Faculty & Staff
Faculty & Staff
2023-2024 CLASSROOM TEACHERS AND FACULTY
OPEN STAFF DIRECTORY
Principal | Nichole Schlagel |
Director of Business & Operations | Shannon Gossard |
Community Learning Center Site Director (Interim) | Sierra Montez |
Office Manager/Registrar | Amanda Woods |
Health Tech | Jada Kankel |
Office Assistant | Mary Anne Hjelmfelt |
Special Education Teacher | Lauren Cole |
Special Education Staff | Cecilia Pivarunas (OT); Neely Harris (Psychologist) |
Pre-Kindergarten Director | Brandee Martin |
Pre-Kindergarten | Michelle Hooley |
Kindergarten | Amber Hall |
1st Grade | Keaton Smith |
1st Grade | Angela Heckart |
2nd Grade | Caitrin Cullen |
2nd Grade | Gloria Hyde |
3rd Grade | Dana Smith |
3rd Grade | Kaila DeJane |
4th Grade | Jaclyn Tauren |
5th Grade | Emily Walters |
Music Teacher | Lorna Floyd |
Visual Arts Teacher | Eilish Poe |
Expressions Teacher | Hazel Velez |
Facilities | Lee Martinez |
School Nurse | Carrie Martin |
Information Technology | Scott Wilson |
Community Learning Center Teachers/Interventionists | Sierra Montez; Gloriana Azofeifa; Rikki French; Jonathan Price; Mitchell Perque; Patrese Yarbrough |
Nichole Schlagel
Principal
Email: nschlagel@aakelementary.org
My name is Nichole Schlagel and I am honored to be the Principal at The Academy of Arts and Knowledge!
I live in Fort Collins with my family. I have been in the education world for over 25 years. I have a passion for creating educational environments that support the whole child. At AAK we personalize education to support students in reaching their personal best. I believe every student has a right to achieve at high levels. It is our responsibility to provide the necessary support to help them reach their goals. When students feel safe and secure in their learning environments they will take risks and discover their passion for learning. As a community, we will continue to work together to increase academic achievement as well as the social and emotional well-being of all of our students.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Pay Day
- Snack Food - Salty
- Restaurant - Anything Local
- Fast Food - Bindle
- Beverage - Coffee-Americano
- Chocolate or Fruit - Chocolate
- Type of Music - ALL!
- Desired Books - School Improvement, Leadership, new suggestions!
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Family, Friends
- Stores - Amazon
- Sports Teams - N/A
- Classroom Items - Markers and Pens
- Non-Monetary Items - Anything hand made!
- Other - N/A
Shannon Gossard
Director of Business & Operations
Email: sgossard@aakelementary.org
From the moment I stepped into this school, I was blown away by the amazing things that teachers do every day with their students and the amount of passion and dedication they have for each and every child they work with. Over the last eight years, I have seen immense growth in our students and witnessed them blossoming into confident and expressive students who have the ability to think critically about the world around them. I am honored to be able to support such an amazing community of staff, students, and parents.
Brandee Martin
Preschool Director
Email: bmartin@aakelementary.org
My name is Brandee Martin and I am very excited to be the Pre-Kindergarten Teacher/Director of this new program here at AAK! I have been teaching in the Early Childhood field for over ten years and I absolutely adore watching them grow and learn each and every day. I strive to make a difference in the lives of young children and value the importance of relationships.
I was born and raised in Colorado and currently living in Severance. My husband and I have two kids (8 and 4) that keep us very busy. We enjoy camping, being outdoors, sports and concerts.
