Teachers

Staff Photo

Lori Hafner

Preschool Director

Bio

I am delighted to be the Preschool Director and part of an incredible preschool team here at Ben Franklin Academy. I believe that early learning is a great way to build the foundation of a child’s future by providing opportunities for development and growth. I encourage positive interactions and relationships with the parents and the children by providing all families with attention, acceptance, and affection.

“What did I want to be when I grew up?” The question we ask our little ones at the end of every school year at the age of 5! I can say that I have already known for as long as I can remember that I wanted to be a teacher. I followed my dream and completed a degree in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood emphasis. My first teaching job took me on an adventure to Nevada, and after getting married, I moved to California and taught for another two years. Wanting to move closer back to home brought us to Colorado. I began an in-home licensed childcare business, so I could be home with my children and still be able to do what I love. After 23 years, I retired from childcare and desired to get back into the school setting. I was excited to step back into the classroom and begin teaching at Ben Franklin and then stepping into the Director’s role in

I was born and raised in North Dakota; I now consider Colorado my home as I have lived here for 28 years. I love it in Colorado as my husband, Adrian, and I have raised all three of our children here. My oldest daughter, Shelby, and son Sheldon are both in the real working world. My youngest, Shantell, is attending the University of Northern Colorado to pursue a teaching degree.

I am looking forward to another great school year to meet new families and welcome our returning families back for another fantastic year!

Ms. Chinnoji

Lakshmi Chinnoji

Preschool Aide

Bio

Lakshmi is very much excited to be part of Ben Franklin Academy, She has done her Bachelors in Electronics Engineering and is very much fond of teaching. Lakshmi has a good amount of experience as a preschool teacher. Lakshmi has been married to her husband Sumanth Ragi and they have a little boy together. Lakshmi likes to travel and explore new places and cultures. She is also proficient in cooking. She is looking forward to assisting the preschool kids to enrich their goals and growth.

Ms. Eframo

Melissa Eframo

Lead Preschool Teacher, Happy Camper Pre-K 4’s PM

Bio

Melissa is so excited to be a part of the Ben Franklin Academy preschool team!  She lives in Littleton, Colorado with her husband Steve, and their 3 children, Brittain (22), Christian (14), and Rowan (11).  She enjoys watching her kids play sports, traveling with her family for her son’s lacrosse tournaments, walking her dogs, hiking, skiing, and spending time in the beautiful outdoors of Colorado with her family. She studied Elementary Education at the University of Kansas and has been in the education field off and on for over 20 years.  She began her career working as a parent educator for the Parents as Teachers program in Summit County.  She has been a preschool teacher, working in Head Start and Montessori classrooms.  She has also worked in the kindergarten classroom as an instructional aide for several years, including 4 years at BFA. She has such a strong passion for working with young children and is so excited to be involved in helping children succeed in the preschool classroom!

Amy Jones

Preschool Aide

Bio

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!

Ms. Olson

Shannon Olson

Lead Preschool Teacher, Busy Bee Pre-Kindergarten Full-day 4’s

Bio

Shannon is excited to be teaching preschool for her 13th year at Ben Franklin Academy. Shannon went to the University of Northern Colorado and received a degree in Social Sciences with an emphasis in Elementary Education.  Having taught Pre-K, First Grade, Fifth Grade and Sixth Grade throughout her 20 plus years of teaching Shannon has a great understanding of the fundamentals that kids need.  Shannon has always had a passion for teaching and enjoys watching the growth that happens in a year.  

In her free time Shannon loves spending time with her family.  Shannon and her husband, Chris, a high school teacher and coach, have been married for 26 years.  They have two wonderful kids, Kiernan, a 22-year-old senior at UNC, and Kellen, a 19-year-old Freshman at CU!  

Shannon looks forward to welcoming her new Preschool families and helping to build a foundation for BFA students.

Ms. Adrian

Shalane Adrian

Kindergarten Aide

Bio

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

Ms. Arnold

Kristin Arnold

Kindergarten

Bio

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

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

Ms. Bauer

Brenda Bauer

Kindergarten

Bio

Brenda has been teaching for more than 18 years.  She did her undergraduate work at the University of Arizona and received a BA Exercise Sports Science.  She received her Masters in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University.  She has taught Physical Education at the middle school and elementary level most of her career.  She was so excited to have the opportunity to help open BFA and create the Physical Education program.  

Brenda is a Colorado native and loves all of the active opportunities Colorado provides.  Brenda lives with her Husband and 2 daughters in Castle Rock.  Her oldest daughter, Brianna, will be in her 2nd year of Law School at Pepperdine University.  Her youngest daughter, Kaylyn, will be a Junior at San Diego State University.

