Pictured left to right. - Ms. Carpenter, Mr. Eze, Ms. Dean, Ms. Steffans.

Mr. Eze is an easygoing and collaborative educator who believes that working together is the key to success. He was hired by the district in 2023 to teach ELA and Social Studies and transitioned to teaching Math and Science this school year. With a philosophy rooted in respect and empathy, Mr. Eze lives by the principle of loving others as he loves himself, while embracing all cultures and creating a positive classroom climate where every student feels valued. Outside the classroom, Mr. Eze enjoys staying active through soccer, basketball, and track, and he has a strong interest in pursuing meaningful and legitimate opportunities for growth. He holds both a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration (BSHA) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA), blending a strong educational background with a willingness to explore new possibilities. Always ready to learn, adapt, and grow, Mr. Eze brings energy, openness, and dedication to both teaching and life.

Ms. Dean is excited to join the Gardner Family this year in a dual role as the 3rd Grade ELA Teacher and the K-5 ELA Teacher Leader. With over two decades of experience in education, she brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her work. Since beginning her career with DPSCD in 2001, Ms. Dean has served in multiple capacities, including as a classroom teacher and an instructional coach at several K-8 schools throughout the district. Her diverse experiences have given her valuable insight into the needs of both students and educators. She strongly believes that “Readers are Leaders,” and she is dedicated to fostering a love of reading and literacy skills in all of her students. She works tirelessly to create engaging, supportive learning environments where young learners can grow their confidence and academic abilities. As a teacher leader, she also supports fellow educators by sharing best practices, coaching strategies, and innovative ideas to improve instruction across the grade levels. Outside of her professional life, Ms. Dean values quality time spent with family and friends. She enjoys participating in worship services, which provide her with inspiration and strength. Ms. Dean also prioritizes self-care and making space in her busy schedule to enjoy life’s simple pleasures—whether that’s a good book, a walk outdoors, or anything that brings a smile to her face. Her positive energy and commitment to both her students and the community make her a cherished member of the Gardner team.

Ms. Steffans is entering her 12th year of teaching elementary and middle school, bringing a wealth of experience and passion for helping students grow academically and socially. Before joining Gardner, she worked in the Children’s Department at the Redford Library, where she shared her love of reading and learning with young children, and also ran a homeschool co-op in Wayne County, providing creative and engaging educational experiences for families in the community. At Gardner, she teaches and supports 3rd grade Social Studies and 5th grade Science in her classroom, while also assisting in kindergarten, 4th, and 5th grade Social Studies classes, helping students explore new ideas and develop a love for learning. Outside the classroom, Ms. Steffans enjoys reading, baking, and hunting for unique treasures while thrifting. She is incredibly excited to be part of the Gardner community and looks forward to a year filled with curiosity, growth, and fun!