Favorite Things:
Candy Bar - Reese’s
Snack Food - Salt and Vinegar Chips
Restaurant - Blue Agave Grill
Fast Food - Qdoba
Beverage - Coffee, Dr. Pepper
Chocolate or Fruit - Fruit
Type of Music - Country
Desired Books -
Amanda Woods
Registrar/Receptionist
Email: awoods@aakelementary.org
I have worked in education as a paraprofessional and an office manager for over ten years, and I would never want to work anywhere else. I love the kids and families, and I find joy in helping teachers whenever I can. I have been married for over twenty years and we have three kids together. My kids, ranging from elementary age to college, are the light of my life. They keep me on my toes and teach me something everyday. I love to cook, bake, read, craft, and hike as well as spend time relaxing with friends.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Mounds
- Snack Food - Chips
- Restaurant - DC Oaks
- Fast Food - None
- Beverage - Tea
- Chocolate or Fruit - Chocolate
- Type of Music - Celtic
- Desired Books - Kids Books
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Crafting, Baking
- Stores - Amazon
- Sports Teams - Broncos
- Office Type Items - Gel Pens
- Non-Monetary Items - Cards and Pictures
- Other - No Tree Nuts
Jada Kankel
Health Tech/Office
Email: jkankel@aakelementary.org
Both of my children are alumni of this school. I have been working here since 2009 and my heartstrings are tied to the children and staff. This school embraces students with differences and teaches them to be comfortable in their own skin. Students graduate from school with a confidence in who they are and acceptance for who others are. I greatly enjoy working with this community and I look forward to meeting new and returning students and staff in the fall.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Take 5, Peanut M & M’s
- Snack Food - Cheese and crackers/Jerky/Trail Mix
- Restaurant - Bindle Coffee, Fox and Crow, DC Oakes
- Fast Food - Breakfast
- Beverage - Whole Milk Lattes
- Chocolate or Fruit - Both
- Type of Music - All
- Desired Books - Cooking and Baking
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Cooking, baking, traveling, hiking, puzzles & movies
- Stores - Target, King Soopers, Local shops
- Sports Teams - CSU, UNC, Hockey
- Classroom Items - Gel pens and mechanical pencils
- Non-Monetary Items - Notes, drawings, baked goods
- Other - Crazy Socks, Ceramic Mugs
Mary Anne Hjelmfelt
Admin. Assistant
Email: mhjelmfelt@aakelementary.org
Hi I’m Mary Anne, and I am blessed to be part of this special AAK community! As an artist with a graphic design degree, I appreciate that this school embraces our individual gifts and creates an environment for everyone to thrive. Born in NJ, I’ve lived in CO since 1998 and love being in the mountains hiking, snowshoeing, photographing, and painting this gorgeous state. I also enjoy biking, paddleboarding and traveling with my husband and son. My admin assistant role allows me to support the amazing staff here and be in the front office greeting students and parents.
Favorite Things:
Candy Bar - Take 5
Snack Food - Nachos
Restaurant - Himalayan Bistro, Los Chingones
Fast Food - Chick Fil A
Beverage - Chai Tea
Chocolate or Fruit - Both
Type of Music - Dance Music, orchestra/classical
Desired Books - Mystery, Thrillers
Entertainment/Hobbies - Hiking, Live Music, Painting, Dancing, Cooking
Stores - Local, Michael's
Sports Teams - Rams, Avs., Eagles
Classroom Items - Paint Pens
Non-Monetary Items - Theatre, museums, handmade
Other - Getting in nature whenever possible.
Lauren Cole
Special Education Teacher
Email: lcole@aakelementary.org
My name is Lauren Cole, and I am very excited to be entering my 3rd year at AAK Elementary School. I have been teaching in many capacities for over 11 years. I graduated from NM Highlands University and started my teaching career in a small rural community in New Mexico. I am originally from Colorado and have family here, so I am thrilled to be back!
We all learn differently, so I look forward to helping you grow as a learner and a positive student. Students with a disability all have an ABILITY! The number one goal in my classroom is respect, and that we will be a school family and work together. I will only ask you to work as hard as I will.
When I am not in the classroom or teaching, I love to enjoy the outdoors, especially sunflowers! I have worked on a ranch with cattle, horses, and buffalo. My two absolute favorites are my son and our black lab, Duke!
Favorite Things:
Candy Bar - Heath
Snack Food - Popcorn
Restaurant - King Soopers
Fast Food - Panera Bread
Beverage - Coffee
Chocolate or Fruit - Chocolate-Covered Blueberries
Type of Music - 80’s/90’s Country
Desired Books - Drama/Western/Crime
Entertainment/Hobbies - Anything Outdoors!
Stores - Costco
Sports Teams - Denver Broncos
Classroom Items - Pens, Post-Its, Magnets
Non-Monetary Items - Quotes
Other - N/A
Cecilia Pivarunas
Occupational Therapist
Email: cpivarunas@aakelementary.org
Dr. Pivarunas is an occupational therapist who is committed to helping students achieve their full potential. She takes a student-centric approach that combines theory and creativity to develop individual plans which deliver academic results. Dr. Pivarunas has extensive research experience in sensory processing and learning differences, and she firmly believes that every student can succeed with the right supports in place. She holds a Doctorate in Occupational Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.
Originally hailing from the Windy City of Chicago, Dr. Pivarunas landed in Colorado in 2019. In her free time, you can find her spending time with her German Shorthaired Pointer, Nellie, perusing the snack aisle of Trader Joes, or finding her inner Yoda at a local yoga studio.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - 100 Grand
- Snack Food - gluten free pretzels
- Restaurant - Chick-Fil-A
- Fast Food - Chick-Fil-A
- Beverage - Diet Dr. Pepper
- Chocolate or Fruit - Chocolate
- Type of Music - Any Kind
- Desired Books - Beach Reads
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Bowling, Hallmark Movies, Hiking
- Stores - Home Goods, TJ Maxx
- Sports Teams - N/A
- Classroom Items - Glitter makes everything better!
