The Atlas Team

With great enthusiasm and joy, April joins Atlas Prep as an advocate for students’ confidence and self-directed success. After graduating from the University of Arizona with a degree in microbiology and chemistry, April moved to South Korea to work with English-language students. Four years later, she returned to the United States to finish two master’s degrees in education. She has taught for two years in Colorado before joining the Atlas team in their delivery of excellent education and inspiring life experiences. When she is not at school, April spends her time training for 5K races and planning her next international adventure!

Niki joined Atlas with the passion for sharing her love of learning with her students. She firmly believes that the key to success is hard work, strong character, and a will to be the best you can. Her love for the sciences drove her to earn a Master’s degree in Science Education from the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs. She has been a teacher since 2009, and came to Atlas to join a group of innovative, professional teachers that all have one goal: to bring the best education to her students possible. As a Southern Colorado native, she enjoys our mountains on a mountain bike, snowboard, rock climbing harness, or just her hiking boots.

Juliana joined Atlas because she believes that everyone deserves an education and helping a student achieve that would be an honor. Its a change coming from the medical field but a good change. Juliana was born in New Jersey but raised in florida and ended up in Colorado. What a change right? She enjoys being a mommy to her little girl Sophia and watching her grow and learn new things is definitely an amazing experience.

Ray joins the Atlas team with a belief that student learning begins with engagement in the classroom with lessons geared towards student interests and real-world application.  A graduate from the University of St. Thomas and the University of Minnesota, Ray began his journey into teaching through youth athletic coaching.  After excelling in instructor roles in the United States Air Force and as a marketing manager at a consulting firm, he decided to make the transition into a full-time teaching role and received his Master of Education from the University of Minnesota.  Ray has interests in fitness, exploring new places, and cooking, and cannot wait to see all that Colorado has to offer.

Connor joins Atlas with a passion to infuse restorative and social justice based curriculum into a classroom setting where culture and lived experiences are welcomed and thrive as resources for academic growth. A graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, with a degree in Secondary English Education, Connor joins the Atlas Prep team as a first year teacher. Atlas’s commitment to a vision that  values the development of not only education but character and community as well made joining such a diverse community of professions and students an easy choice. When Connor isn’t in the classroom, he and Dublin, his Siberian husky, can be found hiking the mountains and soaking up the beautiful Colorado landscape. He looks forward to immersing himself within the Colorado Springs community. On, Wisconsin!

Sarah knows that quality education involves parents, teachers, and communities working together to help students grow into self-fulfilled people. She is excited to find that quality education at Atlas! After graduating with a degree in Education from Bethel University in Minnesota where she was born and raised, Sarah taught Language Arts for four years on Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Though the rolling hills and prairie skies will always be a part of her, the mountains called her farther west. Sarah has enjoyed exploring new landscapes in Colorado Springs and learning new ways to support her Atlas students.

Brynn Bohannon is joining the Atlas faculty from the Rio Grande Valley in South Texas. Originally from New York, Brynn relocated to the RGV for Teach For America after graduating from Binghamton University. Having majored in math and in Spanish, Brynn utilized her abilities as a geometry teacher less than 10 miles from the U.S.-Mexican border. Now, she is ecstatic about joining the Atlas family and embracing her new Colorado Springs community.

Danielle joins Atlas Prep with the strong belief that education is not only every student’s right, it also provides students with the abilities to open doors that seemed nailed shut. It allows for a life that is enriched by perspective, cultural awareness, and acceptance. It gives purpose and meaning to ideas and helps students become self-aware and important members of society. Growing up in Colorado Springs, Danielle has a passion that is tied to supporting this city’s diverse culture and improving education for its youth. Outside of the classroom, Danielle loves exploring the Colorado wilderness.

Kevin is in his 5th year teaching at Atlas Prep. He earned his degrees from Miami University, a bachelor’s in rhetoric, and Colorado College, a master’s in education.  He believes that all students can achieve success and self-fulfillment through a simple motto: Do the right thing.  He is the head route setter at a rock climbing gym and is working on a crime trilogy titled The Warren Files.  Any extra time is spent in the mountains that lay just west of his front door.

Alex is at Atlas because she fell in love with the dream of helping students to not only better their education but also to grow themselves into responsible human beings that give back to their local community, a value Alex also shares being a graduate from the University of Northern Colorado with a Bachelors of Science in biology. While at school, she worked with incoming college freshman in Residence Life. She enjoyed helping students achieve their goals while in college and jumped at the opportunity to help middle and high school students at Atlas achieve their goals as well. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, relaxing with a good book, and playing with her energetic dog, Nina.