Brenda loves the BFA community and teaching at a STEAM school where all students are provided with a well-rounded education!

Ms. DePasse

Julie DePasse

Kindergarten

Bio

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

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

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

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

Ms. Ladner

Julie Ladner

Specials AM Aide, Kindie PM Aide

Bio

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!

Ms. McGinty

Candace McGinty

Kindergarten

Bio

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

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

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

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

Ms. Murray

Kayla Murray

Kindergarten

Bio

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

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

Ms. Crowe

Erin Crowe

1st Grade

Bio

Erin is originally from Houston, Texas. She has a B.S. in Elementary Education from Abilene Christian University and has been teaching for eight years. In addition, she has training and experience with English language learners, gifted and talented, and students with dyslexia. 
 
She relocated from Texas to Colorado in 2014. She is married, a mom to three BFA students, and their Boxer, Luna. In her free time she loves spending time in the garden, listening to audiobooks, and being with her family. 
 
Mrs. Crowe is so excited to teach first grade! This will be her second year teaching at BFA. She truly enjoys each day with her students and feels so fortunate to have a job that she absolutely loves. Each new year brings challenges, rewards, and opportunities and Erin looks forward to meeting her new class of first graders. 

Ms. Ferguson

Staci Ferguson

1st Grade, STEM Committee Liaison

Bio

This will be Staci’s third year teaching first grade at BFA. She was also a founding board member of BFA and served as the Secretary for five years. She is a graduate of Western Governor’s University where she earned her bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies (K-6). She also earned her certification in Orton-Gillingham reading instruction. Staci is excited for another year in first grade, as she loves being a part of her students’ sense of pride and accomplishment as they learn and grow.

Staci lives in Roxborough with her Husband (Henry), son Kyle (14) and pup Grizz. She loves to be in Colorado’s outdoors doing activities like camping, hiking, paddle boarding, and kayaking, to name a few. Staci also loves baking, decorating cakes, and crafting.

Ms. Hurd

Mika Hurd

1st Grade Aide

Ms. Knight

Jackie Knight

1st Grade

Bio

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

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

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

Ms. Lukasiewicz

Jenna Lukasiewicz

1st Grade

Bio

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

Alyson Henbest

1st Grade Aide

Bio

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!

Ms. Hildebrand

Erica Hildebrand

2nd Grade

Bio

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

Curtis Hill

Instructional Aide, CEC Community Relations

Bio

Curtis is ecstatic to be joining Ben Franklin Academy as a full-time 3rd-grade Instructional Assistant. He and his family have been residents of Highlands Ranch since 2009. He is originally from Cleveland, Ohio, but moved to Colorado as an 8th grader. Short of a few brief moves and college, Colorado has been home ever since. Curtis went to the University of Wyoming for his upper education, pursuing a double BA in Music Education and Linguistics. He did his student teaching as a high schooler at the neighboring middle school and ended up going back to his high school to teach Orchestra, Semantics, and Outdoor Education. For the last 25 years however, he’s been in the medical field of Optometry and Ophthalmology, which is where he met his beautiful, brilliant, Optometrist wife. He has a 4th-grade son who attends Ben Franklin Academy; In his son’s time here, Curtis has had the pleasure of watching him grow under the most caring and professional of staff and admins. Curtis is the Community Relations officer on BFA’s own Community Events Committee (CEC). He’s had the pleasure of joining the committee during his 1st-graduate year and has enjoyed giving back to the school and community ever since. When it was time for him to figure out a new career, education was where he started; So when he found out that BFA was hiring, he jumped at the opportunity and hasn’t been happier. When Curtis is not at BFA, he’s a huge cinephile. He and his family often attend movies together. Curtis can also often be found at the Denver Center of Performing Arts watching the orchestra, ballet, opera, play, or any other event that the DCPA offers. He’s also very involved in my son’s extracurricular activities, sports, music, etc. He’s the literal definition of a nerd. Curtis and his family attend ComicCon every year. He believes math and music are a language. He watches Star Trek and Star Wars religiously. Curtis really likes to think of himself as a Renaissance Man. If you have a subject you would like to discuss, Curtis probably knows something about it and always wants to know more. Learning new things is Curtis’ favorite daily event. 

Ms. Hinz

Erin Hinz

2nd Grade

Bio

Erin Hinz is very excited to begin her tenth year of teaching at Ben Franklin Academy. Shortly after receiving her degree in Psychology with a Minor in Education from the University of Colorado, Boulder, she enrolled in the University of Northern Colorado to obtain a Master of Arts in Teaching. She was fortunate to complete her student teaching here, in second grade, at Ben Franklin Academy. She taught fourth grade her first year, third grade her second year, and is now very excited to continue her educational journey in the second grade. This is her eighth year teaching second grade.

