A Xiong Attendance/Truancy Coordinator
Classroom Support Mr. Xiong graduated from Metropolitan State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management. He would eventually like to become a business man. He likes to fish, play basketball, soccer, and football. He loves to go on vacation during Christmas.

Languages: English, Hmong
axiong@lighthouse.charter.k12.mn.us

Ahmed Elmi Technology Mr. Elmi's first degree was secondary education. He is currently finishing masters of education in ESL at Hamline University. He was in the computer field since 1995. He received MCSE (Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer) in 1997. He taught ESL/ELL/Math in Minneapolis Public Schools and St. Paul Public Schools since 1995. He created the SALT program in St.Paul. (Somali Academic Language Literacy) where some schools introduce students first language. He enjoys traveling and having a cup of coffee.

Languages: English, Somali and Arabic
ahelmi@lighthouse.charter.k12.mn.us

Farhan Hussein Executive Director Mr. Hussein joined the Academy in June 2008. Farhan was principal at Adam Abdulle Academy in Rochester, Minnesota. Also he was cofounder of the Adam Abdulle Academy. He was director of technology at Higher Ground Academy in St Paul for six years. He taught at Minnesota Literacy Council for three years. He was one of the developers and board members for the Minnesota International Middle School in Minneapolis. He obtained a B.S. in Information Technology and Management from the University of Minnesota, M.S. in Project Management from Saint Mary’s University, advanced certificate for school administration from Saint Mary’s University, and Ph.D in Educational Leadership from University of North Dakota.

Languages: English, Somali, Arabic
fhussein@lighthouse.charter.k12.mn.us

Joshua Espinosa English Teacher

jespinosa@lighthouse.charter.k12.mn.us

Summer Scharringhasusen Art Education Ms. Scharringhausen has a Bachelor’s Degree from Bethel University with a major in Visual Arts Education and a Minor in Spanish. She is also an assistant gallery director at Altered Esthetics in Northeast Minneapolis. Before teaching at Lighthouse, she taught at Franklin Middle School (Mpls) and Four Seasons Arts+ Elementary (StP), was a certified instructor/trainer for Caribou Coffee Company, and taught art for an independent after-school program. Summer and her husband enjoy camping, bike riding, and travel. She is a painter and enjoys the outdoors.

Languages: English, Spanish
sscharr@lighthouse.charter.k12.mn.us