About Us

Zoe Nelsen Monte del Sol Charter School

Dr. Zoë Nelsen, Ph.D.

Head Learner

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Bio
Erika Penczer Monte del Sol Charter School

Erika Penczer

Assistant Head Learner

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Bio
Michael Granado Mr G Monte del Sol

Michael “Mr. G” Granado

Dean of Students/Security

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Bio
Alejandra Macias monte del sol

Alejandra Macias

Front Office Secretary (bilingual)

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Bio
Alejandro Jimenez - Monte del Sol Charter School

Alejandro Jimenez

Counselor

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Bio
Alicia Jones Monte del Sol Charter School

Alicia Jones

Art + Design

Bio
Alle Kirkland Monte del Sol Charter School

Alle Kirkland, M.A.

High School Language Arts / Physical Education

Bio
Andrea Johnson

Andrea Johnson

Film

Anita Hett, M.S.N, R.N.

School Nurse

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Bio
Anri Tsutumi monte del sol

Anri Tsutumi

High School Painting

Bio
Benjamin Harris

Benjamin Harris

Office Manager

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Bio
Ben Williams - Monte del Sol Charter School

Ben Williams

High School Math

Bio
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Brandon Behning

Business Office Manager

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Brenna Farrow Monte del Sol Charter School

Brenna Farrow

Middle School Math

Carla Evans Monte del Sol Charter School

Carla Evans

Photography

Art Department Coordinator

Bio
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Carolina Tavarez

Program Coordinator, College and Career Plaza

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Bio
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Chelsea Calabaza

Educational Assistant

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Cruz Ontiveros

Maintenance

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David DePolo faculty Monte del Sol Charter School

David DePolo

Middle School Language Arts

Bio
David Esquibel Monte del Sol charter school

David Esquibel

Counselor

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Dayni Staddon

High School World History

Bio
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Edith Meraz

Cook

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Elizabeth Tidrick

High School Language Arts

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Elliot Ryan

Special Education Coordinator

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Enrique Otero - Monte del Sol Charter School

Enrique Otero

Global Studies

Blacksmithing / Stone Carving

Bio
Erick Druva Monte del Sol Charter School

Erick Druva

Middle School Science / MESA

Science Department Coordinator

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Gerald Ulibarri

Kitchen Manager

Giselle Hensel Piburn Monte del Sol Charter School

Giselle Hensel-Piburn

Director, Mentorship Program

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Bio

Graciela “Chela” Butler

Educational Assistant

Bio
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Isela Burciaga

Social Worker, Special Education

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Israel Haros Lopez

Middle School Art + Poetry

Jacob Decimus - Monte del Sol Charter School

Jacob Decimus

Middle School Math

Bio
Jim Heidenberger

Jim Heidenberger

Science

Bio
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Joseph Butler

Math/ Physical Education

Educational Assistant

John Przyborowski Monte del Sol Charter School

John Przyborowski

High School English Language Arts/ Health

Humanities Department Coordinator

Bio
Juan Carlos Gonzalez-Granja Monte del Sol Charter School

Juan Carlos Gonzalez-Granja

Spanish/Bilingual

Bio
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Karen Loya

Middle School PE
Educational Assistant

Kerry Kehoe - Monte del Sol Charter School

Kerry Kehoe

Film

Bio
Bio
Kimberly Moyers Monte del Sol Charter School

Kimberly Moyers

Educational Assistant

Kristina Deike - Monte del Sol Charter School

Kristina Deike

Spanish

Bio
Lisa Jo Goldman Monte del Sol Charter School

Lisa Jo Goldman M. Ed.

Gifted Program Coordinator

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Bio
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Maria “Lupe” Cerquera

Registrar

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Margarita Blanco Monte del Sol charter school

Margarita Blanco

Middle School Language Arts

Bio

Marisol Sena

Educational Assistant

McKenna Worden Monte del Sol Charter School

McKenna Worden

High School Science

Bio
Molly Conway monte del sol

Molly Conway

Case Manager, Special Education

Bio
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Myoko Costello

Caseworker, Special Education

Nina Connors - Valenzuela - Monte del Sol Charter School

Nina Connors - Valenzuela

Farm to Kitchen

Out-of-School Activities Coordinator

Bio
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Pablo Cerquera

IT Director

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Pablo David Cerquera

Digital Coach

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Petra Babankova

Middle School + High School Guitar

Bio
Raul Garcia Monte del Sol Charter School

Raul Garcia

Director of Athletics

Bio
Rudy Penzer Monte del Sol Charter School

Rudy Penczer

High School Math

Sarah Gilman Monte del Sol Charter School

Sarah Gilman

Art

Bio
Simon Boses Monte del Sol Charter School

Simon Boses

Career + Technical Education Coordinator
Mentorship Assistant Director

Middle School Ceramics

Bio
Simon Mudge case manager monte del sol school

Simon Mudge

Case Manager, Special Education

505.310.1034

Bio
Todd E. Kurth Monte del Sol Charter School

Todd E. Kurth

Middle and High School Science

Bio
Tom Kamholz Monte del Sol Charter School

Tom Kamholz

Middle School History

Udell Calzadillas Monte del Sol Charter School

Udell Calzadillas

French/Spanish
World Languages Coordinator

Bio
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Uvee Macedonia

Garden Coordinator

Bio
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Vanessa Rivera

McKinney Vento Specialist/CASA Director

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Bio
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Wendy Leighton

Middle School History

Bio
Will Rushing Monte del Sol Charter School

William Rushing

High School History

Bio
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Zach Gentzlinger

High School Math

Quick Links:
Academic Calendar
Bell Schedule
Bus Route
Pay Fees
Lunch Menu
Dr. Zoë Nelsen, Ph.D.
Head Learner

Coming soon.