By becoming a teacher at Atlas Preparatory School, Hunter is fulfilling a lifelong dream of working in the classroom. After receiving his degree in Studio Art at Baylor University Hunter moved to Colorado Springs to begin a new chapter as a teacher. Hunter believes that Atlas plays a powerful role in shaping the lives of its students and empowering them to grow into successful and enriched adults.

“All art is autobiographical. The pearl is the oyster’s autobiography.” — Federico Fellini

Latrice Colley was born and raised in Southern California. She learned about Atlas Prep School in 2011 online  and found a new love for education and working with students. She enjoys listening to the scholar’s share their stories and adventures they have at the school and at home. Her passion is for scholars to excel in new heights and to see them reach their goals. She always encourages the scholars to keep focus and to block all negativity while looking forward to the future. She feels that Atlas not only changes lives, but also makes a difference and she is excited about being apart of that process.

I came to Atlas in 2015 after seeing the advertisement for bus monitors.  I have driven school buses for many years prior to working for Atlas, and after retirement, I wanted to continue working with students.  It’s rewarding to be available for students when one wants to talk about the day they had.  There is a lot of joy on our buses.

Emily comes to Atlas inspired by the team’s dedication to changing lives through education. As an undergraduate, Emily majored in English at Indiana University. She then went on to earn her M.A. in Linguistics at Indiana where she taught English as a Second Language.  Prior to moving to Colorado Springs, Emily lived in Chicago and worked in development at the University of Chicago. While living in Chicago, Emily volunteered with an urban charter school network. This life-changing experience ignited Emily’s passion for working to close the achievement gap. She enthusiastically supports Atlas students on their path toward self-fulfillment through education, character, and community. Emily enjoys the outdoors and exploring all the Colorado landscape has to offer.

Nora is excited to join the Atlas Prep team; she strongly believes that it is the right of every child to have access to a quality education and a safe school. A graduate of Stonehill College, Nora began teaching in Fall River, MA through PACT, a  volunteer program, while earning her M.Ed. at Providence College in RI. After, she moved on to the Academy of the Pacific Rim Charter School in the Hyde Park section of Boston, a school which shares a similar vision to Atlas Prep. Nora is coming to Colorado Springs from her beloved home state of Vermont, and she is looking forward to comparing Green Mountains to Rocky ones.

Anneli is thrilled to be an Atlas educator and work alongside dedicated individuals that are consistently providing quality education to students in the southeast region of Colorado Springs. Graduating from the University of Nebraska with a sociology degree opened her eyes to the injustices our country faces, particularly educational inequity. With a hunger for change she jumped head first into a Teach For America English teaching position in Miami Gardens, Florida and learned that even in the most hopeless situations the smallest positive interaction can move mountains. She is eager to bring a similar zest for literature and life to the students of Atlas Prep. When she isn’t thinking about school, you’ll likely find her walking her mini-Aussie Indigo, in a yoga class, or in the mountain air skiing, climbing, or hiking.

Tim joins the Atlas team ready to get his students excited about math and its potential to make them into the future problem solvers of the world.  A graduate of Utah State University, Tim has spent the last few years teaching high school math in Charlotte, NC, where he was also the girls volleyball coach.  Tim has spent a great deal of time living abroad in Africa, which is where he established his beliefs about the empowering effects of a good education.  He believes that Atlas is a place where young minds are effectively prepared to work in and change the world they are about to enter as adults.  In his free time, you will most likely find Tim strumming on his guitar or playing with his dog Winnie.

Elizabeth joins Atlas to help educate scholars academically and socially and to grow their love for reading.  A graduate from York College of Pennsylvania with degrees in criminal justice and history, Liz believes that all children should receive an education that prepares them to make a positive difference in the world and helps them achieve their wildest dreams. Before she came to Atlas, Liz taught in Miami Gardens, Florida and then in Camden, New Jersey.  After seeing the great things going on at Atlas, she decided to move across the country to join the hardworking team of individuals, making a difference in Colorado Springs.  On the weekends she enjoys being outside and hiking or playing rugby.

Joseph joins Atlas with a fervent belief that all students deserve access to quality educational opportunities in order to pursue their lifelong passions. A graduate of both Seattle University Honors College and Johns Hopkins University, Joe’s love for the sciences was fostered through his rigorous coursework and time as a neuroscience laboratory technician and continued in teaching biology in Baltimore. However, with his family back on the West Coast and an eternal love of the mountains, he decided to relocate to Colorado Springs.  He is ecstatic to join such a motivated and extremely revered team here at Atlas Prep. Additionally, he looks forward to cycling, hiking, and summiting all of the fourteeners in Colorado.

