Christine West
Kindergarten Teacher (Full-Day)
I am originally from Dallas, Texas and received my bachelor’s degree from Southern Methodist University, and my teaching license from Metropolitan State University. I live in Highlands Ranch with my amazing husband, Josh, and my three dogs Dixie, Hubert and Sadie. Beyond teaching, I love to be outdoors with my family and friends, love to travel, work on our new house and enjoy scrapbooking the wonderful memories we make!
Sarah Dunn
Kindergarten Teacher (Half-Day)
Moving to Colorado in 2006 was the start of a great adventure for me. I ventured to Colorado to attend the University of Northern Colorado where I earned my degree in Elementary Education. Outside of teaching I love spending time with friends and family, outdoors! I enjoy trying new things including paddle board yoga and visiting new baseball stadiums!
Rachel Youssef
Kindergarten Teacher (Full-Day)
I graduated from Elon University in North Carolina where I received my BA in elementary education and a minor in psychology. I have spent most of my life moving around, living in five different states as well as living overseas in Italy, Belgium, and the United Arab Emirates. Having just moved from Phoenix, Arizona I am very excited to call Colorado my new home! In my free time I enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors, exercising, crafting, and being with my friends, family, and my yellow lab, Maggie!
Brittany Carpenter
Kindergarten Teacher (Full-Day)
I recently graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a B.A. in Early Childhood Education. I have been working in the early childhood field for several years. I am a 4th generation native to Colorado and grew up in Highlands Ranch. I am very close with my family and love spending time with them. I am a big animal lover! I have 3 rowdy dogs named Buster, Abigail and Russell, 2 parakeets and an Eclectus parrot named Keko. In my free time I enjoy going to the movies, concerts and doing anything outdoors. On Sundays you can find me with the family watching the Broncos. My family has been season ticket holders for the last 30 years.
Rena Tyler
Kindergarten Ability Grouping Instructor
I grew up overseas and I moved to Texas to attend university. I also have a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from UCCS. I have two wonderful children who are both attending universities in Colorado. The rest of my family consists of 3 dogs (my hiking buddies), a horse, and a sweet donkey named Buford. I am passionate about teaching and learning in a positive environment.
Chris Todd
First Grade Teacher
I received my Bachelor's Degree from the Metropolitan State College of Denver and my Master's degree from Colorado Christian University in Curriculum and Instruction. Originally from Indiana, I made my way to Colorado via Hilton Head Island in 1994. Interests include, but are not limited to, enjoying the outdoors, traveling, and music/concerts.
Corie O'Brien
First Grade Teacher
I am a native of Colorado. I grew up in Centennial and went through the Cherry Creek School District. I received my Bachelor Degree in Human Development and Family Studies at Colorado State University (Go Rams!) and continued on to get my Teaching license from Metropolitan State College in Denver. I live in Highlands Ranch with my husband, Steve, and our four children.
Nicole Camp
First Grade Teacher
I received my bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science and a minor in Elementary Education from Metropolitan State College of Denver in 2008. I am a native to Colorado and love everything this beautiful state has to offer. Outside of teaching, I love spending time with my family, camping, and traveling.
Abbey Grubb
First Grade Teacher
I received a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Colorado at Boulder and later completed a Master of Arts in Elementary Education at the University of Phoenix. Colorado is my home and I enjoy hiking, skiing, photography, playing the piano, reading a good book, and spending time with family and friends. For me, the excitement of helping a student learn a new concept and witnessing the “aha” moment is one of the thrilling joys of teaching.
Hollie Baca
Second Grade Teacher
I graduated from Regis University in Denver but started my college career at Colorado State - Go Rams! I grew up in a small farm town in Swink, CO, and love going home to see my family throughout the. My family grows Rocky Ford Watermelon & Cantaloupe along with many yummy veggies, so I’m busy with Farmer’s Markets on my weekends every summer. Another part of my family is my two cats which I’m sure your kids will tell you all about throughout the year, as I share stories about their adventures. When I’m not teaching or selling melons, I love scrapbooking, watching movies, reading, & vacations - preferably on a beach.
