To contact Sam: skornfeld@aakelementary.org or 970-481-7705

Samuel joined the AAK Board in 2012 and was appointed as Board Chair in 2015. He is a former AAK parent but his student has since moved up to Colorado Early College and he stayed on as a Board Member following his child’s graduation because he believes in AAK’s mission. Sam is a Colorado native and grew up along the Front Range. He graduated from Fort Collins High School, received a bachelor’s degree from Colorado State University and a law degree from the University of Wyoming. He is admitted to practice law in Colorado and Wyoming. His practice focus is wills, trusts, and estate planning for young families with minor children as well as firearms rights restoration, criminal record sealing, and expungements. He helps individuals protect themselves and their families.

In addition to his work with AAK, Samuel is a member of Kiwanis International and serves as treasurer for the Byron White Inn of Court.

To contact Sam: skornfeld@aakelementary.org or 970-481-7705

To contact Merrily: mbowers@aakelementary.org

Merrily Bowers is currently a case manager for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities after spending a decade in Colorado charter schools as an ADA 504 and MTSS Coordinator. She has four children middle-school age and up. Merrily is a Colorado native and grew up north of Fort Collins, attending schools in Poudre School District. Merrily earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Special Education from Liberty University as well as a graduate certificate in Autism Education. Prior to working with adults who have disabilities and in education, Merrily worked in forensic toxicology as well as being a general manager for many years. Her volunteer experience includes various roles in schools, working with individuals with disabilities, non-profit support, and has had a fun time coaching soccer through Loveland Parks and Recreation. In her free time, she loves enjoying the beauty of Colorado with her children and relatives as well as traveling and experiencing different cultures and food. Merrily is grateful to be part of the talented board of directors at AAK.

To contact Dorothy: dshapland@aakelementary.org

Dorothy Shapland Rodriguez is an Associate Professor in the Special Education, Early Childhood, and Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Education Department at Metropolitan State University of Denver’s School of Education. Dorothy has over 35 years of experience teaching preschool and elementary in public, private, and charter schools in Colorado and New Jersey. She has been a teacher leader and professional development provider and instructional coach for schools, centers, directors, and teachers throughout Colorado for the past 20 years. Dorothy is delighted to be able to share her experience as a member of the Board of AAK.

To contact Scott: ssimmons@aakelementary.org

Scott Simmons is a retired Software Architect with nearly 40 years of job experience in software design. Scott lives with his amazing wife in Windsor. Scott has a wonderful daughter and granddaughter who live in the Parker area. Scott has spent the last 25+ years in Colorado primarily in the Denver area. Scott received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Colorado and Masters degrees from the University of Nevada and Southern Illinois University. In addition to his board duties, Scott is active in climate advocacy as a leader in multiple climate change organizations. Scott likes to play tennis, golf, and continues to try to master the guitar. Scott joined the Board in 2018.

To contact Anthony: aneal@aakelementary.org

Anthony has dedicated their career to working with children and fostering their growth. With 17 years as a professional snowboard coach, he specialized in coaching young athletes, including those with disabilities, and supported their success at top-tier competitions like the X Games and Paralympics.

They also worked as an AMGA-certified mountain guide, leading outdoor adventures and mentoring others. Over a decade of traveling the world to pursue these passions has deepened their understanding of diverse educational and cultural experiences.

As a Waldorf teacher for five years, Anthony embraced a holistic approach to education, nurturing creativity and development in the classroom. Now a parent of five and a local business owner, Anthony brings a deep commitment to education and community to their role on the school board.