Erika Penczer, M.S.Ed.
Assistant Head Learner
Joined Monte community: Fall 2020

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

Our Assistant Head Learner, Erika Penczer, has an undergraduate degree in biology and Environmental Science and a master’s degree in educational leadership as well as 30+ years of experience as a teacher and school leader.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

Originally from Maine, she and her family moved to Santa Fe in 2007 and haven’t looked back since. When not at school, Erika loves to be riding her mountain bike, skiing, hiking, or enjoying all that Santa Fe has to offer with her family and friends.

What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique?

Monte del Sol Charter School is a special place that offers a strong curriculum and life-long connections to a small group of diverse students. I love that the program at Monte includes camping trips, experiential learning, a ski program, mentorship, a connected garden and culinary program, a civil rights day, and a vibrant art program with local artists.

Michael “Mr. G” Granado, M. Ed, Dean of Students/Security
Joined Monte community: Fall 2023

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I have over 30 years of experience in education and the United States military. I have a knack for working with people that need support (students or adults.) I have taught middle, high school and community college students. I also have trained US American Soldiers and soldiers from many other countries in the field of leadership. Lastly, I am adept at training and supporting teachers in the fields of classroom management and student engagement.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I love to travel with my family. We are a military family with homes in Pecos and overseas in Bosnia-Herzegovina.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I am learning about our school. I love helping students and teachers feel safe and comfortable here at school.

Alejandra Macias, Front Office Secretary
Joined Monte community: Fall 2021

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience

I have been working at the Monte del Sol school, helping parents, staff, and students in Spanish and English with any questions or concerns that come to the front office. Before working at Monte I helped my husband with his business. I received my degree in Mexico in Marketing and Human Resources. Before I moved to the United States, I worked in the hotel industry in Mexico.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am married and have three children. Two of my children have graduated from Denver University and my youngest son is an engineering student at Denver University., I like to travel, spend time with my family and friends, and walk my dog.

• What do you love about Monte del Sol? It’s a small community and a everyone knows each other

• What do you love about teaching or learning? I like to learn from students.

• What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique? Mentorship and the kind and passionate people

Alejandro Jimenez, Counselor
Joined Monte community: Fall 2023

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I have been in the counseling/advising realm for 15 years and love to laugh with students.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I like the outdoors and growing my own food. I love listening to music and my current favorite artists are Leon Bridges, Los Horoscopos de Durango,  Macario Martinez, Silvana Estrada, Kevin Kaarl, Natalia Lafourcade, Ed Maverick, and Los Dos Carnales. I am a poet. I get to travel often to share my work across the country. In 2003, representing Mexico, I got 2nd place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, at the World Poetry Slam Championships.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love the size of the school. It really provides an environment where we can get to know all students.

Alicia Jones, M.A. Teaching Artist, Art + Design
Joined Monte community: Fall 2023

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I was born in Carrington. North Dakota, and lived there until my family piled into a horse-drawn wagon headed for San Diego, California when I was four years old. The long journey was cut short in Colorado, where fate had decided that the beautiful San Luis Valley would be their ultimate destination. I am an artist and teacher living and working in Santa Fe, NM. Growing up in the shadow of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, I found myself constantly working with my hands. High school classes in woodshop and welding led to a B.A. focused on drawing and painting and eventually to a M.A. with an emphasis on sculpture. I have sixteen years of art teaching experience, ten in Colorado and six in New Mexico. In 2022 I won the Middle School Art Teacher of the Year award for New Mexico. I am excited to be at Monte Del Sol and to be working with Monte’s amazing student artists!

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I have four children. Two of my own who are now adults and live in Colorado and two stepsons who live with me here in New Mexico.

What do you love about teaching or learning?

I love seeing the amazing artwork that the students create.

Alle Kirkland, 9th grade English & High School PE teacher
Joined Monte community: Fall 2022

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I received my Bachelor’s degree from Chapman University in Orange, Ca and my Masters degree from NM Highlands University. I have been teaching for 15 years. I began my teaching career in Madrid, Spain as an English teacher for all ages, from elementary to adults! I also taught English as a second language in both Costa Rica and Ireland (to international students living there). I moved back to New Mexico in 2013 and taught at Tierra Encantada Charter School for six years before coming to Monte del Sol in 2022.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I have two young boys, who keep me on the move 24/7.  I love cooking, hiking, yoga and traveling. In my dreams, I’m on ‘Broadway’ and making quilts, but don’t have any of those talents (YET)!