Tanya Diederich
Second Grade Teacher
I am from Colorado! I grew up in the Parker area. I went to CU Boulder where I majored in English and received my teaching certificate. I enjoy knitting, crochet, embroidery, and reading. I love going hiking and biking with my family. My guilty pleasure is watching NASCAR. My husband is a Field Artillery officer and we have 2 daughters. We have 2 cats we call Merry and Pippin (after the hobbits in Lord of the Rings, yes we are geeky that way.)
Layne Bradbury
Second Grade Teacher
I received my Bachelor’s degree from Metropolitan State College of Denver with a major in English and a minor in Elementary Education. I am a native to Colorado and couldn’t imagine living anywhere else. I love to be outdoors, swim, bike, and in the winter you can usually find me snowmobiling. I have the two cutest English Bulldogs, Gus and Howard.
Jessica Mazzoni
Second Grade Teacher
I received my Bachelor’s of Arts Degree from Western Governors University. My husband, Patrick, and I have two beautiful children, a daughter and a son. We rescued our one and only pet, a Rhodesian Ridgeback, Ronin. In my free time I enjoy running, reading, and scrap booking.
Kimber Jimenez
Third Grade Teacher
I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University. I was born and raised in Bradenton, Florida. My husband and I have an amazing little girl. Our family moved here from Florida in 2012 and we are delighted to call Colorado our new home. When I am not in the classroom I enjoy spending quality time with my husband, daughter and our maltipoo dog, Bailey.
Linda Martinez
Third Grade Teacher
I’ve lived in Denver since 2004 and love being here. My husband and I have 2 dogs, Roxie and Rex, and a cat, Sophie. I enjoy reading, running, camping, hiking, and hanging out with my family and friends in my spare time.
Leslie Silvers
Third Grade Teacher
I am from California where redwoods and ocean mist make brilliant subjects in my photos. My hobbies are reading, novice photography, traveling, and continuing to be a lifelong learner through educational workshops. I believe that every child has the ability for joy in my classroom, and I strive for academic success with a smile each day for all.
Dana Chelak
Third Grade Teacher
I grew up in Pennsylvania, graduated from Penn State University with a bachelor's degree in Elementary and Kindergarten Education, spent a few years in Virginia, and then moved to Colorado in 2009. I absolutely love it here! In my free time I like to rock climb, ski, and travel to visit friends and family. I enjoy the new experiences and challenges each day of teaching brings.
Tami Bostick
Fourth Grade Teacher
I was born and raised in a small Texas town with a great German heritage, Fredericksburg. I married my best friend and became an Army wife, taking to the gypsy lifestyle. As an Army wife I attended a number of universities and earned several degrees in psychology and education in Georgia, Washington, Texas, Alaska, and Colorado. I have two remarkable sons and a beloved old German Sheppard named Bruno. I am a colossal football fan. I can be found obnoxiously cheering for my Valor Eagles, University of Texas Longhorns, and Denver Broncos! I am also an avid outdoor runner. Running is where I find my tranquility. I have an immense passion for education and truly enjoy what I do.
Robyn Hunt
Fourth Grade Teacher
I am from Michigan and received my bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University. I received my teaching certification from Metro State University. I am an avid outdoorsman, love horses, scuba diving, hiking, fishing, and working out. My favorite thing to do is to watch my boys play sports! I have an incredible husband who supports and loves me through it all. We have two incredible boys and a small zoo at home. Our boys are highly active in swimming, basketball, baseball, and football. Our zoo consists of 3 dogs, 2 guinea pigs, 2 bearded dragons, and a tortoise.
Sarah Anderson
Fourth Grade Teacher
I have lived in Colorado since I was 6 years old, and I love the seasons and mountains. I can't imagine that I will ever leave! I attended Metro State College of Denver and got my teaching license in 2007 as well as a degree in Behavioral Science. I enjoy spending time with my two daughters, playing outside and watching movies. Some of my favorite activities are going hiking, cooking, eating what I cook, and watching Rockies games at Coors Field.