In her free time, Erin enjoys singing, hiking, cooking, yoga, Zumba, spending time with her four-year-old son, Tate, and husband Alex, as well as playing all types of sports. She also is excited to be adding another baby boy to the family this coming August. She is very passionate about working with children and families, and welcomes all to stop in at any time for a question, concern, or even a friendly hello. Erin is very eager for the new school year, and is happy to be a part of the BFA family.

Ms. McElroy

Alice McElroy

2nd Grade

Bio

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

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

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

Ms. Meister

Larissa Meister

2nd Grade Aide

Bio

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.

Ms. Melka

Holly Melka

2nd Grade AM

Bio

Holly is an Instructional Assistant for 2nd grade. She has been with BFA since 2015. She is a Colorado native. She graduated from Metro State University with a BA in Sociology and a minor in Psychology. She has been married for 25 years and has 3 kids all in their 20’s.
She enjoys reading, baking, spending time with family, taking walks, photography and home decorating projects.

Kelly Whelan

2nd Grade

Bio

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

Angela Loehr

3rd Grade

Bio

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

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

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

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

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

Ms. McMahon

Christine McMahon

3rd Grade

Bio

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

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

Ms. Rodriguez

Rachel Rodriguez

Lunch Aide

Bio

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.

Ms. White

Sierrah White

3rd Grade

Bio

Ms. White is so excited to start her second year as a third grade teacher here at Ben Franklin Academy!

She graduated May 2022 with a Masters in Elementary Education. She studied beforehand, at BYU-Idaho and Graduated 2019 with a Bachelors in Science in Child Development and a minor in International Studies. During the Covid times, She worked online with VIPKid teaching English to students in China. She was able to then attain certification in TESOL (Teaching English as a second or other language). Afterward, She came to this wonderful school in 2020 as a Substitute Teacher and later on as a Kindergarten and third grade Instructional Aide. 

Ms. White grew up moving around every 4 years as her Dad is in the oil field industry. Some states include: Louisiana, Wyoming, Utah, California, and others. She has lived in Colorado the most so she calls it home. Because of life’s travels, she has come to enjoy exploring and adventuring to new places and hope to eventually visit places outside our beautiful country! She eventually would love to visit Norway, Japan, or South Korea as she has a love for Asian Culture and is learning from her Aunt (who is Korean) everyday! 

She loves the process of teaching and all it entails. To learn, lead and to serve have become not just words to her, but foundational. Ms. White strives to create an engaging environment, where students thrive and develop a true love of learning. 

Ms. Wilson

Linda Wilson

3rd Grade

Bio

Mrs. Wilson joined Ben Franklin Academy during its inaugural year as a fifth grade teacher. After taking a few years off to care for her grandson, she returned as a third grade teacher. She states that this school has a strong and lively community where all are invested in the educational and emotional growth of each student.

Mrs. Wilson is married to Chuck and they have three grown children; Michael and his wife Danielle and her two grandsons, Sawyer and Walker, Tyler and his fiancé Rozely, and Jonathan and his wife Layney.

Mr. Bangert

Wyatt Bangert

4th Grade Aide (M-TH in the AM; Friday Full-Day)

Bio

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.

Ms. Barta

Haylee Barta

4th Grade Teacher

Bio

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

Ms. Lukasiewicz

Amy Lukasiewicz

4th Grade

Bio

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

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

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

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

Ms. Mares

Megan Mares

4th Grade

Bio

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

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

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

Ms. Van Wyk

Angie Van Wyk

4th Grade

Bio

Angie loves teaching 4th grade at Ben Franklin Academy. Angie went to CU Boulder (Go Buffs!) and has a Masters Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Phoenix. This will be her 19th year teaching. Angie loves working with parents in growing confident, independent children who love learning!

Angie grew up in Littleton and is lucky to have a large extended family living in the Denver area. She has been married to her high school sweetheart, Trevor, for 27 years. They have three boys, a college graduate, sophomore in college, and a senior in high school.

Angie loves spending time with her family and friends.  She also enjoys watching movies, playing tennis, reading a good book, and getting pedicures! Angie is excited to meet her class and share her enthusiasm for learning. PLAY BALL!

