Teachers & Student Support

Shalane is excited to be a part of the Ben Franklin Academy Team as an Instructional Aide!

I am originally from Minnesota and my husband and I moved to Colorado for the scenic landscape and our love for skiing, hiking, and biking. We have two adult daughters that we love to travel with and this year will mark our 25th year in Colorado.  

While attending college in MN, I earned a Bachelor’s degree in Health Education & Corporate Fitness and after moving to CO, I attended CSU and earned a Master’s in Education and Human Resource Studies. Throughout my professional career, there has always been a “teaching” component to my work so as my own children grew older and more independent, I took the opportunity to step into the role of substitute teacher at BFA. After completing an alternative teaching licensure program, I taught fourth grade for four years and this year will be my second year teaching kindergarten and I love it! Teaching students to read has quickly become a passion of mine. It is goi

Birthday (month/day): May 19th

Favorite Restaurant:  PF Changs

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant:  Torchy’s Tacos

Favorite Snack Food: popcorn

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Outside hiking or biking

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: peanut butter m&m’s

Favorite Starbucks drink: Iced non-fat latte or  hot non-fat cappuccino

Chocolate or Fruit?: chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Target

Favorite color:  Green and Blue

Favorite sports team:  US Women’s National Soccer Team

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): biking, hiking, pilates

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: My husband Ed and our daughters Sara and Anna.

Julie DePasse began her career after graduating from Metropolitan State University of Denver with a degree in Elementary Education, Summa Cum Laude, and she has held a professional teaching license ever since. She first taught in Littleton Public Schools for three years; she then stayed home for several years to raise her two sons. She went on to teach for four years at a private school in Colorado Springs and then taught fourth grade at Monument Academy Charter School- that was where she was introduced to the Core Knowledge Sequence. She still loves the high level, spiraling content of this curriculum which is also used at Ben Franklin Academy. After arriving at BFA in 2014, Julie taught first grade for three years before moving to kindergarten and has taught her sweet BFA kindies for five years and counting! She enjoys being at BFA where the curriculum is packed with exciting topics to study, including lots of math, history, and science! 

Julie grew up in Littleton, where she discovered her love of reading and learning. She believes that reading helps people see the world from a whole different window! She has recently completed several reading classes including the Comprehensive Orton Gillingham Plus training which targets a multisensory approach to reading instruction as well as the Orton Gillingham Fluency, Vocabulary, and Comprehension course. She has previously completed the Wilson Foundations Language training, and other classes targeting the development and enhancement of early literacy skills. In 2023, Julie also completed the Alert Program for Self Regulation, a sensory integration program that aims to help students maintain an optimal state of alertness for attending, learning, and concentrating in classrooms. She continually strives to implement best practice in the classroom applying her hundreds of hours of continuing education credits and is proud to work at a school which enthusiastically supports the growth of teachers.

Julie also loves reading on a personal level and is a part of a book club. She hopes to share her love of reading and learning with her students. She also likes watching movies, gaming, walking her goldendoodles (Dougal and Daisy) on the High Line Canal Trail. Her two awesome sons are now grown and married, so she gets to enjoy having two wonderful daughters-in-law in the family these days as well.

Mrs. DePasse is looking forward to working with you to create an electrifying year for our BFA kiddos. GO BOLTS!

Julie is so excited to be a part of the BFA team!! She lives in Highlands Ranch with her son Kaiden who attends BFA. She is a Louisiana/ Mississippi Gulf Coast native and has been in Colorado since 2005. She loves hanging out with her son, going to movies, shopping,organizing, and just being home!

Candace has been teaching for 17 years. Candace received her Bachelor’s of Science in Education from Abilene Christian University in Abilene, Texas. Candace taught third grade in Clyde, Texas. She later moved to Aurora, Colorado, to teach first, second, and third grades. In 1993, Candace had her first child and decided to be a stay-at-home mom. She went back to teaching after raising her children. 

Candace earned a Master’s degree in Reading and an endorsement as a reading specialist at Regis University. She uses it to reinforce literacy for her Kindergarten students. Candace has been teaching first grade and kindergarten at Ben Franklin Academy for 11 years.  She truly loves the students and families at BFA. She is heavily invested in the Core Knowledge curriculum, given that her own two children attended a Core Knowledge charter school. 

Candace lives in Highlands Ranch with her husband Scott of 36 years and two cute wiener dogs named Dot and Dash. She has a son, Preston, who is a psychiatric nurse, and a daughter, Monica, who is also a kindergarten teacher.  She enjoys traveling, reading and crafting in her spare time.

Candace truly loves the BFA community and can’t wait to meet her new class of Kindergarteners!

Birthday: May 9

Favorite Restaurant: Lost Dos Potrillos

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: reading, snuggling with my dogs, and binging Netflix

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: colorful school supplies, a chai tea, a sweet note from a kindie

Favorite Starbucks drink: Carmel macchiato (hot or cold)

Chocolate or Fruit?: chocolate

Favorite place to shop: TJ Maxx

Favorite color: pink

Favorite sports team: Broncos

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): reading, hiking (sort of) 

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: sincerity

My family includes…: Husband Scott, son Preston (30) , daughter Monica (29), dogs Dot & Dash (wienie dogs)

Kayla will be beginning her 16th year of teaching kindergarten this year. A Colorado native, she attended schools in the Douglas County School District. She graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a degree in Elementary Education where she played for the women’s soccer team for four years on an athletic scholarship. She received her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix.

