Special Subjects Faculty

Catherine Sakanai

Band Teacher

ka*******@je.us

Educational Background:

Master of Music Education (M.M.Ed) from Colorado State University
Bachelor of Arts in Music and Russian Language and Literature from Wellesley College

Teaching Philosophy:
Katie's interest in the Waldorf approach to education was sparked by its emphasis on play, music, art, and storytelling. Her philosophy of education aligns with these principles, focusing on a well-rounded approach that integrates artistic and intellectual development.

Personal Background:
Originally from Northeast Pennsylvania, Katie has been living in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, for 14 years. Her journey reflects a blend of her passion for music and an appreciation for diverse cultural and linguistic experiences.

Interests and Hobbies:
Katie is deeply passionate about music, which is evident in her hobbies. She enjoys making music, singing in choirs, composing, and writing. These activities not only fulfill her creatively but also enhance her skills as an educator.

Family:
Katie is married and has two children who attend Mountain Phoenix. This personal connection to the school community enriches her understanding of the school's culture and ethos, making her role as an educator even more impactful.

Role at School:
As a Band Teacher, Katie plays a vital role in the musical education of her students. Her expertise in music and her broad educational background enable her to provide a rich and diverse learning experience. Her dedication to integrating music into education is a testament to her commitment to nurturing the artistic talents of her students.

Dustin Munger

Orchestra Teacher

du******@je.us

Educational Background:

Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and Guitar Performance
Alma Mater: Colorado Mesa University

Professional Journey:
Dusty Munger, an accomplished musician and educator, leads with a passion for music that is both inspiring and contagious. With a dual specialization in Music Education and Guitar Performance, Dusty has honed a unique blend of skills that perfectly suit the role of an Orchestra Director. His expertise and enthusiasm in guiding young musicians are evident in every aspect of his teaching.

Personal Background:
Originally from Meeker, Colorado, Dusty's roots are deeply embedded in the rich cultural and natural environment of his hometown. His connection to his Colorado heritage is a cornerstone of his personal and professional identity.

Interests and Hobbies:
Dusty's love for the outdoors and his creative spirit are reflected in his hobbies. He is an avid hiker and camper, embracing the beauty and tranquility of nature. His culinary skills and enjoyment of cooking add another dimension to his diverse interests. Above all, playing music remains his greatest passion and pastime, resonating through his personal and professional life.

Role at School:
As the Orchestra Director, Dusty is instrumental in cultivating a love for music among his students. His guidance not only helps them develop their musical skills but also instills a sense of discipline, teamwork, and artistic expression. Dusty's approach to music education fosters a nurturing environment where students can explore and grow in their musical journey.

Melinda Howard

Art Teacher

Me**@je*.us

Educational Background:

Bachelor's Degree in Art from Western Michigan University
Master's Degree in Education from the University of Denver

Professional Journey:
Melinda brings a wealth of experience in art education, having taught for 11 years at Columbine High School, a year at Cherry Creek Elevation, and recently in middle school art at Alameda Junior High. Her journey reflects a deep commitment to the field of art education and a passion for nurturing creativity in young minds.

Teaching Philosophy and Waldorf Connection:
Melinda's interest in Waldorf education began while researching different pedagogies after the birth of her eldest child. The Waldorf philosophy resonated with her, leading to a seven-year-long journey as a parent in the community. She is excited to contribute to a supportive and collaborative environment at MPCS, valuing the fresh start it offers.

Personal Background:
Originally from Michigan, Melinda has called Denver home for over 20 years. Her long-standing connection to the area has allowed her to integrate her love for art with the cultural and natural diversity of Colorado.

Interests and Hobbies:
Outside of the classroom, Melinda is an avid outdoor enthusiast, enjoying activities like hiking, camping, and snowboarding. She is also passionate about photography, knitting, and reading. Traveling and exploring new places in Colorado are among her favorite ways to find inspiration and relaxation.

Family:
Melinda is a mother to three children: a 6th grader, a 3rd grader, and a newborn. Her role as a parent intertwines with her professional life, offering her unique insights into the educational and developmental needs of children at different stages.

Role at School:
As an Art Teacher, Melinda plays a crucial role in fostering artistic expression and creativity among students. Her experience and enthusiasm for art education are integral to inspiring a love for the arts in the school community. Her diverse interests and familial ties to the school further enrich her contributions to MPCS.

Jo Ann Hammond

Handwork Teacher
Grades 1 - 3

jo*******@je.us

Educational Background:

Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders from Colorado State University, 1981
Master of Arts in Speech-Language Therapy from the University of Denver, 1983
Foundations Studies Certificate through the Center for Anthroposophy
Early Childhood Accreditation Lead Teacher Certification
Active participation in numerous WECAN, Waldorf Education, and Waldorf Handwork Educators conferences

Teaching Philosophy:
JoAnn values the Waldorf approach to education, particularly its emphasis on developmentally appropriate and arts-integrated programs. She appreciates the inclusion of nature, storytelling, and imagination in lessons and enjoys the holistic approach to teaching that focuses on developing every aspect of the child. JoAnn is inspired by the innovative combination of Waldorf methods in a public education setting, as demonstrated by the Charter School program at MPCS.

Personal Background:
Originally from Green Bay, Wisconsin, JoAnn moved to Colorado at the age of three and has called it home ever since, except for her travels. Her lifelong connection to Colorado has deeply influenced her personal and professional life.

