Our Crew: VBE Faculty & Staff
Meet the dedicated educators and staff excited to be a part of our Explorers’ educational journey.
Logan Gogarty
Executive Director
Dr. Logan Gogarty is a strong entrepreneurial and educational leader. He has served as an operations manager at a high performing charter school in Denver, taught at a bilingual elementary school with Teach for America in San Antonio, and served as a principal at an alternative K-12 school. Mr. Gogarty has a BA in Spanish from CSU-P, a Masters in Education and Entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania, an Ed.S in Superintendency, and his Ph.D in Education Leadership.
Elizabeth Plinske
Director of Operations
Originally from Illinois, Mrs. Elizabeth Plinske moved to Pueblo in July 2018. She has a BA in Sports Management and Communications from the University of Michigan and an MBA from the University of Illinois. Mrs. Plinske has held positions in college athletics administration with numerous NCAA Division I schools along with financial management and operational roles for several organizations. She is responsible for the budget, enrollment and daily operations for VBE. Mrs. Plinske is a mother of two and, with her family, loves to hike, bike and attend CSU-Pueblo sporting events.
Jessica Ortiz
Director of Instruction & Curriculum
As a learner, Jessica Ortiz has pursued studies in educational equity and cultural diversity, native american studies, and anthropology. As a professional, she facilitates data-driven and equity-focused teams, leads in the development of high-quality, learner-driven, & purposeful curriculum and instruction and supports the curriculum implementation process. She is the mother of three Colorado adventuring kiddos who spend most of their time hiking, mountain kayaking, and camping under the stars.
Pam Pettijohn
Office Manager
Mrs. Pam Pettijohn has been with District 70 for nearly 15 years since moving with her family from Wisconsin in 2008. Her BA is in Interior Design but the career change has been good as she loves meeting new parents and students every year and watching the kids grow and learn. It has also allowed her to be present for her now grown boys and their rodeo adventures. She enjoys taking care of her family, getting together with friends and listening to live music on occasion.
Stephanie Coy
Health Tech/Office Aide – Elementary School
Mrs. Stephanie Coy was born and raised in the San Luis Valley. She is happily married to her husband, Steve, and together they have four children and two grandchildren. Mrs. Coy has several years experience working in the medical clerical field and enjoys such things as baking, sewing, camping, fishing and simply being with her family. She is anxious to continue to serve the needs of the Explorers!
Nichelle Larsen
Secretary – Middle School
Mrs. Nichelle Larsen was born in Southern California and moved to Pueblo at the age of six. She is happily married to her husband, Jeff, and together they have two wonderful children. Mrs. Larsen has over five years of experience as a school secretary, and enjoys such things as cooking, working on race cars, playing with her children, and camping. She is very excited to join the Villa Bella Crew and to meet all the wonderful students and their families.
Celine Jones
Counselor
Ms. Celine Jones is currently completing her master’s degree in School Counseling. She is grateful for her time spent with VBE students as a paraprofessional and Crew Leader as these opportunities have given her different perspectives to enrich her new position as School Counselor. Ms. Jones and her therapy dog Blake are passionate about supporting students socially, emotionally, and academically. During her free time, she enjoys going on walks with her dogs and spending time outdoors with her family and friends.
Sarah Weaver
Instructional Coach (Elementary)
Ms. Sarah Weaver is a Pueblo native. She received her undergraduate degree in the field of psychology from the University of Montana. She later acquired her teaching certification from Western State University and she is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Education Leadership. Ms. Weaver has been teaching elementary education for ten years and she is passionate about whole child development. When she is not teaching, she enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, daughter and two rescue dogs.
Dylon Ortiz
Instructional Coach (Middle School)
A native of Pueblo, Colorado, Mr. Dylon Ortiz has dedicated his career to shaping young minds as an educator. With experience teaching 3rd and 4th grades as well as 6th-grade math, Mr. Ortiz’s passion for education runs deep. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from CSU Pueblo and his Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Colorado State University. Outside the school, Mr. Ortiz finds solace and joy in the company of his wife and family. A lover of nature, he often escapes to the rivers, indulging in the art of fly fishing.
