Mr. Abenth

Email: steve.abenth@spps.org

Phone: 651-293-8770

Mr. Abenth

Welcome to our class!!

Greetings, Highland Park Elementary Families!

My name is Steve Abenth and I am very excited about another year of teaching KINDERGARTEN here at Highland Park Elementary School!

I grew up in Saginaw, Michigan, where I spent countless hours playing football, basketball, baseball and softball with my friends and 3 older brothers and trying not to drive my parents crazy. As I got older, I developed a passion for woodworking and music. I love to woodcarve (though there never seems to be enough time...or band aids), though, music is the thing that seems to be woven into everything I do.

I am drummer, bass player and one of the lead vocalists for a cover band here in the twin cities, called "Crazy Chester." What a blast we have pretending to be rock stars! I play the guitar, mandolin, banjo, autoharp, harmonica, djembe, a tiny bit of piano and, once in a while, I sing at my church. When I have some peace and quiet at home, I write and play music (so much for the peace and quiet). In case you are wondering, all of these instruments make regular appearances in my classroom (except for the piano...too heavy).

My wife, Jill, and I have been married for 22 years and we have two children.

Jill is the office manager at our church and enjoys connecting with friends and family, traveling, and showing her amazing creativity in many ways. Our son, Charlie, is 20 and just started his junior year at Marquette University in Milwaukee, WI. Charlie spends his time refining his amazing electric guitar skills, writing music, building...anything, and hanging out with friends. Our daughter, Nora, is 16 and a junior at Highland Park Senior High School! Nora loves drawing, painting, cooking, sewing, playing volleyball, and hanging out with friends. As a family we love to laugh, play games, do puzzles, travel and take advantage of the many great things to offer here in the Twin Cities.

I earned my bachelors of education degree from Augsburg College in Minneapolis, MN. This is my 20th year teaching at Highland Park Elementary School (I even did my student teaching here at HPE!). I taught ten years in 4th grade and I am now about to start my tenth year as a kindergarten teacher. I absolutely love it!

I am ready for another wonderful year here at Highland Park Elementary and look forward to working with you and your family!