She lives in Lakewood with her husband Jay, her son Joel, daughter Blair, and two dogs. Two kids keep her very busy at home, but she loves every minute of it. Kayla enjoys spending time with family, watching her son and daughter grow each day, running, traveling, playing soccer, and watching movies. She has been teaching at Ben Franklin Academy since it opened and she feels so fortunate to be a part of the BFA family. She is looking forward to another great year!

Birthday (month/day):  8/28

Favorite Restaurant: Teller’s Taproom & Kitchen

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chipotle

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it: Going to breakfast

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Starbucks

Favorite Starbucks drink: Unsweetened iced green tea, Chai Tea Latte(hot or cold), Skinny Vanilla Latte

Chocolate or Fruit?: Twix, Kit-Kat

Favorite place to shop: Amazon, Target, Old Navy

Favorite color: Pink

Favorite sports team: Broncos, Rapids

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): Shopping, coffee, running

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Tranquility – Keep yourself from reacting poorly to others. People are not perfect and the world is not fair. Learn to deal with both despite imperfections. Be patient.

My family includes…: Husband Jay, Son Joel, Daughter Blair, Dog Jax

Birthday:03/16

Favorite Restaurant: Snooze, or anywhere with a good brunch!

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Mad Greens or Chickfila

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Having breakfast with a friend or spending time with my family

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Chick-fil-A lemonade, Starbucks, fresh flowers, or a note of encouragement

Favorite Starbucks drink: Hot or Iced Chai Tea Latte

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate

Favorite place to shop:Target

Favorite color: Green

Favorite sports team: Houston Astros or any of my kids’ teams!

Hobbies:Listening to audiobooks, gardening/plants, crafting

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: Loren (my husband), Olivia, Penny, and Dominik (my kids), Luna (our Boxer), and Cocoa and Cinnamon Roll (our guinea pigs)

This will be Staci’s 7th year teaching 1st grade.  Before that she was a founding board member at BFA for 5 years and served as the secretary.  After her term she decided to go back to school and earned her teaching degree. She is a graduate of Western Governors University where she earned her bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies (K-6). She is a certified Orton-Gillingham instructor and tutor.

Staci grew up in Littleton and went to Heritage High School. She taught piano lessons for over 20 years before going back to school.

Staci is married to her wonderful husband, Henry.  They have one son (Kyle) who is a freshman at Adams State University and is playing lacrosse.  Staci’s hobbies are baking, cake decorating, hiking, camping, really all things outdoors, and watching sports.  Her family has a rescue pup, Grizz, who is 11.

Teaching is an absolute passion of Staci’s!  She loves teaching children to read and seeing them grow in skill and confidence. Staci is so excited to be at BFA as a first grade teacher!

Birthday (month/day): August 5th

Favorite Restaurant: Los Dos Potrillos, Kneaders

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-Fil-A, Qudoba

Favorite Snack Food: Candy and cookies

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: with my family in the outdoors or watching movies

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: hugs and notes from students, I also love pineapples (to eat and decorate), Frank Sinatra, and diet Dr. Pepper.

Favorite Starbucks drink: Lemonade or Carmel Apple Cider (depending on the weather)

Chocolate or Fruit?: I love them both, but not dark chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Target and Amazon

Favorite color: Red and Blue

Favorite sports team: University of Utah and Dallas Cowboys

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): watching my son play lacrosse, baking, hiking, camping.

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Silence

My family includes…: Henry (husband), Kyle (son – Freshman at Thunderridge), and Grizz (dog)

Alyson graduated from Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas, with a Bachelor of Arts in Humanities as well as a Masters of Arts in Teaching. She taught Kindergarten and First Grade in Texas, Michigan, and Tennessee before stepping out of the classroom to start their family. Now a mom of four (two BFA graduates now at Mountain Vista High School, two boys still at BFA) and after working at her church’s preschool for the past few years, Alyson is thrilled to be working at her kiddos’ much loved school! Having relocated here in 2013, exploring this beautiful state, spending time with her husband of 20 years and family (mostly in ice rinks during hockey season), reading biographies and historical fiction, and taking walks/hikes have become her favorite pastimes. She believes every child can learn and excel when they have at least one caring adult in their life. She is looking forward to working with the students and teachers at BFA this year as a First Grade instructional aide!

Birthday: October 13^th

Favorite Restaurant: anything Mexican!

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: reading outside on our back deck with a drink and charcuterie board!

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: a hug, a smile, a kind word, and chocolate chip cookies!

Favorite Starbucks drink: No SB! CFA Lemonade or Sweet Tea for me!

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate with almonds/toffee/caramel

Favorite place to shop:Container Store, Eddie Bauer, Loft

Favorite color: Turquoise

Favorite sports team: Any team my kiddos play on!

