Meet the Monterey Team
Click the link below to learn about our staff members and see their contact information.
- Administration & Front Office
- Primary Teachers
- Intermediate Teachers
- Middle School Teachers
- Specialists & Support Staff
Administration & Front Office
Email: ioc@mapleton.us
Director- Connie Io
I am thrilled to be a part of the Mapleton Community and to have an opportunity to partner with the families and students at Monterey Community School. With over two decades of experience as an educator in the state of Colorado, I have gained invaluable experience as a classroom teacher, instructional leader and administrator. Through these experiences, I have developed a depth of knowledge in exemplary teaching practice and a strong passion for providing students with opportunities to pursue their dreams.
I feel privileged to be able to work with the students and staff at Monterey Community School which continues to be a highlight for me daily. Our staff works tirelessly to meet the individual needs of students while cultivating a culture of excitement for learning with the values and beliefs that ensure students will become contributing members of society and productive members within an ever-changing world.
At an early age, I learned the value of family and learning from others growing up with five brothers and four sisters. My childhood experiences have allowed me to be able to embrace new challenges and enjoy experiences as they come my way. Early on in my career, I obtained a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and taught at both the primary and intermediate level for fourteen years. Following this experience, I obtained a master’s Degree in Administrative Leadership from the University of Colorado at Denver which enhanced my experience as a leader, coach, and consultant for school districts across Colorado and Florida.
As a native to Colorado, my heart belongs here. For many years, I have enjoyed hiking, four-wheeling and spending time in Colorado’s great outdoors with my friends and family. My husband and I share many fond memories with our six children as we enjoy spending time outdoors, barbecuing and sitting around a large firepit reminiscing over stories we share together as a family.
Email: stecinap@mapleton.us
Assistant Director- Paul Stecina
Hello! I'm Paul Stecina and it's my pleasure to serve the students and families of Monterey Community School in Mapleton. I'm very excited to be returning to work with the students, families, and staff of Monterey and I'm proud that you have entrusted me to do everything I can to help your children find the leader in themselves. Previously, I taught math, science, and technology for fourteen years before moving into administration in another district. I am committed to successful communication between the school and this community and creating a culture of leaders at Monterey. Outside of school, I spend my time with my wife and grown children who are currently in college. I'm a Colorado native and spend my free time doing videography and creating motion graphics.
Email: ramirezmo@mapleton.us
Secretary- Monica Ramirez
Hello all, my name is Monica Ramirez. I am looking forward to my 3rd year at Monterey. I am a Colorado Native, born and raised in the Thornton area. I am the youngest of 4 siblings, all of whom are Mapleton Alumni. During my time as a student, I attended 4 Mapleton schools, including Clayton, Bertha Heid, and York, eventually graduating from Skyview. I have a 9-year-old son who is a Mapleton student himself. I am privileged to be a part of the Monterey family and to be able to give back to the community who helped raise me and is now doing the same with my son. In my free time I like to listen to music, binge watch documentaries with my son, I love baking and just spending time with my family and friends.
Email: diazmy@mapleton.us
Office Clerk- Myrna Diaz
Hi! My name is Myrna Diaz I officially started working at Monterey in October 2022; I'm so honored to be able to work with such wonderful students and staff. I love building connections with the students and getting to learn all the different personalities. They make my day! In my free time, I love spending time with my family I have two young daughters, so we try to fit in as much fun time as possible.
Email: strafacej@mapleton.us
Health Assistant- Julie Straface
My name is Julie Straface, and I am a Health Para for Mapleton Public Schools. I was born and raised in Colorado all my life. I’m a retired entertainer. I like to fish, play tennis and spend time with my family.
Primary Teachers
Kindergarten
Email: erbs@mapleton.us
Kindergarten- Samantha Erb
Hi! My name is Samantha Erb and I am so excited to be starting my sixth year of teaching here at Monterey. I have a Master’s Degree in Teaching and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, both from MSU Denver. This is my fourth year teaching kinder, previously I taught first grade. I also have previous experience teaching preschool. I have a love of learning and reading that I hope to pass on to my students. I am also passionate about learning through play and getting kids to engage in their learning in a meaningful way.
