|
Flagstaff Academy Faculty and Staff
Principal - Andrew Moore
 Mr. Andrew Moore has a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from St. Edwards University in Austin, Texas. He has a Master’s degree in Education, and is pursuing an advanced degree in administration. He has over nine years of elementary school teaching experience, as well as four years of experience as a program manager for Avid 4 Adventure. Starting at Flagstaff in 2007, he was the 4th-8th grade math and literacy specialist before being appointed principal.
Mr. Moore says, "At Flagstaff Academy, we blend the traditional Core Knowledge curriculum with innovative technology implementation. This 21st century hybrid allows us to drive our programming with traditional values and contemporary pathways. It is an exciting time to be involved in education, and at Flagstaff we are bringing this excitement to the lives of our students every day of the year."
"As the school principal, I am able to leverage my passion for learning with my core values of honest communication and high quality instruction. Communication is the cornerstone of a strong school community and I strive to communicate with efficiency and compassion. Educationally, we are creating and maintaining programs which sustain our students for the duration of their tenure at Flagstaff. By employing consistent content objectives and quality instructional delivery we can ensure an amazing educational experience for each of our students."
Outside of school you might find Mr. Moore in the garden, on a mountain top or playing in the yard with his young son and lovely wife. [top of page]
Assistant Principal - Bess Kuzma
 Mrs. Bess Kuzma's undergraduate degree in education is from the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY. With a Master's degree in Administration and Supervision, her areas of expertise include the subjects of math and algebra, working with middle school students, and Core Knowledge.
Mrs. Kuzma’s recent background includes a Catholic elementary school, a Core Knowledge charter school in Broomfield, to a junior high school, and a charter school start-up on the eastern plains of Colorado where she served as founding principal. In addition to working as a teacher, Mrs. Kuzma has also held positions of middle school language arts specialist, math administrator, and principal. Mrs. Kuzma was drawn to Flagstaff, especially with the science and technology focus, Core Knowledge curriculum, and growing middle school. Mrs. Kuzma has held the position of Assistant Principal since 2007.
Mrs. Kuzma grew up near Syracuse, NY. Moving to Colorado about twenty years ago, Mrs. Kuzma and her husband live in central Denver along with their two cats, Basil and Veronica, and a collection turtle figurines. Other interest include knitting, needlework, jigsaw puzzles, and a serious reading habit. [top of page]
Dean of School Culture - Kevin Pugh
 Mr. Kevin Pugh is Flagstaff’s first Dean of School Culture, a position created to provide leadership in the development of a positive and supportive culture in which students and staff can reach their full potential.
Mr. Pugh holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication, and a dual Master's in Higher Education Administration and College Student Development. Mr. Pugh has over fifteen years experience in education, having served as an administrator and instructor at Baldwin-Wallace College in Ohio, Syracuse University, and the University of Colorado-Boulder. Mr. Pugh is an author and nationally recognized speaker and consultant with experience in educational and organizational development, restorative justice, and law enforcement, as well as community and personal development. Prior to Flagstaff Academy, Mr. Pugh was the Director of Community Affairs and Restorative Justice at the Lafayette Police Department. In this role, he specialized in working with juvenile offenders.
Born in southern New Jersey, Mr. Pugh has lived in Colorado for ten years with his wife and two young children. Outside of work, Mr. Pugh enjoys activities with his family, as well as skiing, mountain-climbing, and coaching soccer. He loves music and journalism. Mr. Pugh is an avid triathlete and marathoner, hoping to complete a marathon in every state before his fiftieth birthday. [top of page]
Preschool Director - Patricia Persons
 Mrs. Patty Persons holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Salem State College in Salem, Massachusetts. Her teaching experience includes all of the primary grades. In addition, Mrs. Persons has earned her degree in teaching English as a Second Language to adults and K-12 students.
Prior to joining Flagstaff, Mrs. Persons spent the last several years working as the Director of a private preschool in Niwot, CO. With this experience, Mrs. Persons has taken the leadership role in developing our preschool program.
Outside of school, she competes in league tennis, and enjoys hiking, biking, skiing and travel. [top of page]
Assistant Preschool Teacher - Regina Morrison
 Mrs. Regina Morrison received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Metropolitan State College in Denver in Psychology with a focus in Early Childhood Education. Prior to joining Flagstaff, Mrs. Morrison was a Family Educator in the Head Start Program in Nebraska for four years, as well as a substitute teacher in the St. Vrain Valley School District for several years.
What Mrs. Morrison appreciates most about Flagstaff is its sense of community and family which is reflected by the children of Flagstaff.
