Stephen serves as an at-large director on the BFA Board of Directors. He graduated from West Texas A&M University with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a specialization in Finance. He has worked in the Technology space for multiple industries including Financial Services and Agriculture. Stephen is currently the Head of Engineering for Agribusiness and Animal Health at Telus Agriculture and Consumer Goods. Stephen and his wife Rosie moved to Colorado almost 16 years ago and spend their time volunteering and attending the multiple activities of their 4 children, Luke (8th Grade), Levi (6th Grade), Grace (1st Grade), and Lane (Preschool). They love being involved at BFA and volunteering in the classroom and on field trips. This year Stephen will serve as the Board liaison to the STEM Committee.

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.

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.

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!