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love the community and family Monte del Sol has created, everyone can be themselves here.

Anita L Hett, M.S.N, R.N. School Nurse
Joined Monte community: May 2024

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I have been a nurse since 2008 and a School Nurse since 2012! In 2014, I became Lead Nurse for Santa Fe Public Schools until I retired in July of 2023.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

Prior to becoming a nurse, I tuned pianos for a living! I also worked as an Educational Assistant and Nurse Aide. I love to sing and have previously sung professionally with the Santa Fe Women’s Ensemble. I currently perform with my sister in our duo “Blue Spring”. My family is very musically inclined. My parents met while performing at the Santa Fe Opera’s premier of La Boheme in 1958. I have three wonderful adult children and two amazing young adult grandchildren. I love to garden and am quite crafty.

What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique?

The mentoring program is a wonderful way to get students real life experience in whatever profession they may want to pursue. It is important to get that real life glimpse into the realities of the work. Many people go to college for a chosen field only to find out they don’t really like the profession after all.

Anri Tsutsumi, Teaching Artist: Painting
Joined Monte community: Fall 2022

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I am a large-scale contemporary abstract painter who enjoys teaching painting to young students. I have been painting for more than 30 years. This is my fourth school year teaching at Monte.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am originally from Tokyo, Japan and I lived in the US for 30 years. I feel so lucky to live here in Santa Fe where you can be surrounded by incredible art and you can also see perfect, complete double rainbows all the time. And I love green chile!

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love Monte del Sol because it feels like we are one special family, I can see each student’s smiles on their faces, know their names and enjoy having a little chat with them in the courtyard.”

Benjamin Harris, Office/Facilities Manager
Joined Monte community: 2023

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

Benjamin (She/He) grew up in the Chicagoland area. A graduate of Northeastern Illinois University (B.A., English Composition), she has bounced around the country doing many things throughout his life including; building architectural & scale models (including a couple in the Smithsonian), Montessori teaching, furniture carpentry, new & remodel construction, theater management, event planning, filmmaking and many other things.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

He loves frisbee, writing, hiking with her dog Britta, the White Sox, and has a penchant for bad jokes & sarcasm.  She is honored to be a part of the Monte Community, and he hopes to grow with it for years to come.

What do you love about teaching or learning?

I love that no matter who you are, what you are, or what your skills are, there is ALWAYS something NEW you can learn.

Ben Williams, Math
Joined Monte community: 2025

 

Tell us about your educational experience and professional experience:

I went to most of my K-12 education in Vermillion, SD. After graduating, I moved to Flagstaff and completed majors in environmental science and applied mathematics. I decided to change careers in my mid-thirties to become a math teacher. I taught for a year at a behavior school in Maine before becoming a classroom teacher. I moved to Utah in 2022, taught there for three years, and moved to Santa Fe this July. I’m nearly done with my masters and will have completed it by next spring.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I’ve lived in quite a few places over the years, and I’m stoked to be in Santa Fe now! I spend my time riding bikes, making ceramics, baking bread, climbing, and being outside as much as possible. I’m always working to refine my arsenal of math jokes. Here’s one of my favorites:
Why was 6 afraid of 7? Because seven eight nine. Why did 7 eat 9? Someone told it to eat three squared meals a day!

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

So far, the staff and students have been very kind–what a refreshing surprise in a world that often isn’t so kind.

Carla Evans, Photography
Joined Monte community: 2022

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

My professional background is in Deaf Education, English as a Second Language, and Special Education. I have done freelance portrait photography since I got my first camera as a teenager. I am enjoying this opportunity to merge my interests and skills in service to our students.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am originally from Oklahoma, but moved to Santa Fe to be closer to my parents. I have three nearly grown children of whom I am very proud. I enjoy traveling anywhere and hope to add more stamps to my passport in the next few years!

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I am delighted to be a part of the Monte del Sol community because it is a warm and vibrant place where everyone has the opportunity to explore and demonstrate their strengths.

Carolina Tavarez,
Program Coordinator, College & Career Plaza
Joined Monte community: 2022

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I earned a B.A. in Liberal Arts from St John’s College and am currently earning my M.A. in counseling to become a licensed mental health clinician. I have worked as a tutor, mentor, and advisor to Santa Fe youth for the past 7 years.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

My hobbies include reading, crafting, gardening, and fishing. Mi familia consists of my husband and cat.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

Monte welcomes you with open arms and encourages you to express your unique self.

David DePolo, M.A., M.S., Middle School Language Arts
Joined Monte community: 2003

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

David holds a B.A. from Notre Dame University, an M.A. from St. John’s College, and an M.S. in Special Needs Education from State University of New York.  David has taught history and humanities in Los Angeles, CA and Santa Fe, NM, as well as ELA at Santa Fe Community College. 

In 1995 he joined Sandia National Laboratories as a technical writer and later managed their logistics operations tracking assets controlled for nuclear nonproliferation. In 2009 he ventured on his own to lead a three-year sustainability project converting a golf course to recycled water.