In her free time, Mrs. Morrison enjoys spending time with her husband and son, reading, watching movies, and baking. [top of page]
Kindergarten Full-Day Teacher – Kristina Beaudoin-Gudmundson
 Mrs. Kristina Beaudoin-Gudmundson received her Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, Northridge, in Humanities, with a focus in child psychology. She followed this with a two year teacher education program with an English Language Development endorsement.
What Mrs. Beaudoin-Gudmundson appreciates most about Flagstaff's mission and vision is the attention to all academics and the dedication to fostering well rounded, highly educated children.
In her free time, Mrs. Beaudoin-Gudmundson loves to spend time with her husband and two young children, and she especially enjoys reading, watching movies, and cheering on the Rockies. [top of page]
Kindergarten Full-Day Teacher – Tracy Applehans
 Ms. Tracy Applehans attended University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, CO, where she received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. After completing her certification in Elementary Education from Metropolitan State College of Denver, Miss Applehans taught preschool and kindergarten enrichment. She also worked as a counselor with disabled children for three years.
Ms. Applehans is a compassionate and devoted teacher, always seeking what is best for all children. Ms.Applehans is dedicated to helping all students celebrate their strengths and embrace their challenges.
Ms. Applehans is the passionate mother of one daughter, and she is a leader in her church and community. When not at school, Ms. Applehans enjoys drawing, baking, camping, and spending time with her family, pets, and friends. [top of page]
Kindergarten Full-Day Teacher - Stephanie Trostel
 Miss Stephanie Trostel earned a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Earth Science from the University of northern Colorado.As a member of the Flagstaff family, Miss Trostel recognizes what students need most to have successful lives. She feels that science and technology are the way of today and the future and is dedicated to preparing each student for life.
Miss Trostel is a native to Northern Colorado. In her spare time Miss Trostel enjoys scrapbooking, playing tennis and volleyball, and participating in community service projects. [top of page]
Kindergarten AM Teacher - Lynn Millane
 Mrs. Lynn Millane was born and raised in Michigan’s famed “Copper Country” located near Lake Superior. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Scientific and Technical Communications from Michigan Technological University, an Elementary Education teaching license from Colorado Christian University (CCU), and is completing her Master of Arts in Curriculum Instruction at CCU. Before coming to Flagstaff, Mrs. Millane taught in a private school and was a substitute teacher and an instructional assistant in the St. Vrain Valley School District.
As a parent of two children who have benefitted from the Core Knowledge curriculum, she is excited to be able to participate in teaching Core Knowledge to her first grade students at Flagstaff Academy. Mrs. Millane’s goal is to see children challenged and excited to reach their unique learning potential.
Mrs. Millane enjoys time with her family traveling, downhill skiing, mountain biking, kayaking and spending time at the beach. She also enjoys reading and sipping a good cup of coffee. [top of page]
.
First Grade Teacher - Susan Lamb
 Mrs. Susan Lamb was born in Iowa, and attended Bradley University in Peoria, IL, where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education.
Mrs. Lamb taught first and second grade for ten years in various areas of Texas. In addition, she has taught language arts and science. She loves seeing children become excited and motivated to learn and enjoys being part of this process.
Mrs. Lamb enjoys exercising, reading, and spending time with her husband and three children.[top of page]
First Grade Teacher - Brittney Baxter
 Miss Brittney Baxter graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Mathematics.
Miss Baxter's vision for the school year would be to see students' minds take off with excitement and curiosity with the rich curriculum provided at Flagstaff Academy. As an avid reader herself, Miss Baxter will be encouraging her students to grow in the areas of Language Arts and reading and writing, as they partner these skills with a tremendous technology and science curriculum.
Miss Baxter loves hiking, playing games, playing with her puppy, and traveling when she has the opportunity. [top of page]
First Grade Teacher - Kimberly Lewis
 Mrs. Kimberly Lewis graduated from the University of Colorado at Denver with undergraduate degrees in Liberal Arts and Science. Her degree includes a major in Elementary Education.
Mrs. Lewis appreciates all aspects of Flagstaff's vision, as each component works harmoniously to create a quality education and life beyond for our students. Mrs. Lewis affirms that it is wonderful that Flagstaff is able to focus on helping to develop our students' abilities in the areas of science and technology. Leaders in these areas of expertise are in high demand and the need will only exponentially increase in years to come.
