I was born in Vientiane, Laos. I came to Untied States when I was 14 years old. I lived in Marshalltown and moved to Des Moines when I graduated from Buena Vista College.

I have been with the Des Moines public schools district for 20 years. Out of the 20 years, six of them I have been a Special Ed. associate.  I have been a kindergarten teacher for the last 14 years and enjoy watching the academic growth of the kindergarteners. If I am not teaching or spending time with my family, you can find me listening to my many different types of music (Thai, India, Lao, Chinese, Vietnamese, French), reading a book or doing Sudoku.

Hello! I am Mrs. Pope and it has been my pleasure to work with the students, parents and staff at South Union for many years!

My family consists of my husband and two adult sons who keep our lives immersed in various projects including event photography, sports and music. We are also busy with two dogs and a garden. My favorite extra curricular activities include visiting the lake/boating, cooking, reading and getting together with friends and family.

I am looking forward to another year of exciting growth, both socially and academically as I work together with my students and their families!

Thank you for sharing your child with me!

~ Mrs. Pope

Hello! My name is Serra Wittenwyler and this is my 12th year teaching at South Union Elementary.  I taught First Grade for  nine years and this is my third year teaching Kindergarten!  I was born and raised in Des Moines and graduated from Dowling High School in 2001.  I received my Early Childhood and Elementary Education Degree with a Special Education Endorsement from the University of Northern Iowa in 2005.  I am happily married to my husband Jim and we have three sons- Nolan, Brody, and Cason.  In my free time I love spending time with my family and friends, crafting, and attending Iowa football games!  I love teaching and seeing the world through a child’s eyes.  Let the fun begin!