Performing Arts
Christian White
Director of Vocal Music
P: 515-242-7573 | E: christian.white@dmschools.org
Biography
Mr. Christian White was born and raised in the Des Moines area before moving to Chicago to attend DePaul University School of Music where he received his Bachelor of Music in Music Education. After Chicago, Mr. White moved back to Des Moines to teach at Lincoln High School; this is his fourth year teaching with the Railsplitters. Mr. White is in the process of completing his Master of Science in Education degree in Culturally Responsive Leadership and Instruction at Drake University.
Jaime McTaggart
English Teacher/Drama Teacher
P: 515-242-8452 | E: jamie.mctaggart@dmschools.org
Biography
This will be my third year teaching English and Theatre at Rails Academy. I earned my undergraduate degree from Central College, in Vocal Performance and Theatre. Following undergrad, I moved to Chicago and enjoyed a career as a performer for nine years. Upon moving back to Des Moines, I earned my Master of Arts in Teaching degree from Drake University. I still love to dance, sing, and act, but my favorite thing to do is spend time with my four year old daughter, Daisey (who is already a little performer as well!).
James Deignan
Assistant Director of Vocal Music
P: 515-242-8452 | E: James.Deignan@dmschools.org
Biography
James Deignan is a proud 2015 graduate of Luther College in Decorah, Iowa. Mr. Deignan began teaching at Lincoln High School in Des Moines, Iowa in the fall of 2016. Prior to Lincoln, James taught elementary music in Big Lake, Minnesota. Multiple leaders of the choral profession have mentored James, including Andrew Last, Allen Hightower, Steve Albaugh, and Ryan Deignan. James is also a composer of choral works (he studied composition with Brooke Joyce at Luther), and has premiered music with the Luther College Collegiate Choir, WCC Chancel Choir of Wayzata, and Magpies & Ravens in Minneapolis, MN
Johanna Kennedy
Director of Orchestras
P: x7511 | E: Johanna.Kennedy@dmschools.org
Biography
Orchestra Director
niversity of Nebraska-Lincoln Alum
Part-time Lincoln, part-time Weeks
Michael Williams
English Teacher, Performing Arts
P: x7366 | E: Michael.Williams@dmschools.org
Biography
Hello! My name is Michael Williams and I am incredibly happy to teach at Lincoln! I am a proud UNI Panther alum! I am not new to the area as I grew up in Des Moines and am a product of the Des Moines Public Schools! I have been involved in theatre since middle school and love the creativity that it fosters! Go Rails!