Mrs. Lewis is originally from Albuquerque, NM, and now calls Colorado her home with her husband and a variety of pets. She enjoys fishing, camping, rock climbing (mostly bouldering), gardening, photography, and anything having to do with animals. [top of page]
First Grade Teacher - Erin Cynkar
 Ms. Erin Cynkar was born and raised in Seattle, WA. She moved to Colorado to attend Colorado State University, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Hyman Development and Family Studies. She later furthered her education by receiving her Master's in Elementary Education.
Ms. Cynkar is excited for the upcoming school year at Flagstaff Academy and hopes to pass that excitement onto her students. She believes in Flagstaff's mission to develop well-rounded students through Core Knowledge principles, focusing on science and technology , and teaching character education.
Ms. Cynkar loves to spend her free time with her five year old son, going on runs, playing tennis and playing the piano. [top of page]
Second Grade Teacher - Michelle Staehly
 Mrs. Michelle Staehly graduated from the University of Wisconsin La Crosse with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and intends to pursue graduate education here in Colorado.
Mrs. Staehly believes in the importance of incorporating technology into the Core Knowledge curriculum. She believes we are immersed in a world where technology is all around us and all children need to have as much hands-on exposure to this as possible. Mrs. Staehly intends to use all available Flagstaff resources to incorporate technology into a variety of lessons.
Mrs. Staehly is originally from Green Bay, WI. She loves Colorado’s mountains and tries to hike as much as possible. One of her favorite things to do on rainy days is to listen to music and work on quilting. Her other hobbies include gardening, reading, and taking her dog for runs.
[top of page]
Second Grade Teacher - Courtney DePoyster
 Miss Courtney DePoyster grew up in Denver and graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts and minors in both Special Education and Reading.
As a child, Miss DePoyster herself attended a Core Knowledge school. Therefore, she is especially excited to be teaching a curriculum that she is certain is an outstanding program for children.
In her free time, Miss DePoyster enjoys hiking, as well as watching movies and attending concerts. [top of page]
Second Grade Teacher - Katherine Sloop
 Ms. Katherine Sloop graduated from the University of Colorado Boulder, where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art with an emphasis in photography. Following her graduation, Ms. Sloop spent time in Quepos, Costa Rica, where she taught English to children and adults. She left Costa Rica with her certification in Teaching English as a Second Offered Language (TESOL). Ms. Sloop returned to University of Colorado in Boulder and completed her certification for elementary education.
Ms. Sloop is especially excited to be a part of a school community that has a clear and strong vision and mission. She most appreciates the goal to “pursue excellence in every student and employee.”
Ms. Sloop is a Colorado native, born and raised in Basalt, and she enjoys hiking, reading, and photography. [top of page]
Second Grade Teacher – Jennifer Lockwood
 Miss Jennifer Lockwood graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and licensure in Elementary Education. With her background in Psychology, Miss Lockwood understands child developmental processes, which enables her to guide students to reach their potential. Miss Lockwood is a Boulder native who studied abroad and volunteered at a local elementary school in Sydney, Australia, for nearly five months.
Miss Lockwood is thrilled to be a part of Flagstaff Academy, a school that encourages teamwork and respect. She strives to create a positive classroom environment in which her students feel comfortable and confident in exploring their own abilities. Miss Lockwood has a passion for teaching children and is excited to instill a lifelong love of learning and academic excellence in her students.
In her free time, Miss Lockwood enjoys yoga, running, reading and spending time with her wonderful family and friends. [top of page]
Third Grade Teacher - Jennifer Battistoni
 Miss Jennifer Battistoni received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Penn State and completed her Master's in curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on childing's writing at the University of Colorado in Boulder.
Prior to coming to Flagstaff, she taught second grade in Pittsburgh, PA. She believes that “every student should be viewed individually and that his or her strengths should be demonstrated for all to see”.
Ms. Battistoni loves to hike, ski, play soccer, and play Frisbee. On the quiet side, she enjoys yoga, reading, and writing poetry. [top of page]
Third Grade Teacher - Jason Zook
 Mr. Jason Zook attended Colorado State University where he received a Bachelor’s degree in English and is now completing his Master's degree.
Mr. Zook teaches third grade, and prior to having his own classroom, he was an instructional aide in second grade here at Flagstaff. He enjoys teaching because he loves it when “light bulbs go off in his students’ heads”.
Mr. Zook and his wife live in Firestone and they have two cats. He enjoys bicycling, basketball, and golf. In 1996 he carried the Olympic torch for the Atlanta Games! [top of page]
Third Grade Teacher - Jennifer Meyer
 Miss Jennifer Meyer grew up in Michigan and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Group Science with a Biology Emphasis from Grand Valley State University in Allendale, MI.