Courtney Lockett
Kindergarten
Mrs. Courtney Lockett was born and raised in Pueblo, Colorado. She has been a Kindergarten teacher for 14 years and was awarded Colorado Teacher of the year in 2020. Mrs. Lockett graduated from Adams State College in 2010 with a BA in Elementary Education and completed her master’s degree in Learning and Technology from Western Governor’s University in 2019. Courtney’s goal is to instill a love of learning in her students that she hopes will last them a lifetime. When she is not teaching, she likes spending time coaching soccer, cheering on the Denver Broncos, and camping/traveling with her husband and two children.
Shylo Faske
Kindergarten
Mrs. Shylo Faske was born and raised in Amarillo, Texas. She graduated from West Texas A&M University with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies. She and her husband recently moved to Pueblo with their three children. Early childhood education has been her passion for nearly a decade. This will be her ninth year teaching and seventh year in Kindergarten. Being a teacher has been a dream come true because she gets to do what her heart loves the most! She loves watching young minds grow and treasures her part in preparing students for the future. When not teaching, Mrs. Faske enjoys being a mom, spending time with her family, and watching CSUP football.
Faith Meredith
1st Grade
Originally from Cheyenne Wyoming, Ms. Faith Meredith has an associate degree from Laramie County Community College and a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies and a minor in Elementary Education from CSU Pueblo. She is currently working on her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. While at CSU Pueblo, Ms. Meredith was captain of the women’s soccer team and worked as a paraprofessional at Villa Bella. When she does have free time, she enjoys being active and going on runs and hikes.
Halie Wilson
1st Grade, ELL Teacher
Mrs. Halie Wilson was born and raised in Pueblo. She graduated as a student-athlete from CSU Pueblo with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and received a Master’s degree in English Language Learners from Western Governors University. Halie loves to dance and is a dance team coach at East High School and Sarah Shaw Dance Studio. Her hobbies include camping, dancing, and spending time with her family and friends. She loves the hands-on learning within the expeditionary curriculum and enjoys watching her students grow as learners.
Carrie Bradley
2nd Grade
Mrs. Carrie Bradley was born and raised in Indiana. She vacationed in Colorado while in college and fell in love with the mountains, so she left everything behind, moved, and has now been here more than half her life. Mrs. Bradley graduated with her bachelor’s degree from CSU Pueblo in 2006 and her master’s degree in Learning and Technology in 2018. This will be her 17th year teaching, spending her first 11 years in kindergarten before moving to 2nd grade. Mrs. Bradley has two daughters, a son, two adorable grandbabies and another on the way! When outside the classroom, she loves reading mystery novels, spontaneous drives with her husband, Tracy, and spoiling her grandkids.
Melissa Strohl
2nd Grade
Mrs. Melissa Strohl was born and raised in Illinois and graduated from Illinois State University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She moved to Colorado in 2022 to begin her teaching career. As a teacher, Mrs. Strohl is committed to creating a safe, nurturing, and respectful classroom community where students are able to learn and grow. She is excited to build relationships with her students and help them reach their full potential. In her free time, Mrs. Strohl enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and friends.
Sophie Hayes
3rd Grade
Ms. Sophie Hayes was born in Youngstown, Ohio but was raised in Pueblo for the majority of her life. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education from CSU-Pueblo. Ms. Hayes has spent three semesters with VBE to date, two as a field experience student and, most recently, as a student teacher in third grade. As a new teacher, she is excited to be a part of a close community of students and staff in a hands-on learning environment. In her free time, she enjoys fishing, hiking, skiing, and anything outdoors!
Heather Smith
3rd Grade
Originally from California, Mrs. Heather Smith has called Colorado her home for the last 17 years. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from University of Las Vegas Nevada, and her master’s degree in Teaching and Learning (Educational Leadership) from CSU Global. She spent 13 years serving as a Pueblo police officer before transitioning to elementary education completing her Alternative Licensure program with ASPIRE. Within her career, she has taught children and adults of all ages. When she is not teaching, Heather enjoys spending time with her husband and children.
Felicia Sanchez-Garbiso
4th Grade
Ms. Felicia Sanchez-Garbiso is a Pueblo native with New Mexico roots. She holds an associate degree from Pueblo Community College, a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from CSU Pueblo and a master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction with a Critical Pedagogy focus from UC-Denver. She is a passionate educator with experience teaching children and adults of all ages. As an Americorps and Teach For America alumni, she strives to strengthen the community by cultivating educational equity with a diverse and inclusive classroom environment for all students. She loves spending time with her family outdoors, listening to stories and connecting with nature.