Hobbies: reading, taking walks & hikes, traveling, baking, paper crafting, volunteering, playing board games & card games with my family

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Top 3: Sincerity, Humility, and Order

My family includes…: My husband of 20 years, Heath, and our four kiddos, Sawyer, Laurel, Tanner, and Wyatt

Jackie is a Colorado native and grew up in Littleton. She graduated from CU Boulder with her psychology degree and elementary teaching certificate. Since then, Jackie has gone on to pursue her master’s in education, taking graduate-level education courses in school counseling and literacy instruction. She has taught for thirteen years—seven years as an elementary school teacher and six years running a licensed in-home preschool.

When not teaching, Jackie loves spending time with her family, including her husband Kyle, her son Austin who will be in second grade at BFA; her two-year-old daughter Caroline; and their dog Faith. Jackie and her family love spending time at the pool, visiting new playgrounds, hiking, and attending Austin’s sporting events. They are also huge Disney fans and save for trips to Disneyland every chance they get!

Jackie is eager and excited to teach first grade, meet her new students, and partner with their wonderful families. Her favorite aspect of teaching is getting to know each student individually and pointing out their strengths while encouraging them to challenge themselves and make new goals.

Birthday (month/day):  June 17th

Favorite Restaurant:  Smokin’ Fins or Los Dos Potrillo’s 

Favorite Fast-Food Restaurants: Chick Fila or Chipotle 

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: With my family outside exploring or having coffee or sushi with a good friend. 

On a bad day, these would cheer me up:  kind words of encouragement or a warm coffee.

Favorite Starbucks drink: Regular coffee with cream or a Chai tea latte extra hot!

Chocolate or Fruit?:  Chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Amazon or TJ Max

Favorite color: Turquoise or  any shade of blue

Favorite sports team:  I love all Colorado teams (except for the Rams), but the Colorado Avalanche has my heart.

Hobbies: I like spending time with family and friends and listening to others when they are struggling. I stay busy with church activities. I also love being active outside- playing sports, hiking, swimming, attending my kid’s sporting events, and cheering on the sidelines. Lastly, I love learning and being a student myself. 

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity and Tranquility  

My family includes…:  My husband Kyle, seven-year-old son Austin, two-year-old daughter Caroline, and puppy Faith.

Jenna has been teaching for over 4 years. She is a Colorado State graduate (go Rams!) and is licensed in both Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. She has taught Kindergarten, 3rd grade, 1st grade and reading intervention. Growing up with seven siblings (4 brothers and 3 sisters), Jenna considers her classroom an extension of her family. She has a high expectation for her students, believing they have the capability to encourage and challenge each other. Through a formative year, she loves seeing their character develop as they learn and grow academically. In her free time, you would most likely find Jenna hanging out with her family. She loves a good laugh and breaking out her dance moves when a good song comes on. Jenna is a Colorado native and enjoys all things outdoors: hiking, fishing, kayaking, camping, and backpacking. Jenna is excited to be continuing at BFA as a first grade teacher!

Birthday (Month/Day):July 15

Favorite Restaurant: Postino

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: with a good book or enjoying any activity in the Colorado sunshine.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: A Snicker’s bar, hot coffee, or a good laugh!

Favorite Starbucks drink: hot coffee or sweet cream cold brew

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate

Favorite place to shop:Target and Trader Joe’s

Favorite color: Green

Favorite sports team: Broncos, Avalanche, and Rockies.

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): hiking, kayaking, reading, and board/card games

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: a wonderful set of parents, three sisters, and four brothers.

Erica is excited to begin her eleventh year teaching Second Grade at Ben Franklin Academy!  She has worked as a classroom teacher for 18 years and as a Literacy Specialist for 5 years.  Erica graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a BA in English/Elementary Education.  She also earned a M.Ed in Reading/Curriculum and Instruction from Grand Canyon University.  In her spare time, Erica enjoys reading, hiking, traveling, cooking and spending time with her husband, three children and two dogs.

Birthday : January 24

Alice is an open minded, hardworking, and creative individual. Alice was born and raised in Ireland and is very proud to be Irish. She moved to Colorado in 2023 from Milan, Italy,  with her boyfriend Alex, who is a professor at UCCS and financial advisor at Maia Wealth. Alice has a global perspective on education and has taught in various countries including Ireland, Fiji, Germany, Italy and now the US. Throughout her career, Alice has had multiple roles as an educator, including class teacher, bilingual school teacher, special educational needs intervention teacher, art and design teacher, and whole-school ECO coordinator. Alice has also guest lectured in a university in Ireland about how to foster creativity in the classroom.

Alice has a first-class honors bachelor’s degree in Primary Education from St. Mary’s University College, Belfast with a double degree specialism in art and design and special educational needs. Alice graduated top of her cohort and has written two pieces of educational research in Northern Ireland. As an educator with a combined specialism in Art and Design and Special Educational Needs, Alice believes it is crucial that children are provided with opportunities to freely express themselves, create, explore, invent and discover. Alice plans child-led lessons and encourages students to take ownership and responsibility of their learning.

As she enters her 7th year of teaching elementary, Alice is excited to continue exploring, playing and helping each child embrace their unique talents. Alice’s classroom is energetic, curious and happy. In her free time, Alice loves spending time in nature or at home painting. She is an avid skier and hiker and can be found in the mountains most weekends. 