When I am not teaching, I am enjoying life and exploring the world with my two amazing kids, my daughter, Kyias who is 12 and my son, Ryker who is 7. We love to spend time as a family going on adventures or hanging out at home with our dog, Koda, and our 3 cats, Winter, Wren and Eclipse. I am a Colorado native and I grew up in Denver. I absolutely love living here and I take every chance I can to get out into nature and enjoy our beautiful state.
I cannot wait to spend this school year learning and growing with all of my awesome kindergarteners!
Email: trujillob@mapleton.us
Kindergarten- Bennie Trujillo
First Grade
Email: bleab@mapleton.us
1st Grade- Ben Blea
Hello! My name is Ben Blea and I have the pleasure of teaching 1st grade at Monterey this year. I attended Colorado State University for my undergrad and then went on to attend the University of Colorado for my master’s degree. In my free time, I love to watch movies and TV shows. You can find me on the weekends catching up on my endless watchlist. I have a little dog named Hillary who I love to spend time with going for walks and playing in the yard, as well as spending time with my family and partner. I’ve played about every sport in the book and love to watch any sports game, cheering on my favorite teams. I am beyond excited about teaching our amazing 1st graders this year and am looking forward to the amazing year to come!
Email: lehmann@mapleton.us
1st Grade- Nicole Lehman
Hi, my name is Nicole Lehman! This is my second year teaching at Monterey, and my second year teaching in general! (YAY!) I recently graduated from Colorado State University with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. I am so excited to start off my career in such an excellent school with even more wonderful students and staff! I have lived in Colorado my whole life, but this is the first year I am living in the Denver metro area. When I am not teaching, I love traveling, trying new restaurants, and spending time with my friends and family. I am so happy to be at such a great place this school year. Together, we can conquer the world!
Second Grade
Email: littc@mapleton.us
2nd Grade- Cadence Litt
Hi! My name is Cadence Litt, and I am going to be your child’s second grade teacher this year. I grew up in Denver, but recently moved back from
Michigan, where I graduated from the University of Michigan in April. I can’t wait to get to know you and your child. Let’s have a great year!
Fun facts and Favorites: I have a cat named Soup, my favorite colors are pink and yellow, and I love to read!
Email: perezme@mapleton.us
2nd Grade- Megan Perez
Hello! My name is Megan Perez, and this will be my 6th year teaching. Previously, I taught for two years in kindergarten and three years in second grade. I have a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from The University of Colorado Denver and a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction. This is my first year teaching at Monterey and I am excited to learn and grow in this amazing community.
I am a Colorado Native who loves adventures in the mountains, spending time with my family, and cheering on my Denver teams! I am currently engaged to the most amazing human and a dedicated reptile mom! I am beyond thrilled to support and empower our students to be kind, leaders, and lifelong learners!
Intermediate Teachers
Third Grade
Email: meierk@mapleton.us
3rd Grade- Katie Meier
Hi, my name is Katie Meier! This is my sixth year teaching at Monterey as a third-grade teacher, and I could not be more excited about this year! This is my tenth year teaching. Prior to teaching third grade, I taught 4th and 5th grade in other Colorado school districts. I went to school at the University Of Colorado at Boulder (go Buffs!) and received my teaching degree along with a degree in psychology. I'm a Colorado native and grew up near Boulder. Outside of teaching, I like to do kickboxing, yoga, and hiking, and I love just enjoying nature! I'm looking forward to a great year and spending time with your amazing kids!
3rd Grade- Jamie Adams
Hi! My name is Jamie Adams and I am so excited to teach 3rd grade at Monterey this school year! This is my 16th year in education and I have taught a variety of grade levels. I am originally from the south suburbs of Chicago. I now live with my husband, our 2 kids, and our dog near the foothills. In my free time I like to read, hike, play with my kids, and go to concerts with my husband & friends.
Fourth Grade
Email: asarom@mapleton.us
4th Grade- Molly Asaro
My name is Molly Asaro and I am a fourth grade teacher at Monterey Community School. This is my third year teaching, and I am super excited to continue my teaching career within the close-knit and welcoming community here at Monterey. I moved to Colorado in 2021 from a fishing town where I grew up on the north shore of Massachusetts, Gloucester. Some of my favorite past-times include hiking, swimming, planting, and camping. I have always had a passion for helping others, and look forward to bringing this ambition to support and educate the students at Monterey.
