Meet the Teachers

Savanna Patrias

Ashley Thompson

Hello, my name is Ashley Thompson. I graduated from Sauk Rapids-Rice High School in 2006. While attending St. Cloud State University (SCSU) I discovered my passion for teaching. I graduated from SCSU in 2010 with a Bachelors of Science in Special Education. I began my teaching career in Big Lake where I taught elementary special education. Afterwards, I taught for 3 years in Little Falls as a special education evaluation teacher. I started teaching at Sauk Centre Elementary in 2016. I live near Sauk Centre with my husband, stepdaughter and 2 dogs. I enjoy spending time with my family, fishing, camping, and four-wheeling. I look forward to the many new adventures of teaching here at Sauk Centre Elementary.

Lori Uphoff

My name is Lori Uphoff.  I grew up in Sauk Centre.  I earned my special education degree in 2005 from St. Cloud State University in the area of Developmental Cognitive Disabilities.  I completed my Masters in Education from Southwest Minnesota State University in 2010.  In 2013 I added Autism to my licensure.  I am married to Kevin and we have three amazing girls Megan, Abigail and Hannah.  In my free time I enjoy stamping, scrap booking, spending time with my family and going to the lake.  My goal as a teacher is to help my students become as independent as possible.

Tara McLellan

Hi, my name is Tara McLellan.  I grew up in Annandale, Minnesota, and I have been teaching since 1994. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education from St. Cloud State University, a Master’s in Teaching and Learning from St. Mary’s University, and a Principal License from Hamline University. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to teach students from kindergarten through grade 12, and I especially love helping students learn how to read.  Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family—whether we’re relaxing at the cabin or exploring new places. I also love baking, crafting, and reading. Some of my favorite places to visit are along the North Shore, including Duluth and beyond. One of my favorite quotes that guides me is: “Be curious, not judgmental.” — Ted Lasso

Maesyn Thiesen

Hi, I’m Maesyn Thiesen! I started my teaching journey in 2025, but my love for learning began as a student at Sauk Centre High School. After graduation, I attended the University of Minnesota Duluth, where I earned my degree in Elementary and Special Education and played basketball. In my free time, I love staying active and spending time with friends and family. One of my favorite parts of teaching is celebrating students’ successes and seeing how much they grow—both inside and outside the classroom!