Pamela’s experiences working with youth have helped to develop her belief that education can empower and change the lives of youth.  Whether teaching struggling students in a large, inner-city school in Long Beach, California for three years, teaching rural under-served students in Eastern Colorado, or serving as School Counselor for two years, she has sought individual success for ALL learners as an educator. She began working with youth at the Boys & Girls Club of Westminster, California in 1998. This work inspired her to complete her studies in Psychology and complete the teaching program through California State University-Fullerton. Pamela looks forward to working assist Colorado Springs students in achieving high expectations and in becoming productive members of their global community!

Atlas Prep provides Danny with a wonderful sense of fulfillment and challenge, something he has always wanted from his work.  He enjoys learning about each student and challenging them to reach their full personal and academic potential.  He is excited to continue building positive relationships with students, families, and staff members. Danny graduated from King’s College with a BS in Business Administration and worked for Merrill Lynch, and then BlackRock Inc., both in Princeton, New Jersey.  He was presented with a terrific opportunity and decided to move to Colorado Springs, attend graduate school, and change careers.  He graduated from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs with a Master’s in Counseling and Human Services.  Danny loves sports, traveling, and the company of family and friends.

Colin joined Atlas because he wanted to be part of the school’s passionate and innovative approach toward educating an underserved population. After studying philosophy, mathematics, and theology at the University of San Diego, Colin received his M.Ed from National University and began his teaching career in Southern California. Aside from teaching math at both public and private schools, he has also worked previously as a private tutor and test prep instructor. Ultimately though, he felt compelled to join the highly talented and motivated staff at Atlas, where he sees an extraordinary opportunity to profoundly impact the lives of children in Colorado Springs. Outside of the classroom, Colin loves spending time with his family and pursuing his interests in both photography and music.

Demetria is thrilled to be a part of the Atlas Team because she believes that all students should have the opportunity for a quality education.  Demetria always knew that she wanted to work in education and received her bachelors degree in Psychology from Niagara University with the intent to get her masters in Counselor Education. Demetria received her degree from CUNY Lehman College in the Bronx, NY where the focus of her program was on equity and access to education for all students.  She joins the team as the High School Counselor after working as a High School Counselor in Queens, NY and a Financial Aid Counselor for a university.  Demetria is looking forward being a part of helping the high school students at Atlas become college and work ready not only through academics, but character education as well.  Demetria enjoys what the mountains have to offer in terms of skiing and hiking, but enjoys the beach and sand whenever she can get it!

James joins Atlas because he wholeheartedly agrees with their pillars, in respect that working directly with both family and community is the most direct way to help students succeed in school and what faces them beyond. As a graduate of both Temple University and Delaware Valley College, he built on his focus of social studies and English and used those focuses in teaching inner city students on the East Coast. While working on the East Coast, he helped to establish a student council in which students worked with their local communities in order to better both the community and their selves. He feels that this same practice will be beneficial in Colorado Springs and in helping students at Atlas gain a better understanding of their communities. In addition to teaching, James enjoys playing music, specifically guitar and bass. As well as reading and being outdoors, James cannot wait to embark on new outdoor adventures in the Colorado wilderness.

David joins Atlas Prep with a desire to close the achievement gap by preparing students from underserved communities to experience success in education, character, and community.  At the University of Southern California, David was community service chair of Hermanos Unidos, an outlet for his passion for social justice. After graduating from USC, David continued his work in education equity by teaching math for 5 years in South Texas.  At Atlas, David is now a part of a growing organization that works towards closing the achievement gap in Colorado Springs.  When he is not teaching, David spends his time playing basketball or enjoying a hike with his wife and son.

I call Colorado home, since it is the state I keep returning to. Having lived all around the world due to my Army career and family. I enjoy working with students to help them widen their vision by including the entire word via amateur radio and web based radio receivers as today’s culture is global based. For now, when not helping students, I enjoy fly fishing and spending time outdoors.

Sean is a motivated IT professional who strives to keep Atlas Prep atop the constantly changing world of technology.  From security systems, satellite installation, computer networking and phone system programming the wide variety of technology skills he provides is valuable asset to the school.  Having been owner/operator of his own company for 3 years Sean possess great work habits along with exceptional communication skills.  A proud local of Colorado Springs Sean has seen our city expand and flourish over the last decade. Working with Staff and Students at Atlas Prep is a wonderful opportunity for him and he is excited to be part of the team.