In 2012 he moved overseas to Kuwait to teach ELA at a bilingual, coed Arabic school where he later served as Head of the English Department and Assistant Principal. During his summers overseas he mentored educators in Tunisia with the NGO AMIDEAST.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

A descendant of immigrants from southern Italy, David believes in social justice and community engagement. He has served as President of Santa Fe Habitat for Humanity and supports initiatives reducing poverty and homelessness. In addition to the MENA regions, David has resided in Europe and southern Africa.

What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique?

The sense of community and shared commitment to the future make Monte a special place to be an educator.

Dayni Staddon, M.F.A, M.A,
High School History/Language Arts
Joined Monte community: Fall 2018

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience
I hold a BA in Political Economy from the College of Santa Fe, an MFA in Poetry from Vermont College of Fine Arts, and an MA in Political Theory from University College Dublin. I’ve had a diverse career outside of education, in the arts, culinary, and various small business ventures. I returned to the U.S. after living abroad in 2018, and began teaching at Monte del Sol.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I’m a writer and multi-media artist. I love to cook, eat, listen to music, travel, discuss current events and enduring questions.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

Monte is a small school that values individuals and community, close supportive relationships with students and their families are the foundation for our success.

Enrique Otero, Humanities, Teaching Artist in blacksmithing and stone carving
Joined Monte community: December 2023

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience

In Lima, Peru, fresh out of high school, disoriented and simultaneously greedy in regard to different fields (wanted to go for several–often unrelated–majors) I went for Business Administration; paradoxically, the farthest I could go from what I am now.

After a few years of corporate working I dropped everything and went to Europe to study Art. I remained in the Old World about two years and then returned to Lima where I alternated working as an artist and newspaper reporter. I caught the news bug and decided to pursue it professionally, landing at San Francisco State University where I earned degrees in International Relations and Journalism with the intention of working as a foreign correspondent.

However, thanks to one of those unexpected turns in my life I ended up in 2004 working as a teacher at the East Bay Waldorf School; enamoured with its philosophy and pedagogy I enrolled at the Rudolf Steiner College (Sacramento, CA) where I obtained my WTC (Waldorf Teacher Licence). I remained in the Bay Area until 2008 when I moved to Santa Fe, and worked since then at the SF Waldorf School until May 2023.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I like reading, repairing/creating/repurposing things; traveling, river rafting and hiking with my partner, watching sports and training on my bicycle. I’m a bird watcher. My parents live in Lima, Peru and my four siblings live in different parts of the world (Lima, Madrid, Spain; Houston and Santiago, Chile), which makes family reunions a very complicated affair. My 24-year-old son graduated from NAU and my daughter, who is 21, is currently attending college in Sydney, Australia.

What I love about Monte del Sol  the most is that:

The faculty and staff is super dynamic; The freedom, based on trust and professionalism, granted on us teachers to educate according to the school philosophy/pedagogy; and the Mentorship Program.

Giselle Piburn, Director, Mentorship Program
Joined Monte community: 2014

 

Tell us about your educational and professional experience:

I was raised in West Hollywood, California by Argentine parents who immigrated to the US. I am a graduate of UCLA, with my first year at UCSB and I spent a year abroad at the Accademia di Belle Arti in Venice, Italy. I moved to Santa Fe in 1993. I am proud of the Monte Mentorship Program – an innovative education model in New Mexico and across the country.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I enjoy speaking Italian and Spanish and hanging, dancing, cooking or hiking with friends, my husband and our two kids. We’ve had dogs, cats, chickens and turkeys for 3 decades…. at one point hitting a ridiculous count of 28 turkeys.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

Moved by the curiosity and “aha” moments of her students and the generosity of mentors in this town, I am genuinely inspired to steward this program. That, in addition to the wonderful collection of colleagues, makes me happy to come to work every day!

Graciela "Chela" Butler, Educational Assistant
Joined Monte community: 2013

 

Tell us about your educational and professional experience:

I graduated from the College of Santa Fe with a Bachelors of Science. I returned to earn my teaching credential. I have been in education for close to forty years. Twenty one years at a private school in Santa Fe teaching New Mexico History, U.S. History, and Psychology. I have worked at Monte del Sol as  an educational assistant, attendance clerk, athletic coordinator, and middle school math teacher.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I have been married for over forty years. I have four children and nine grandchildren. Tennis is one of my passions. Crocheting is also one of my favorite hobbies.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

One of my favorite things about Monte del Sol is being able to speak Spanish which is my first language!

Jacob Decimus, M. Ed, Pre-algebra
Joined Monte community: 2025

 

Tell us about your educational and professional experience:

I am from Haiti, and I have been living in New Mexico for 24 years. I graduated from the University of New Mexico in December 2004 with a BA in business administration and in May 2010 with a Master’s degree in Secondary Education. I worked in the private sector for 15 years before I committed to the teaching profession.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

As I mentioned before, I am from Haiti. I speak French, Haitian Creole, English, Portuguese and Spanish. I am a musician, singer and songwriter. I am married, and I have three children. I play tennis and read as hobbies.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

What I love about Monte del Sol is that it is focused on arts and creativity, a small, tight-knit Community, advisory system and the progressive and inclusive Culture.