- Non-Monetary Items - Words of Affirmation
- Other - N/A
Neely Harris
School Psychologist
Email: nharris@aakelementary.org
Hello! I am Neely Harris, the School Psychologist at AAK. I have an Education Specialist degree in School Psychology from the University of Northern Colorado. I have worked in many of the local surrounding school districts for 13+ years. I have special training for working with children on the Autism Spectrum, certifications in Art Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy, training in classroom-based restorative circles, and experience with Animal Assisted Therapy.
I am originally from Florida, but I currently live in the foothills of Loveland with my husband and two children, ages 7 and 13. We enjoy life in the woods, surrounded by nature and wildlife. We raise chickens and bees, and have a big garden. I am especially passionate about beekeeping and speaking to kids about bees in hopes of inspiring a new generation of beekeepers! I'm all about saving the bees! I am also a huge foodie, and enjoy cooking and making things from scratch. My other hobbies include canning, paddle boarding, kayaking, and skiing. I feel so blessed to have landed at AAK. Being able to use art as a modality to support mental health is so powerful!
The whole staff at AAK is so warm, collaborative, and kid-focused. I am honored to work amongst such talented and dedicated educators. Children today are facing a multitude of stressors and a significant amount of trauma like never before, indicating that mental health is currently a primary health concern for our kids. In a technologically driven and seemingly unpredictable/unstable world, with families under immense pressure, kids are experiencing alarming rates of anxiety and psychological barriers to accessing their education and experiencing a carefree childhood. Innocence seems to be gone way too soon. A close knit, trusting community (a.k.a "village") built on acceptance, belonging, true connections, and love is the only way to give them the support they need to foster resilience and thrive in this ever changing landscape they must navigate. We are asking them to do such hard things!
Kindness matters. Relationships matter. Children should feel safe, valued, and truly "seen" at school. They should all have a voice and be celebrated for their individual uniqueness. They should know and feel that everyone has a special place in the rainbow of colors that make up the human experience! Love wins!!
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Cookies
- Snack Food - popcorn
- Restaurant - Vatos Tacos
- Fast Food - Big City Burrito
- Beverage - coffee
- Chocolate or Fruit - dark chocolate w/sea salt
- Type of Music - various – depends on mood
- Desired Books - The lost book of herbal remedies
- Entertainment/Hobbies - bee keeping, gardening, skiing, cooking
- Stores - Costco, Jax Outdoor Gear
- Sports Teams - Broncos
- Classroom Items - Squishy / sensory toys (kids), sand tray miniatures
- Non-Monetary Items - Kindness, sunshine, friends
- Other - I love cool hats (winter hats, ballcaps, etc.)
Amber Hall
Kindergarten Teacher
Email: ahall@aakelementary.org
I am beyond excited to be teaching Kindergarten at the Academy of Arts and Knowledge! This will be my third year teaching! I am a Colorado native and absolutely love anything outdoors whether that be snowboarding, hiking 14ers, paddleboarding, or running with my dog (Bentley).
I love the community AAK offers and can’t wait to welcome students and families into my classroom this 2023-2024 school year. Encouraging, supporting, and teaching children has been a lifelong passion of mine. I believe providing opportunities for children to strive, develop, learn, and grow is essential within a classroom setting. We are going to have such an amazing and fantastic year!
Favorite Things:
Candy Bar - Butterfinger, Twix
Snack Food - Doritos, Hot Lime Cheetos, Cheez-Its Duoz
Restaurant - Mod Market, King Soopers
Fast Food - Canes
Beverage - Caramel Macchiato, Dirty Chai Latte
Chocolate or Fruit - Berries, Caramel Chocolate
Type of Music - County
Desired Books - Informational Habitat Books (Forest, Arctic, Ocean, Desert), Rhyming Books, There was an Old Lady Series
Entertainment/Hobbies - Snowboarding, Hiking
Stores - Amazon, Target, Costco
Sports Teams- Rockies, Avs
Classroom Items - White boards, clip boards, healthy snacks, clothespins, washable markers, paper mate felt tip pens, laminating sheets, cardstock colored paper, playdough
Non-Monetary Items - N/A
Other - NO MUGS PLEASE AND THANK YOU:)
Keaton Smith
First Grade Teacher
Email: ksmith@aakelementary.org
This year will be my 8th year as an educator at AAK! I strive to foster a creative, engaging, and safe learning environment here in first grade. One of my favorite perks of this job is watching the students grow, not only in education but also in their confidence in themselves as creative individuals. I love working alongside educators who are here to make learning feel unique, positive, and enjoyable.