Coming from the State of Georgia where he taught Special Education, US History, and other Social Studies classes, Brad is  thrilled to be teaching in such a unique and beautiful area. He loves the challenge of working in a growing high school with outstanding educators who are always willing to put the good of the school, the community, and, (most significant) the student first. This is Brad’s second year at Atlas and both years have been sent in special education. Among many sports, he have coached football for several years and plans to continue to do so at Atlas Preparatory. When he is not working, Brad enjoys doing most anything outside and exercising.

Teo teaches biology and environmental science at Atlas in addition to coaching boys’ and girls’ soccer.

Brittany is thrilled to have the opportunity to bring her passion for teaching and leadership to the Atlas Prep community and begin working with people who share such an inspiring goal. Originally a Colorado College alumna, Brittany furthered her education at Denver University, where she received her elementary teaching credential. She has had four years of teaching experience in both 4th and 5th grade in sunny California. Brittany believes that Atlas Prep is a unique school that gives all students the tools to become successful, college educated adults, and she can’t wait to get back to the state that out-shines California to begin this journey.

Erica joins the Atlas team with a desire to help students reach their dreams through education. She graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in interdisciplinary studies. During her time at Texas A&M, she was a member of the STEM Academy, which allowed her the opportunity to use a variety of technology methods in the classroom. She taught students in math and science, ranging from 3rd grade to 8th grade. Prior to moving to Colorado Springs, Erica taught 6th-grade mathematics in Oklahoma. She is both honored and excited to work alongside the inspiring teachers at Atlas Prep, who make student growth and achievement a priority. Besides teaching, Erica enjoys being outdoors, spending time with her family, and cheering on the San Antonio Spurs and Texas Aggies!

Adam is a graduate of Gonzaga University and an Army veteran who served as an officer in the 10th Mountain and 1st Infantry Divisions. Upon completion of his military service obligation, Adam was selected as a Teach for America corps member where he worked relentlessly to close the achievement gap as a high school English Language Arts teacher in New Orleans, Louisiana. Adam looks forward to leading a talented group of teachers, connecting with student families, and preparing all Atlas Prep students for the rigors of high school and beyond.

Kyra is thrilled to work for a school that is dedicated to providing urban youth the possibility of a brighter life through education. She is a firm believer that education can take you places, as it has brought her from her home state of Missouri, where she received her B.S. in Sociology at Missouri State University, to the beautiful state of Colorado, where she earned her M.A. in Sociology at UCCS. Kyra is ecstatic that she can help make a difference for scholars by representing Atlas in the community and working with families to ensure that their children can have limitless opportunities.

Matthew is a strong believer that all people should have the chance at a self-fulfilled life, and he is excited to be a part of a world-class team of educators, who are working towards the same goal.  A German literature graduate from the local Colorado College, Matthew sees the large untapped potential in the students whom Atlas Prep serves and contributes his efforts in the HR department.  Although he is originally from Ontario, CA, he now calls Colorado Springs his home and enjoys the many trails and outdoor activities the city has to offer.

Brooksie believes that student success extends beyond the classroom to stability at home, family involvement, and enrichment learning.  She was drawn to Atlas because the Community Team works to bridge the school, family, and community, affording her the opportunity to use her degrees in sociology and social work from University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. Although Brooksie began her career at a clinic in Minneapolis, she also has mentored students and visited orphanages and schools in Honduras on multiple occasions.   Brooksie continues her work with children at Atlas Prep and enjoys all of the adventures Colorado has to offer her and her dog Rockwell!

Claudia is honored to work at Atlas and help its students develop their self-appreciation, skill sets, and passion for math.  She graduated from Seattle Pacific University with degrees in physiology and Latin American studies with an emphasis in Spanish. Claudia is excited to walk alongside Atlas students in their journey towards self-fulfillment, which Atlas focuses on in its mission. In her spare time, Claudia enjoys hiking, yoga, and playing orchestral and rock music. She also looks forward to winter in Colorado where she can finally make a snowman.

Michele joined the Atlas Staff 2 years ago as a bus monitor to ensure the safety of transportation for the children to and from school. As I have joined the Atlas Staff 2 years ago, I have come to help children better improve their education. I am a retiree from the City of Colorado Springs Finance Department with 20 plus years.  My husband, Thomas, is retired as well. We have both decided that we wanted to help and make a difference in children’s lives, so we both joined the Atlas family as bus monitors.  I graduated from Castlemont High school, Class of 1971 in Oakland California and then attended Merrit College, where I majored in Business Administration.  I enjoy spending my free time with our 5 kids and 6 grandchildren doing activities such as camping, backpacking, fishing and traveling.