Ms. Calahan

Rachelle Calahan

5th Grade

Bio

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

Ms. Dunn

Lyndell Dunn

5th Grade

Bio

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

Ms. Richardson

Jessica Richardson

5th Grade

Bio

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

Mr. Wood

Greg Wood

5th Grade

Ms. Wylie

Debra Wylie

Kindie AM Aide, 5th Grade PM Aide

Bio

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. 

Mr. Babb

Gary Babb

6th Grade

Ms. Erbaugh

Staci Erbaugh

6th Grade

Bio

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.

Nicole Harms

6th Grade

Bio

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

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

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

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

Ms. Inman

Allison Inman

6th Grade, SAC Teacher Representative

Bio

Ms. Inman is delighted to return to Ben Franklin Academy as the 6th grade science teacher. Science is a passion of hers and she loves teaching!

After earning a Bachelor of Science from the University of Arizona in Psychology with a Biochemistry minor she studied Pathobiology at the University of Arizona Graduate School and was involved in the journal of Applied and Environmental Microbiology publication of Prevalence of Salmonella spp. in Oysters in the United States. Shortly thereafter she attended Arizona State University and completed an Elementary Education licensing program. Currently, she is working toward a Masters of Engineering in Systems Engineering through Colorado State University.

In her free time, Ms. Inman spends time in nature. She can be found hiking with her four children and rowdy goldendoodle in Colorado’s beautiful state parks.

Ms. Johnson

Celeste Johnson

7th Grade

Bio

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.

Mr. Knudsen

Kevin Knudsen

7th Grade

Bio

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

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

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

Mr. Russell

Blaise Russell

7th Grade

Bio

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.

Ms. Svensen

Christine Svensen

7th Grade

Bio

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.

Astler Photo

Warren Astler

8th Grade, STEM Committee Liaison

Bio

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.

Mr. Case

Jared Case

8th Grade

Bio

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.

Born and raised in Colorado, Jared enjoys taking on an active lifestyle. He enjoys getting out there and staying exceptionally active with camping, hiking, lifting, and running marathons. He is a big baseball fan, being a die hard St. Louis Cardinals fan and loves country music. The South Metro area has always been home for him, having graduated High School from Legend and has lived in Parker since 2009. 

Ms. Dychus

Lisa Dychus

8th Grade

Bio

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

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

Ms. Salberg

Heather Salberg

8th Grade

Bio

Heather is thrilled to enter another exciting year teaching language arts at BFA. She earned a BA in English/Secondary Education from the University of Northern Colorado and has taught at both the middle and high school level.  She loves that there is never a dull moment teaching middle schoolers and is honored to be a part of their world.
 
Heather is not only a staff member, but also a parent who feels privileged to have her children attend such an amazing school.  The Core Knowledge curriculum and 13 virtues are what drew her to BFA both as an educator and a parent. 
 
Heather is married with four children and enjoys camping, reading, the ocean, and coffee. : )

Ms. De Bedout

Silvia De Bedout

Middle School Spanish Teacher

Bio

Silvia De Bedout is a passionate educator and psychologist with over 15 years of experience dedicated to fostering positive change. Based in Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Silvia earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Universidad de los Andes in Bogotá, Colombia. Silvia has a wealth of experience as a Spanish teacher at 5280 High School, where she worked with students in recovery from various challenges. Her innovative teaching methods and commitment to student success created a dynamic, inclusive learning environment that significantly improved student outcomes. Outside of her professional life, Silvia enjoys hiking, spending time with her family, and exploring arts and crafts. Her warm and compassionate approach makes her a beloved figure in an educational setting. Silvia’s dedication to promoting academic achievement and personal growth sets her apart.

Ms. Flint

Lauren Flint

Elementary Science Teacher

Bio

After being a substitute at BFA for the past three years, Lauren is very excited to now be the Elementary Science Specialist! She grew up in Littleton and graduated from Columbine high school. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology with a biomedical emphasis and a minor in Chemistry from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. Lauren also studied Emergency Medical Services at Aims Community College and became EMT certified along with additional special certificates. After graduating she worked in the medical field for several years before returning to school to complete a Master’s Degree. Lauren earned a Master’s Degree from the University of Florida (go Gators!) in Forensic DNA Analysis and Serology.  

Shortly after earning her degree, she became a stay-at-home mom and spent seven years taking care of her two kids before returning to work. She loves being around all the kids and is looking forward to being here full-time this year!

In her spare time Lauren enjoys getting outside to hike, bike, swim or read. Her family loves to adventure around the country and they typically go on two road trips per year! They love visiting national parks and monuments and trying local food. They also love to take their dog, Tucker, anywhere they can! 

