My name is Richard Zaccaria and I am very excited to be a part of the Ben Franklin team! I have been an educator for the past nine years, working in various types of schools across multiple grade levels. I began my teaching career in New York City, working in both high schools and middle schools. While teaching in New York, I also attended Lehman College, where I earned a masters degree in Social Studies education and curriculum development. In 2018, I moved to Colorado with my wife, and began teaching 7th and 8th grade social studies in Aurora. While teaching in Colorado, I also attended the University of Denver to get my principal license. In my free time I enjoy fly fishing, hunting and being outdoors with my wife and two dogs!

Birthday: 04/26

Favorite Restaurant: Matsuhisa

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Jimmy John’s

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Fly fishing in cheeseman canyon.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: My wife and two dogs.

Favorite Starbucks drink: Black coffee

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate covere fruit

Favorite place to shop: Trouts fly shop

Favorite color: Blue

Favorite sports team: New York rangers

Hobbies: Fly fishing Hunting Golfing Camping

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Resolution.

My family includes…: My wife, Alyssa and two dogs. I am also the youngest of 5 boys. My wife has a very large family as well with 6 siblings.

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.

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: In and Out

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

Favorite Snack: Chocolate and peanut butter, fruits, pirates’ booty

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it watching movies, golf, concerts, comedy shows, musicals.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up: A day off, Movies, golf, concerts, comedy shows, musicals,

Favorite Starbucks/Dutch Bros: Pink drink, Red drink

Chocolate or Fruit: Both, peanut butter and milk chocolate

Favorite Place to Shop: Amazon, Extreme Terrain

Favorite Colors: Green, Blue, Black

Favorite Sports Team(s): Denver Broncos, Denver Nuggets, New Orleans Saints

Favorite BFA Virtue: Moderation and Humility

Birthday (month/day): June 1st

Favorite Restaurant: Chili’s, Lazy Dog, Postino

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A, Modern Market

Favorite Starbucks drink: Honey almond milk flat white

Chocolate or Fruit?: BOTH!

Favorite place to shop: Lululemon and Target

Favorite color: Green

Favorite sports team: Kansas City Chiefs

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): Running, hiking, skiing

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Humility: Be mindful of others before yourself.

My family includes…: My husband Brennan and two fur babies: Moon (Husky) and Thai (Corgi)

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: 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

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.

Birthday:10/26

Favorite Restaurant: Torres

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Freddies

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Golfing or taking my dog for a hike

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: My pets, a good book or movie, and spending time with family.

Favorite Starbucks drink: Americano

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Berkley Supply CO

Favorite color: Green

Favorite sports team: Denver Nuggets

Hobbies: Golf, Basketball, Pickle ball, hiking, really anything outdoors

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Justice

My family includes…: My mother, my father, my stepmother, my two brothers, my four sisters, my two brothers in law, my two nieces and my nephew.

Birthday: 08/02

Favorite Restaurant: Perry’s Steakhouse

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chipotle

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…hanging out with friends 

On a bad day, these would cheer me up..

Favorite Starbucks drink: peppermint mocha (sugar-free)

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate

Favorite place to shop: TJMaxx

Favorite color: Blue

Favorite sports team: Broncos..of course!

Hobbies:  attending sporting events and concerts

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Cleanliness

My family includes: Myself and three grown children (and a bonus daughter-in-law)

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)

Mrs. de Bedout began teaching Spanish at BFA in 2024. She loves being around students and says this year has been especially fun since she already knows many of them and they know her, too. That connection helps her feel more confident and makes teaching even more enjoyable. She also appreciates how kind and welcoming the staff is, which creates such a positive environment at BFA.

Mrs. de Bedout grew up in Colombia and earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Universidad de los Andes. Before coming to BFA, she worked at a Recovery School in Denver. Back in Colombia, she ran her own HR company, worked as a consultant for ManPower Group for over 15 years, and had a private therapy practice.