In my free time, I am usually playing video games, dancing around my house, spending quality time with friends, or up in Wyoming visiting family.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Crunch
- Snack Food - Chips & Queso/Salsa
- Restaurant - Music City Hot Chicken
- Fast Food - Qdoba
- Beverage - Non Caffeinated Tea, Emergen-C
- Chocolate or Fruit - Apples, Bananas, Dried Mango
- Type of Music - Lady Gaga, Lights, Bastille
- Desired Books - Children’s stories, Young Chapter Books for kids
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Journals, Creative Things, Video Games
- Stores - Target and Walmart
- Sports Teams - Wyoming Cowboys
- Classroom Items - Cardstock, Laminate, Staples, Tape
- Non-Monetary Items - Classroom Artwork
Angela Heckart
First Grade Teacher
Email: aheckart@aakelementary.org
Hello! My name is Mrs. Heckart and I am very excited to be teaching First Grade at AAK! I am originally from Iowa (Go Hawkeyes!!) and moved to Denver 18 years ago with my husband. My family and I have been in Fort Collins for the past 6 years and we absolutely love it!! I received my BA in Art from the University of Iowa and completed my Master’s Degree from the University of Denver. I began my teaching journey as a Pre-K teacher and have been teaching for 14 years. 🙂 I have taught Kindergarten, First Grade, Second Grade, Gifted and Talented and a Literacy Teacher.
I am caring and creative with a solid commitment to supporting the whole child and their social-emotional development. I go above and beyond to ensure my students have a blast learning, feel included, loved, supported, and given the opportunity to shine and to perform at their fullest potential.
I feel blessed to have the opportunity to bring together my love for teaching and my passion for art at our wonderful school! I absolutely love teaching and the relationships I have built with my students and the amazing, supportive staff here at AAK!
Candy Bar - Licorice, Peanut Butter Cups
Snack Food - Cereal, pretzels
Restaurant - DC Oaks, Suehiro
Fast Food - Panera
Beverage - Coffee, Sparkling water
Chocolate or Fruit - I love ALL fruit, Dove chocolate
Type of Music - PoP, Indie
Caitrin Cullen
Second Grade Teacher
Email: ccullen@aakelementary.org
This is my third year teaching Second Grade at our amazing school! I grew up in Baltimore, Maryland, and moved to Fort Collins, Colorado for college. I enjoy all that Colorado has to offer, from skiing to hiking to boating on Horsetooth Reservoir. In my free time I love singing, dancing, reading books and traveling. I am excited to create a community in our Second Grade class full of learning, fun, laughter, and hard work. It will be a fun school year!
Favorite Things:
Candy Bar: Snickers
Snack Food: Chips
Restaurant: Mojeaux, Restaurant 415, Music City Hot Chicken
Fast Food: Chipotle, Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts
Beverage: Coffee, Tea
Chocolate or Fruit: Any Chocolate or Fruit
Type of Music: Queen, Wilco, Bob Dylan, The Beatles
Desired Books: Non Fiction, Adventure Books
Entertainment/Hobbies: Skiing, Hiking, Traveling, Reading
Stores: Target, Knowledge Bound, Amazon
Sports Teams: Baltimore Ravens
Classroom Items: Wobble Chairs, Books, Erasers
Non-Monetary Items: Poems, Handmade Gifts from Students
Other: I love student notes, crafts, and pictures!
Gloria Hyde
Second Grade Teacher
Email: ghyde@aakelementary.org
Hello Fellow Dragons,
My name is Gloria Hyde and I am beyond excited to be a teacher at AAK . I have three children who I love to spend my time with in my freetime. Together with my husband, we love to explore our land, go hiking, play board games, and laugh about silly stories. We have two beautiful dogs, three barn cats, and two bee colonies. Moving from Delaware to Colorado two years ago has been a dream come true for our family. I am originally from Germany and I can’t wait to teach my students all about European culture.
This will be my third year of teaching. I have taught Kindergarten, Literacy Intervention, and Second Grade. I believe that a positive student teacher relationship is imperative to learning success and know that every child has the potential to grow in their own way and at their own pace. My goal is to build a strong classroom community that my students are excited to be a part of every day. Each childhood is precious and I am determined to help shape positive memories for all of my students.
I am sure we will have a wonderful year!! Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns!
Warm regards,
Mrs. Hyde
Favorite Things
Snack Food - pretzels, pumpkin seeds
Restaurant - any
Fast Food - Panera Bread
Beverage - coffee
Chocolate or Fruit - dark chocolate
Type of Music - reggae, ska
Desired Books - fiction, history
Entertainment/Hobbies - kickboxing, hiking, guitar playing, reading
Stores - Sam's Club, Arc
Dana Smith
Third Grade Teacher
Email: dsmith@aakelementary.org
Hey y’all! I’m Dana Smith, and I am so thrilled to be teaching third grade at AAK. I love learning new things and believe that if you’re not learning, you’re not living! I’m so grateful I get to share that passion with my students every day and help them reach their full potential. I was born and raised in Mississippi and now live in Fort Collins with my husband Brad, our dog Sadie, and our cat Hannah. I enjoy reading, playing video games, writing, hiking, and camping.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Chocolate!, KitKat, Twix, Ghirardelli
- Snack Food - Crunchy Cheetos
- Restaurant - Sushi
- Fast Food - Chick-Fil-A
- Beverage - Starbucks, Dutch Bros.