Tom is a retired manufacturing engineer from Kaiser Aerospace and Electronics. He joined Atlas over two years ago after hearing about Atlas from my eye doctor, Dr. Dean Carlson. Tom and his wife (Michele Madsen)  thought they could help make a difference with the students and positively influence their lives by working at Atlas. He enjoys golfing and spending quality time with his family by camping, backpacking and traveling.

Casey is excited to join the Atlas team because he believes every student deserves an excellent education, regardless of their circumstances.   Working with youth in St. Louis, Kansas City, and rural Missouri, he saw firsthand the need for much better schooling.  Casey majored in Political Science at Washington University in St. Louis and studied Secondary Education at Southeast Missouri State University.   This is his fourth year teaching Math, and he is excited to encourage the next generation of problem solvers.

Zach first embarked on this journey over a decade ago while working at a school in the Dominican Republic. There, an idea took root that has driven him since: every student deserves a real chance to be successful in life and can do so if they are prepared with a great education. A graduate of Colorado Christian University and Harvard Divinity School, Zach spent more than a year laying the groundwork for Atlas Prep after his El Pomar Foundation Fellowship, training with the prestigious Building Excellent Schools program in Boston and touring successful urban schools across the nation. He is inspiring support for Atlas Prep throughout the Colorado Springs community, spreading the notion that all students have the capacity to achieve and succeed in life, regardless of their backgrounds.

Natalie entered her 5th year in the classroom this year at Atlas Prep. Prior to moving to Colorado Springs, she worked as a founding 6th-grade math teacher for KIPP Sol Academy in East Los Angeles. Prior to KIPP LA, Natalie worked at Afya Public Charter School in Baltimore, Maryland for 3 years. It was there where she became aware of her passion for teaching and began her journey as a math teacher. While in Baltimore, Natalie received her Master of Science in Education from Johns Hopkins and served as an adjunct lecturer for Goucher College in the Maryland State Correctional Facilities for both men and women. All of these experiences helped her become the hard working, resilient, and transformative math teacher that she is today.

Mohammad joins Atlas in the belief that a critical education is the practice of freedom. As a recent graduate from Colorado College, where he designed a major in “Existential Activism”, Mohammad is excited to be a part of Atlas. As a PIFP Fellow Mohammad hopes to use his yearlong fellowship to learn as much as he can about charter schools, the communities served by Atlas, and the day to day operations of a school. Outside of Atlas, Mohammad enjoys reading, writing, and enjoying walks in the fall weather.

Growing up in a family full of educators, Chris has seen from a very young age the positive influence a dedicated teacher can have on a student’s life.  After having taught for seven years in a variety of different school environments ranging from rural Oregon to inner-city Washington D.C., Chris has come to believe that children everywhere hold similar levels of promise and ability and that no child should miss out on academic challenge.  He believes firmly in the idea of supportive and rigorous instruction and looks forward to hearing from students in decades to come who have gone on to make amazing contributions in their communities.

Caitlin is proud to join Atlas as a member of the Community Programs team. A native of Washington state, Caitlin attended Gonzaga University focusing on political science and gender studies. Later, she completed two AmeriCorps service terms working as a community organizer. She is excited to work with families and students at Atlas to make their education experience meaningful and empowering. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her own family and exploring all that Colorado has to offer.

Passionate about Atlas’ three pillars, Lukas was drawn to Atlas to teach math. He attended Emory University and earned bachelor’s degrees in economics, mathematics, and political science. In his senior year, he joined Teach for America where he first learned about Atlas Prep.  Now that he is in Colorado Springs, he is excited to explore the city, cycle, and hike. An avid tinkerer, Lukas is also looking forward to bringing robotics projects into the classroom.

Ismail joins Atlas with the firm belief that in addition to a strong academic education, students need to be taught strong character traits such as integrity, professionalism, and kindness, all of which he sees Atlas focusing upon. Originally from Connecticut, Ismail attended Syracuse University where he majored in finance, becoming the first in his family to earn a college degree. After graduating, Ismail joined Teach For America as a 2013 Corp Member in the Miami-Dade County Public School where he taught 11th-grade U.S. History. After enjoying his experience as a teacher, Ismail decided to join Atlas hoping to continue in the fight against educational inequality while also focusing on his passion of teaching financial literacy. When he is not working, he enjoys hiking, being outdoors, traveling, and cooking!

