Journey Elementary

Dr. Emily Dittmer has worked in education for more than 25 years and is thrilled to be at Journey Elementary! She remembers waiting for her interview at Journey back in 2022 and being struck by the words that were painted on the wall – 'Joy, Excellence, and Service'.  Those three words are at the heart of why she loves working in education. “I look forward to the JOY that comes from the relationships that will be built and the learning that will occur during each school year. I am committed to creating and maintaining an environment that supports the EXCELLENCE of students, staff, and families. And I can't wait to work in SERVICE with the entire JES community each new year!"  

Dittmer earned her Doctorate in Education with a focus in Educational Administration at Lindenwood University. She also holds an Educational Specialist in Education Administration and a Master of Arts in School Administration from Lindenwood University. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Concordia University in Nebraska.

Mrs. Liz Herbert has worked in education for over 15 years.  Previously, she was a fifth-grade teacher at Prairie View Elementary. She served as the department head and the fifth-grade camp director. She also led the fifth-grade student ambassadors group with her fellow fifth-grade teachers and is a member of the PBIS Tier 2 team. Prior to joining the WSD, Liz was a teacher in the Lincoln County R-III School District for nine years. She started her career in education as a paraprofessional at Winfield Middle School. 

“It is such an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to serve the students, families, and staff of Journey Elementary School next school year,” said Herbert. “I am dedicated to fostering a school culture that values high student achievement, meeting individual students' needs, and building positive relationships. I look forward to working alongside the faculty and staff to continue the mission of bringing Joy, Excellence, and Service to the Journey school community for many years. 

Herbert has an Educational Specialist Degree in administration from Arkansas State University, a master’s degree in language and literacy from Park University, and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Lindenwood University.