LEIGH: I truly love teaching—especially Kindergarteners! I am a lifelong learner and feel so lucky to share my love of learning with children each day. As a student, I struggled in school and found reading especially challenging. One teacher, my 4th grade teacher Mrs. Harris, changed everything for me. She believed in me, encouraged me, and showed me that with practice and self-belief, anything is possible. Her classroom was magical, and that magic is what I strive to bring to my own students. I believe deeply in all children. With patience, practice, and a whole lot of love, every child can grow, learn, and thrive. I hold a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Denver and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations from the University of Colorado-Boulder. I began my teaching career in 2009 and have been proud to call Lafayette Elementary home since 2019. Over the years, I have taught Preschool, Kindergarten, 1st grade, and 2nd grade, and I am thrilled to be teaching Full-Day Kindergarten—my favorite grade! I’m a mom to two amazing boys, Wesley and Bo, and I love spending time with them hiking, paddleboarding, playing games, reading, and simply talking together. I also have a deep love for travel and have lived in France, Spain, and Tanzania, with additional adventures throughout South America and Europe. Yoga, dance, and movement are important parts of my life and influence how I bring joy and energy into my classroom.
JENNIFER: I have a Bachelor of Science in Journalism from the University of Colorado-Boulder. I have my own art business “Jen Makes Stuff” where I make art primarily inspired by the Periodic Table of Elements in various themes, including dogs, cats, food, travel, imagination and more. I’m married and currently have a silver lab, Gus, and a cat, Gracie. While I have no kids, I love to hangout with my nephews and niece. My husband and I love to take road trips with our dog Gus. One of our favorite places for international adventures is Costa Rica.