Payton Stack
4th Grade
Ms. Payton Stack was born and raised in Casper, Wyoming. She graduated from CSU Pueblo with a Bachelor of Science in Liberal Studies and a minor in Elementary Education. As a crew leader, she is excited to push students to reach their full potential in and out of the classroom. Ms. Stack strives to create a strong culture in her classroom by encouraging students to be kind, passionate, and respectful to all. In her free time, Payton enjoys spending time outside at the lake, camping, and hiking.
Shayla Quarles
5th Grade
Mrs. Shayla Quarles was born and raised in Pueblo, Colorado. She graduated from CSU-P with a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies and a minor in English and her master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University. She enjoys being a part of a school community that allows students to mold their education through their own hands and to be within a building that empowers both students and educators to reach new heights and to find confidence within themselves. When Mrs. Q is not in the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her husband and family, going on adventures with her dog June, and going camping.
Melody Arellano
5th Grade
Mrs. Melody Arellano is a Pueblo native and a proud graduate from Colorado State University Pueblo. She has experience at both private and public schools in Pueblo and her favorite subject is English. Mrs. Arellano is also a registered yoga instructor and enjoys leading kids’ yoga and meditation. When she is not teaching, Mrs. Arellano loves spending time with her husband Jeff and their five children, traveling, and going to concerts.
Joey Andenucio
Middle School Crew Leader
Mr. Joey Andenucio loves our amazing community! Growing up in Pueblo allowed him to spread his wings confidently. After graduating from CU-Boulder with a BFA in Theatre Performance and a BA in English Literature he lived in NYC for 5 years. Coming back to Pueblo, he earned a M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Adams State University and a M.Ed. in Cultural Diverse from CSU-Pueblo. Mr. Andenucio, a teacher by trade, found a passion for floral design and retail. He is a co-owner and founder of Thrifty Gents Floral and Events with his partner in life Casey. They are in the middle of the adoption process of two amazing kiddos.
Remy Andrada
Middle School Crew Leader
Born in Springfield, MA but raised in Pueblo, Mrs. Remy Andrada received her Bachelor’s Degree in mathematics from CSU Pueblo. She started her teaching career in high school but has been teaching math in middle school for the past 12 years. Mrs. Andrada has a distinct dedication and passion for the youth of Pueblo that is evident the first time you meet her! She and her husband Paul, own a gym, FAST, where they coach all levels of athletes. When not teaching or coaching, Remy loves to run, spend time with her family, and watch her kids participate in their sporting events.
Amie Bulman
Middle School Crew Leader, GT Coordinator
Mrs. Amie Bulman has spent her professional career focusing on service, learning, and creativity. Amie has had the privilege to support her community and country as a USAF Veteran, educator, and coach. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in K-12 Art Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. Mrs. Bulman has been working as an Elective Teacher for 12 years in Pueblo County with licenses in K-12 Visual Art, CTE Design, and Gifted Education. She hopes to share her love of art, technology, and exploration of her Native Colorado to students at Villa Bella.
Kevin Ferguson
Middle School Crew Leader
Mr. Kevin Ferguson is a 4th generational Pueblo native and is the educational product of several Southern Colorado public and private schools from kindergarten through graduate school. With an undergraduate degree in Political Science emphasizing International Relations and World Politics, and having a master’s degree of Education, Mr. Ferguson has spent the past 17 years in education teaching Pueblo’s youth- grades 6th through 12th- their proud history and their potential place in this world. When not teaching, Kevin enjoys reading, golfing, traveling and spending time with his wife and two sons.
Amber Henderson
Middle School Crew Leader
Mrs. Amber Henderson was born and raised in Pueblo, Colorado. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies and a minor in Science from CSU-Pueblo. Mrs. Henderson has over 18 years of teaching experience with children and adults of all ages. In her free time, Mrs. Henderson enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, traveling and being creative with photography, scrapbooking and painting.
Katherine Higgins
Middle School Crew Leader
Born and raised across Colorado, Ms. Katherine Higgins came to Pueblo in the fall of 2020. She graduated from CSU Pueblo with a Bachelors of Science in Middle School Mathematics Education. After completing her Student Teaching at Villa Bella, Ms. Higgins knew she did not want to leave! She looks forward to helping students find the excitement and adventure in Math. In her free time, she enjoys reading, working out, and walking her dog Winnie!
