Office & Support Staff

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

My Birthday is 8-Dec

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant is Wendys

Favorite Restaurant is Los Dos Potrillos

Favorite Snack Food is Popcorn And Chocolate  

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it, At a golf course

On a bad day, these would cheer me: Spending time with my famiy

Favorite Starbucks/Dutch Bros Drink is Coffee

Chocolate or Fruit? Any kind of fruit

Favorite place to shop is Nordstroms                 

Favorite color  is Blue

Favorite sports team is/are Broncos and Alabama football

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue(s) is/are Humility – Putting the feelings of others is important to me.     

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)

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

Amy is so excited to be joining the preschool staff at Ben Franklin Academy! Amy holds a BA in Communication from the University of Colorado. Having spent the last ten years volunteering at her kids’ school, and loving it, she decided to pursue a career in the classroom. Amy has been married to her husband Chris for 16 years and have three wonderful children together. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cooking, crafting, and spending time with her family. She is looking forward to helping kids grow academically, socially, and emotionally!

Birthday:March 3

Favorite Restaurant:Cuba Cuba or anywhere with good sushi

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-Fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…:With my family cuddling up and watching movies

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Hugs and kind words

Favorite Starbucks drink: Coffee Frappuccino

Chocolate or Fruit?: Both, but not together

Favorite place to shop:Target

Favorite color: Green

Favorite sports team: Denver Broncos

Hobbies:Crafts, cooking, reading, and being outdoors

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: My husband Chris and our three kids; Olivia, Landen and Isla

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!

Birthday: 09/25

Favorite Restaurant: Los DosFavorite

Fast Food Restaurant: Chic-fil-A

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Shopping or staying home watching a movie!

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

Favorite Starbucks drink: Black tea lemonade, caramel macchiato

Chocolate or Fruit?: Fruit

Favorite place to shop:Target and TJ Maxx

Favorite color: Pink

Favorite sports team: Saints

Hobbies: Cleaning, swimming, photography

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity, Justice, and Tranquility

My family includes…: My son, Kaiden and myself

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.

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.

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!

Jennifer is excited to return to BFA as an Aide for Kindi/1st. She previously was an Aide for middle school for 9 years. She loves to read, write and do puzzles, and spend time with her kids, who are former BFA students.

Birthday:12/05

Favorite Restaurant: Yard House

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick-fil-a

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: reading, with kids

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Coffee, Soda, Book

Favorite Starbucks drink: Mocha Frap

Chocolate or Fruit?: Chocolate

Favorite place to shop:Target

Favorite color: Red

Favorite sports team: Avalanche

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): reading, writing, puzzles

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: Husband Rod; Son Rodger; Daughter Ashley

I’m excited to be returning to Ben Franklin as a kindergarten aid this year! Can’t wait to get started! I’ve been doing this now for almost 10 years – such a fun, great job!

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. 

Birthday (month/day): 06/30

Favorite Restaurant: Eddie V’s

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Sonic

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: with my family in some fashion and walking with my dog 

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Sonic or Chick Fil A Diet Coke:) 

Favorite Starbucks drink: Chai Late with skim milk

Chocolate or Fruit?: chocolate

Favorite place to shop: Amazon:)

Favorite color: purple 

Favorite sports team: Dallas Cowboys

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): walking crocheting reading 

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Sincerity

My family includes…: Scott, spouse and Judge, 7-year-old lab

Deb grew up in Dallas, Texas and attended Eastfield College where she studied Early Childhood Development.  For many years she was a foster parent for severely abused children which was heartbreaking and challenging, but also rewarding. She wanted to be closer to her daughter and grandchildren so in 2017 she made the move to Colorado from Ohio and came to work at BFA as the 4th grade aide. The following year she became our Librarian and has been happily reading to the students ever since. All three of her grandchildren attended BFA but they are now headed to college and Heritage High School.

In her free time she loves to read (surprise), swim, spend time with her grandchildren and love on her granddogs.

Birthday (month/day): 02/07

Favorite Restaurant: Anywhere that has Mexican

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Tokyo Joe’s, Chick-fil-la, Del Taco 

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Reading, Binging on HGTV & Food Network or listening to an audiobook while I walk.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: My grandkids and dogs

Favorite Starbucks drink: fountain coke or black iced tea

Chocolate or Fruit?: What’s Fruit?

Favorite place to shop: Amazon, Target, DSW

Favorite color: Navy

Favorite sports team: Heritage Girls VB

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): Reading (shocker I know), Swimming, Walking

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Humility: We can all use a little more of this

My family includes…: Daughter, Son-in-Law, 3 grandkids (all attended BFA) and Stella, my granddog

Colleen joined the Ben Franklin Academy office staff in January 2013. She worked part-time as the receptionist and then, from 2015-2018, shared the office manager role. In June 2018, she transitioned to her current role of Director of Admissions & Records, handling student records and all new K-8 student enrollment.

Colleen is originally from New Jersey but was raised in Northern California. She moved to Colorado from San Francisco in 2001 and married her husband, Nathan, two years later. They have a daughter and a son, both of whom started at BFA when the doors opened in September 2011.

Colleen thrives on the interaction and fast-paced environment of the Ben Franklin Academy office. When she’s not working or with her family, however, she loves to run. It’s a great way to stay fit, unwind and experience the beauty of Colorado.

Birthday: March 26

Favorite Restaurant: Smokin Fins

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Cava

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: outdoors on a trail.

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…: Snickers Peanut Butter

Favorite Starbucks drink: 2%, no foam latte with an extra shot

Chocolate or Fruit?: Dark chocolate, please!

Favorite place to shop: J. Crew, Athleta, The Loft

Favorite color: Sapphire blue

Favorite sports team: Colorado Rockies

Hobbies: Running, reading, hiking

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Resolution

My family includes…: Husband, daughter, son and pup, sweet boxer-mix.