Birthday: March 13

Favorite Restaurant: Torchy’s 

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Mad Greens 

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: getting a pedicure and reading a book

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: plants or Eileen’s cookies

Favorite Starbucks drink: iced shaken espresso 

Chocolate or Fruit?: fruit

Favorite place to shop: Nordstrom

Favorite color: pink and green

Favorite sports team: AC Milan

Hobbies: Skiing, hiking, painting, reading 

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity – as long as you’re kind, you can go anywhere! 

My family includes…: My boyfriend Alex, and my class pets. I have a hedgehog called Pickles, and an axolotl called Mochi!

Larissa Meister has worked as a first and second grade teacher. After taking a pause from teaching to raise her family, she is very excited to return to the classroom as a second grade instructional aide. She is married to a wonderful husband, Chip and her three children, Landon, Emily and Owen attend BFA. She enjoys all things outdoors, especially hiking and spends her spare time driving her kids around to various sporting activities.

Mrs. Stucki is entering her seventh year of teaching and is thrilled to join the BFA community. Her diverse teaching background includes experience in second and third grade classrooms, as well as science instruction. Additionally, she successfully ran an in-home preschool for two years. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with a minor in Sociology from California State University San Marcos in San Diego, and later obtained her teaching credential, with a Bilingual Clad Certification from Chapman University.

Originally from California, Mrs. Stucki relocated to Colorado in the summer of 2023 with her husband, Clint, and their son, Taj, who will be a third grader at BFA. She also has a daughter who is an esthetician in Utah, where her husband is a senior at Utah Valley University. Her family includes three other sons—two currently attending Utah Valley University and one at BYU—and a newly welcomed daughter-in-law.

In her free time, Mrs. Stucki enjoys shopping, taking walks, and spending time at the beach, but most of all, she cherishes time with her family. As an educator, she is passionate about creating a classroom environment where students develop a love for learning and build confidence in themselves. She firmly believes that when a child feels they are believed in, they can thrive—both academically and behaviorally. Mrs. Stucki is eager to meet her incoming second graders and looks forward to beginning this new chapter at Ben Franklin Academy.

Birthday: January 15

Favorite Restaurant: Cheesecake Factory

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Cafe Rio, Sweetgreens

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Shopping, sitting by the pool or going to the beach

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: A fountain Diet Coke

Favorite Starbucks drink: None

Chocolate or Fruit?: Fruit, but I do like dark chocolate

Favorite place to shop:Nordstrom, Zara, Target

Favorite color: Pink

Favorite sports team: SD Padres

Hobbies: Shopping, walking, playing games with my family.

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Humility

My family includes…: My Husband – Clint Son- Zane Daughter in Law- Gabby Daughter- Logan Son in Law- Jordy Son- Thor Son- Reid Son- Taj

Kelly is extremely excited to be teaching at Ben Franklin Academy as she continues her teaching career.  In 2011 she received her bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science with an Elementary Education license from Metropolitan State College of Denver. In 2014 she received her Masters in Special Education from Grand Canyon University and is currently working towards her ASL certification.  Kelly was born and raised in Colorado and is following in her mother’s footsteps (a second grade teacher for many years).  In her free time, Kelly enjoys snowboarding, hiking, dancing, snowshoeing and water skiing. She is also a Zumba instructor 2 days a week on the side.

Ms. AmayaWood grew up in the charming town of Sonora, California, nestled in the Sierra Nevada foothills, where her love for nature and community began. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Education and Community Outreach from California State University, Monterey Bay—just steps from the stunning Central Coast.

With a strong foundation in both classroom and outdoor education, Ms. Amayawood brings a passion for student growth, connection, and curiosity to every learning environment. She has spent the past two years teaching 5th grade in Castle Rock and her background includes several years of hands-on experience with youth in nature-based programs. She has worked with Avid4 Adventure, leading children through hiking, biking, kayaking, and paddleboarding activities across the Denver area. As well as each summer she returns to Camp Serendipity, a farm camp for kids in Kiowa, where she creates joyful and memorable experiences for campers.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. AmayaWood lives in Castle Pines, Colorado, with her boyfriend, Paris, and their beloved black cat, Bear. She enjoys exploring new places, whether that means hiking local trails or heading off on weekend adventures. As a lifelong animal lover, she has a soft spot for pandas and proudly owns a collection of more than 50 panda-themed treasures. Ms. AmayaWood is committed to creating a safe, engaging, and inclusive environment where all students feel empowered to learn, grow, and be themselves.

Birthday: January 26

Favorite Restaurant: Los Dos Potrillos

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-a

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Hiking in nature

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: My boyfriend, BFF, mom and my cat Bear

Favorite Starbucks drink: London Fog with Almond milk

Chocolate or Fruit?: Dark Chocolate with almonds

Favorite place to shop: Good Will

Favorite color: Olive green

Favorite sports team: Green Bay Packers

Hobbies: Hiking, biking, knitting, baking and reading/listening to podcasts

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: Mom, older brother, younger brother and sister. Dad, step mom, four step sisters

Mrs. Dunn is thrilled to continue as a part of the BFA family, where she has been teaching 5th grade since January of 2015.  Prior to that, she taught 4th, 5th, and 6th grades in California and Utah.  She holds a BS in Elementary Education (cum laude) from BYU, and a MS in Mathematics Education, K-6.  She is adored by her dog, her four children, and her husband of more than 20 years.  Mrs. Dunn doesn’t get around to participating in sports as much as she once did, but still enjoys taking long walks and spectating at each of her children’s games, shows, dances and events.  People are surprised to learn that she speaks fluent French, lived in Geneva as a young adult, and has a penchant for Swiss chocolates, because she’s neither fussy nor fancy!