Outside of school, Mrs. de Bedout enjoys traveling, learning about different cultures, history, languages, and food. Her family is the most important part of her life and the reason she moved to Colorado nine years ago, when her husband was offered a wonderful opportunity. In her free time, she also enjoys painting, making art, reading, and taking long walks in nature.

La Sra. de Bedout comenzó a enseñar Español en BFA en 2024. Le encanta estar rodeada de estudiantes y dice que este año ha sido especialmente divertido porque ya conoce a muchos de ellos, y ellos la conocen a ella también. Esa conexión la hace sentir más segura y hace que la enseñanza sea aún más agradable. También aprecia la amabilidad de quienes trabajan en la escuela y el ambiente tan positivo que se vive en BFA.

La Sra. de Bedout creció en Colombia y obtuvo su título en Psicología en la Universidad de los Andes. Antes de llegar a BFA, trabajó en una escuela para estudiantes en proceso de rehabilitación de consumo de sustancias, en Denver. En Colombia tuvo su propia empresa de recursos humanos, fue consultora para ManPower Group por más de 15 años y también tuvo su práctica privada de terapia.

Fuera de la escuela, a la Sra. de Bedout le gusta viajar, aprender sobre diferentes culturas, historia, idiomas y gastronomía. Su familia es la parte más importante de su vida y la razón por la que se mudó a Colorado hace nueve años, cuando a su esposo le ofrecieron una gran oportunidad profesional. En su tiempo libre, también disfruta pintar, crear arte, leer y dar largos paseos en la naturaleza.

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

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. 

Alexis Ferguson joined Ben Franklin Academy in 2023 as the Middle School Social Worker. She has always had a passion for working with youth, particularly in an academic setting. She loves every chance she gets to interact, meet with students, and support them in achieving their goals, and she strives to make school a fun and welcoming place for students. 

Ms. Ferguson earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Colorado State University. During her time at CSU, she interned with Poudre School District as a Social/Emotional Support Intern, where she spent most of her time at a Middle/High School working with students. Ms. Ferguson also interned for a non-profit organization as a Youth Specialist, working with youth aged 6 to 18 years old. 

As a Colorado native, Ms. Ferguson grew up in Parker and attended school in Douglas County. She lives with her fiancé, Kaiden, and their two cats, Cali and Rue. In her free time, she likes spending time with her family, cycling/going on walks, reading, going to the movies, and spending time with her pets, including her family’s English Bulldog, Jazz.

Birthday: 2-May

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Qdoba

Favorite Restaurant: Texas Roadhouse

Favorite Snack: Sweet and Salty

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it getting my nails done/pedicure, taking a nap.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up: Ice cream, Dutch Bros

Favorite Starbucks/Dutch Bros: Iced Vampire Slayer Rebel or an Iced Irish Creme Breve from Dutch

Chocolate or Fruit: Fruit, Pineapple, and strawberries

Favorite Place to Shop: Amazon, Target, Old Navy, Maurices

Favorite Colors: Purple

Favorite Sports Team(s): Pittsburgh Steelers and AVs

Hobbies: Reading, cycling, spending time with family

Favorite BFA Virtue: Moderation

My family includes my fiancé, Kaiden, and our two cats, Cali and Rue.

Khristen is excited to be starting her 11th year at BFA. She started as a lunchroom aide ,and has been a middle school aide for the last 4 years.  She enjoys being a middle school aide, and getting to watch the kids mature and grow through their years in middle school. She loves the teachers and staff that she works with. She has 4 kids; all of them are adulting and enjoying life.  

She and her husband love to travel and now have more opportunities to do so.  

She is excited for another great year at BFA!