What do you love about teaching or learning?

What I love most about teaching and learning is how deeply human and transformative both processes are.

What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique?

Monte del Sol Charter School stands out as a truly unique learning environment because it blends rigor, creativity, and heart in ways many schools strive for but few achieve.

Jim Heidenberger, M.S., Integrated Science
Joined Monte community: 2023

 

Tell us about your educational experience and professional experience:

I graduated from the United States Military Academy in 1990 with a computer science degree.  After serving for several years with the 101st Airborne (Air Assault) Division at Ft. Campbell, KY, and Mobility Command at Ft. Benning, GA, I left the military. I worked in various manufacturing roles, including International Paper in Corinth, NY, and General Motors in Linden, NJ.  During that time, I pursued my alternate route teaching license whilst simultaneously earning a Master’s Degree in Astronomy. I started teaching at Old Turnpike School in Tewksbury Township and moved to New Mexico in 2007, where I have taught since, minus a one-year hiatus as a Public Safety Officer at St. John’s College.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I live in the mountains with my three huge bois – Chaco (fox red lab) and litter mate brothers Houdi and Yogi (GSP/Great Mountain Pyrenees mix). I love to play stringed instruments and am learning the harmonica. I am an avid year round dispersed camping fanatic (some of the best camping occurs in the winter).

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love the curiosity and passion for learning here. We are closely bonded and I love that there is a safe space for everyone.

John Przyborowski, M.A., English/Health
Joined Monte community: Fall 2006

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

Prior to moving to Santa Fe, I taught at Oakland School for the Arts in Oakland, California. I attended Fordham University in NYC and transferred to San Francisco State University where I completed my Bachelor’s in addition to my teaching credential. I received my Master’s in Liberal Arts from St. John’s College in 2015.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am a big reader, and I love to listen to music and watch movies. In my twenties I was a professional touring rock musician and had a minor hit record in the UK. I’ve visited every state except Alaska (bucket list) and I’ve lived all over the U.S. I love running and lifting weights, and I love to hike as much as I can. I probably drink too much coffee and I secretly wish I was a professional nap taker.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

Monte is quite literally my home away from home and my family – it’s truly a unique and beautiful community of learners. I can’t imagine what my life would be like if I didn’t work here – I’ve gotten so much out of being a Dragon both personally and professionally.

Juan Carlos González-Granja Ph.D., Spanish/Bilingual
Joined Monte community: 2019

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I was born in Latin America, and I’ve been lucky enough to study, travel, and—most importantly—work in what I love. I studied pedagogy, philosophy, literature, and cinema. At some point, I realized that teaching is a way of serving others, of trusting in people and yourself. Since then, I’ve held on to my faith in humanity and the future. That’s why every class I give is something I’m truly grateful for and genuinely enjoy.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

When I write poetry, I’m a philosopher; when I critique film, I turn into a teacher. It is like having several perspectives and freedom. My best time in life is sharing time with my son: watching movies, wrestling Lucha libre, and playing drums. Every day, I can read, listen to music, and walk my dog—again and again. She teaches me to live in the present.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?
The dragons! I love the trilogy—Monte, Sol, and Dragons. Such a powerful and inspiring symbol.

What do you love about teaching or learning?
Working directly with human beings—sharing ideas, listening to stories, and growing together.

What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique?
Its strong sense of community, where everyone feels connected and supported.

Kerry Kehoe
Joined Monte community: 2025

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I’m a visual artist and have shown my work at various galleries and artistic spaces across the US and India. I have a BA in Studio Art from Stony Brook University and an MA from NYU/International Center of Photography (ICP). I have taught photography and art at the School of Visual Arts and ICP. I have taught children particularly through various children’s organizations.. I also worked as a corporate photographer for magazines/media for twelve years. I am fortunate to be able to participate in intimate moments of people’s lives, from the mundane to the extraordinary.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I have immersed myself in the spiritual traditions in India where I lived for several years, and continue to be an artist committed to social action/justice for the queer community. I currently reside in New Mexico with my four-legged fur baby, Niva.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love the supportive and inclusive nature of Monte del Sol. It is inspiring and creates a sense of belonging and sacred space for curiosity and learning.

Kristina Deike, M.Ed, Spanish/Bilingual
Joined Monte community: 2021

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I received my Bachelor of Arts in Latin American Studies from the University of California at Santa Barbara. I worked for the Migrant Education Program and Parents as Teachers program, which both inspired me to get my teaching license. I then worked as a bilingual educator in California, Arkansas and finally landed in New Mexico. I received my Master’s degree from NM Highlands University in Educational Leadership. In addition to teaching Spanish and English, I have also worked as an Activities Director, Athletic Director, and in various administrative roles.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am from the Philadelphia area but have lived in many parts of the United States. I have been married for 35 years and have an adult daughter who is an officer in the US Air Force.  Most of my family lives in New Mexico now. I enjoy traveling, camping, reading, hiking, swimming, skiing and walking my dogs! I really enjoy living in Santa Fe!