Anna Sampson
Fourth Grade Teacher
I attended the University of Northern Colorado where I earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education. I have taught at both the elementary and sixth grade levels. I enjoy reading, hiking, horseback riding, playing with my dog, Paisley, and traveling, but my main passion is teaching. My favorite part of teaching is determining each child’s needs and working to meet those needs. I love helping children reach their full potential, creating a positive classroom experience, and building confident learners!
Lisa Wanninger
Ability Grouping Instructor
I am originally from Indiana; however, I have lived in Colorado since 2009. I graduated summa cum laude from the University of Southern Indiana with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. In my free time, I love traveling, running, hiking (especially 14ers), yoga, and reading.
Nancy Heins
Fifth Grade Teacher
I have the best job in the world-- every day I get to laugh with students while they are learning. I am an avid Gator fan and Florida graduate. My husband, Joe, and I have a son and a daughter. We also have two terrier dogs, Charley and Sophie, who are in charge of the house. I enjoy sports, cooking, traveling, art, gardening, and reading.
Megan Benedik
Fifth Grade Teacher
I graduated from DePauw University with a sociology/anthropology degree. Knowing I wanted to work with children and serve the community, I moved to Denver and completed two years of Americorps. I received my elementary teaching license through the Stanley British Primary School Teacher Preparation Program in Denver. It is the oldest alternative licensure program in Colorado. While in the program, I was able to start a Masters in Educational Psychology at the University of Colorado Denver. It is my goal to get to know my students strengths and challenge their curiosities.
Kathleen Gould
Ability Grouping Instructor
I have been in the education field as an intervention teacher, speech and language therapist, and classroom teacher. As an ability group instructor, I am afforded the perfect opportunity to blend many of the previous experiences working with children of all types of ability levels. I was raised in Massachusetts and received my BS in Speech Pathology from Ithaca College and hold an MA in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix. I have three children; two boys and a girl. As a family we enjoy biking, playing soccer and hiking. On the weekends you may find me at on the soccer pitch or crafting with my daughter.
Holly Grupe
Ability Grouping Instructor
I am a Colorado native (born in Denver.) I went to UNC (No. Colo.) and got a BA in Philosophy and Regis University for my Master’s in Elementary Ed. I am a life-long learner, a gardener and I like to travel, play bunko and knit a bit. My 2 kids are in college in Colorado (CSU & Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design) and my husband and I live in Aurora with our cat and 2 fish. We travel when time permits.
Lynda Hernandez
Fifth Grade Teacher
I grew up in San Diego, California, lived for ten years in the Bay Area, and eventually moved to Denver. I take pleasure in being with my family, traveling, being by the ocean, painting, and cooking.
Donna Guerin
Fifth Grade Teacher
I am originally from Long Island, New York. I received my undergrad in Business from Marist College, and my Masters in Education from Hofstra University. I am happily married to my high school sweetheart and we have four children, 2 girls and 2 boys. I enjoy traveling, photography, and music. I also spend a lot of time on the sidelines as Team mom for various sports. I enjoy my time with my family.
Jacki Christy
Ability Grouping Instructor
I am one of the original teachers that helped open American Academy and am proud to still be a part of such a dynamic team of professional educators. I enjoy spending time with my husband, my beautiful grandchildren, my daughter and son-in-law, as well as my fun loving schnauzer-mixes (Charlie and Krickit). My favorite part of teaching is seeing the enthusiasm for learning grow as children are exposed to our wonderful curriculum that embraces science, technology, history, math, and core virtues. I fully recognize that each child is unique and I work extremely hard to address their particular needs and strengths. I value parent commitment and partnerships to ensure the success of each individual student.
