Three New Faces Join Duchesne Faculty

Three new teachers have joined the Duchesne faculty for the 2026-27 school year, bringing experience in theology, English, Spanish and international service to the classroom.

Madeline Smith joins Duchesne as a theology teacher. Smith holds a degree in theology and classical languages from the University of Notre Dame, where she specialized in scriptural and moral theology, particularly through the study of ancient languages.

She has served at Notre Dame, the Archdiocese of Chicago and the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, including work with religious education programs.

“I am most looking forward to being a member of the Duchesne family, attending sporting and fine arts events, and getting to know each and every one of my students on a personal level!” Smith said.

“Madeline Smith is going to be a great addition to our theology and campus ministry department,” Principal Kurt Schneider ’93 said. “Madeline has a wealth of experience in theology, leading retreats and planning liturgies. We’re excited to welcome her to the Pioneer family.”

Alex Venneman joins Duchesne as a writing and literature teacher after teaching English at Webster Groves High School. There, Venneman taught 20th-century and contemporary literature, developed assessments and academic interventions, and worked to strengthen students’ reading and writing skills.

Venneman earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education with a secondary major in English from Saint Louis University, graduating summa cum laude. He is certified to teach secondary English in grades 9-12.

“I look forward to joining such a tight-knit community,” Venneman said.

Schneider said Venneman’s enthusiasm for teaching will be an asset to the school.

“Alex is a passionate and energetic teacher who will make a great addition to the English department,” he said.

Daniel Kahrhoff joins Duchesne as a Spanish teacher. Kahrhoff brings extensive experience using the language professionally, including more than a year living and working in Costa Rica, where he communicated daily in Spanish with staff, vendors and members of the community.

Kahrhoff earned a Bachelor of Science in exercise science from Lindenwood University with a minor in Spanish and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration at Lindenwood. He is also enrolled in a Missouri teaching certification pathway and plans to pursue additional Spanish certification.

“I’m excited to help inspire our students and help them connect with new cultures through learning Spanish,” Kahrhoff said.

His addition comes as Duchesne expands its world language offerings with the return of French.

“We’re so excited to have Daniel Kahrhoff join our world language department,” Schneider said. “With the reintroduction of our French program, we needed to bring on an additional Spanish teacher. I’m especially excited about Daniel’s experience living in Costa Rica. He makes a great addition to our school.”