Email: menks@mapleton.us
4th Grade- Stephanie Menk
My name is Stephanie Menk Cordova, but I go by Ms. Menk here at Monterey. This my ninth year teaching and my eight year teaching fourth grade at Monterey. I have a pit bull and two-year-old son who my husband and I absolutely adore and love taking swimming, hiking, and exploring. I was born and raised in Colorado and love anything outdoors with a passion for teaching Math and Colorado History. I received my bachelor’s degree from CU Boulder and my master’s degree in Math Education from CU Denver. I look forward to each new year at Monterey and feel so fortunate to have been part of such an amazing community for so many years!
Fifth Grade
Email: greenbaumb@mapleton.us
5th Grade- Brandi Greenbaum
I am so excited to have your child in my fifth-grade class! This is my twelfth year teaching at Monterey! I graduated from Adams State University with a teaching degree and a minor in English. I am currently getting my masters through UCD for Cultural Linguistic Diversity. I have an amazing husband, Randy, who is a firefighter, and a four-year-old named Kambree. We enjoy playing with our two puppies, Izzy and Charlie, and going camping! Children have always been a passion of mine. I have known I wanted to be a teacher since I was in 1st grade. I believe that creating a classroom environment that is full of love and respect will help my students grow to their full potential.
Email: struppt@mapleton.us
5th Grade- Taylor Strupp
My name is Ms. Strupp and I teach 5th grade here at Monterey! I will be teaching both math and science this year to all 5th graders. I am passionate about teaching young minds how the world around them works! This is my third year teaching, and I am so grateful that I get to teach and be a member of this community. I graduated from Colorado State University–Pueblo where I played softball. In my free time, I love to hang out with my puppy named Stark, go to the movies, binge tv, and attend concerts. I believe that it is crucial for teachers to be supportive mentors that guide students on their journey of growth and success. I can’t wait for this year!
Middle School Teachers
Sixth Grade Teachers
Email: kaiserp@mapleton.us
6th Grade- Paul Kaiser
Email: ruskuskyk@mapleton.us
6th Grade- Kevin Ruskusky
Hello, my name is Mr. Ruskusky (Russ-Cuss-Key) I've been an educator sense 2001, and have had the privilege to teach elementary, middle and high school. I was born in Chicago and raised in Boulder Colorado. I’ve called La Crosse, Wisconsin, Los Angles, California and Fredericksburg, Virginia home before. I got my bachelor's degree in history from UNC (Northern Colorado) and teaching credentials from Regis university. So, if you’d like to discuss anything from ancient history to the Cold War, I’m always available:) In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, my lady Emilee and little boy Elliot. I am very excited to join the Monterey community and look forward to meeting you!
Seventh/Eighth Grade Teachers
Email: eppsa@mapleton.us
7th/8th Math- Zander Epps
My name is Zander Epps and I will be the 7th/8th grade Math teacher. This will be my third year as a full-time teacher, but I’ve already had the privilege of meeting and working with a majority of the students recently, as a long-term guest teacher here at Monterey. I am originally from San Diego, CA and I went to Lourdes University in Toledo, OH on a volleyball scholarship. I moved to Thornton about three years ago with my fiancé, Kirstin, and our husky, Neiko. We enjoy hiking, skiing, and exploring all the other things that this beautiful state of Colorado has to offer! I also coach both high school and club volleyball in the area. Teaching has been in my blood; my father is a retired teacher and my oldest brother is currently a teacher. I am extremely excited to embark on this journey and continue the teaching tradition in my family!
Email: ingallsj@mapleton.us
7th/8th Science- Jaymie Ingalls
Email: mallerym@mapleton.us
7th/8th ELA- Marissa Mallery
With 10 years of teaching experience, I am dedicated to facilitating students' acquisition of knowledge about the world, diverse cultures, and self-discovery. Originally from Pennsylvania, my upbringing in the Pocono Mountains fostered a deep appreciation for the outdoors, ultimately leading me to Colorado. The foundation of my passion for teaching was laid during my volunteer work with various communities in the Northeast, where I was invigorated by the fresh ideas and enthusiastic engagement of the children. Obtaining my education degree from Temple University in Philadelphia provided me with invaluable opportunities to teach in diverse school environments. In my leisure time, I enjoy engaging in activities such as snowboarding, hiking, reading, and meditation.