Jennifer is enthusiastically joining the Atlas team to promote education and social responsibility among young learners.  Originally from Arkansas, she earned a Bachelor and Master of Science degree in Nutrition from the University of Central Arkansas.  Her coursework and experiences as a student encouraged her passion for science and education.  As an educator, Jennifer has worked to increase knowledge and understanding of the natural sciences in the classroom but also as it applies in the real world.  Jennifer enjoys athletics as a participant and as an observer; she spends her time away from school in ballet studio, snowboarding, playing softball, or watching the Rockies play.  As a young professional, she is excited to join and contribute to the innovative staff at Atlas Prep.

Aaron Pomis joins Atlas earned a BS in Chemistry from the University of Illinois at Urbana in 1996 and worked as an award-winning research chemist in Chicago.  Pomis joined Teach For America in 2002 and taught middle school science in Durham, NC before becoming program director for Teach For America – Charlotte in 2004, where he helped nearly 200 teachers find success teaching in high poverty communities.  Pomis became the founding science teacher at KIPP Charlotte in 2007, where his students performed in the top 10% of all 5th grade science students across North Carolina.  Pomis became Dean of Instruction in 2011 and Assistant Principal of the Lower School in 2012, building an academic program that more than doubles state and national growth.  Pomis has also served as an elected member of a local school council in Chicago, as chair of another Charlotte charter school board, and on the Mayor’s Youth Employment Council.

Rebecca graduated from Washington University in St. Louis and began teaching in New York City as a Teach for America corps member while earning her M.S. for Teachers at Pace University. She continued working in New York City as a middle school literacy teacher and literacy coach, and received an M.A. in School Leadership from Teachers College at Columbia University before moving to Colorado. She loves working with the staff and students at Atlas and enjoys the active outdoor lifestyle of Colorado Springs. This year, she will try to attempt the blue runs on the ski slopes!

Kanoa is a very strong and passionate believer in the education system. Growing up in a house with a mother who was a Special Education teacher for more than 30 years played a significant role in this. In addition to earning his undergrad in Education at Sam Houston State University, he also was a member of the BearKat’s Football team where he learned the value of hard work and dedication on and off the field. Kanoa is very excited to bring his enthusiastic state of mind to the Atlas Prep Family!

Tony joins Atlas Prep driven by an intense desire to close the achievement gap. The stark difference in performance between poor and minority students and their more affluent counterparts is a trend that can be reversed and Tony will work ceaselessly to bring that focus to Atlas Prep. A graduate of Colorado College, Tony has taught in both Colorado Springs and Denver and with his Masters in Education in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of Denver he will lead the search to obtain a highly effective, first-rate faculty. Tony plans to create a culture in which teachers are given the autonomy and support they need to instruct effectively and where students are empowered with the preparation and opportunity to determine their own future.

Eladia joined Atlas in 2013 first as a Spanish interpreter and then became the office administrator in 2014.  She is the first face that parents and students see in the front office when they enter Atlas High School.  Originally from Panama, Eladia understands what disparity looks like, and she works daily to combat it here in Colorado Springs by building bridges with parents and students so that they are one step closer to reaching a self-fulfilled life.  Outside of Atlas, Eladia enjoys Latin dance and taking walks on the many trails that interlace the city.

Kyle came to Atlas in 2013 but was born in Chicago, Illinois.  After attending the University of Illinois and majoring in history with a minor in secondary education, Kyle joined the TeachNOLA program and taught high school at Miller-McCoy Academy in New Orleans.  He teaches 6th grade social studies and is also the middle school chess coach.  On the weekends Kyle is an avid skier and enjoys a good game of basketball.

Megan joins the Atlas team with an excitement and drive to build her knowledge of academically rigorous and culturally relevant teaching and to implement it in her classroom. She has been able to grow as an educator and leader in TFA’s One Day Mission, and she truly believes that working with Atlas’s experienced team will only help her reach her classroom vision. As a graduate from The Ohio State University, Megan began her teaching career in Early and Middle Childhood Studies, working with students age 3-15. She fell in love with teaching and cannot wait to teach a classroom of her own. She enjoys running, playing soccer, and reading outside; Colorado Springs could not be a more perfect place for her! She is excited to teach alongside a dedicated staff, who share the ultimate goal of student success.

Mitch joins Atlas Prep with the determination to give every student the tools to create their own pathways to success, both academically and beyond. Mitch graduated from the University of Washington with a degree in Environmental Science and Terrestrial Resource Management and a minor in Chemistry. Mitch found his passion for teaching by working at a high school in Seattle that serves high-need students. Having seen his fellow Atlas staff members at work, he felt inspired by the shared goal of giving great opportunities to students who face serious challenges. In his free time, he enjoys both playing and coaching tennis and soccer. As of this July, Mitchell is newly married! He is excited to explore all of the outdoor attractions that Colorado Springs has to offer with his wife.