Interests and Hobbies:
JoAnn is passionate about fiber arts, including knitting, spinning, and quilting. She also enjoys reading, gardening, hiking, camping, snorkeling, and traveling. Spending time with her family and pets, which include dogs, cats, and chickens, is also a significant part of her life.

Family:
Married for over 40 years, JoAnn has two grown children: a 35-year-old son and a 25-year-old daughter. Her family life reflects her nurturing spirit and love for community and connection.

Professional Journey at MPCS:
JoAnn has been a part of MPCS since its inception at the Wheat Ridge Campus. She spent many fulfilling years in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) department. Currently in her fourth year in the Handwork department, she skillfully combines her passion for fiber arts with her enjoyment of guiding children in their learning and growth. Her tenure at MPCS and varied experiences make her an invaluable asset to the school community.

Jessica Bush

Handwork Teacher
Grades 4 - 8

Je**********@je.us

Educational Background:

Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Design
Alma Mater: University of Wisconsin-Madison

Professional Passion:
Jessica has been immersed in the world of fiber arts since she was 10 years old, developing a deep passion and expertise in various techniques including sewing, embroidery, macramé, weaving, knitting, and crochet. Her enthusiasm for fashion design and handwork is a driving force in her career, and she is thrilled to share her knowledge and passion with the students at Mountain Phoenix.

Teaching Philosophy:
Jessica's approach to teaching is centered around her love for the fiber arts. She aims to inspire her students by sharing her extensive skills and enthusiasm for the creative process. Her goal is to nurture a similar passion for the arts in her students, providing them with the tools and confidence to explore their own creativity.

Personal Background:
Originally from Bethesda, Maryland, Jessica's journey in the arts has been influenced by her diverse cultural experiences. Her move to Colorado has allowed her to blend her artistic pursuits with the inspiring landscapes of the American West.

Interests and Hobbies:
In her spare time, Jessica enjoys embroidering and making clothes, continuing to develop her craft even outside the classroom. She also loves exploring the great outdoors, particularly camping and hiking in Colorado and New Mexico.

Connection to the School Community:
While Jessica does not have children of her own, her dedication to teaching and her involvement in the Mountain Phoenix community are driven by her professional commitment and personal passion for handwork and education. Her role as a Handwork Teacher for grades 4-8 is integral to the artistic and creative development of the students, making her a valuable member of the Mountain Phoenix team.

Cecilia Alban

Spanish Teacher
Grades 1 - 4

ce*******@je.us

Updated Bio Coming Soon

Tracy Selph

Spanish Teacher
Grades 5 - 8

tr*@je***.us

Tracy teaches both Spanish and French in the Upper School and is a GSA sponsor. She received her Bachelor of Arts and Teaching Certificate (with endorsements in both Spanish and French) at James Madison University many moons ago. Since then, she has lived all over the US & in Thailand and has traveled to over 30 countries across North America, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. She has studied Spanish, French, German, Latin, and Italian. Her professional guiding principle is that language is a powerhouse for connection and that when ‘we explore the world, we discover ourselves.’

Outside of the classroom, Señora Selph is a very involved community member and advocate for those historically excluded. She co-founded the Jeffco Safe Schools Coalition & the Intercultural Fair, both winners of Jeffco Schools’ Wayne Carle Award for Outstanding Contributions to Diversity & Inclusion. She co-chairs the Jeffco Public Health’s Out for Safe Spaces training workgroup and guest presents classes for Inclusive Practices in the Classroom & School~Family Partnerships. In addition, she is a certified GLSEN trainer and a QPR trainer.

And when she’s not trying to make the world a better place, she loves spending time with her amazing kiddos, playing outside, and dreaming up fun adventures.

Welcome MPCS Parent

Welcome MPCS Parent

Catherine Sakanai

Band Teacher

ka*******@je.us

Dustin Munger

Orchestra Teacher

du******@je.us

Melinda Howard

Art Teacher

Me**@je*.us

Jo Ann Hammond

Handwork Teacher
Grades 1 - 3

jo*******@je.us

Jessica Bush

Handwork Teacher
Grades 4 - 8

Je**********@je.us

Cecilia Alban

Spanish Teacher
Grades 1 - 4

ce*******@je.us

Tracy Selph

Spanish Teacher
Grades 5 - 8

tr*@je***.us

Aaryn Price

Games Teacher
Grades 1 - 3

aa************@je.us

Jose Monteagudo

Games Teacher
Grades 4 - 8

jo*********@je.us

NOW ENROLLING
Preschool - Grade 8

Welcome MPCS Parent

Welcome MPCS Parent

Special Subjects Faculty

Catherine Sakanai

Band Teacher

Dustin Munger

Orchestra Teacher

Melinda Howard

Art Teacher

Jo Ann Hammond

Handwork TeacherGrades 1 - 3

Jessica Bush

Handwork TeacherGrades 4 - 8

Cecilia Alban

Spanish TeacherGrades 1 - 4

Tracy Selph

Spanish TeacherGrades 5 - 8

Aaryn Price

Games TeacherGrades 1 - 3

Jose Monteagudo

Games TeacherGrades 4 - 8

NOW ENROLLINGPreschool - Grade 8

Handwork Teacher
Grades 1 - 3

Handwork Teacher
Grades 4 - 8

Spanish Teacher
Grades 1 - 4

Spanish Teacher
Grades 5 - 8

Games Teacher
Grades 1 - 3

Games Teacher
Grades 4 - 8

NOW ENROLLING
Preschool - Grade 8