Email: lucentem@mapleton.us
Matt Lucente- 7th/8th Social Studies
Specialists & Support Staff
Specials
Email: nelsont@mapleton.us
Music Teacher- Taylor Nelson
My name is Taylor Nelson and this is my 4th year teaching music at Monterey Community School and 9th year teaching overall. I studied Music Education at Metropolitan State University of Denver and studied Piano, Voice, and Viola while attending. I have a passion for teaching music and I also passionately listen to music and want your students to experience music the same way as I and so many other humans do. In my spare time, I watch movies, play video games, read books, and create digital music. I also love to sing and sing in a choir in Denver called Elus Vocal Ensemble. I can’t wait to make music every day with your students!
Art Teacher- Cris Sand
Hello! My name is Cris Sand and I am the Visual Arts teacher here at Monterey Community School. I'm originally from the DC area, and have always had a love and curiosity for the arts. I graduated from the University of Virginia, where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Studio Art and my Master's degree in Teaching. After teaching Visual Arts to middle school students in Denver Public Schools for 10 years, I am happy to be a part of the Mapleton family and to share opportunities for artistic expression here at Monterey!
I believe Art is a space in which everyone can explore and share personal narratives and perspectives in so many different ways. Students in my Art classes are invited to explore ideas, ask questions, experiment with different materials, and share their own stories and interests through their art. Each year I look forward to seeing what creative risks and discoveries students will make!
When I'm not making my own art, you might find me adventuring outside, experimenting with cooking and eating new foods, or under a cozy blanket, reading a good book :)
Email: owstonc@mapleton.us
PE- Cody Owston
Hello! My name is Cody Owston (Mr. O), the K-8 Physical Education and Health teacher here at Monterey. This will be my 5th year as a teacher and my 3rd at Monterey. Previously, I earned my B.S. in Human Performance and Sport from Metropolitan State University of Denver and a M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University. I am thrilled to be a part of this amazing learning community again this school year.
Beyond the classroom, I enjoy cooking, exercising, paddle boarding playing golf, disc golf, hockey, snowboarding, and camping. These activities fuel my adventurous spirit and allow me to connect with friends and family, who inspire and support me.
Together, we will embark on an engaging and inclusive educational experience where every student can challenge themself, thrive, and discover their true potential.
Stay Healthy -- Be Active!
Specialists
Email: ronczkar@mapleton.us
ELL Teacher-Rhonda Ronzcka
Rhonda has been happily serving the Mapleton families for the past 23 years. She has an Undergraduate Degree from the University of Connecticut and a Masters Degree from University of Colorado in Bilingual Education and ELL.
Email: galavizc@mapleton.us
Instructional Guide- Camille Galaviz
My name is Camille Galaviz and I am one of Monterey’s Instructional Guides. I am very excited to be part of the Monterey Community and look forward to getting to know all the students and families. I was born and raised in Texas, moved to Colorado in 2005, and have been here ever since. I received my Bachelor’s Degree at Metro State University and my Master’s Degree from CU Denver. I have a son and 2 dogs who I absolutely adore and love to be with family every chance I get.
Email: martina@mapleton.us
Instructional Guide- Abbie Martin
Hi! My name is Abbie Martin! I am thrilled to join the Mapleton community at Monterey Community School. I taught middle school for 20 years and high school with concurrent enrollment for the last two years. I graduated from Metropolitan State University and received my masters from University of Phoenix in Curriculum and Instruction. I am passionate about teaching and excited to work with the staff at Monterey as the Instructional Guide. Working with students to grow as well as make memories while having some fun is really the best!
At home I am a mom to three amazing children and have been married for 20 years. We like to camp, boat, take pictures, read, travel and enjoy any new adventure together.
I’m looking forward to working together!
