Science

Welcome to Science at Barcroft

Kindergarten – Fourth grade

with Ms. Krista Bouton, Mrs. Susan Spranger and Mr. James Hainer-Violand


Ms. Bouton posing next to a koala.

Hello! My name is Krista Bouton. I was born in Oneonta, New York.  I moved to Virginia in 1997 and began teaching at Barcroft.  I have taught Kindergarten, 1st grade, was a resource teacher, participated in a Fulbright Teaching Exchange in England, and have been teaching in the Science Lab for the last 8 years. Teaching Science is my favorite. I love when students observe  and are curious about the world around them! When I’m not teaching, I enjoy traveling, reading, playing golf, and spending time with my boyfriend Rich and our dog, Sainte.


Mrs. Spranger smiling in her Science classroom.Hi! My name is Susan Spranger. I’ve been teaching for over thirty years, the past twenty years in APS. For sixteen years, I’ve been a Service Learning and Outdoor/Environmental Education Teacher. I’m thrilled to have recently joined the Barcroft team as a part-time Science Teacher. Science is a great subject to teach because just about every unit is super exciting! I just love watching kids make connections between everyday science (and other) curriculum while spending time in the natural world. I recognize the importance of getting children outside for learning. I’m excited to work with the PTA and my colleagues to grow the outdoor classroom program at Barcroft. I’ve already begun an after-school Environmental Club. On a personal note,  I’m married to Christian Spranger and we call Arlington home. We have two girls, Stephanie at Wakefield and Gabrielle at JMU. Our pets, Jessie the dog and Pepper and Brynn the cats bring me joy! My favorite places to spend time are the beach and the woods.


Hi, how y’all doing? My name is Mr. James, and I teach second language acquisition here at Barcroft elementary. Mr. Hainer smiling outside of BarcroftI have been working at Barcroft for 10 years and have worn many hats during my time here. I have a passion for the humanities and believe in forming a strong interpersonal relationship with all the students that I meet. You can always come up to me to say hi, and ask me any question about your child’s education and well being that crosses your mind. My favorite subject to teach is history, science and writing. My favorite sport to watch is Football, H.T.T.R! When I’m not teaching you could find me at the gym, practicing a new hobby, or hanging with my friends and family.