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love working at Monte del Sol because it is a place where educators can take risks to try new things without fear of failure and adverse consequences.

Lisa Jo Goldman, M.Ed., Gifted Program Coordinator
Joined Monte community: 2008-2010, 2024

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

Hmmm, well, I’ve been engaging young (and old) minds since 1996 (Creative Writing, English, Gifted at middle and high school level); teaching college since 2005 at SFCC, SFUAD, UNM-Taos, and IAIA–mostly media and gender studies, etc. I was also an award-winning radio producer for 88Nine Radio Milwaukee, and for KRZA. Earned my Master’s in SPED/Gifted and 2E Learners from UNM and my BFA from University of Wisconsin. I was a member of the state Gifted Advisory Committee and helped draft the Gifted Technical Manual.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I have been playing drums professionally since the 80s, and have recorded, toured, and done session work (also vox). I am currently in three bands: Titmaüs; 27 Devils Joking; and an improvisational jazz quartet called DaDaDaLi.  I have shown my artwork (painting/drawing) in various locations here and way back in Milwaukee. I also have published some short fiction, but it was a long time ago. I work out very regularly, hike very regularly, and love camping, traveling, and hot springs. I finally purchased a half acre of land in Keaau, Big Island, Hawaii!!! Gonna build a wee hale’ on it next summer! I’m short.

What do you love about teaching or learning?

I learn more from my students than anyone else. They keep me humble.

Margarita Blanco, Middle School Language Arts
Joined Monte community: 2022

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:
I am a proud Monte del Sol alumna, graduating in 2013, and was honored to return as a teacher in 2022. Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, I found my first true community at Monte, where inspiring teachers such as John Prysborowski, Wendy Leighton, Jim Ledyard, and Robert Jessen encouraged me to pursue education. I went on to earn my Bachelor of Education with a concentration in English and a minor in Philosophy from the University of New Mexico. My passion lies in helping students discover their authentic selves through the shared process of teaching and learning.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:
Outside the classroom, I love spending time with my daughter, diving into a good book, crocheting cozy creations, and finding new music to soundtrack our adventures. A fun fact: I can usually be found with a crochet hook in one hand and a story in the other.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?
I love Monte because it is a place that helps you discover who you are, rather than telling you who to be.

Mckenna Worden, High School Science
Joined Monte community: 2025

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:
I went to college at the University of Wyoming, and got two BS degrees. One in Geology, the other in Environmental Systems Science. After college I spent a few seasons in Montana, being a Wildland Firefighter.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:
I love to be outside, most of that time is spent fly fishing, but I also enjoy backpacking, and mountain biking. At home I spend a lot of time knitting and doing other crafts. I love movies, specifically of the horror variety, but appreciate all cinema. I’m also a big fan of ALL sports, my favorite professional team is the NFL Buffalo Bills. On the sports note I also love and played rugby for my college club team.

What do you love about teaching or learning?
I love to connect with students. We are in this together, learning, and to see the spark in a students eye when they understand is incredible.

Molly Conway, M.S. Special Ed., Case Manager
Joined Monte community: 2024

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I received my Master’s of Science in Special Education from Lehman College, which is located in the Bronx, New York. Both of my parents and my grandmother were educators, so I think that I picked up some of their love and passion for the field. I have taught in a variety of different settings throughout my career as a special educator, all of which have been an opportunity to learn and grow from my students, their families and my coworkers. My background as a special education teacher has brought me into inclusive and self-contained special education classrooms, and restorative justice/education programs that served youth that were labeled at risk.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am energetic, positive, accepting, and fiercely devoted to the people and populations that I work with. I love to be out in nature climbing mountains.

What do you love about Monte del Sol? I feel like there is a true sense of community here at Monte del Sol. I felt that energy the first time I was on campus and was immediately drawn to working here.

What do you love about teaching or learning? Giving students encouragement to believe in themselves.

What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique? Students and teachers bond on many different levels in and outside of the classroom environment. I have observed that student/teacher relationships are based on trust and mutual respect. I have also observed that there is a lot of honest and open communication that happens at MdS. I love that!

Nina Connors-Valenzuela, Garden to Table Culinary Teacher/Out-of School Coordinator
Joined Monte community: 2025

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I attended University of Illinois-Champaign- Urbana and received a Bachelor’s of Science in Nutrition Science. I later attended Santa Fe Community College Alternative Licensure Program and earned my teaching degree. I’ve taught 2nd, 4th and 6-8th grades in Santa Fe. This year I am fortunate to teach a garden-to-table class for middle and high school students. Gardening and cooking are an art, skill and a science, which can incorporate many different areas of study within their framework. Growing food and cooking for ourselves is an important part of sustainability for taking care of ourselves, our school and our community.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am originally from Chicago, and have lived in New Mexico for 31 years. I have four grown children who are attending colleges in Los Angeles and Albuquerque. My favorite activities are gardening, cooking, traveling, reading, hiking and bike-riding.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love the sense of acceptance and diversity at Monte del Sol where students can learn in a safe place that is challenging academically and they develop skills to help them become confident, capable adults.