In her classroom, Miss Meyer explores concepts through reading and hands-on activities that allow students to use problem solving and critical thinking skills. One of the most important concepts that Miss Meyer promotes is to instill in each student a sense of responsibility. Miss Meyer states, “My goal for my students at the end of the year is to be independent thinkers who love to explore the world around them while having fun.”
Miss Meyer claims, “My passion in life is books! I read many children's books which allows me to recommend them to students. Reading is a big part of my teaching style. The students see my love of books and reading and hopefully want to explore books themselves.” [top of page]
Third Grade Teacher -Terri Reh
 Mrs. Terri Reh has a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature from the University of Colorado and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Regis University. In addition, she completed a seminar on Multiple Intelligences from Harvard Graduate School.
Mrs. Reh recently moved from teaching first to third grade. Before coming to Flagstaff, she was a substitute teacher in both the St. Vrain Valley School District as well as several private schools in the area. She has also worked as the Kid’s Coordinator at Longmont Free University.
Mrs. Reh enjoys identifying what makes each child’s learning ability unique and guides her teaching accordingly. She has two children, both of whom attend Flagstaff Academy. In her spare time she enjoys skiing and reading. [top of page]
Fourth Grade Teacher - Terri Long
 Mrs. Terri Long holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Business Administration from California State San Marcos.
Mrs. Long has been a member of the teaching team at Flagstaff Academy since 2006. She has taught second and fifth grade and she believes that learning should be fun. She loves to bring humor into her classroom.
Mrs. Long is originally from San Diego, CA, and moved to Colorado with her family over five years ago. Outside of the classroom Mrs. Long enjoys spending time with her three children and her husband. She enjoys reading, writing, bike riding, football, and listening to music.[top of page]
Fourth Grade Teacher - Yelena Brachman
Mrs. Brachman has a Bachelor's degree in Geography and Peace and Conflict studies at University of Colorado. She also has a Masters in Educational Psychology.
Mrs. Brachman had been teaching for 3 years and thinks learning should be exiting, sticky, stretchy, and of course hands on!
In her free time Mrs. Brachman likes to hike with her dogs, climb, knit, ski, do yoga and travel
Fourth Grade Teacher - Debbie DePoyster
 Mrs. Debbie DePoyster earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education at Plymouth State College in the White Mountains of New Hampshire.
Mrs. DePoyster originally became a substitute teacher for Jefferson County Schools, but she left teaching to stay home and raise her three daughters. Mrs. DePoyster states, “When my children entered the newly opened Jefferson Academy Charter School, I became a supporter of Core Knowledge.” Mrs. DePoyster substituted there regularly for nine years, as well as being a very active parent volunteer. Mrs. DePoyster returned to teaching full time at Rocky Mountain Academy in Evergreen, another Core Knowledge Charter school, where she taught fourth grade.
Mrs. DePoyster was born outside of Boston and grew up in New England. She and her husband moved toColorado thirty years ago. She spends the summer reading and hiking in the mountains. [top of page]
Fourth Grade Teacher - Barbara Curtis
 Mrs. Barbara Curtis received her Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University, Northridge. Mrs. Curtis has been with the teaching staff at Flagstaff Academy since 2005. This is her second year teaching fourth grade. She thinks that it is important to incorporate outstanding literature into her teaching and instill a love of reading in her students.
Mrs. Curtis is a native of southern California, but has been living in Colorado for over eight years. She enjoys hiking and camping with her husband and two children. In her spare time she loves to read and go to the movies. [top of page]
Fifth Grade Teacher - Jaclyn Adley
 Mrs. Jaclyn Adley has a Bachelor’s degree in Parks and Recreation Management from Northern ArizonaUniversity, and a Master’s degree in Childhood Education from Lehman College in New York.
Mrs. Adley comes to Flagstaff having taught in the public school system in New York City, as well as Aurora, CO. In her classroom, she promotes a high level of activity and learning. Mrs. Adley believes that good literature should be incorporated into every subject area.
Mrs. Adley loves skiing, hiking, and backpacking. She is a member of the International Educational Honor Society, Kappa Delta Pi. [top of page]
Fifth Grade Teacher - Melissa Slinker
 Ms. Melissa Slinker graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Colorado Christian University in Denver, CO, focusing on education. Ms. Slinker recently completed all requisite classes for her Master’s degree.
As a military child, Ms. Slinker claims to have “had the opportunity to live in three states before my second birthday.” She now lives in Colorado, however, and feels that it is her home.