Brittany is joining the Atlas team with a passion for education for all students. She studied elementary education while attending California State University Channel Islands. Brittany joined Teach For America in 2012 and is beyond thrilled to start teaching Honors Writing to 6th, 7th and 8th graders. She is also excited about spending more time outdoors and learning all about the wonderful things that Colorado and The Springs has to offer.

Michael joins Atlas with a passion for instilling rigorous academic and positive character skill sets into all students. He believes that now, more than ever, students need to have a sense of inquiry with their own education and interpersonal interactions. A graduate and former NCAA Academic All-American at The College of New Jersey, Michael began his journey as an educator by volunteering with after-school tutoring programs in Trenton, NJ. During his Senior Honors Thesis, Michael created and headed the curriculum research department for the nonprofit character education organization Camp Fire NJ.  He then joined Teach For America as a means to provide students the opportunities for a life of academic, career, and character success. Now, Michael has come to Atlas Prep to join a team of educators who share his commitment to the same educational values. Michael enjoys running through Garden of the Gods, climbing 14,000-foot mountains, and going snowboarding on the weekends.

Kevin joins Atlas with a strong belief that every student deserves a strong learning environment that helps students develop their strengths and opens doors for their future. A graduate from Ashland University in Ohio, Kevin taught for four year in central Florida before relocating to Colorado Springs to join the Atlas team. In addition to looking forward to working with the teachers, staff, and students of Atlas Prep, Kevin is also excited to spend time hiking and camping in many parts of Colorado.

Kevyn joins the Atlas team with the belief that all students are capable of and deserve the chance to pursue the life of their choosing, with the education needed to do so. After attending Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington where she majored in psychology and sociology, Kevyn began her teaching career in Memphis, Tennessee. As a Colorado Springs native, she is looking forward to continuing to teach in her home city, specifically with the great team and students at Atlas. When she is not working, she enjoys hiking and running outdoors, traveling and spending time with her family.

Brittney graduated from Colorado College with a degree in Psychology and Spanish. In the past, she has worked for the U.S. Olympic Committee in Vancouver and El Pomar Foundation. Over the years, she has developed an interest in marketing and communications, and is excited to apply the skills and experiences she has gained to her work at Atlas Prep. As a first-generation college student herself, she is appreciative of the educational opportunities that she was afforded growing up, and would like to help students realize their potential to become successful, lifelong learners as well. In addition to work, she has volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and Children’s Literacy Center Tutor.

Chris joined Atlas Preparatory School in 2013 and is thrilled to be part of the team. After receiving his bachelors from the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs, he went on to complete his master’s degree at Northern Colorado in Sports and Exercise Science with an emphasis in sports administration. With an extensive coaching background, Chris values physical education and athletic enrichment in a student’s academic experience. He believes in the mission at Atlas and strives to build character for scholars through athletic participation.

Firmly believing that we cannot afford to allow so much of our country’s potential to go untapped, Carl is very excited to begin working at Atlas Prep.  He began teaching in the Los Angeles area after graduating with a degree in Social Science from Azusa Pacific University.  Carl moved to Colorado Springs in 2008.  He has spent the past two years teaching at another local charter school and earning his master’s degree from Western State College of Colorado.  Carl is looking forward to putting more scholars on a path to academic greatness.

With a heart for serving and passion for building up the next generation, Jamie is excited about her role on the Atlas Preparatory team.  After graduating from Colorado State University-Pueblo Jamie joined AmeriCorps where she served as an environmental educator at Delaware’s Cape Henlopen State Park.  Returning to Colorado Springs, Jamie began working for Mountain Springs Church as an administrative assistant.  She quickly became the Outreach and Missions Coordinator, trying to build community and focus the church into providing for the city of Colorado Springs and its residents.  Jamie has a heart for the city of Colorado Springs and is excited to be part of an organization that provides opportunities to our city’s underprivileged and overlooked younger citizens.

Driven by the belief that teaching is the best way to instill positive change in someone’s life, Ana joins Atlas to work with English Language Learners.  Ana and her husband, both graduates of the University of Florida, left finance to join Teach for America. After two challenging years of teaching, Ana was ready to leave the classroom but the opportunity to develop a program for English Language Learners reeled her back into the classroom for the long run. Ana’s success was defined as her scholars were growing 3 reading levels on average per year. Ana’s running career also became a priority after she was invited to run in the professional athlete field at the 2015 NYC marathon. She is looking forward to continuing her work with English Language Learners at Atlas and cannot wait to train closer to the Colorado sun.