Petra Babankova, M.A., Music
Joined Monte community: 2024

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I was born in the Czech Republic, immigrated to Canada in 1980 and came to Santa Fe in 2002. I studied Music at McGill University and finished my masters degree in guitar interpretation at Universite de Montreal. I was part of the Sol y Luna guitar duo and recently I formed a cello and guitar duo.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

Since then I raised five children and kept playing and teaching guitar. I taught guitar at SFCC, Waldorf school, Ortiz middle school and as a substitute teacher at NMSA. Nevertheless most of my guitar teaching is private.

Teaching is my passion. I think there’s always a way to reach everyone. I believe that my mission as a teacher is to find the right material for my students and pass on the love for music.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love working with the students, I feel that they are happy here. There are so many chances here for me to learn and get better.

Raul Garcia, Athletic Director

Joined Monte community: 2024

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I have been coaching High school through pee-wee kids for about 15 years now. I have coached multiple sports from Basketball, Football, Baseball, and Soccer. I coached at Capital High for the previous 4 years and now I am coaching the Girls Soccer team at Monte Del Sol. I teach Computer Basics and have been working in the IT field before coming here for about 5 years.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am an ex-collegiate athlete. I played baseball, basketball, football and wrestled in high school. I have started coaching since I was about 10 years old. I like to go Fishing, Hunting, and be outdoors.

What do you love about Monte del Sol? The thing I love about Monte Del Sol is how much everyone is included in the community and no one is left out, there is something for everyone.

Sarah Gilman, Art
Joined Monte community: 2025

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I am a native of Santa Fe, NM and graduated from Santa Fe High School. I attended College at Pratt Institute in NYC and California College of the Arts. I am a National Board Certified Teacher. I have 20+ years experience educating students in grades K-12. Prior to teaching I sculpted for nationally known artist Glenna Goodacre. As a mixed media artist I have shown and sold my work locally, nationally, and internationally.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:
My interests include traveling, mountain biking, skiing, and spending time with my family and pets.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love that at Monte del Sol we are encouraged to make connections between information and individual interests, and use this to better our world.

Simon Boses, Career and Technical Education Coordinator/Mentorship
Joined Monte community: 2025

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:
I discovered my love for teaching while designing and implementing summer camp courses for teens at the Houston Museum of Natural Science, which led me to teach art and science at a K–8 Montessori school in Clearwater, Florida, where I developed a middle school aquatic robotics program. I thrive on project-based learning and enjoy helping students bring new ideas to life. After moving to Santa Fe in 2016, I opened Make Time, a makerspace for kids and teens. Although COVID closed the space, it led me back to the classroom, where I continue fostering creativity, collaboration, and hands-on learning.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:
My wife and I live on a small farm in Galisteo with our four kids, about 150 chickens, and a few mischievous dogs. On weekends, you’ll usually find me rolling dice in a game of D&D with the kids, enjoying epic board game battles, or elbows deep in clay in our ceramics studio. Life is full of creativity and the kind of chaos only a farm full of kids, animals, and art can bring.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?
Monte del Sol is unique in its commitment to community building through authenticity, student autonomy, and a culture that fosters collaboration, creativity, and meaningful learning experiences.

Simon Mudge, M.A. M.P.P Joined Monte community
Joined Monte community: 2022

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Brigham Young University and a Master of Arts in Labor Studies and Master of Public Policy with a Law Minor from the University of Minnesota. I earned my Teaching license in Elementary Education, Secondary Education, and Special Education at Santa Fe Community College. I have my Level III license. I worked in government, higher education teaching, retail, and child care before coming to education. I have taught almost all the core subjects at Capitol High School and Tierra Encantada Charter School.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I was born in Manchester, England. I love to read and have usually completed 52 books a year. For me reading is like breathing, it is just something I do. I worked in Italy for two years. I enjoy trivia and complete several quizzes each day. I am passionate about soccer and am a lifelong supporter of Manchester United and England. My wife is a science researcher and educator and my three wonderful kids are students. There is a dog too.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love to learn about different subjects with the students, which I can do by attending classes where I support the students in Special Education. We learn together.

Todd “Coach K” Kurth, High School Science
Joined Monte Community: Winter of 2025

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I was born and raised in Santa Fe. I Graduated from SF Prep School and received a B.A. in biology from Williams College. My teaching career began in 1988 and includes locations such as Washington DC, New Hampshire, London, Albuquerque, and Santa Fe. I also spent time serving as the athletic director for SF Prep for 20 years.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I enjoy spending time outdoors with my wife, two kids, and the dogs. My interests include bicycle riding, hiking, and backpacking. Other hobbies include woodworking, reading, and wracking my brain with puzzles.

What do you love about teaching or learning?

I appreciate the ability to connect and bond with students when you share the process of learning and growing intellectually, emotionally, and socially.

What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique?

The welcoming and supportive environment is the quality that stands out most with Monte del Sol.