Lauren Swihart
Ability Grouping Instructor
I graduated from Colorado State University (Go Rams!) where I received my B.F.A. degree in art and a minor in Spanish. After eight years in the graphic design field, I returned to school to complete Regis University’s elementary licensure program. I have found my true passion in helping children grow and develop a love of learning, and have had the privilege of working in a variety of classrooms in southern Colorado. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading, travel, and creating artwork and music. As a native Coloradoan, I also have a thirst for outdoor adventure and all the activities this state has to offer. In the summer, you can find me on the hiking trails with my golden retriever, Ollie.
Michelle Daley
Middle School English Department Lead
I am a native Coloradoan and attended Regis College, earning my Bachelors of Arts in an Interdivisional Major which consists of Education, Psychology, Sociology and Religious Studies. I began my teaching career and continued to work several years in a school/residential facility for multi-age children who had severe learning disabilities and who also suffer from emotional/physical abuse. This opportunity taught me to value every child and to teach to each individual’s strengths and abilities. In addition to my Colorado Teaching License, I have a secondary English endorsement.
I married my college sweetheart in 1998 and we have three amazing children.
Cori Teeple
Middle School English Teacher
I first began teaching at the tender age of six when I lined up my stuffed animals and drilled them with spelling tests. My love of language and literature grew over the years and I obtained my Bachelors of Arts, English from the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville. After graduating college, I followed the pioneer trail and moved west to California and then north to Oregon. For ten years I capitalized on my writing and communication skills both in the music and logistics industries. Although I enjoyed working with many wonderful people and developing my craft, I continued to dream of becoming a teacher. Finally, in 2008 I obtained my Masters of Education and relocated with my husband to Colorado.
Shannon Donohoe
Middle School English Teacher
I was born in North Carolina but was raised in Littleton, Colorado where I went to Chatfield Senior High. I studied English at Metropolitan State College of Denver and received a degree in English with a Secondary Licensure. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, running, dancing, hiking, and spending time with my closest friends. I’m an avid Broncos fan and love watching almost all sports. I’m constantly laughing and try my best to enjoy life. Teaching has provided me with a simple joy that is irreplaceable, and I would rather do nothing else for a living.
Paula Semerod
Middle School English Teacher
In education, I have worked in the classroom, as an administrator, and worked with adults with special needs. I obtained my Bachelor of Arts in Literature: Critical Theory from Penn State University and quickly relocated to Colorado where I have always wanted to be. I completed my Masters of Liberal Studies in Arts and Literature through the University of Denver and will complete a second masters in Curriculum and Instructional Design with The University of Colorado soon. Outside of teaching, I spend my time waist deep in fresh powder, mountain biking, training for triathlons, golfing, fly fishing, climbing, and, most importantly, introducing my two daughters to all the adventures this wonderful state has to offer.
Katie Williams
Math Department Lead Teacher and Assessment Coordinator
I have a deep passion for math and especially for my students. Every student learns at different levels just as there are multiple ways to approach every mathematics problem. I believe that every student can be successful at their own level. My personal goal is to help students feel comfortable with using math everyday! I have taught at the secondary level in Ohio and West Virginia after graduating from Ohio Northern University in 2007 with a BA in Mathematics and from Western Governor's University in 2010 with a Masters in Education. I love to read, knit, bicycle, hike, and snowboard. Our family is hooliganized by our two fuzzballs, Burton and Molly.
Benji Billman
Middle School Math Teacher
I am originally from Ohio. My degrees are in Mathematics from the University of Toledo, as well as my Bachelor’s degree in education. At AA, I have had the pleasure of being involved in the school’s theater. In my spare time, I love to travel, hike and play ultimate Frisbee.
Alyson Vahling
Middle School Math Teacher
I received my BS in Applied Mathematics at the University of Colorado at Boulder, as well as my Secondary Mathematics Education Certificate. During my time at CU-Boulder, I was a Colorado MESA mentor for middle and high school students participating in robotics competitions. Colorado MESA is the Math, Engineering, Science Achievement program for K-12 students. I was also able to help the STEM outreach coordinator at CU with computer builds for Native American students and traveled to Alaska to help brainstorm expansion of STEM throughout America. I am a proud native to Colorado, who enjoys teaching, being outdoors and spending time with my family.