When she is not teaching, Ms. Slinker enjoys spending time with her family, playing or watching sports, being with friends, and shopping. [top of page]
Fifth Grade Teacher - Lori Salinas
 Mrs. Lori Salinas graduated from Texas State University, earning Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Elementary Education, and she has been actively teaching since 2001.
Mrs. Salinas recently moved to Colorado from Seattle, WA. She and her husband have a nine year old lab/golden retriever mix. When she’s not in school, she enjoys traveling, which enables her to learn about different cultures and ways of life. She also likes outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, swimming, and gardening. Mrs. Salinas is an avid reader and attempts to read as much as she can. [top of page]
Fifth Grade Teacher - Kelly Burnett
 Mrs. Kelly Burnett has a Bachelor's of Interdisciplinary Liberal Arts with a concentration in Spanish from the University of Northern Colorado. Mrs. Burnett has taught third, fourth, and fifth grade for several years in Keenesburg, Loveland, and Colorado Springs, CO.
Mrs. Burnett enjoys traveling and is a scube certified diver. In her spare time, Mrs. Burnett enjoys reading a variety of books, quilting, and cooking new and exciting meals. [top of page]
Middle School History/Geography Teacher - Ashley Anderson
 Miss Ashley Anderson received her Bachelor’s degree from Dakota State University (South Dakota) in K-8 Elementary Education, with additional credentialing in 5-8 Middle Level and K-8 Special Education.
Miss Anderson is in charge of the History/Geography component of the middle school program at Flagstaff Academy. She loves the small environment that Flagstaff offers and particularly enjoys working with a “fabulous group of staff members and students”. In her spare time, she plays league volleyball, skis, snowboards, and hikes. [top of page]
Middle School History/Geography Teacher - Graham Debenport
 Mr. Graham Debenport received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia in History. He also completed the University of Colorado in Boulder Master’s Plus Licensure Program where he received his initial Colorado teacher's license in secondary social studies education and a Master of Arts degree in Curriculum and Instruction.
Mr. Debenport is extremely excited to establish himself as a positive force in the Flagstaff community. He has always had a real passion for the study of history, and looks forward to sharing this with his students. In his spare time Mr. Debenport enjoys hiking, playing tennis, and rooting for his St. Louis Cardinals and Missouri Tigers. [top of page]
Middle School Science Teacher - Bryce Gruneich
 Mr. Bryce Gruneich earned a Bachelor of Science in Science Education from the University of Iowa and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Colorado Boulder. Mr. Gruneich believes that a science classroom should be one which inspires awe and critical thinking in children showing them how nature operates. Middle School is the time to instill a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world and, hopefully, create life-long learners.
Mr. Gruneich grew up in the tiny town of Walcott, Iowa, before moving to the moderdately sized Bettendorf, Iowa, where he attended middle and high school. Mr. Gruneich moved to Colorado from Iowa in 2008 for graduate school and has since fallen in love with the mountains and the 60° days in January (but not so much the snow in May). He enjoys Ultimate Frisbee, soccer, cycling, swing dancing, Sushi and Rock Band/Guitar Hero. [top of page]
Middle School Science Teacher - Charlie Warren
 Mr. Charlie Warren has loved science since he made his first insect collection in kindergarten. With a Bachelors and Masters in Biological Sciences and a PhD in Science Education - research and practice, Mr. Warren has blended a love of learning science with a commitment to teaching it. Of all the ages he has taught, he prefers middle-schoolers. He finds them sophisticated enough to understand complex science and young enough to maintain the curiosity, wonder and awe that make science fun.
Mr. Warren was the proud recipient of the 2007 Amgen Award for Science Teaching Excellence for Colorado while at Crestone Charter School and is certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards.
When time and weather permit, he is likely found in a trout stream, fly rod in hand. He has progressed from hockey player to hockey fan. He is the proud father of a 27 year old son, Chris, who is a professional ornithologist in Texas. All those years of bird watching with a toddler in tow paid off! [top of page]
Middle School Language Arts Teacher - Lisa Wilkins
 Mrs. Lisa Wilkins earned a Bachelor’s degree in English from Capital University in Ohio and has completed post graduate work in American history.
Mrs. Wilkins intends to incorporate a significant amount of history into her teaching of literature through background information and context. Having taught American History as well as English at the high school level for several years, Mrs. Wilkins draws from this experience to make the teaching of literature interesting and fun for her students.