Birthday: September 30

Favorite Restaurant: Outback or Red Lobster 

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: No preference, I don’t frequent them much, and figure all burgers/fries are about the same

Favorite Snack Food: plain potato chips (lays, ruffles- but not the flavored kinds.)

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it snuggled up with my kids or dog, probably watching a “chick flick”

On a bad day, these would cheer me up- Diet Dr. Pepper, swiss chocolate, a note or act of service

Favorite Starbucks drink: none- I’m a cola gal

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate- especially Swiss (Lindor, Lindt)

Favorite place to shop: Target, Walmart, Amazon, etc  (As long as it’s relatively small, quiet, and inexpensive- malls stress me out!)

Favorite color: cool tones: blue, pink, purple

Favorite sports team: don’t care for pro sports, would much rather watch kids play!

Hobbies: gardening, painting/drawing, meandering walks

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: seems to change from month to month, depending on what I’m working on/struggling with

My family includes: my husband, four children and my dog

Diane grew up in southern California. She moved to Colorado five years ago with her husband and daughter. She graduated from University of California, Irvine with a BA in Social Ecology and a Masters in the Art of Teaching. She taught fifth grade at a private school for four years before taking a break to be a stay at home mama. She enjoys the sun, eating good food, hiking, horseback riding and just being outdoors. She loves spending time with her family and dog (Naru) most! Her favorite part of working at BFA is being able to help teach students and nurture their love for learning new things. 

Birthday (month/day): 9/14

Favorite Restaurant: gyu kaku

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: In N Out Burger

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: eating something yummy or taking a pretty hike

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: asian food, wintermelon boba from Ding Tea, a hug

Favorite Starbucks drink: lavender matcha latte or vanilla cold brew 

Chocolate or Fruit?: neither 

Favorite place to shop: madewell, anthro, vuori, nordstrom

Favorite color: gold

Favorite sports team: none 

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): hiking, shopping, horseback riding 

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: justice 

My family includes…: husband, daughter, dog

I am so excited to be teaching third-grade here at Ben Franklin Academy. This is my 18th year in education and third year at BFA.

I grew up right outside Houston in Cypress, TX with my mom, stepdad and younger sister.  I attended the University of Texas San Antonio where I received my Bachelors Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. After receiving my Bachelors Degree, I attended Concordia University and graduated with my Masters in Educational Administration. 

My husband and I moved to Colorado in the summer of 2021 with our dog Denver and our two cats Luke and Kitten Boots. We both love the outdoors and having seasons! On May 23, 2023 we welcome our son Carter Loehr. Carter has been our biggest blessing and I love being a mom. It is truly the greatest gift. 

I love spending time with my family, traveling, and being adventures. I also, enjoy watching and playing sports. I played volleyball growing up and it is still my favorite sport. 

I look forward to this year and know it will be amazing!

Rachel loves the outdoors and enjoys spending time with her family. She is a plant lover and enjoys tending to her plants. She is also a great cook and is always eager to try new recipes.

Wyatt Bangert is currently a senior at the Metropolitan State University of Denver pursuing a degree in History with certification in secondary education. He is 26 years old with a passion for supporting students to reach their fullest potential. With a patient and pursuable demeanor, Wyatt is skilled in creating an inclusive and positive environment where students are able to excel and feel encouraged to participate. He was born and raised in Denver, Colorado and the youngest of 7. He is eager to get his educational career started and looks forward to the opportunity of working at Ben Franklin Academy.

Haylee was born and raised in Canada. She received her education from Tabor college in Kansas, where she played on the collegiate volleyball team. Haylee has been teaching 4th grade for two years and will be entering her third year of 4th grade this coming school year. She has a history of coaching volleyball and softball and still enjoys playing sports herself.

Birthday:November 28th

Favorite Restaurant: Shanahans

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Canes

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: With family and friends at a beach

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Spending time with loved ones, reading my Bible, tea, or playing some sort of sport.

Favorite Starbucks drink: Blended caramel frappuccino

Chocolate or Fruit?: Both

Favorite place to shop:Target

Favorite color: Red

Favorite sports team: Toronto Blue Jays or Winnipeg Jets

Hobbies:Reading, volleyball, golf, softball, lifting, swimming, walking

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Humility

My family includes…: Shaun (dad), Autumn (mum), Trystan (younger sister), and Mason (younger brother)

Amy is thrilled to continue with the fourth grade team as she begins her tenth year of teaching. She remembers fourth grade to be one of the most influential years in her life. It was in this grade that she started to develop her life long passion to become a classroom teacher.

As a Colorado native, Amy attended Arapahoe High School and went on to go to Azusa Pacific University in Southern California for undergrad. After graduation she moved back to Colorado to continue her education. Amy attended MSU Denver where she received her teaching license and Masters in Education.

Amy lives in Englewood with her husband Charlie. In her free time she loves to sew, golf, and spend time with friends. When she gets the chance, she loves to travel to as many new places as possible. 

