Meet Our Staff

Mrs. Jennifer Howell

I am thrilled to be joining the Mill Creek family this school year. This year is my 21st year in education, my 8th as a school counselor, and my first at Mill Creek!   Before becoming a counselor, I spent 13 wonderful years teaching, primarily in middle school as an ELA teacher, and 4 years as a 5th grade teacher. Middle school is my jam. It has always been where I feel most at home.

I am from a   large, blended family and have one of my own. My wife and I have been married for 3 years and together we raise five amazing kids: Gwen (11th grade), Ancha (9th grade), Morgan (5th grade), Matthew (2nd grade), and our newest addition, Maverick, born in May 2025! Our home is full of love, laughter, and the joyful chaos   of busy schedules and shared   adventures.  Outside of work, I cherish quiet mornings with coffee, and love spending time with my family. Our kids’ activities keep us on the go, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!

 A few of my favorites:

•  TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy
•  Movie: Forrest Gump
•  Restaurants: Olive Garden & Texas   Roadhouse
•  Food: Popcorn & chocolate
•  Color: Purple
•  Sport: Football (Go Chiefs!) and anything   my kids play!

Mrs. Suzanne Wilson Yao

My name is Suzanne Wilson Yao and the 23-24 school year will be my 6th year as a school counselor. I have worked 5 years as a 10th-12th grade school counselor at Turner High School. 

I have been married to my husband James for 6 years. We have one daughter Ellie who was born March of 2023! In my free time I enjoy traveling, hiking, cooking and baking. 

• TV Show: The Office
• Movie Genre: Comedy
• Book: The Kite Runner 
• Restaurant: KC Joe's, Lucky Wok, Fronteras
• Food: Mexican or Italian 
• Color: Blue
• Sports Team: KC Royals and Chiefs 

Mrs. Debbie Landis, LSCSW, LCSW

Mrs. Landis has been with the district 6 years now.  She has over 25 years of experience working in the field of mental health with children and families in community agencies and partial in-patient hospitalization.  She enjoys reading, taking her dog on walks, and spending time with her family. 

Mrs. Kirstin Moerike

Mrs. Moerike received her B.A. in Psychology from Concordia College (MN), M.A. in Psychology (with a clinical focus) from Washburn University, and her Ed.S. in School Psychology from Emporia State University. Mrs. Moerike works with staff and students in the special education department. She coordinates with the team for evaluations and determining eligibility. She is involved with the Student Improvement Team and helping ensure students have what they need to be successful in school.