Mrs. Pahlkotter has served in both private and public schools for the past 27 years in both Minnesota and Michigan. She is a graduate of Concordia University in Ann Arbor, MI with an Elementary Education Major, English and Music Minors as well as a Lutheran Teacher Diploma. She received her Master's in the Art of Teaching from Spring Arbor University in Spring Arbor, MI.

This year, Mrs. Pahlkotter is excited to be implementing a School Success program at Valley. She will be helping students grades K-8 bridge the gap in their learning to meet the rigorous academic requirements of Valley. Mrs. Pahlkotter loves to teach all subject areas. "Hands-on activities and when kids are really engaged brings me joy. Those ah-ha moments are exciting. Connecting Jesus to everyday lessons is rewarding."

Mrs. Pahlkotter and her husband, Henry - Valley's Executive Director, moved to Cedar Falls in the summer of 2023. They have three children: Garet who is 27 and lives in Chicago; Olivia - 24 and Gavin - 23 live in Cedar Falls. She loves spending time with her family, baking, making cards, traveling, drinking coffee, enjoying sandy beaches and sunsets.

When asked what the best part of following Jesus is, Mrs. Pahlkotter said, "Jesus helps me feel Joy when I feel joyless. He comforts me when I feel alone. Brings me peace in the middle of chaos and sustains me when I feel empty. Knowing He is walking beside me every second of every day gives me a hope and a future."