Michele DeWine
Middle School Science Teacher
I was raised in Wyoming and graduated from the University of Wyoming with honors in Biology, and Chemistry. When I am not pouring my energies into teaching and furthering my own education, I am riding my mountain bike for Progressive Trail Design and Westin Resorts, and most importantly, hanging out with family and friends. I also love to hike, ski, raft, climb and read. In my teaching, I use proven practices of highly effective educators to model a love for science, to teach character development and to motivate students to achieve maximum individual development. I enjoy giving students the support and time they need to become effective, responsible learners who think critically about the world around them.
Ben Wolfe
Middle School Science Teacher
I taught earth science for two years in Hawaii and for four years in North Carolina before moving to Colorado. I have plenty of experiences to share with my students related to the amazing dynamics of nature and I love making science a hands-on experience for them. This includes making observations, looking for patterns in those observations and finding reasons for those patterns. I also teach tennis enjoy being part of many programs AA has to offer! Outside of school, I enjoy anything that gets me outside, including kayaking, hiking and camping and anything related to the topic of health care.
Christine Zito
Middle School Science Teacher
I grew up in Virginia, attended college in New York, and then moved here to Colorado. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from Rochester Institute of Technology, and my Master’s degree in Adolescence Education from Ithaca College. Between degrees, I spent time work in a microbiology lab conducting infectious disease research. I am hoping to use my research experience to bring real science into my classroom.
Laurie Neil
Middle School History Teacher/Discipline
I have a Masters Degree in Elementary Education, hold a Colorado Professional Teaching License, and am “Highly Qualified” under NCLB to teach secondary History. I have a passion for history and believe in bringing it alive in my classroom through technology, projects, speakers, primary/secondary source document review, and active class discussions. I truly believe the days of memorizing facts and dates are over—it is all about learning the story from the past to make a better future. I enjoy hiking, biking, skiing, reading, watching movies, and anything “artsy”. I like to spend time with my family that lives in Lone Tree and Highlands Ranch, and my two black/white kitties (Mickey and Little Bit) that keep me company at home.
Mark Leadbetter
Middle School History Teacher
Impossible is nothing. This old ad motto for Adidas is truly a motto to live by. In teaching both mathematics and history this year, I truly believe that nothing is impossible. I graduated from Miami University in Ohio with a degree in Middle Childhood Education with certifications in both mathematics and social studies. My wife, Kelly, and I are fortunate enough to call Colorado home now, but we will never forget our roots in Ohio. I enjoy Reds baseball, Bengals football, and though it may be hard to believe, the Michigan Wolverines. I can often be found reading, playing some sort of sport or trying to solve the latest mind teaser. A comedian at heart, and a lifelong learner in my head, I am excited to share those traits with young minds for years to come!
Cassandra Stanley
Intervention Specialist
I am a second generation Colorado Native. I graduate from Adams State with a degree in Elementary Education with an Emphasis in Literacy. I completed my master’s degree in 2010, in Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction. I am married with two daughters and I enjoy running, biking, swimming, snowshoeing, and reading. I am also a history buff and love to continue learning about a large variety of subjects.
Nichole Smith
School Psychologist
I’m originally from Kansas and graduated from Fort Hays State University in 2002. I spent nine years in Wichita, KS, working for a special education cooperative where I worked with students ranging from preschool to age 21. My daughters and I moved to Parker in 2012 and are in love with Colorado!
Beth Culberson
Speech/Language Pathologist
Born and raised in Grand Junction, I’m a Colorado native and live in Highlands Ranch with my husband and two great kids. I love the fall because that means football (Go Broncos and Fighting Irish!), and enjoy mountain biking, duathlons, running, and camping. I am incredibly enthusiastic about speech-language pathology and empowering children to effectively communicate in their world. I am proud to be part of American Academy and the Student Support Services team!
