Our School
Ben Franklin Middle School is a wonderful place where students are loved, supported, and challenged. Together we work hard, practice kindness, and have fun! As an educator in the Valparaiso Community School district for 26 years, I have always valued the relationships formed with kids and families and I look forward to developing lifelong relationships with you, our Ben Franklin families. My daughter, Sydney, is a 1st grade teacher at Thomas Jefferson Elementary, and my son, Sam, is attending Marian University where he is pursuing secondary education and running cross-country and track. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, running, and reading. I love being a part of the Valparaiso community and I look forward to seeing you throughout the year at both school and community events. Please don't hesitate to get in touch with me about any questions, concerns, or ideas you might have.Email: [email protected]
Phone: 219-531-3020 ext. 4202
Welcome to Ben Franklin Middle School! Our school is truly an amazing place where we are passionate about student learning. Ben Franklin has a dedicated staff of exceptional teachers and support personnel that are ready to serve the needs of our students and the community. I am excited to begin my 28th year in education in Northwest Indiana as the assistant principal at Ben Franklin. I began my career as a teacher and coach in the Crown Point Community School Corporation and after leaving the classroom and moving into administration, I have been fortunate to serve students in a number of communities, includinghere in Valparaiso and I am looking forward to continuing to serve future generations of Ben Franklin Vikings! I have been married to my wife Liza for 25 years and we are the proud parents of three school-aged children. Away from school, I enjoy spending time with my family, playing golf, and fishing. Please do not hesitate to reach out to any of us in the office or in the guidance department with any questions or needs. We are here to serve and we strive to make the student experience at Ben Franklin truly exceptional!
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 219-531-2020 ext. 4206
My name is Annie Schoenfelt, and I’m beyond excited to be part of the Ben Franklin Middle School team! This year, I’ll be serving as a dean at both Ben Franklin Middle School and Cooks Corners Elementary School. This will be my 15th year with Valparaiso Community Schools, and I couldn’t be more proud to be a Viking! Prior to this role, I’ve served as an instructional coach, technology integration coach, and 4th/5th grade classroom teacher at both Cooks Corners and Memorial Elementary. I earned my undergraduate degree from Indiana University Bloomington and my master’s de gree from Indiana University Northwest—Go Hoosiers! Outside of school, I love spending time with my family and friends. We love living and working in Valpo, we have the best community. I am so excited for the year ahead!