Ms. Hayes

Sandy Hayes

Middle School Life Skills Teacher

Bio

Sandy is excited to be teaching Life Skills at BFA, which is a fun blend of her education experience. Sandy attended Ohio University (Bobcats not Buckeyes) and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education with an emphasis in Integrated Language Arts. After graduating, she returned to her hometown in Pittsburgh, PA (Go Steelers!) and taught 9th grade English for four years. In 2007, she and her husband moved to Colorado and Sandy attended Denver Seminary where she earned a Master’s Degree in School and Community Counseling. She worked as a high school counselor at Montbello High School in Denver Public Schools for two years.
 
Sandy is thankful she got to be home with her three kiddos during their early years. The Hayes kids started attending BFA in 2021 and shortly after Sandy started substitute teaching as well. The Life Skills position blends her love of teaching and her desire to help students succeed in both the classroom and beyond. She is passionate about preparing students to be responsible and capable future adults. 
 
Sandy and her husband Michael have been married for 21 years. This is the last year all three of their kiddos will be at BFA – Levi is in 8th, Anna is in 6th and Selah is in 2nd. Together, the Hayes Family enjoys camping and hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. In her free time, Sandy loves cuddling up with a blanket, a cup of tea and a good book!

Staff Photo

Ali Hinkle

K-8 Art Teacher

Bio

Ali has been teaching for more than twenty years. She graduated from Sussex University in England with a bachelor’s degree in Art and Education and went on to teach in England, Spain and Italy for many years before coming to America in 1994. After spending a few years at home with her children, she began teaching again. She has been teaching art in Core Knowledge schools in Douglas County since 2005. She loves teaching art and is proud to have been a part of Ben Franklin Academy from the beginning. She is also excited to be able to teach at a S.T.E.A.M. school where art is considered to be an important part of a well-rounded education.

She lives in Highlands Ranch with her husband, John, who is a native Coloradan. They have two grown children and two grandchildren.

Staff Photo

Jaime Johnson

K-5 Music

Bio

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. 

Ben Franklin Academy

Beth Konesky

Middle School S.T.E.A.M.

Bio

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!

Ms. Ladner

Julie Ladner

Specials AM Aide, Kindie PM Aide

Bio

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!

Mr. Macias

Craig Macias

Middle School PE & Health

Bio

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.

Staff Photo

Janelle Nichols

Elementary PE Teacher

Mr. Nolting

Kyle Nolting

STEM Coordinator

Bio

Kyle Nolting is the STEM Coordinator at Ben Franklin Academy. Kyle is currently pursuing his Ph.D. in education from the Morgridge College of Education at the University of Denver. He has a background in K-12 science and technology education while teaching for the New York City department of education. In the classroom, he has interests in STEM curriculum design, ASD Education, Gifted & Talented Education, Multicultural Teaching Practices, LGBTQ+ Youth Advocacy and DEI Work. Outside of the classroom, Kyle is interested in hiking, birding, fly fishing and general all around spending time outdoors. He is excited to meet you on campus!

Ms. Pierce

Tracy Pierce

Second Step Coordinator

Bio

Tracy is thrilled to join the eighth grade team for her third year at Ben Franklin Academy.  Tracy 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 University of Colorado at Boulder. 

Tracy grew up in the northern suburbs of Chicago, visiting Colorado often, and finally moving to Denver after college.  She has a wide variety of teaching experience that ranges from traditional classrooms to directing an overnight camp to homeschooling her own children in an RV for seven months while traveling the country.  

Tracy and her husband, Josh, have two daughters who attend Ben Franklin Academy and an Australian Shepard named Sydney.  When she is not at school, Tracy spends time hiking, snow blading, watching Chicago sports (GO Cubs!), doing anything she can find at Michaels, and traveling to visit family or explore this beautiful world.

Staff Photo

Laura Tickle

K-5 Technology

Bio

Teaching has always been a passion of Laura’s, and she loves being a member of the Ben Franklin Academy staff. Laura has taught for 15 years. She has taught fourth grade and currently is the K-5 Specials technology teacher. Technology is important to BFA and Laura is able to help effectively integrate technology into the hands of students at BFA.

Laura received her Bachelor’s degree in 2009 in Elementary Education from Purdue University. She has her certification in Linguistically Diverse Education from the University of Colorado at Denver, as well as a Masters in Information and Learning Technologies from the University of Colorado at Denver. Laura also received an award for ‘Outstanding Student in the Program’ at the end of her Masters program course work. This ILT program not only allowed Laura to grow with her own personal education, but it helps bring many of the latest ideas and projects related to technology into the classrooms at BFA. 

A Colorado native, Laura loves working out, watching football and spending time with her family.

Taylor Welling

Arts Assistant