Ashley Reichert
Middle School Crew Leader
Ms. Reichert is a Colorado native with a profound commitment to integrating art into both educational settings and the broader community of Pueblo. She obtained her BFA in Musical Theatre from Long Island University, and is currently pursuing her master’s degree at the University of Northern Colorado. A dedicated, lifelong learner, Ms. Reichert is passionate about drama, dance, and language arts, and is eager to share this passion with her students. She believes these subjects extend beyond academic learning, fostering empathy and enriching our humanity. In her free time, Ms. Reichert enjoys hiking, traveling, puzzles, and spending quality time with her dog, Rosco Borealis.
Bryant Jones
Middle School Crew Leader
Mr. Bryant Jones was born and raised in Pueblo. He graduated from Colorado State University Pueblo with a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology. Mr. Jones has always loved reading and art and is excited to share this passion with his students. He wants to inspire, motivate, and support students to be engaged during their learning experience. As a new teacher, he looks forward to joining the crew and teaching explorers! When he has free time, Mr. Jones loves being outdoors and spending time with his family kayaking, hiking, running, and going on walks with his dogs.
Melanie Steves
Adventure Bound PE
Ms. Melanie Steves has her master’s degree in Learning and Technology, a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Health Promotion, and Recreation, and an associate’s degree in Business. Ms. Steves brings her outdoorsmanship, athletic, and wellness experience into an Adventure PE curriculum that is challenging, creative, unique, develops lifelong application, and is always full of fun! She enters each day with intention and wonder to enjoy as many adventurous moments as possible with family and friends.
Audrianna Martinez
Creative Arts
Mrs. Audrianna Martinez is originally from southern Colorado. She moved to Pueblo over three years ago and has fallen in love with the community. Mrs. Martinez is currently attending CSU-Pueblo, finishing her degree in K-12 Art Education. Her goal is to help children develop and embrace their own creativity. In her free time, she enjoys coaching youth sports, reading, and spending time with her family.
Crystalyn Garcia
ESS Teacher, Title I Interventionist
Ms. Crystalyn Garcia has ten years of teaching experience–seven years as a classroom teacher and three as a reading specialist. She has a BA from the University of Denver and MA in Elementary Education from UNC. She is a Certified Academic Language Therapist through the Academic Language Therapy Association. Her expertise is in working with students with dyslexia and related learning disabilities. Her passion to create equity for all learners drives her zest for literacy instruction. When she is not teaching, she loves spending time with her two kids and husband.
Megan Hart
Paraprofessional
Mrs. Megan Hart is a Pueblo native, proud wife, mother and forever learner. Mrs. Hart attended CSU-Pueblo where she studied Liberal Arts- Elementary Education. After college, she spent four years teaching 3rd grade before opening a daycare over the next five years to raise her sons. Now, back in the school environment, Mrs. Hart is passionate about helping students to achieve all their academic goals and set them up for success. She enjoys crafts, puzzles, sports, reading, and most of all, she loves being in the mountains, camping with family and friends.
Kelee Deck
Paraprofessional
Originally from Monte Vista Colorado, Mrs. Kelee Christensen attended college at Amarillo College to obtain her associates degree in Business Administration. After moving to Pueblo in 2022 and working in a business setting, she decided to pursue her true passion of working in education. She hopes to continue her education to obtain a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. In her free time she loves spending time with her new husband Tyler as well as family and friends. She also likes spending time in the mountains and reading. She is really looking forward to joining the VBE team!
Sophia Coy
Paraprofessional
Paraprofessional Miss Sophia Coy was born and raised in Southern Colorado. Miss Coy attended Adams State University, receiving an Associates of Arts degree. She plans to continue her education, pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education with a K-3 licensure. Miss Coy has been substituting for 2 years and is excited to join the VBE Crew! In her free time she enjoys reading, writing, and going on walks with her puppy.
Morgan Mendin
Paraprofessional
Originally from Denver City, Texas, VBE paraprofessional Mrs. Morgan Mendin graduated with her associate degree from Western Texas Jr. College and then transferred to CSU Pueblo to continue her academics as well as play for the women’s basketball team. Morgan played basketball for three years for the Thunderwolves and graduated with her bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2023. More than anything, Mrs. Mendin has deep a love for young children. She is so excited to be able to push her students to be their absolute best in the classroom, but more importantly in life.