Email: owenk@mapleton.us
Special Education- Kristina Owen
Email: chambersg@mapleton.us
Special Education- Gregg Chambers
Email: jensons@mapleton.us
SLP-Sandra Jenson
Hello! My name is Sandra Jenson. I am a Speech-Language Pathologist in Mapleton School District. This is my 20th year in the district and my 28th year in the profession. I earned my Master of Science Degree from Moorhead State University in Minnesota. My passion is trying to make a positive impact in the lives of children. I get my toddler-fix serving in my children’s ministry at my church. My husband and I have a wonderful 20-year-old son. When I am not with children, I spend my free time hiking, traveling and golfing. I am a Minnesota Vikings fanatic and can be found nearly every fall Sunday hooting and hollering for my beloved team.
Support Staff
Email: abercrombiej@mapleton.us
Paraprofessional- Jason Abercrombie
Email: deanm@mapleton.us
Paraprofessional- Maria Dean
Email: duckworthk@mapleton.us
SPED Paraprofessional- Karen Duckworth
Hi, my name is Mrs. Ducky and I've worked in the district for 23 years. I love children and I love teaching; both have always been my passion. I am a native to Colorado and my favorite vacation spots are anywhere in the mountains, which is why I love this state so much. I have been happily married for 37 years and I have 2 beautiful daughters, ages 29 and 23. They're the reason I started in this district as a volunteer and I plan to continue my career here until I retire.
Email: strafacem@mapleton.us
Instructional Para/Librarian- Myranda Straface
Hello, My Name, is Myranda Straface, this will be my second year at Monterey Community School and my first year as the Fourth specials teacher and librarian. I have lived in Colorado my whole life, I married my high school sweetheart, and we have three amazing children a nineteen-year-old son who Graduated in 2022, a 17-year-old Junior daughter at Weld central high, and a 14-year-old freshman Son at weld central high. In my free time I love to read and do anything with art and crafts I also enjoy attending anything my kids have going on. I am passionate about family so we love to take trips to the lake to fish and camp. I am excited about passing on my love for books to your children and working on some amazing projects this year!
Email: waheeds@mapleton.us
Special Education Paraeducator- Shabana Waheed
My name is Shabana Waheed and this will be my first year as a Para. I am a mom of 2. I am a NASM-certified personal trainer, certified nutritionist, senior fitness specialist, and a GGS Pre & Post Natal certified personal trainer. I also own my own home gluten-free bakery.
I enjoy teaching others the value of fitness and I’m looking forward to using my teaching skills to help all the children I encounter. My passion in life is to help create positive changes in my immediate community to ensure a better and brighter future for all. Very much looking forward to the school year ahead.
In my free time, I enjoy hiking, most recently my first 14er here in Colorado, as well as anything fitness-related or baking.
Email: penillas@mapleton.us
Paraeducator- Sara Penilla
Hi! My name is Sara Penilla and this is my first full year working at Monterey. I received my Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health from Colorado State University (go Rams!) and worked in that field for 3 years prior to moving to education. I felt compelled to come work at Monterey as I am a Mapleton alum. I graduated from York International and actually attended Monterey in 4th grade as a newcomer that came to the United States from Colombia. I wanted to come back and give back to the community that saw me grow up, graduate, and go to college! Ever since starting late last year I feel so happy to be able to be part of all the children's educational journeys. At Monterey you will find me walking around all the K-8 classrooms providing support to teachers and students, outside watching over the kids at recess, and in the cafeteria ensuring all students are being supported outside the classroom. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and two cats, doing artwork, and spending time outdoors.
Email: jordanf@mapleton.us
Community Reach- Felicia Jordan
Hello, I am Felicia Jordan, your school-based therapist for 2023-24. I work 4 days a week at Monterey as part of a partnership between the district, the school, and Community Reach Center (the mental health center for Adams County). I provide therapy to students who qualify for a mental health diagnosis who are referred by their teacher or parents. I changed careers in midlife; I have a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Northwestern University and a master’s in marriage and family therapy from Regis University (here in Denver).
Outside of school, I enjoy walking around my Denver neighborhood, discovering new music, reading, going to concerts and Nuggets games, and cooking.
Email: davidh@mapleton.us
Social Worker- Hannah David
I am so excited to be starting as the School Social Worker at Monterey this year! I recently graduated from the University of Denver with my master’s in social work and have experience working in schools. I am from Seattle, WA and currently live in downtown Denver! In my free time, I enjoy yoga, running, reading, watching movies, playing guitar, and hanging out with friends.
Email: ricoj@mapleton.us