Mrs. Wilkins states, “The vast majority of the literature in the Core Knowledge sequence represents material that I’ve taught before, and I am grateful to see students experiencing this at the middle school level. Mastering the material in this Core Knowledge sequence is going to do a great deal to help children be well prepared for high school.”
Mrs. Wilkins was a stay-at-home mom for many years before she began teaching. She enjoys spending time with her husband and their four children. [top of page]
Middle School Language Arts Teacher - Adam Burton
 Mr. Adam Burton attended the University of Northern Colorado where he earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts, majoring in Art History. Mr. Burton earned a Master’s degree in Secondary English from Adams State College, and most recently taught English and Drama at Centauri High School in La Jara, CO.
Mr. Burton states his vision for his students as, “Helping students grow and meeting the individual needs of each student without losing group focus through the use of Core Knowledge.”
Mr. Burton’s interests include reading, playing card games, skiing, and watching live music. [top of page]
Middle School Math Teacher - Cara O'Malley
 Mrs. Cara O'Malley graduated from Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics. Previously on the faculty at Telluride Middle /High School, she taught all levels of high school math including AP Calculus as well as sixth grade math and science. In Grand Junction, Mrs. O'Malley taught summer school and provided tutoring for struggling high school math students. Mrs. O'Malley currently teaches Algebra I and Geometry at Flagstaff Academy.
Mrs. O'Malley grew up in LaGrange Park, IL. She lives with her husband and their two children, who are both Flagstaff Academy students, a dog, a guinea pig, and some fish. When she is not teaching, Mrs. O'Malley enjoys running, hiking, biking, skiing, and gardening. [top of page]
Middle School Math Teacher - Lori Ledbetter
 Mrs. Lori Ledbetter grew up in Illinois where she attended Northern Illinois University for two years. She moved to Florida and completed her college education at the University of South Florida. There she completed her Bachelor's degree in Information Systems. After working as a computer network specialist for many years, Mrs. Ledbetter earned her teaching license in Secondary Mathematics. She taught technology in Jefferson County School and middle school math in Adams 12 Schools before joing the team at Flagstaff Academy.
Mrs. Ledbetter loves to exploit the sunergy of math and technology and incorporates technology into her math lessons whenever possible. She also enjoys linking math lessons into what her students are learning in other Core Knowledge subject areas.
When she is not teaching, Mrs. Ledbetter likes to spend time doing outdoor activities with her husband and two children such as hiking, biking and skiing. She also loves to read, knit, quilt and do woodworking. [top of page]
Science Building Resource Teacher (kingergarten - fifth grade) – Peggy Simone
Mrs. Peggy Simone earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Texas and a Master of Science in Physical Geography at Oklahoma State University. Mrs. Simone had the opportunity to teach physical geography laboratories at each university. Mrs. Simone was an Environmental Scientist and Project Manager with consulting firms in Boulder, CO, and Houston, TX, and a Senior Scientist for Groundwater Monitoring Programs at industrial and hazardous waste landfills located in California and Minnesota.
Mrs. Simone has been teaching at Flagstaff Academy since 2004. She states, “I can’t wait to perform hands-on science experiments in the K-5 Science Lab. My favorite times at school are when I see students’ faces light up with big smiles when they’ve just done something fun and amazing in the lab (the “WOW” factor!)”
Mrs. Simone is the mother of two Flagstaff Dragons. She has a great passion for reading, and enjoys sharing the pleasures of Colorado with her children. [top of page]
Spanish Teacher (fourth and fifth grade) – Vilma Montealegre
 Mrs. Vilma Montealegre earned her degree in Clinical Psychology in Guatemala. She has taught Spanish in various local schools to children of all ages.
Mrs. Montealegre’s passion is to bring the Hispanic culture into the classroom. She draws material from her beloved Guatemala and from her summer travels with her family to Argentina and Spain. Accurately pronouncing her last name is usually the mid term test!
Mrs. Montealegre was born in Guatemala City, Guatemala. She and her family have lived in Boulder for over twelve years. [top of page]
Spanish Teacher (Middle School) - Jacob McGuire
 Mr. Jacob McGuire was born near Chicago, IL. He graduated from the University of Colorado with a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs with a Latin American emphasis. Mr. McGuire has chosen a career in education as he considers it to be of the utmost importance for individual and collective success. His first job after college was in a preschool, working with the children and as the facility’s program coordinator. When not in the classroom Mr. McGuire spent his time writing grants and fundraising.