- Chocolate or Fruit - Both!
- Type of Music - Pop, Rock, and everything 90s
- Desired Books - Almost anything, history, motivational, fiction, biographies
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Reading, video games, writing, hiking
- Stores - Target, Amazon, Dollar Tree
- Sports Teams - Olympic gymnastics and figure skating
- Classroom Items - Mini Erasers, children’s books, lemon theme
- Non-Monetary Items - Sweet notes and pictures!
- Other - Favs: green, cats, dogs, health & wellness
Kaila DeJane
Third Grade Teacher
Email: kdejane@aakelementary.org
Hey there!! I'm Kaila De Jane and I am so delighted to be teaching third grade here at AAK. I am looking forward to all of the fun and exciting things we are going to learn. Collaboration and creativity are key aspects in my classroom, and I look forward to helping my students grow each day. I was born in California but spent most of my life in Colorado and live locally. In my free time, I enjoy crafting, listening to podcasts, riding Harleys and spending time with friends and family. My favorite thing about AAK is the pure love I receive from staff and every single student I come into contact with. It is truly magical to build a relationship with students and help them develop and achieve their fullest potential.
Favorite Things:
Candy Bar - Kit Kat
Snack Food - Goldfish
Restaurant - Old Chicago
Fast Food - McDonald’s
Beverage - Coffee
Chocolate or Fruit - Chocolate
Type of Music - All Music
Desired Books - Historical Fiction, Crime, Biographies
Entertainment/Hobbies - Riding Motorcycles
Stores - Target/Wal Mart
Sports Teams - Colorado Eagles
Classroom Items - Highlighters
Non-Monetary Items - Birthday Off
Other - N/A
Jaclyn Tauren
Fourth Grade Teacher
Email: jtauren@aakelementary.org
Jennie Born
Fourth Grade Teacher (2024-2025)
Email: jborn@aakelementary.org
I am so excited to be your 4th grade teacher! This is my 21st year teaching elementary school, and my 1st year at AAK. In all, I have taught 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades in both Virginia and Colorado. My absolute favorite subjects to teach are math and writing. I thoroughly enjoy finding new ways to teach and inspire young minds.
I grew up in San Diego, CA and moved to Colorado Springs for Middle and High School. I graduated from Lewis Palmer HS in 1998, and then moved with my family to Williamsburg, VA. In 2002, I graduated from the College of William and Mary with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and Psychology. I spent the next 15 years teaching in Yorktown, VA. In 2018, I moved back to Colorado and settled in Fort Collins. For the past 6 years, I have taught 3rd and 4th grades in PSD.
My husband, Mike, and I have been married for a little over four years. Our son, Ben, just turned one this past July. Watching him learn and grow has been one of our greatest gifts as parents. We also have two “fur babies,” one orange tabby cat, Bella, and a sweet (and energetic) puppy named Bailey. In my spare time, I love to hike, paddle board, read, and eat at all the delicious restaurants Fort Collins has to offer.
In our classroom, kindness, respect, and relationships matter. Families can expect a warm and welcoming environment where each learner is celebrated as a unique individual. Lessons are crafted to instruct the whole child and help students reach his or her highest potential. Humor, encouragement, and love are the foundation of learning. Our class is a family working together with one common goal. I am beyond thrilled to be your child’s 4th grade teacher, and I know this is going to be a stellar year!
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar – Kit Kat
- Snack Food - Salty
- Restaurant – DC Oaks, Blue Agave
- Fast Food – Chick Fil A
- Beverage – White Chocolate Mocha
- Type of Music - Country
- Desired Books – Novel sets for classroom
- Entertainment/Hobbies – Bike rides, walks, paddleboarding, shopping, movies, Game Night, camping, bonfires
- Stores - Amazon
- Sports Teams – Broncos, Avalanche, Nuggets
Emily Walters
Fifth Grade Teacher
Email: ewalters@aakelementary.org
My teaching philosophy is very student centered. The classroom community and culture is extremely important to my student's learning. I believe that the emotional well being of the child always comes first before learning. Each student is unique and has different needs that must be met. Once those needs are being met, I like the students to take control of their own learning with guidance from myself and other students. I set each student to high standards because I know every single one of them can reach their goals if they try. I believe that learning starts at home and goes beyond the classroom. This is why I love doing Project Based Learning in my teachings.
In my free time I love to go to shows and do anything outdoors! I love going camping, hiking, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, snowboarding, and hanging out with my dog, Tucker! I mostly grew up in Colorado Springs, but have lived in 5 other states growing up. The things that I love here at AAK are, the amazing community it has here, the endless opportunities for PBL's, and working with such an incredible team.