Peggy is excited to begin her third year as the School Nurse Consultant for Ben Franklin Academy! Though she has lived in Colorado for the past 29 years, she is originally from Portage WI. She graduated with a BSN from The University of San Diego, and has been a pediatric nurse throughout her career. She has worked in children’s hospitals in Milwaukee WI and San Diego CA,, as well as in Public health. Peggy has been a school nurse consultant in Douglas County for the past 24 years.

Peggy loves being a nurse! Her hobbies include riding her ebike, singing in choir and enjoying Colorado with her family. She raised her children in Highlands Ranch and has lived in Highlands Ranch the past 26 years.

Hello! My name is Lisa Childs and I am so excited to start at BFA. My daughter Kayley has been a student here since she was 3 and I can’t wait to enjoy more years with everyone! I have many years of Emergency care in Pediatrics and I am so happy that I have been given this opportunity to be there for your children and the BFA community. Please stop by and say hi as I am excited to meet everyone!

Deputy Shannon Jensen is an experienced and accomplished School Resource Officer (SRO) with 14 years of law enforcement experience. She obtained her undergraduate degree and Doctor of Law in Northern California, where she also began her law enforcement career before moving to Colorado with her family. Deputy Jensen has been with the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office for eight years and has had various assignments, including serving the community as a cold case detective. After solving a 40-year-old Colorado cold case, she was featured on Dateline NBC and People Magazine Investigates. Deputy Jensen graduated from the National Association of School Resource Officers Basic and Advanced School Resource Officer courses. She also was recently recognized as a NASRO practitioner, which requires years of training and service as a school resource officer. When she’s not in uniform, you can find Deputy Jensen exploring the outdoors, soaking in Colorado hot springs, cheering on her favorite baseball team, or enjoying a concert at Red Rocks.

Jen is excited to be part of the Ben Franklin Academy staff.  She has been a part of BFA since the first year when her daughter started Kindergarten. Jen moved from Fairfax, VA, nine years ago and loves living in Colorado! Her husband and two kids enjoy being part of BFA and the community.  In her free time, she volunteers at the school in the classroom or with PTO, loves to crochet, travel and hikes every chance she gets.

Birthday (month/day): April 2nd

Favorite Restaurant: Via Baci

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant: Chick Fil A

Favorite Snack Food: Popcorn

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

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

Favorite Starbucks drink: White Iced Tea or Soy Chai Latte

Chocolate or Fruit?: Both! Dark Chocolate or Cherries

Favorite place to shop: TJ Maxx

Favorite color: Blue

Favorite sports team: Atlanta Braves

Hobbies: (bowling, golf, etc…): Hiking, Crocheting, Sewing, Reading

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Humility

My family includes…: Craig (husband), Alexandra, Blase, three cats, and one dog. 🙂

Ms. Korhonen, also known as Mrs. K, has been a valued member of the BFA team since April 2021. Prior to her current role as Front Office Coordinator, she served as an Instructional Aide with the Kindergarten team for two years. In her new position, she enjoys the opportunity to connect with more parents while still interacting with the students.

Originally from the Pacific Northwest—GO SEAHAWKS!—Ms. Korhonen relocated to Colorado in late 2016 following her husband’s job transfer from Tampa, Florida. In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending quality moments with her husband, two sons, and their pets.

Kelley Marie Paulson is the Director of Communications.  Before this, she has been the BFA Health Aide for two years and a BFA as a substitute teacher for two years. Born and bred in Kentucky, she received a Bachelor of Arts in Theater with a minor in Art and Language Arts from Northern Kentucky University. 

Kelley Marie moved to Colorado in 2001, where she met and married her husband, Karl. They have welcomed five wonderful children into their lives, Christian, Genevieve, Callister, Flettcher, and Cassandra (4 of them have attended BFA). Together with her family, Kelley Marie enjoys spending time in Steamboat Springs, where they can be seen at the lake boating/SUP/kayaking, hiking, fishing, and relaxing. She also enjoys being a Dance/Scout/Golf/Soccer/Lacrosse/etc Mom as well as hosting two Crochet/Knitting Camps during the summer. Kelley Marie also owns her own business making Artisan Bath & Body products. Kelley Marie joined the BFA staff in 2021 and is grateful to work with all the wonderful students and staff.

Birthday: October 26

Favorite Restaurant:  Mexican or Sushi (any)

Favorite Fast Food Restaurant:  Sonic, love their Diet Cherry Limeade and Diet Cherry Coke  

Favorite Snack Food: Popcorn

If I had an unexpected day off, I would spend it…: Hanging out with my kids and husband relaxing or making a ton of Bath and Body Products 

On a bad day, these would cheer me up…:  a warm hug or a nice compliment  

Favorite Starbucks drink: Summer is an iced Lavender Latte with Coconut Milk or iced Skinny Vanilla Latte with Coconut Milk.  Winter is Lavender Latte with Coconut Milk or Skinny Vanilla Latte with Coconut Milk

Chocolate or Fruit?: Yes Please  

Favorite place to shop: Amazon and Target

Favorite color: Blue and Yellow

Favorite sports team: my kids’ teams

Hobbies: Reading, Knitting/Crocheting and designing/making Bath Products

Favorite Ben Franklin Virtue: Humility and Sincerity.  We all make mistakes or veer of course from time to time. Understanding and taking a moment to put yourself in another’s shoes will give us a better perspective.  

My family includes…: My husband, Karl, my 5 amazing kids: Christian, Genevieve, Callister, Flettcher, Cassandra, Our Pets: Churro Cat, Cleo Cat, Aggie Dog and Nova Dog