Jistine Harrison
Learning Specialist
My teaching experience includes teaching 6th grade, early intervention and special education. I hold a B.S. in Elementary Education from the University of Iowa, an M.A. in Administrative Leadership and Policy Studies from the University of Colorado at Denver, and a Masters of Educational Technology from Boise State University. I am originally from San Diego, but Colorado is where my family loves to call home. I live in Castle Rock with my husband and son. Outside of teaching I enjoy coaching competitive youth soccer, riding my motorcycle around our beautiful country, and all the wonderful outdoor activities Colorado has to offer.
Erica Bartlett
Learning Specialist
I am from Kansas City, KS, and attended the University of Kansas. I have my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and my master’s degree (also from the University of Kansas) in Adaptive Special Education. My hobbies and interests include skiing, hiking, fishing, boating, and great food! I love spending time traveling with family and friends!
Laurie Liddick
STEM Instructor
I am a Colorado native. I received my Bachelors of Science in Biology with a minor in Geology from Pacific Lutheran University. I completed my secondary education degree at Pacific Lutheran University. I am currently finishing my Masters in Educational Psychology/Research and Evaluation at the University of Colorado Denver. I have been trained STK, NXT robotics at Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburg and I have completed 30 hours of SolidWorks training. I enjoy spending time with my family skiing, hiking, rafting, camping, biking and running. I also love reading.
Julie Weiss
STEM Instructor
Prior to teaching elementary school, I taught the teeny-tiny little ones in pre-school for three years. I received my teaching degree from the University of Iowa: Go Hawkeye’s!! I am originally from the Chicago area. My husband, Jim, and I lived in Canada for 3 years where our daughter was born. We have a son who was born in Chicago. We also share our home with our golden retriever, Larry, and our two rats. Our family loves the outdoors and this is the reason that we moved to Colorado many years ago. We spend almost every weekend up in the mountains. I love to hike, camp, bike, run, and, most of all, swim. I collect children’s books and love them more than most women love shoes.
Laurel Harmon
Librarian/Media Specialist
I moved to Colorado, bringing with me a great enthusiasm for learning and zest for knowledge from my home state of Connecticut. As a graduate from Fairfield University with an MA in Education, I value my students’ experiences and insights. I enjoy using research-based methods to promote academic excellence. Currently, I work with Habitat for Humanity (International), which I find quite rewarding. In my spare time, one might find me… reading a good book on my Kindle, knitting, hiking, or swimming. I love outdoor activities; Colorado is the perfect fit for me.
Joseph Bishop
P.E. Teacher
I was born and raised in Colorado, and love everything about it. I graduated from Western State College of Colorado with a degree in Kinesiology with a K-12 Physical Education Emphasis. I enjoy hiking, fishing, skiing, and love everything sports! I strive to teach all students to become active lifelong learners.
Lisa Maas
Media Specialist
I’ve been involved with teaching and developing technology education for both big and little people for the many years, spending the past several years here in Douglas County. I feel honored to be able to share my passion of technology with the next generation of 21st century learners here at American Academy. In my spare time I enjoy learning new software, practicing yoga, reading, knitting, listening to live music, and playing outdoors especially in the mountains or on a warm sandy beach with my three sons, husband and two doggies.
Talia Parsell
Art Teacher
Born and raised in Toledo, Ohio, I have been painting and creating art ever since I was a child. I began my teaching career over 10 years ago and have taught at a variety of places including private art studios, non-profits like the Boys and Girls Club, and in the public and private school systems. I have been lucky enough to teach so many different students with a wide variety of ages and diverse backgrounds. I moved out to Colorado to earn my Masters degree in Art/Painting and continue to sell my work in galleries in the Santa Fe Art District in Denver and in Breckenridge.
Chad Riggs
Art Teacher
I am a highly-motivated, enthusiastic and dedicated educator who wants all students to be successful. A self-directed, action-oriented professional with over 10 year's
experience in education. I received my undergraduate degree from Texas State University in Advertising Design/Art History and have since completed my Masters in Education from Jones International University, in Denver, Colorado. Working for American Academy has been a wonderful experience.