Favorite Things:
Candy Bar - Snickers or Twix
Snack Food - Cool Ranch Doritos, Beef Jerky
Restaurant - Anything local
Fast Food - Chick-Fil-A, Chipotle, In n Out,
Beverage - Dr Pepper
Chocolate or Fruit - mango, banana, strawberry
Type of Music - EDM, folk, indie pop
Desired Books - historical fiction, horror, crime
Entertainment/Hobbies - guitar, drums, hiking, camping, fishing, concerts
Stores - Vans, Target, Ragstock,
Sports Teams - Saints, Rockies, Avs, Wyoming Cowboys
Classroom Items - Sharpies, laminator
Non-Monetary Items - Homemade crafts
Other - My favorite animals are bats
Lorna Floyd
Music Teacher
Email: lfloyd@aakelementary.org
Hello, I’m Lorna Floyd! I have been the AAK music teacher since the fall of 2010 and I absolutely love this school and I am honored to be part of your child’s musical journey. Our music program meets and exceeds the Colorado State Music Standards in a unique way–by offering an elementary instrumental program! We have so much talent in this school and I am sooo proud of the students’ progress on their instruments.
When I am not in my classroom I’m in my many gardens with my husband and two little dogs or making my own music! I play alto saxophone with the funk band Archie Funker and clarinet and vocals in my own ensemble, Lorna’s Swingset. Look us up and come to one of our many public family-friendly performances. I’d love to see you there.
These are a few of my Favorite Things:
Candy Bar - Chocolate!!!
Snack Food - Little crackers
Restaurant - Blue Bird Café
Fast Food - Jason’s Deli
Beverage - Hazelnut latte
Chocolate or Fruit - Chocolate, yes! Fruit, yes! Just not together!
Type of Music - Jazz, klezmer, classical
Desired Books - Historical Fiction
Entertainment/Hobbies - plants, reading, kayaking
Stores - Target
Sports Teams - None
Classroom Items - Fun pens! Little pads of paper
Non-Monetary Items - Handmade cards and notes
Other - N/A
Eilish Poe
Art Teacher
Email: epoe@aakelementary.org
Hi y’all! My name is Eilish Poe and I am ecstatic to be the Art Teacher at AAK! This is my 5th year at this incredible school, and I am just as excited to be here as I was when I first started! I am really looking forward to bringing some new ideas to our Art Program such as collage, textiles, photography, and different movements in art history! I firmly believe that relationships come first when it comes to education. Making those strong bonds with the students is my first priority! I know that all of the teachers at AAK share that philosophy, and that is why AAK is a wonderfully unique school! I feel so fortunate to be a part of this community.
A little bit about myself: I grew up in Texas, but have lived in Colorado for the last 8 years. When I’m not teaching, I love to read, paint, go to the movies, rock climb, and just be active. I absolutely love thrift shopping and fashion. Growing up, I was taught how to sew at a young age and fell in love with giving clothes a new life! I can’t wait to share this knowledge with your student(s)! Lastly, we have an adorable bunny named Boomer with us in the Art Room and we are both ready to meet everyone!
Favorite Things:
Candy Bar - I love pretty much all candy!
Snack Food - Chex mix and popcorn
Restaurant - Vato’s tacos, Torchy’s tacos, Blind Pig
Fast Food - Chipotle
Beverage - Any flavor of Poppi or Olipop soda
Chocolate or Fruit - Chocolate, always!
Type of Music - 1970’s rock, 2000’s punk, and Taylor Swift
Desired Books - Any type of art classroom book!
Entertainment/Hobbies - Biking, hiking, rock climbing, tennis, oil painting, going to the movies, and thrifting!!!
Stores - Target, Michael’s, Amazon
Sports Teams - CSU Rams, Team USA Volleyball, Dallas Mavericks, Denver Broncos
Classroom Items - Fabrics, string, paint samples, laminate sheets
Non-Monetary Items - Pictures of us and your incredible artwork
Other - Favs: Flamingos, flowers/mushrooms, Harry Potter, 1970’s decorations
Hazel Velez
Expressions Teacher
Email: hvelez@aakelementary.org
My name is Hazel and I am the Expressions Teacher at AAK. I’ve been working with children since the age of 14 and love being able to celebrate and support every child where they are at and watch them grow! If I’m not at work you can find me rock climbing, backpacking, kayaking, thrifting, or reading. I believe that learning goes beyond the classroom and isn’t limited to just kids. I look forward to all the exciting memories and opportunities we will build here at AAK and contribute to the incredibly loving and positive community that this school provides.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Snickers/Sour Patch Kids
- Snack Food - Fun Yuns/Hummus
- Restaurant - Local Restaurants
- Fast Food - Chik-Fil-A
- Beverage - Kombucha
- Chocolate or Fruit - Grapes
- Type of Music - All Kinds
- Desired Books - All Kinds
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Biking/Rock Climbing/Back Packing
- Stores - T.J. Maxx / Target
- Sports Teams - FSU / BUCS / Tampa Bay Lightning
- Classroom Items - Colorful Pens
- Non-Monetary Items - Cards and heart felt DIY’s
- Other - I love plants
Lee Martinez
Custodian
Email: facilities@aakelementary.org
In my spare time, I like to go bowling and spend time with family and friends. I love to work on cars, listen to music and watch movies.