Amy is inspired by the way Ben Franklin Academy uses Core Knowledge to produce life long learners and is excited to continue to be a part of this great school and community.

Birthday: May 26

Favorite Restaurant: Yard House

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: at the spa

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: flowers!

Favorite Starbucks drink: iced or hot regular latte

Chocolate or Fruit?: Peanut M&Ms

Favorite place to shop: Amazon

Favorite color: Turquoise

Favorite sports team: Avalanche

Hobbies: I love to golf, go on walks, cook, sew and anything DIY.

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity 

My family includes…: My husband (Charlie) and I, both Colorado natives, living in Englewood!

This is Megan’s eighth year of her teaching career all at Ben Franklin Academy. She graduated from Western State Colorado University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Culturally and Linguistically Diverse education endorsement. Additionally, Megan has acquired a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. 

As a Colorado native, Highlands Ranch has always been home to Megan as she is a product of the Douglas County School District. She loves being able to teach in the community where she was raised and loves being part of the BFA family. 

Family, friends, and sports keep Megan extremely busy! In her spare time, she can be found coaching a competitive softball team, attending the Colorado sports teams’ games, or playing in recreational leagues. She enjoys bowling, golfing, hanging with her dog, and being outside in the sun. 

Birthday: July 29

Favorite Restaurant: Los Dos Potrillos

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-Fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: watching movies or binging a show.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: getting my nails done or enjoying a sweet treat!

Favorite Starbucks drink: I am not a coffee or tea drinker but I like the refreshers.

Chocolate or Fruit?: Either!

Favorite place to shop: Target

Favorite color: Black

Favorite sports team: Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets, Colorado Avalanche

Hobbies: bowling, golf, softball, coaching, crafting

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: My fiancé, Ryan and our dog, Denali

Rachelle is very excited to teach another year of 5th grade. She began her career in finance with an undergraduate degree in International Business along with minors in Finance and German from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln. She previously has worked as a substitute teacher in the Cherry Creek school district and at Ben Franklin Academy. Rachelle has a teaching certificate and believes in continuous learning to hone her skills and stay updated on best practices. She grew up in Nebraska. She and her husband, Scott, have three children who keep them very busy with activities and sports. She loves to travel, and has been fortunate to visit many different places over the course of her studies and holidays. She also loves to ski and sew in her free time. Rachelle looks forward to a great year with the incoming 5th graders!

Christine loves teaching third grade at Ben Franklin Academy! This is her second year teaching at BFA and 16th year in the classroom. Prior to BFA, she spent two years teaching in Highlands Ranch and 12 years teaching in Massachusetts. Christine graduated from Framingham State University with a bachelor’s degree in Education and Natural Science, and earned her Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Fitchburg State University.

Christine and her family moved to Colorado five years ago and love living here! One of her favorite activities is hiking with her husband Mike, son Ronan, and two dogs Copper and Cleo. She also enjoys paddle boarding, pedicures, crocheting, reading, and coffee.

Birthday: April 19

Favorite Restaurant: Parry’s Pizza

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A, Modern Market, Torchy’s Tacos

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Hiking with my family, getting a pedicure, or snuggled up with my dogs on the couch

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Talking with friends and family, hugs, and coffee

Favorite Starbucks drink: Vanilla sweet cream cold brew

Chocolate or Fruit?: Dark Chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Target, Amazon

Favorite color: Pink

Favorite sports team: N/A

Hobbies: Hiking, reading, crocheting

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: My husband, son, and 2 dogs

Jessica Richardson is a motivated and hard-working collaborative educator seeking to boost engagement, improve test scores, and tackle learning from any angle at an innovative school such as Ben Franklin Academy. She has been teaching in the public school setting for 3 years and is passionate about authentic and integrated curriculum.

Birthday:07/16

Favorite Restaurant: Oyama Sushi & Ramen

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…:finding something to do outside with my friends

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Sour Patch Kids and plants

Favorite Starbucks drink: Matcha Soy Latte

Chocolate or Fruit?: Fruit

Favorite place to shop:REI

Favorite color: Yellow

Favorite sports team: Baylor Bears

Hobbies:Hiking, skydiving, yoga, going to the lake, music, upcycling clothes

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: I have a big support system all around me.

This is my second year as the 5th grade afternoon instructional aide. I enjoy being a part of the Ben Franklin Academy family and helping out however I am needed. Sharing responsibilities with the teachers and getting to know the students are the best parts of my day. I’m originally from Texas but have lived in Colorado since 2008. My family and I enjoy spending time in the mountains whenever possible. Going home to Texas and spending time with my dad and family is also important to me. My daughter and son in law are also in Highlands Ranch with my two Colorado-born grandsons:). Although I’ve spent my career in law firms in many capacities, it’s a assisting in the day to day care of my grandsons prior to them starting school that has been my true calling. Now sharing my passion for the welfare, safety and happiness of our youth with the fine people at Ben Franklin Academy is icing on the cake. Having been a part of the carpool team, I have likewise gotten to know a lot of the parents of kiddos at Ben Franklin … it has been a pleasure getting to know so many good people and a reward to share in the day to day success of our school and our kiddos. 

Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Nicole relocated to Colorado in 2004. Nicole has been teaching for 24 years. She started in a public school in the Chicago area, and then taught at a Core Knowledge charter school in Littleton.

She helped open Ben Franklin Academy and taught second grade until 2023. She recently transitioned into middle school where she currently teaches sixth grade social studies. Nicole graduated from Concordia Lutheran University with a bachelor’s in Elementary Education, specializing in English and Language Arts.

Her youngest is at Montana state and eldest lives in California. In her spare time, Nicole enjoys biking, going to concerts, skiing, and hiking. Most of all, Nicole loves to teach children. Nicole describes herself as a very open person and urges you to feel free to contact her.

Nicole is there for the parents and the kids: “Together we are a TEAM!”

Birthday (month/day): 11/15

Favorite Restaurant: Los Dos Portrillos

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-Fil-A or In & Out Burgers

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Golfing

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: My family members

Favorite Starbucks drink: Frozen Strawberry Açaí Lemonade Refresher

Chocolate or Fruit?: Milk Chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Costco, Golf Galaxy

Favorite color: Blue

Favorite sports team: Colorado Avalanche & Chicago Bears

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): golf, pickleball, skiing

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Humility

My family includes…: My Wife – Pranadda, Daughters – Belyn, Paitra, Danielle, Son & Daughter in law – David & Clare, Grandchildren – Stella & Henry

Staci Erbaugh is delighted to continue her teaching career at Ben Franklin Academy. Staci’s journey as a teacher started as a young child as she fondly remembers writing on the teacher’s chalkboard and playing school. Her passion for education and children led her to attend Colorado State University & The University of Colorado at Denver for her teaching license. This will be her ninth year in education. 

In her free time, she loves spending time with her daughter, Jessica. Staci enjoys reading, hiking, yoga, photography, and playing tennis.

Staci feels grateful to join this community and the BFA family. She values the strong relationship between students, teachers, and parents. Staci’s goal is for students to become successful lifelong learners.

Birthday (month/day): April 29

Favorite Restaurant: La Hacienda, Smokin Fins, Mici 

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick Filet, Kneaders

Favorite Snack Food: Chips and salsa

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: going for a hike

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: pedicures, flowers, and coffee

Favorite Starbucks drink: a vanilla latte with almond milk 

Chocolate or Fruit?: chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Target, The Container Store, Nordstroms Rack, Ann Taylor Loft, Black and White, Amazon 

Favorite color: Green

Favorite sports team: Broncos and Rockies

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): Hiking, Yoga, Tennis

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: My daughter, Jessica and my 14-year-old dog, Lucy. 

Birthday (month/day): 12/14 

Favorite Restaurants: Prost, Postino

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-Fil-A

Favorite Snack Food: Fruit

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Hiking 

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Blueberries

Favorite Starbucks drink: Oatmilk Latte 

Chocolate or Fruit?: Fruit 

Favorite place to shop: REI, Dicks

Favorite color: Yellow 

Favorite sports team: Rockies, Broncos

Hobbies: Hiking, Exercising, Reading Classic Literature 

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Tranquility 

My family includes…: Virginia, Noah, Gwen, Grant, Phoenix (Goldendoodle), and 3 cats.

Celeste is originally from Southern California, and she and her husband moved to Colorado to raise their family. She has two teenage sons who keep her busy with sports and activities, and she has enjoyed living in Colorado for 14 years. In her free time, Celeste enjoys spending time with her family outdoors, reading, and hiking.

While attending college in California, Celeste earned a BA in Political Science from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and a JD from Chapman University. After moving to Colorado and staying home with her young children, she began working as a kindergarten aide at BFA in 2016. Celeste completed an alternative teaching licensure program from Colorado University and started teaching 7th grade at BFA in 2019. She is thrilled to start another year at BFA!

Celeste loves working with middle schoolers at BFA and appreciates their kindness, humor, and willingness to work hard and try new things.

Birthday: April 19th

Favorite Restaurant: Jax Fish House

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Qdoba

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: hanging out with my family outdoors.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: getting my nails done, being with friends and family. 

Favorite Starbucks drink: Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew

Chocolate or Fruit?: both!

Favorite place to shop: Nordstrom and Target

Favorite color: orange

Favorite sports team: LA Dodgers

Hobbies: paddleboarding, running/walking/hiking, watching my kids (and professionals) play sports

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: my husband and two teenage sons.

Kevin is excited to begin his ninth year of teaching.  Kevin has been at BFA from the beginning and spent the first eight years in third and fifth grades. He joined BFA as a second career teacher, having spent the previous years in business.  He looks forward to providing the education, leadership, and guidance to assist with each student’s present and future success. Kevin also coaches the girls and boys basketball teams.

Kevin graduated high school at Regis Jesuit.  After high school, Kevin graduated from Colorado State University and later earned his master’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix.

A Colorado native, Kevin lives with his wonderful wife, Sarah, and daughters, Chloe (age 10), Carly (age 9), and Charlotte (5) in Parker.  Kevin looks forward to another great year at Ben Franklin Academy.

Blaise grew up in Texas, but went to high school here in Colorado. After college in Texas, he spent the next 9 years living and teaching in Indonesia. During his time there, he taught from 1st grade all the way to 12th grade IB. In 2019, he and his family moved back to Colorado and began his teaching career here stateside. He is a husband and a father to an amazing little girl. In his free time, he loves powerlifting as well as any outdoor activity, and is a huge Star Wars nerd.

