Teachers & Staff

Mary Almquist

I have had the privilege of working in the Thief River Falls school district for the past 30 years.  I believe we have an excellent system for both students and my colleagues.  I joined the Franklin Middle School teaching staff in 1979 as a Family and Consumer Science teacher.  Though I thoroughly enjoyed my time working in the Family and Consumer Science department, in the mid 80's I noticed an emergence of technology in the school system. FInding technology intriguing, I went back to school for additional training. As I worked with different technologies, I realized there was a need for the technology curriculum development. Presently, I am Franklin Middle School's technology instructor and LAN manager.  It has been an ever changing endeavor, but well worth the journey.

I'm fortunate to work with our entire staff while being the LAN manager.  When working with them I can stay actively involved in the educational and social climate of our building.  Currently I am our Allied Art Team Leader, a member of the Building Leadership Team, Sunshine, and Wellness Committee.

My husband, Rob, (Challenger 5th grade teacher) and I live in rural St. Hilaire.  We have three married children and two grandchildren.  We will again be grandparents in early spring.  Our greatest joy is spending time with our children and their families.

Jeff Mumm 

Coach Jeff Mumm is beginning his 25th year at Lincoln High School. Shane Zutz, principal at Lincoln HIgh School, said there aren't enough words to be said about a man who uses action to lead and motivate others.  In his first year as coach of the Lincoln High School Prowler Football team, Zutz said Mumm's football team only scored nine points--nine points all year.  It took until the early 90s for things to finally begin to turn around.  When Zutz said he read the quote, "Choose your attitude and invest wisely," he thought of Mumm and all the hard work and effort he puts into being an effective leader.  Zutz also said that when he reflects on a suggestion to be "uncommon," he thinks of Mumm.  He is anything but common, ordinary or average.  
Courtesy Thief River Falls Times

Coach Mumm says, "To me, there is a cycle in academics and athletics; 'The more they enjoy it, the more they study; the more they practice; the more they improve; therefore, they enjoy it more.'  Throughout my professional and nonprofessional career, I've felt that setting simple priorities and living and working by them is the key to my success.  Grasping one's capabilities allows you to work with their limits, and to achieve mental, emotional, and physical excellence within your realm. I have a very positive approach to what I do and believe our students deserve nothing but the finest from educators and coaches."