Julia Richey
Paraprofessional
Ms. Julia Richey is originally from Greenville, South Carolina. She graduated from Erskine College in Due West, SC with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accounting. While there, Ms. Richey was captain of the Erskine Women’s Lacrosse team, and was part of the Circle of Erskine Leaders. She has two kitties that are the lights of her life. Her mom is a teacher whom she has always admired, and who has instilled a love of learning and teaching into her. In her free time, Ms. Richey enjoys exploring the beautiful state of Colorado, swimming, baking yummy treats, and spending time with friends and family.
Peggy Parkin
Paraprofessional
Peggy Parkin was born and raised in Southern California. After graduating high school, she moved to Salt Lake City, Utah. She has worked in home and day program settings as well as art programs with children and adults with special needs for over 19 years. Now residing in Pueblo, Ms. Parkin is excited to work with the VBE Crew in pursuing her passion working with children with special needs. When she is not working, Ms. Parking enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, gardening and looks forward to exploring all that beautiful Colorado has to offer.
Jaqtravian Whitfield
Custodian
Mr. Jaqtravian Whitfield was born and raised in Southern Georgia and comes from a large family. He made his transition to Colorado almost 10 years ago, when given the opportunity to live with his aunt in Colorado Springs who was active military. While in the Springs, he attended Pikes Peak Community College. He later settled in Pueblo and was an employee for the City of Pueblo for five years before joining our CREW. Mr.J is enthusiastic to take care of our beautiful facilities, while also modeling what a positive example of a hardworking role model looks like for all students.
Board of Directors
Committed to bringing innovative & rigorous educational opportunities to Pueblo, Colorado
Stacie Shirley
BOARD PRESIDENT
Stacie Shirley is the newest attorney to join Buxman & Shirley PC and a lifelong Pueblo resident, serving on many boards. She graduated from South High School and CSU-Pueblo, where she earned a BS in Political Science. She graduated magna cum laude from Creighton University School of Law in 2010.
Miles Gorham
BOARD MEMBER
Miles Gorham is a Commercial Loan Officer with Bank of the San Juans. He has a B.A. in Business Management from Western State Colorado University. A native of Cañon City, he has lived in Pueblo since he graduated from school in 2012. Miles currently serves on various committees with PEDCO, The Greater Pueblo Chamber of Commerce and GPSA. Being surrounded by family of educators he understands and values the impact education has on a community’s success.
Janelle Andrews
BOARD MEMBER
Janelle Andrews is the President/CEO of the YMCA of Pueblo where she has worked for over 20 years. She is a Pueblo native and graduate of Colorado State University, Fort Collins. Janelle currently serves on the Dean’s Advisory Board for the Hasan School of Business and is the Secretary for Rotary Club 43. She believes strongly in the success that can be gained when like-minded partners work together for the betterment of the community.
Matt Porter
BOARD MEMBER
Matt Porter is an insurance broker with a B.S. in Mass Communications and Minor in Business Marketing from CSU-Pueblo. Originally from Denver, he has lived in Pueblo since coming to college and is an active member of the community. Matt believes in providing kids with an interactive, engaging learning environment that generates a positive culture to set them up for future success.
Lee Meisner
BOARD MEMBER
Lee Meisner, a Sterling native, earned a Bachelor’s and MBA from CSU-Pueblo. Lee works on a variety of projects and companies in the Pueblo area. His main focus as of late has been on improving the overall lifestyle for the people of Pueblo. He does not like golf, hiking, or fishing. In his free time, he enjoys going to work.
Steve Shirley
BOARD MEMBER
Steve Shirley worked in Information Technology for over 45 years, most recently at Parkview Medical Center where he was the Vice President of information Technology. Now retired, he continues to serve on various community boards of entities who truly make a difference for the Community of Pueblo. Shirley graduated from the University of Southern Colorado/CSU-Pueblo with degrees in Computer Science Technology, Mathematics, and an MBA. He is a lifelong Pueblo resident.
Margie Massey
BOARD MEMBER
Margie Massey is the Faculty Senate President and a Professor in the School of Education at Colorado State University Pueblo where she has worked for 20 years. She graduated from University of Southern Colorado with BSBA in Accounting, University of Wyoming where she graduated with a Master of Science and Doctor of Education in Instructional Technology. She serves on several committees at the university and works closely with k-12 schools in Pueblo and surrounding areas. She believes in the value and impact education has on a student’s future.