Aside from teaching, Mr. McGuire is interested in human rights and cultural anthropology. He lived abroad teaching English as a foreign language and upon his return began teaching Middle School Spanish at Flagstaff Academy. He enjoys working with children, instructing gymnastics, and assisting ski team coaches in fostering healthy and competitive relationships among the younger racers. He plans on returning to graduate school within the next few years. [top of page]
Music Teacher (Instrumental and fifth - eighth grade) – Alexandria Pretzer
 Miss Alexandria Pretzer received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from the University of Colorado at Boulder with flute as her major instrument.
Miss Pretzer loves Flagstaff’s dedication to the students and to preparing them to be knowledgeable and caring members of the community and the world.
Miss Pretzer is originally from Manitou Springs, CO. Her interests include musicals, piano and guitar, knitting, and skiing. [top of page]
Music Teacher (Choir and kindergarten - fourth grade) – Cathy Smith
 Mrs. Cathy Smith holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Northern Colorado in Music Education with a Choral Music and Vocal emphasis.
Mrs. Smith has been singing her entire life and knew she wanted to be a music teacher ever since fifth grade. She has a special love for the theater and has been in several musical productions around northern Colorado.
On the weekends she enjoys reading, shopping, and singing with her husband. [top of page]
Art Teacher (kindergarten - fourth grade) – Kyle Sumnicht
 Mr. Sumnicht has worked extensively to develop an art program that allows students to actively experience art history while in a classroom setting. He enjoys making art come to life for kids.
In his spare time, Mr. Sumnicht is an avid outdoorsman. During the summers he guides canoe trips in Minnesota's "Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness". He especially enjoys mountain climbing, hiking, and traveling. [top of page]
Art Teacher (fifth - eighth grade) – Gillian Bozanic
 Mrs. Gillian Bozanic earned a Bachelor's degree from California State University, Long Beach, with a double major in Art and Journalism and a minor in Art History. Mrs. Bozanic has also completed two post-graduate certificate programs: Writing for Children and Graphic Design.
Mrs. Bozanic has been a substitute teacher in the Seattle school district and an instructional aide at Flagstaff (Kindergarten). She also worked in Hollywood designing movie posters and earned an Olympic medal for poster design.
Mrs. Bozanic was born in New York City and raised in California. She enjoys scuba diving, boogie-boarding, skiing, and trying to decipher movies in French. When not teaching, she loves spending quality time with her husband, two children, their golden retriever, and a guinea pig named Marshmallow.[top of page]
Physical Education (kindergarten to fourth grade) – Jon Fidelak
 Mr. Jon Fidelak graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Dartmouth College in Hanover, NH. He has been a competitive athlete for most of his life, competing on the Canadian national track and field team while in high school and achieving All-American honors while running track at Dartmouth College. He has recently traded in his running shoes for bicycles, and races in local cycling events.
After graduating from Dartmouth, he worked as an associate track and field coach at Dartmouth and as an elementary instructional aide and middle school track and field coach in California.
Mr. Fidelak has worked as a kids’ program coordinator and personal trainer for the YMCA of Boulder Valley, and served as the Physical Education teacher at Flagstaff Academy for the 2005-2006 inaugural school year, taking on this role as a volunteer. He is excited to now be part of the Flagstaff Academy community on a fulltime basis.
Coach Jon stays active by chasing and playing with his two children and training to race on his bicycle. [top of page]
Physical Education (fifth - eighth grade) – Kenny Wildenstein
 Mr. Kenny Wildenstein graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a Bachelor of Science in Sport and Exercise Science. He also completed a Minor program in history and one in coaching.
While in college, Mr. Wildenstein worked in youth recreation for the city of Greeley, CO, where he coached football and helped conduct a mariachi band. Over the past two school years he taught kindergarten through sixth grade Physical Education and coached sixth grade volleyball in Arvada, CO.
As a child, Mr. Wildenstein lived in many places and attended ten elementary schools in three states. In his spare time, Coach Wildenstein enjoys many activities from hockey to racquetball. [top of page]
Technology (fifth - eighth grade) - Paul Ingersoll
 Mr. Paul Ingersoll attended Colorado State University, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Technology. After graduating, Mr. Ingersoll spent over twenty years in the technology field. Throughout his career, he was often tapped for the role of technology trainer, which is where he developed a love for teaching.
In addition to technology teaching at Flagstaff Academy, Mr. Ingersoll is also in the midst of expanding the technology curriculum at the school. The objective is to equip the lab's computers with a robust collection of software applications to support outstanding teaching.