Birthday:  Sept. 5

Favorite Restaurant: Mod Pizza

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Getting a pedicure and shopping

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: No name cakes from Mod Pizza

Favorite Starbucks drink: Grande decaf coconut milk mocha

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Home Goods

Favorite color: Fall colors

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Justice and Humility

My family includes…: Carl (husband), Kids (Nate, Michelle, Kaleigh, Jarrod), 2 dogs (Tripp and Cruz)

LaCretia Gelley is a director, teacher, producer, music director, choreographer and professional singer. Through her work, she not only nurtures aspiring artists, she also explores how theatre, and the arts in general, can challenge participants, both arts-makers and audiences, to embrace the idea of storytelling and the amazing power that stories have to remind us that we are all connected and have shared stories and experiences. Arts education exists to create more complete humans, who have curious minds, are critical thinkers, and are productive people.

LaCretia has been a part of Audience of One Youth Theater since 2009 and also teaches at area schools and programs, as well as designs curriculum. She has directed and produced dozens of shows locally and has acted in many shows like Antigone, Pirates of Penzance, and Guys and Dolls. She holds a MA in Education, many certifications in the arts and physical movement, and was voted best director for Mary Poppins, the musical. She has a private studio for voice, acting, and audition prep. She is a life-long student and has spent years completing continuing education and is currently working on her terminal MFA degree and has her Hair and Makeup certification. Her passion is helping artists to understand how truly unique and special they are, encouraging them to realize their full potential.

Birthday: Sept 28

Favorite Restaurant: Postino

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Qdoba

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Reading/watching movies

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: snacks, tea, hugs, notes of encouragement

Favorite Starbucks drink: Hot chai with oat milk

Chocolate or Fruit?: Fruit

Favorite place to shop: Target

Favorite color: Purple

Favorite sports team: Theatre is my sport

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): reading, movies, theatre, crafting

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: My husband, Jack, my son, Xander and my cat Harley

Mrs. Hankins began her work as an occupational therapist at Ben Franklin Academy in 2014, supporting students as part of the Student Support Team. After stepping away for several years to spend time with her young family, she returned to BFA excited to help students reach their fullest potential. She enjoys being part of a collaborative team dedicated to every child’s success.

Mrs. Hankins earned her master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Colorado State University. She has experience in both acute care and pediatric settings, and while each brought value to her career, she knew her passion was working with children. She especially loves helping students improve their motor skills, develop strategies for emotional regulation, build confidence in their abilities, and support success in daily classroom and social activities.

Outside of BFA, Mrs. Hankins enjoys visiting farmers’ markets, exploring local coffee shops and farm-to-table restaurants, and spending time outdoors. She also pursued graduate studies in nutrition at the University of Western States and received her license as a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) in 2025. Above all, she treasures time with her husband and twins, Kate and Jack, who are both students at BFA.

Birthday: January 17

Favorite Restaurant: Grow + Gather

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Toastique

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: With my family – a hike and then a coffee/ice cream shop

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Snuggling up and watching a movie with my family

Favorite Starbucks drink: Almond milk latte

Chocolate or Fruit?: Dark chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Whole Foods, Athleta, Banana Republic

Favorite color: Earthy boho colors

Favorite sports team: I’d watch a good game in any sport

Hobbies: Cooking/baking easy healthy recipes, hiking or nature walks, traveling, fitness, watching movies, reading

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: My husband, Travis, and my children, Jack and Kate

Originally from Chicago, Illinois, Mrs. Harms relocated to Colorado in 2004. Mrs. Harms 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. Mrs. Harms 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, Mrs. Harms enjoys biking, going to concerts, skiing, and hiking. Most of all, Mrs. Harms loves to teach children. Mrs. Harms describes herself as a very open person and urges you to feel free to contact her.