Udell Calzadillas Chavez, French/Spanish, World Languages Coordinator
Joined Monte community: 2017 - 2018, 2024

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I didn’t have a traditional educational career. I originally started studying a career in Political Science, and planned to work in government. Things changed in my life, and I learned about an organization named Teach for America, which is how I was drawn to a career in education. I was able to teach in California, Nevada, and eventually I came back to my old high school, since I went to 9th and 10th grade at Monte del Sol.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am very passionate about languages. I believe they are the window into other cultures. I currently speak four languages, and have made it a goal this year to learn more. I am also an avid traveller, motorcycle enthusiast, and video game enthusiast, I rarely have the time for it though. I work as a rideshare driver sometimes through Uber and Lyft, aside from teaching. I recently married an elementary school teacher and we went to Africa over the summer. I have just a younger sister, and I am originally from Chihuahua. I’m also a big fan of Star Wars and Firefly. I love learning about history and cultures, and that influences my teaching practice as well.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

It is a unique school, you really get to know the students. It was a culture shock when I had to use the first name of teachers to address them, as a student. That was a unique experience. I also find Mentorship very rewarding, and I’m sure students do too. Teachers are seen and heard unlike a major high school sometimes. It is definitely refreshing to work here as a teacher, compared to prior experiences in Nevada and California.

What do you love about teaching or learning?

I love teaching languages because I want to give students the tools to navigate in other cultures. As we become more globalized and interconnected, it is important to know more languages just to function in modern society. I had the opportunity to meet people from around the world, like South Africa, Turkey, Lebanon, etc. and most students already know three or four languages by the time they are in high school. I want the same opportunities for Monte kids.

What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique?

The connection to each other and the labour conditions. I know that education is at crossroads in this country, and educators are facing more challenges than before. I’m not saying we are not, but I do feel that we are being supported by our leadership in these trying times.

William Rushing, M.S.Ed, High School History
Joined Monte community: 2016

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I’ve been an educator for nearly 30 years, beginning as a museum educator in New York City before transitioning into the classroom full time in 2002. I taught for ten years in the New York City Public Schools before moving to New Mexico and joining the faculty at Tierra Encantada Charter School for four years. In 2016 I  joined the faculty of MdS and since then has served a variety of roles in the Humanities department and the front office.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am an aficionado of space fantasy and allegorical science fiction and am an intermediate-level Lego artist. I live with my wife, son and 95 lb. Great Pyrenees here in Santa Fe.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love teaching in a caring and empathetic place that allows every being on campus to be their true and best selves.

Vanessa Rivera, McKinney Vento Specialist, CASA Program Director
Joined Monte community: Fall 2018

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I have been a proud member of the Monte del Sol family since 2018. I have worn many hats here at Monte del Sol. I started as an educational assistant with the Special Education Department. I helped in a math class or two, led an after-school Jam Session and made the move from the classroom to the business office as an assistant. I began working part time with our CASA program as the bilingual benefits navigator and now am a McKinney Vento Specialist and direct the program.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I am the proud momma of two beautiful little princesses.  When I am not hanging out and experiencing life with my babies I enjoy playing and singing with my Mariachi Band. I love holidays, the decorations and songs and spending time with the family.  A couple of fun facts about me is that I was in a country music video and competed in the World Choral Olympics in Graz Austria.

What do you love about Monte del Sol?

I love that Monte del Sol is not just a school but a family.

Wendy Leighton, M.A.,
Middle School Social Studies Teacher
Wendy is a founding faculty member of Monte del Sol. Joined the Monte Community: 2000

 

Please share about your educational and professional experience:

I have been teaching for 34 years. I earned her bachelor’s degree in Cultural Anthropology from Skidmore College. While there, I traveled to the Yucatán Peninsula to photograph Maya sites and studied archaeology and languages my junior year in Greece. I earned a master’s degree in Anthropology and Film from Temple University. Part of my studies included a year at the Anthropology Film Center in Santa Fe where she directed “The Cleaning of the Aequia Madre” in 1989. I also have sponsored the LGBTQ+ student club and the middle school enrichment club. In 2021-2022, I was on the team of New Mexico educators that researched, wrote and revised the K-12 Social Studies Standards in NM focusing on tribal sovereignty, social justice and sustainability. I am thrilled this is the first time in the history of New Mexico, that LGBTQ history will be required in all public and charter schools in the state. In 2024-2025, I served on a small advisory committee of educators and activists who wrote the first Black Education Instructional Scope 1.0 facilitated by the staff in the New Mexico Public Education Department under the Black Education Act. Currently, I am President of our MdS NEA teacher union and continue to collaborate for the best teaching and learning conditions at Monte del Sol.

Tell us about you personally – personal interests, fun facts, hobbies and family:

I love the outdoors. I often hike with my partner and dogs in the mountains. I also love to swim and go to the CCA to see independent cinema.

What do you feel makes Monte del Sol unique?

I love the sense of community at MdS. I also love teaching middle school students who are so open to learning and so creative. I feel what makes MdS unique is our focus on social justice and building close relationships.