Mr. Ingersoll grew up near Syracuse, NY, where he attended school and enjoyed playing hockey and fishing for bass and trout. He now lives on a small farm in Berthoud with his wife and their three sons. They are surrounded by a large family of animals including horses, chickens, goats, dogs, cats, and even a turtle. [top of page]
Technology (kindergarten - fourth grade) - Susan Sebastiani
 Mrs. Susan Sebastiani graduated from Metropolitan State College of Denver with a Bachelor's degree in Chicano Studies and licensure in Elementary Education. Through her college career she worked as a Technology Paraprofessional in an elementary school where she worked with students and teachers in developing a technology curriculum.
Mrs. Sebastiani believes that every child has the capacity to learn and grow in this technology era and succeed with the skills they will learn at Flastaff Academy as 21st century learners.
Mrs. Sebastiani is a Colorado native. She lives in Brighton with her husband and three of her children. In her spare time she likes to make scrapbooks and other craft projects. .[top of page]
Library Media Center - Zoe Midler
 Mrs. Zoe Midler earned a Bachelor of Science in Advertising from the University of Illinois (Urbana) and is currently working on a Master’s degree in School Librarianship through the University of Colorado Denver. Before joining Flagstaff, she operated her own business research and competitive intelligence firm and worked in the high-tech field as a software product manager.
Mrs. Midler’s library management philosophy is closely aligned with standards for the 21st century learner – a school library should be transformed from a place to merely check out books to an information hub combining classic library assets with technology-based resources, research strategy instruction, and digital profile training. She wants to encourage an atmosphere in Flagstaff’s Library Media Center (LMC) that encourages students to investigate and scrutinize all aspects of the information environment and become discerning consumers of information.
Originally from Champaign-Urbana, IL, Mrs. Midler lives in Longmont with her husband and two children. They enjoy hiking, camping, snowshoeing, hockey, and love to travel and experience other countries and cultures.[top of page]
Special Education - Karen Jardine
Mrs. Karen Jardine holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, and a Master’s in Education. Her classroom experience includes educating cognitively disabled and emotionally disturbed children. In her position at Flagstaff, as well as working with students, she assists teachers in designing individualized instruction to help students be successful.
Mrs. Jardine has mentored Special Education teachers throughout the St. Vrain Valley School District, and is an educational consultant. In her spare time she enjoys movies, family activities, and making jewelry. [top of page]
Counselor - Kelly Taylor Russell
 Mrs. Kelly Taylor Russell is a psychotherapist with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Illinois State University and a Master of Arts in Contemplative Psychotherapy from Naropa University. She specializes in working with children and adolescents. Mrs. Taylor Russell believes that children naturally move toward health during therapy, particularly with the use of play and sandplay therapy. She is honored to witness children and parents as they uncover their own widsom and resolve the issues that are causing them to suffer.
Mrs. Taylor Russell grew up in Illinois and moved to Boulder, Colorado in 2005 with her husband, Toby. When not working or trying to find new ways to get her son to eat his vegetables, Kelly may be found gardening, cooking, hiking, spending time with her family and creating community where she lives in Lyons. [top of page]
Intervention Specialist (kindergarten - second grade) - Kari Hvidevold
 Mrs. Kari Hvidevold holds the position of Literacy Building Resource Teacher for grades K-3, and has over six years of teaching experience. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Master’s of Education in Curriculum and Instruction: Reading. She believes that “when expectations in education are set high, children will rise to the occasion time after time”.
Mrs. Hvidevold lives with her husband and two children, and enjoys camping, hiking, fishing, and being with her family. [top of page]
Intervention Specialist (third - fifth grade) - J. Clark Farmer
 Mr. Clark Farmer received his Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature at the University of Chicago, and a Ph.D. in Communication Studies at the University of Iowa. He was a Fulbright Scholar in Munich, Germany, and was Assistant Professor of Film Studies at the University of Colorado, Boulder, before joining the world of elementary education.
Here at Flagstaff, Mr. Farmer wants to help each of his students achieve their academic goals and enjoy learning. Mr. Farmer grew up in Provo, UT. He loves cooking, comic books, cryptic crosswords, and his cat Greta. [top of page]
Assessment Specialist - Abby Rooks
 Miss Abby Rooks is originally from Michigan, and she graduated from Grand Valley State University with a major in Group Science and a minor in Elementary Education.
Miss Rooks spent her first two years at Flagstaff teaching first grade. She is excited to have the opportunity to work with students and teachers across all grade levels as our Assessment Specialist.
Miss Rooks enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family. In the summer she travels back to Michigan to work for an old high school teacher shaving ice for local events and fairs. [top of page]
|
