The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.



Meet Your Neighbor

BY: Grace Lessen - The Quill

Meet Your Neighbor Stephanie Mencel. Stephanie grew up in Colchester, graduated from Colchester High School and received her Bachelor's degree and Master's degree in Music Education from Western Illinois University in Macomb. 

Stephanie is married to Matt Mencel whom she met at WIU in the music department. Together, they have a daughter, Rachel, who married Adam Kerns two years ago.  They also live in Colchester.

Stephanie and Matt also have a son, William, who just finished his sophomore year of college.

Stephanie currently teaches K - 8th general music, band, and choir in the La Harpe school district.

Stephanie is just finishing her 18th year at La Harpe. "I have the best job!  I get to make music with the students all day long through many activities, games, stories, and rehearsals.  I enjoy the day-to-day experiences with the students when music really comes alive.

I also really enjoy the creative process of putting together a performance for our community and family members to enjoy.".  How has COVID affected your teaching? "COVID has been hard on the music program this year.  I am currently traveling to the general classrooms to have music class which means so much of my curriculum (dancing, moving, instrument playing) has all had to go on hold for the most part.  Singing for any length of time has also been discouraged so it has been a struggle to come up with meaningful activities to do without that core part of my usual curriculum".

In her free time, Stephanie enjoys going to Make Fit Happen in Macomb for TRX and Zumba Strong classes. Stephanie has also started taking classical guitar lessons. When Stephanie is at home, she enjoys watching Netflix with her husband. 

Stephanie is also actively involved in her church leading praise and worship music, helping lead youth group, and other children's ministry classes.  Stephanie's  advice to students is to "enjoy their school years and not to "wish it away."  Everyone is always saying they "can't wait to graduate."  I say get involved in many different activities, discover your likes and dislikes, talents, and hobbies.  You'll have plenty of time to be an adult, so enjoy your student days.  They go faster than you think".