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

My Birthday is November 11

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant is Jimmy John’s Or Capriotti’s

Favorite Restaurant is Los Dos Potrillos, Mesa Latin Restaurant, PROST, 303 Sports Grill– IYKYK

Favorite Snack Food is Chips And Salsa Or Chocolate       

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it on massages, yoga, laying out by the pool

On a bad day, these would cheer me; Pedicures, massages, coffee, or hugs or positive, kind words/emails! 😉

Favorite Starbucks/Dutch Bros Drinks Iced Brown Sugar Oak Milk Shaken Espresso (half the sweetener)  or Cold Brew with a pump of caramel and a splash of half and half

Chocolate or Fruit? Milk chocolate with caramel

Favorite place to shop is Anthropologie, Free People, Target    

Favorite color  is Turquoise

Favorite sports team is/are Chicago teams: Cubs, Bears, Blackhawks

My hobbies are skiing, hiking, spending time with or going out to dinner with my family

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue is: Sincerity              

My family includes my husband, my eldest son, who lives in Laguna Beach, CA, and owns his own company, IHW (In Harm’s Way). My youngest son is a Junior at Montana State University in Bozeman.

Sarah Harrell is a Colorado native and has been teaching at BFA since it opened in 2011. She received her B.A. from CU Boulder, her Literacy Intervention Specialist certificate from Colorado College, and her M.Ed in Elementary Ed and Special Education from Grand Canyon University. She also has her endorsement in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Education. Before becoming a teacher, Sarah worked as a counselor at a residential treatment facility with teens 11-18 years old. Her passion has always been working with students of various ages to reach their full potential despite their backgrounds and/or disabilities.

In her free time, Sarah enjoys spending time with her family, which includes her adult sons. She also enjoys traveling anywhere, especially to the beach, hiking, and reading. She also volunteers with RezDawg Rescue. 

Birthday (month/day):  Nov. 20th

Favorite Restaurant:  Smokin Fins

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chic Fil

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

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…:  any baked goods

Favorite Starbucks drink: Chai Tea Latte regular milk

Chocolate or Fruit?: chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Amazon, Target, Evereve

Favorite color: Blue, brown, green

Favorite sports team: I just like watching sports

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

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Frugality

My family includes…: Myself, husband, and two boys in their 20s

Ms. Jaime Johnson has been the K-8 music director at Ben Franklin Academy since 2012. She is responsible for directing performances and after school classes as well as teaching elementary general music and middle school music and theatre electives.

Ms. Johnson holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from University of Redlands and a Masters in Music Education from University of Colorado, Boulder. She holds a vocal coaching certification from New York Vocal Coaching. She also has her Orff Schulwerk certification. This certification focuses on training music teachers to implement the creative music and movement approach developed by Carl Orff and Gunild Keetman. This approach is known for using instruments such as xylophone to improvise and compose music. Training includes recorder and movement classes.

Outside of Ben Franklin, Ms. Johnson is a music director for Audience of One, Spot On Theatre and Mountain Vista High School. Prior to BFA, she taught band and orchestra at three Douglas County schools and K-8 general music at a charter school in Denver.

Ms. Johnson truly believes in the power of the performing arts and is thrilled BFA is a STEAM school. Her role as a music teacher is to teach skills that will help students succeed in school and in life such as working with others, listening, storytelling, speaking in front of a group, being a good audience and accepting other people’s interests. Through the arts, she has seen students come out of their shells and embrace learning. 

Birthday: September 23rd

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Noodles & Co

Favorite Restaurant: Italian

Favorite Snack: Sour Patch Kids

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

On a bad day, these would cheer me up: kind notes

Favorite Starbucks/Dutch Bros: Caramel Brulée Latte

Chocolate or Fruit: Chocolate

Favorite Place to Shop: Target

Favorite Colors: Red

Favorite Sports Team(s): Broadway

Hobbies: seeing theatre, cycling, watercolor painting, swimming

Favorite BFA Virtue: Silence

My family includes my Husband, daughter, grandmother, father, and brother.

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 Knudsen 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. He also coaches the girls and boys basketball teams.

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

A Colorado native, Mr. Knudsen lives with his wonderful daughters, Chloe, Carl, and Charlotte. 

He looks forward to another great year at Ben Franklin Academy.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Creighton University, more than 10 years in the computer industry as a programmer and network engineer, along with many years as a Technology Teacher, Beth has a plethora of ideas and hands-on activities to inspire and challenge students. A die-hard Broncos fan, Beth loves Colorado, the outdoors, her two teenage daughters, and learning new things!

