redlands East Valley High School before attending Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where she studied dance and earned her degree in Kinesiology. She is currently finishing up her Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning from Brandman University.
Mrs. Myers graduated from Redlands East Valley High School before attending Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where she studied dance and earned her degree in Kinesiology. She is currently finishing up her Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning from Brandman University.
Larry Matthews
LD Matthews is extremely excited to be a part of RMHS. Mr. Matthews has been teaching and coaching in PSUSD for 11 years. He currently teaches Weight Training, and is the Head Football Coach, along with being an assistant Track & Field coach.
In the fall of 2004 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in PE and Health Enhancement from Montana State University Northern located in Havre, Montana. In 2007 he completed his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from CSUSB.
Mr. Matthews is engaged to his beautiful fiancee, Ms. Gastelum, who teaches Spanish at Rancho Mirage High School. Go Rattlers!
In the fall of 2004 he graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in PE and Health Enhancement from Montana State University Northern located in Havre, Montana. In 2007 he completed his Master’s Degree in Educational Administration from CSUSB.
Mr. Matthews is engaged to his beautiful fiancee, Ms. Gastelum, who teaches Spanish at Rancho Mirage High School. Go Rattlers!
Mathematics Department
Bruce Rhodewalt
Bruce Rhodewalt joined the inaugural RMHS faculty after teaching at Palm Springs High School. He teaches AP Statistics and is the math department chair.
On graduation from UCI with a BS in biology, Mr. R discovered computers, temporarily embarking on a 20-year career as a systems analyst, working for government agencies in Southern California. He earned his math credential and MA in Education (Instructional Technology) at CSUSB.
Mr. R’s wife Janet teaches kindergarten and coaches robotics in Indio. With their two grown children, they spend a good part of each summer at the family cabin in Bridgeport (near Yosemite), hiking and eating.
On graduation from UCI with a BS in biology, Mr. R discovered computers, temporarily embarking on a 20-year career as a systems analyst, working for government agencies in Southern California. He earned his math credential and MA in Education (Instructional Technology) at CSUSB.
Mr. R’s wife Janet teaches kindergarten and coaches robotics in Indio. With their two grown children, they spend a good part of each summer at the family cabin in Bridgeport (near Yosemite), hiking and eating.
Andrew Zeihen
Mr. Zeihen (Mr. Z) has taught for 25 years. He attended Loyola Marymount University receiving a Mechanical Engineering Degree. He received his teaching credential from Cal State Dominguez and a Masters in Educational Technology through Pepperdine University. Mr. Zeihen is an avid sports fan and enjoys watching the Dallas Cowboys, the Los Angeles Lakers, and the Los Angeles Kings. His wife Kimberly works in healthcare, They have three children (Dakota 11, Austin 9, and Bryce 4). His free time includes watching his daughter ice-skate and coaching his sons’ soccer and baseball teams. His musical tastes include Country, Rock, and Alternative (90’s) artists.
Career Technical Education Department
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Social Studies Department
Ruby Rivera
Hi, I’m Ruby Rivera and I will be starting my 10th year as a teacher. I grew up in the desert and am a proud graduate of the Palm Springs Unified School District. I attended UCLA for my bachelors degree, UCI for my teaching credential and Masters in Education, and National University for my administrative credential. After working in other communities I knew that I wanted to come home and teach students in my hometown. I am the RMHS Instructional Technology Council Coordinator and Digicom Media Instructor. I think it’s important for students to get involved in school activities so I commit to serving as the coordinator of PLUS, SADD and Close Up. 
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Kim Robinson
Mrs. Robinson is an inaugural staff member at RMHS and has taught in PSUSD for 20 years. She currently serves as the RMHS AVID Coordinator and teaches AP European History. Mrs. Robinson hopes to foster a passion for history and learning in her classroom and that students will leave with a desire to go out and visit the world. In addition to teaching she is very involved in various athletic programs at RMHS and is a huge fan of all Rattler athletes, performing arts students and chef’s in training. GO RATTLERS!!!
Brian Belliveau
Mr. Belliveau is a native of Torrance, California where he attended West Torrance High School. He went on to earn his B.A. in History from CSU, Dominguez Hills and his M.S. in Education from Walden University. Over the past 16 years, Mr. Belliveau has come to believe that classroom instruction has become an ever-evolving, intensely personal balancing act. In his words, “it is balancing content with process, the group with the individual, personal growth with academics, and curriculum with community demands. Integration makes my classroom more challenging and more fun every year.”
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