I love my job and like all the students. The teachers make my job so fun!
Scott Wilson
Information Technology
Email: swilson@aakelementary.org
Sierra Montez
CLC Lead (Interim)
Email: smontez@aakelementary.org
Hello, my name is Sierra Montez and I am so thrilled to be working for the Academy of Arts and Knowledge. I have always had a passion for teaching and shaping the young minds of children and appreciate all the opportunities AAK has to offer. As a former CLC after school teacher and Broadcasting Club instructor I have had the amazing opportunity to bond with so many of our great students and will continue to build those relationships with all the kids everyday. If I am not leading the after school program you can find me crocheting, kayaking, hiking, or adventuring with my fiancé. I am so honored to be filling in for this leadership position that allows me to support staff and students through such an amazing program.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Hershey’s Cookies & Cream
- Snack Food - Gardetto’s/Fruit Snacks
- Restaurant - Anything Fort Collins Local
- Fast Food - Wendy’s/Dutch Bros.
- Beverage - Coffee/Smoothies
- Chocolate or Fruit - Fruit
- Type of Music - Disney & Dancing Music
- Desired Books - Fantasy/Adventure/Dr. Suess
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Hiking/Paddleboarding/Reading
- Stores - 2nd & Charles/Barnes & Nobles
- Sports Teams - All Denver Teams & Iowa Hawkeyes
- Classroom Items - Pens / Stickers
- Non-Monetary Items - Words of Encouragement
- Other - N/A
Michelle Hooley
AAK Support Staff
Email: mhooley@aakelementary.org
My name is Michelle Hooley and I am the Pre-K Assistant Teacher. I have worked in education for over 20 years and find that it is something that is in my heart. I love to teach. I especially love teaching younger ages. To see my students blossom and grow every day brings me such joy. I care for each and every kiddo that I get the privilege of knowing and I love to see them shine.
My husband and I have been together for over 14 years and we have 5 children ages 18, 16, 12, 11 and 6. We also have lots of furry and scaly babies. We have 3 cats, a dog, a snake, 2 toads, and recently lost a beloved gecko and a fish.
I am a 4th generation Fort Collins native and I am so proud of my family history here. We were one of the first Hispanic families to settle in Fort Collins and it brings me great pride to find my Great Grandpa in many of the Fort Collins history books as well as my family's history in the Fort Collins History Museum. I love that my children are 5th generation natives and get to carry on the legacy.
I love to be outdoors whether it be gardening, hiking, fishing, or just sitting on my front porch reading a book. I love the smell of rain and fresh cut grass and taking myself on long drives while listening to music. I am a huge music enthusiast and attend as many concerts as I possibly can. I like to write, crochet, knit, coloring books, and napping. I am a very optimistic bubbly person that finds the beauty in all things.
I am so happy to be a part of this wonderful AAK community!
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - I love all things chocolate, Crunch, Hershey with Almonds, Kit Kat. I also love gummy bears.
- Snack Food - All the chips! Cheez-its
- Restaurant - McDonalds, Wendys, Chic Fil A..... I love cheeseburgers. Not a seafood fan.
- Fast Food - Oops. See above.
- Beverage - Cherry Coke or Pepsi, tea, coffee, slushes
- Chocolate of Fruit - BOTH!
- Type of Music - All of it. I listen to absolutely everything.
- Desired Books - I love horror, thrillers, biographies, things that make me laugh, poetry.
- Entertainment/Hobbies - I like to watch movies, craft, hike, fish, garden
- Stores - Target, Walmart, Old Navy, Kohls, Hobby Lobby, Micheals, Amazon, Barnes and Noble
- Sports Teams - I like an underdog
- Classroom Items - post it notes, pens, markers, pencils, masking tape, good scissors, brightly colored paper
- Non-Monetary Items - I love homemade everything!
Gloriana Azofeifa
AAK Support Staff
Email:gazofeifa@aakelementary.org
Hello! My name is Gloriana and I am one of the CLC teachers and the Spanish club leader. I love working with kids, everyday at AAK a new memory is created! I was born and raised in Costa Rica, where I graduated with a Bachelor's Degree In Nutritional Sciences. I was a military wife for 24 years, living between the USA and Germany ! I moved to Fort Collins last summer. In my free time I like to go out with my daughters ( 14 yo and 20 yo) either shopping, eating out, going to shows or concerts, etc. Thank you AAK staff and students for making me feel welcome!