Birthday: 09/05

Favorite Restaurant: Tokyo Joes

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chipotle

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: At the movies

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Chocolate chip cookies

Favorite Starbucks drink: Chai Latte

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Target

Favorite color: Earth tones

Favorite sports team: Denver Broncs

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): Hiking, horseback riding, gardening

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Industry

My family includes,…: 2 teenage daughters, a dog and a horse

I am a sixth year teacher and a graduate of Colorado State University.  My course work and life have prepared me to be an informed, dynamic, professional in the Health and Physical Education field. In high school I was on the baseball, football and tennis teams where my coaches taught me the value of hard work, dedication, being a stand up individual and many other life lessons that I hope I can pass along to my students.   I do not only teach Health and Physical Education, I also live it.  I like to think that I practice what I preach!  Some of my favorite hobbies are exercising and playing/coaching different sports.  I have coached elite youth baseball, football and golf throughout the last ten years which has helped inspire me to pursue my dream of becoming a Health and Physical Education teacher and Athletic Director.  I love to try new things and spend time with my family and friends.  Lastly I truly love and have a lot of passion for what I do.  I believe I have the best job in the world, and get up every day thankful that I get to do what I do.  I love working with all my students, and having the opportunity to teach them how to be healthy and physically fit.

Coming Soon

Mr. Nolting received his bachelor of science degree from the University of Vermont, and his masters degree in science education from Brooklyn College where he also received his teaching certificate. Mr. Nolting is currently pursuing his doctorates in curriculum and instruction from the University of Denver’s Morgridge College of Education. Mr. Nolting taught middle and high school general science, technology and biology in New York state before moving to Colorado. Mr. Nolting has a professional background in STEM education, curriculum development, special and ASD education; along with multicultural teaching practices. 

When Mr. Nolting is not at BFA or the University of Denver campus, he enjoys spending time outside, hiking, fly fishing and birding! Mr. Nolting is an avid bird nerd so feel free to ask him any bird related questions or fun facts you might know!

Birthday: 04/27

Favorite Restaurant: Shells & Sauce

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Shake Shack

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Visiting a Denver museum or exploring the outdoors!

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Friendly face and nerdy puns

Favorite Starbucks drink: Chai Latte w/ oat milk

Chocolate or Fruit?: fruit

Favorite place to shop:Sierra Trading Post

Favorite color: Green

Favorite sports team: Olympics – US

Hobbies:Birding, Fly Fishing, Photography, Hiking, Watercolor painting

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Justice

My family includes…: Partner, parents, brother and dogs!

Tracy Pierce teaches the middle school specials class, “Mindful in the Middle,” and serves as the Social-Emotional Learning Program Coordinator. Now in her 9th year of teaching at Ben Franklin, Mrs. Pierce is dedicated to helping every student recognize their worth, discover their potential, and feel supported and valued. She treasures the opportunity to guide students through sixth, seventh, and eighth grades, encouraging mindfulness and fostering personal growth during this pivotal time.

Mrs. Pierce earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in both Psychology and Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Wisconsin and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of Colorado at Boulder. She has a wide variety of teaching experiences, ranging from traditional classrooms to directing an overnight camp and homeschooling her own children in an RV for seven months while traveling the country.

Mrs. Pierce and her husband Josh have two daughters who attended Ben Franklin from preschool through eighth grade and are now thriving as a freshman at Arizona State University and a sophomore at Mountain Vista High School. In her free time, Mrs. Pierce enjoys cheering on her favorite Chicago sports teams, indulging in her many crafting hobbies, staying connected with former students, and planning her next concert, trip, or adventure.

Birthday: September 29

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Starbucks

Favorite Restaurant: Mexican

Favorite Snack: Trail mix, protein bars, and of course, salty-sweet things- like chocolate-covered, salted almonds!

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it going on an outdoor adventure such as hiking, biking, etc., taking a nap, and then grilling something for dinner at home.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up: Great music, the TV show Friends, coffee, and getting outside.