Christine is excited for another great year at Ben Franklin Academy as the seventh-grade science teacher. Christine has taught middle school for over 20 years. She received both her BA in Psychology and her Teaching License from CU Boulder and her MA in Education Administration & Supervision from the University of Phoenix.

Christine has lived in Colorado her entire life. She enjoys staying active around Highlands Ranch as well as traveling to new places with her two daughters, who attend school at Mountain Vista High School and the University of Colorado in Boulder. She appreciates all that Colorado has to offer, including the parks and recreation, the mountains with skiing and boarding during the winter months, and hiking and paddleboarding during the summer months.

Christine is grateful to be part of the BFA community. She looks forward to meeting all of her students and helping them maintain a love for education.

Birthday (month/day): October 22

Favorite Restaurant: Cheesecake Factory

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Qdoba

Favorite Snack Food: Trail Mix

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: In the mountains 

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Anything with frosting

Favorite Starbucks drink: Caramel Frappuccino 

Chocolate or Fruit?: Neither- any type of gummy candies

Favorite place to shop: Amazon or Athleta

Favorite color: Red

Favorite sports team: Broncos

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): Soccer, skiing, hiking, paddleboarding, traveling and trying new things

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Humility

My family includes…: Two teenage daughters and way too many other animals in one house

Warren Astler serves as the 8th-grade science teacher at Ben Franklin Academy, who is deeply passionate about science and STEM education. He brings a wealth of experience to his role, having spent 10 years as a third-grade teacher and 26 years as a middle school science and STEM instructor, including time as a STEM Director at various K-8 schools. Mr. Astler is dedicated to nurturing the curiosity and potential of his students and appreciation of science and STEM disciplines through engaging and innovative educational experiences.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Northern Colorado and a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Pedagogy from the University of Colorado at Denver. He is endorsed as a Secondary Science Instructor by the State of Colorado, highlighting his expertise and commitment to education.

A native of Colorado, Mr. Astler enjoys traveling, going to movies, and outdoor activities such as golfing.

His deep appreciation and enthusiasm for the wonders of science and the impact of STEM education have the goal of inspiring and empowering his students, fostering a lifelong love of learning and discovery. His passion aims to encourage them to explore and understand the world around them.

Birthday: 5/29

Favorite Restaurant: Los Doe Potrillos, Angelos, The Melting Pot

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: None

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Traveling, Going to a Movie, Golfing, Resting/Doing Absolutely Nothing

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Notes, Cards, anything with Peanut Butter and Milk Chocolate

Favorite Starbucks drink: Pink Drink

Chocolate or Fruit?: Both

Favorite place to shop: Amazon, Cabellas

Favorite color: Green, Blue, Black

Favorite sports team: Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets

Hobbies: Golf, Basketball, Movies

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Moderation and Humility

My family includes…: Kimberly: Wife, Izzy: Stepdaughter

Jared is excited to continue his teaching career at Ben Franklin Academy. He graduated from Hastings College as a student athlete in 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education and an emphasis in History. Jared is passionate about Social Studies and the pursuit of challenging students to embrace the subject to be able to better understand the present.

Birthday (month/day): July 18

Favorite Restaurant: Texas Roadhouse

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Noodles and Company

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Going to the gym 

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: A smoothie

Favorite Starbucks drink: Double chocolate frappuccino 

Chocolate or Fruit?: Fruit

Favorite place to shop: Dick’s Sporting Goods

Favorite color: Blue

Favorite sports team: St. Louis Cardinals (Go Redbirds)!

Hobbies: Watching baseball, lifting, running, and exploring the Rockies

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Resolution and Humility

My family includes…: My Mom and Dad (Ellen and Chris), Sister (Erin), and Brother in Law (Eric)

Lisa is excited to return for her twelfth year at Ben Franklin Academy as the 8th grade math teacher. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Lehigh University and completed her Master of Arts in Teaching at Westminster College in Salt Lake City. As a teacher, Lisa aims to inspire her students to become critical thinkers and creative problem solvers. She incorporates real-world applications of concepts to help students appreciate the mathematics all around them. Prior to teaching, she put her problem solving skills to the test for 3 years as a civilian operations research analyst for the US Navy.

Originally from New Jersey, she enjoys spending time outdoors in all seasons and is thrilled to now call Colorado home. When she’s not in the classroom, Lisa plays ice hockey, spends time in the mountains hiking and skiing, and enjoys volunteering. She is an avid traveler and reader, both of which fuel her passion for learning new things.

Birthday (month/day):  May 15

Favorite Restaurant: Old Blinking Light

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Corner Bakery or Panera Bread

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: enjoying the outdoors or curled up with a great book (or both!)

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: a nice note, ice cream

Favorite Starbucks drink: Hot Chocolate or Vanilla Bean Frappuccino

Chocolate or Fruit?: Fruit

Favorite place to shop: Any bookstore, Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Target

Favorite color: Blue

Favorite sports team: New York Rangers

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…):  Playing hockey, skiing, reading, traveling, volunteering, working out 

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity and Humility

My family includes…: my dad along with my brother and sister-in-law