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - milk chocolate
- Snack Food - popcorn, cashews
- Restaurant - Any
- Fast Food - Chick-Fil-A, McDonalds, Panera Bread
- Beverage - Anything diet/ no tea
- Chocolate or Fruit - Both
- Type of Music - All
- Desired Books - Romance, Mystery
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Movies, Plays, Concerts
- Stores - Any
- Sports Teams - None
- Classroom Items - Any
- Non-Monetary Items - Anything Handmade
- Other - N/A
Brooklyn Norwood
AAK Support Staff
Email: bnorwood@aakelementary.org
Hello! My name is Brooklynn Norwood, and I am the paraprofessional at AAK! I recently graduated from MSU Denver with a bachelor's in Social Work! This is my first year working at AAK, and I am so grateful to be of service to the students and staff alike. The Academy of Arts and Knowledge has a special place in my heart as I was a part of the first Kindergarten class when the school opened. My time as a student at AAK has shaped me into the curious, creative, and knowledgeable person I am today, so it is an honor to be back. As a paraprofessional, I make it my mission to create an inclusive, interactive, and supportive learning environment for all students. I love our community here and value the families that make our school unique. I am so excited to continue my journey at AAK and walk alongside your students on their learning paths, too!
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Heath Bars or Almond Joy
- Snack Food - Chips, Popcorn, French Fries
- Fast Food - Runza (their fries specifically) or Five Guys
- Beverage - Thai Tea, Chai, Ocean Water, or Cherry Limeade from Sonic
- Chocolate or Fruit - Chocolate covered fruit
- Type of Music - RNB, Hip-Hop, but open to anything
- Desired Books - Think of indigenous or any books centered around BIPOC experiences
- Entertainment/Hobbies: Crafting, Painting, Reading, Shopping, being a dog mom, or anything related to beauty and fashion
- Stores - Ross, Marshall's, TJ Maxx, Homegoods, or ARC
- Sports Teams - Auburn University! War Eagle!
- Classroom Items - Markers, Stickers, and Stationary Items
- Non-Monetary Items - Handmade anything or acts of service
Jonathan Price
AAK Support Staff
Email: jprice@aakelementary.org
Mr. Price is a Colorado native; they were born in Denver but have spent a good portion of their life in the northern Colorado area. They specialized in Biology at Colorado State University where they found a love for learning and teaching. Following in the footsteps of their father who was a middle school history teacher for over 20 years in the Denver Public School system, Mr. Price is dedicated to helping the next generation find a passion for learning. In their spare time, Mr. Price loves woodworking (especially restoring furniture), listening to new music, and entering video games tournaments in the local area. As a part of the support staff, Mr. Price hopes to instill the kids with a love and appreciation for the incredible world around us.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Raspberry Kit Kats
- Snack Food - Sour Cream and Onion Chips
- Restaurant - Music City
- Fast Food - Raising Cane’s
- Beverage - Dr. Pepper
- Chocolate or Fruit - Any Berries
- Type of Music - Anything 80’s
- Desired Books - Unique cookbooks, An Absolutely Remarkable Thing-Hank Green
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Woodworking, fashion, bowling, esports
- Stores - Arc, Plato’s Closet, Games Ahoy, Home Depot
- Sports Teams - Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles
- Classroom Items - STEM project items
Patrese Yarbrough
AAK Support Staff
Email:pyarbrough@aakelementary.org
Hello: I have a desire to help people. I find it hard to sit still, so I search out opportunities where people appreciate what I have to offer... Care, Love, Guidance, and Fun! That's why I joined the AAK Community and I am thankful to be here.
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Peanut M& M's & Heath Bars
- Snack Food -Potato Chips
- Restaurant - Cheesecake Factory
- Fast Food - None
- Beverage - Water and Milk
- Chocolate or Fruit - Chocolate
- Type of Music - Old School/Tupac
- Desired Books - Motovational/Uplifting
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Traveling/Spending time with family
- Stores - Shoe Stores
- Sports Teams - Chicago Cubs
- Classroom Items - Anything that entertains my students
- Non-Monetary Items - Picture of my mother
- Other - It's not the years in your life that count, it's the life in your years.
Riki French
AAK Support Staff
Email:rfrench@aakelementary.org
Hello, my name is Riki French. I am married and have three beautiful children at the ages of 13,10, and 6. I have been working with children for about 10 years ranging from being a nanny to being a para, to a teacher assistant. I love being outdoors doing anything like fishing, camping and hiking. I have lived in Colorado my whole life and love it. I am so happy to be a part of the AAK team and can't wait to see what my future holds here!
Favorite Things:
- Candy Bar - Almond Joy
- Snack Food -Hot Cheetos
- Restaurant - Doug's Diner
- Fast Food - Pizza/Subway
- Beverage - Coffee
- Chocolate or Fruit - Fruit
- Type of Music - Any
- Desired Books - Nicholas Sparks
- Entertainment/Hobbies - Fishing, Camping, Hiking
- Stores - Hobby Lobby
- Sports Teams - Broncos
- Classroom Items - Any
- Non-Monetary Items -
- Other -