Favorite Starbucks/Dutch Bros: Double Tall Nonfat Latte

Chocolate or Fruit: Chocolate

Favorite Place to Shop: Target and Amazon

Favorite Colors: Rainbow

Favorite Sports Team(s): Chicago Cubs

Hobbies: Art (drawing, knitting, painting, DIY), reading, learning about anything, especially if it is on History Channel, Travel Channel, Discovery, Animal Planet, etc., various outdoor activities

Favorite BFA Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes my husband Josh, daughters Ellie and Lainey, and our 9-year-old Australian Shepherd, Sydney

Birthday: December 14

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chik Fil’ A

Favorite Restaurant: Postino

Favorite Snack Food: Fruit

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it hiking, paddle boarding, golfing, or going to a concert.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up: Coffee or fruit

Favorite Starbucks/Dutch Bros Drink: Vanilla oatmilk latte

Chocolate or Fruit?: Fruit

Favorite place to shop: L.L.Bean

Favorite color(s): Yellow

Favorite sports team: Broncos, Rockies,

My hobbies are reading and puzzling.

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue(s) is (are) Tranquility

My family includes my 4 kiddos, 2 cats, and a fluffy dog.

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.

Birthday (month/day): Aug. 6

Favorite Restaurant: Sierra

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Watching my favorite TV shows or a movie

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

Favorite Starbucks drink: Pink Drink with Peach Juice

Chocolate or Fruit?: Fruit

Favorite place to shop: TJ Maxx

Favorite color: Green and Pink

Favorite sports team: Broncos

Hobbies: Long, relaxing drives

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: My two daughters and my fur baby, Sophie

Megan is excited to be joining the Ben Franklin Middle School team as an Instructional Aide. She graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a degree in Communications and has her Elementary teaching credential from San Jose State University. She loves working with children of all ages and loves to learn new things. Megan is a California native but has been in Highlands Ranch for almost 8 years. She is married and a mom of 3 BFA students. She loves animals and has a dog, 2 rabbits, a gerbil and a parakeet! In her free time, Megan loves to garden and play with her pets. She loves the ocean and is always excited to travel to a new beach and visit family in California! She is looking forward to a great year at Ben Franklin and getting to know all of our amazing middle schoolers!

Birthday: June 1st

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-A: love their Sunjoy sweet tea

Favorite Restaurant: Mexican, Italian

Favorite Snack Food: Gummy candy and chocolate

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it having lunch with friends and doing a puzzle, gardening if nice weather

On a bad day, these would cheer me up is snuggles on the couch with family & furbaby

Favorite Starbucks/Dutch Bros Drink: Iced Vanilla chai latte with oat milk

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Target

Favorite color(s): Light Purple

Favorite sports team: 49ers & SF Giants

My hobbies are flowers and gardening

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtues are Purity and Humility: These virtues are not valued in mainstream culture.

My family includes my husband Matt, kiddos Hannah (14), Isaac (12), and Sara (9) and our dog Dakota

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

Michelle grew up in Illinois and moved to Colorado in high school. She received her bachelors in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Wyoming and her Masters in Special Education from Grand Canyon University. Working with kids has always been a passion and teaching has been the most rewarding career where she helps kids grow and thrive. She loves helping each student grow their strengths and find confidence in themselves. This will be her sixth year at Ben Franklin Academy. She looks forward to another year of getting to know new faces and having fun alongside current students. 

When not working, she enjoys raising chickens and spending time with her husband and two children.

Birthday: December 22

Favorite Restaurant: Chipotle 

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chuck-fil-a

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

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Kind words and coffee

Favorite Starbucks drink: caramel Latte 

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate 

Favorite place to shop: L.L Bean 

Favorite color: orange

Favorite sports team: Broncos 

Hobbies: bowling, reading, museums 

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Honesty 

My family includes…: husband, 2 kids, 2 dogs, 3 chickens, 2 lizards