Nico de Vries joined Atlas with a deep commitment to ensure that all students at Atlas are receiving the excellent education that they deserve. His passion to lead comes from the joy that he sees everyday when students are pushed to be their best. Nico moved to Colorado after years as a teacher-leader first with the Recovery School District in New Orleans and then at Democracy Prep Public Schools in New York City where his school, team, and students consistently set the standard for transformational education in the US. As a graduate from the University of Florida with a master’s degree in business administration and a bachelor’s degree in physiology, Nico began his professional career as a project manager and investment advisor for 4 years with UBS Private Bank. He spends his mornings, evenings, and weekends running with his wife, hiking with his 2 dogs, reading Young Adult novels, and exploring all that the state of Colorado has to offer.

A founding Atlas teacher now in her 7th year here, Erin has worked with the scholars of Southeast Colorado Springs as an ELA teacher, a math teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal.  Before Atlas, Erin taught 5th grade for 4 years on the Zuni reservation in Northwestern New Mexico.  She entered teaching as a Teach for America corps member in 2005, inspired to work to close the achievement gap after observing the educational inequalities that were so obvious in her college neighborhood.  She holds a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania and an M.A. in Elementary Education from University of New Mexico. Outside of teaching, Erin enjoys the Colorado outdoors reminiscent of the landscape she grew up with near the Grand Canyon.

David joins Atlas with a strong belief that equality in education translates to equality in society.  As a School Psychology graduate from the University of Central Arkansas, David began his journey as an intern in a surrounding school district in Colorado Springs. He has spent the last 2 years as a school psychologist and basketball coach prior to his arrival at Atlas Prep. David looks forward to working alongside a team of professionals and serving a student population with needs similar to his own as a youth on the south side of Chicago. He is also excited about the idea of coaching at Atlas and enjoying the many outdoor activities that Colorado has to offer.

After deciding she was ready to move back to Colorado, the opportunity to stay in the classroom and work alongside the passionate, talented teachers at Atlas Prep was almost too good to be true. Laura joined Teach for America after graduating from CU Boulder and moved to Charleston, SC. She spent the last three years Morningside Middle School in North Charleston, teaching sixth grade science.  Her placement in the Palmetto state allowed Laura to learn about the complicated ties between education and poverty and strengthened her belief that all scholars deserve the opportunity to experience quality education in a caring and challenging environment.  Although she wilI miss South Carolina’s beaches and grits, Laura is excited to be returning to the mountains and the Colorado sunshine.  She also enjoys hiking, camping, yoga, puzzles and crafts.

Donovan is pleased to be part of the Atlas team where he creates a safe and functioning facility for students.  Receiving his G.E.D. from Austin Community College having worked from an early age, he furthered his education to become a successful data telecommunications and security technician, working in schools in Texas and Colorado as well as high security military sites. He changed his career to building maintenance when Atlas invited him be a part of the staff where he continues to work with students and faculty to improve on the Atlas experience, passing on the knowledge he has gained from traveling abroad and throughout America.

Megan joins Atlas with the belief that education is the building block and necessary foundation upon which opportunities are built and as such, believes education is something that should be available to all students, despite their circumstances. Megan earned her B.S. in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting and her Master of Accountancy from the University of Northern Colorado. Megan has four years of previous governmental auditing experience and joined Atlas in the hopes of providing sound financial management and transparency, in order to aid in ensuring that all children have an equal opportunity at the pursuit of self-fulfillment through a quality education. Beyond the numbers, Megan enjoys spending time giving back to the local community and enjoying the Colorado wilderness with family and friends.

Amanda joins Atlas with a strong belief that all students deserve an excellent education.  After graduating from the University of Chicago with a degree in Political Science, Amanda joined Teach for America.  Since 2010, Amanda has served the students of southern Colorado Springs as an Elementary Teacher and Reading Interventionist.  She is currently pursuing an M.A. in Educational Leadership from the University of Denver.  When Amanda is not in the classroom, she enjoys snowboarding, dancing, and cheering for the San Antonio Spurs.

Chelsea joins the Atlas team with the belief that a strong school community enables students to find their authentic voice. It is her goal to empower Atlas scholars to articulate their perspectives, challenge, disagree, and arrive at consensus, so that they may actively participate in our community and world. After earning her bachelor’s degree in international relations from Michigan State University, she began teaching in Indianapolis in 2012, where she completed a master’s in teaching at Marian University. Chelsea is excited to join the dedicated staff and students of Atlas Prep in beautiful Colorado Springs and looks forward to camping and hiking in the mountains.