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Empowering Students Through Tailored Learning

At Rocky Mountain Classical Academy, our Learning Services are designed to cater to the diverse academic needs of our students. Our dedicated team is here to assist all learners excel in a nurturing and enriching environment. Join us on this exciting educational journey!

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Learning Services Team

At Rocky Mountain Classical Academy, we prioritize the diverse needs of our students by providing a comprehensive Learning Services team. Our dedicated professionals, including paraeducators, speech pathologists, and occupational therapists, work closely with each child to ensure they receive personalized support tailored to their learning styles and challenges. By fostering an inclusive environment, we empower every student to thrive academically and personally, unlocking their full potential within a nurturing community.

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Yelitza Alvarez

Special Education Case Manager/Teacher (K-5th)

Hello! My name is Yelitza Alvarez, and I am the Special Education Resource Case Manager at RMCA. This is my second year with RMCA, and I bring eight years of experience in special education. I’m truly honored to be part of such a dedicated and inspiring team. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, dancing, and supporting my daughter as a proud “gymnastics mom.” When the weather is nice, you’ll often find me outdoors with my two kids, either at the park or out for a walk. This year, my goal is to continue growing as an educator and to be a strong source of support for both my students and my fellow staff members. I’m passionate about creating a welcoming, inclusive environment where every student feels valued—regardless of their background. As I like to say: “Never let anyone treat you like regular glue—you are glitter glue!”
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Kanoe Apatang

Interventionist (K-5th)

Bio Coming Soon
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Debra Arnold

Special Education Paraprofessional (K-5th)

Hello! My name is Debra. This is my 5th year at RMCA and my 10th year as a special education paraprofessional. I love working with children to help them learn and grow. I have a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering. In addition to working at the school, I teach cardio fitness classes at the gym. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, working out, being outdoors and hiking.
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Nichole Basham

Interventionist (K-5th)

This is my third year at RMCA and my first year as a Reading Interventionist. In previous years, I worked as a lunch aide and teacher’s assistant, which gave me wonderful opportunities to connect with students and support them throughout their school day. I am a proud military spouse of 12 years and the mom of two children who also attend RMCA. Originally from California, I’ve had the chance to live in Mississippi, Utah, Virginia, and now Colorado. Outside of school, I enjoy camping, spending time with my family, and all things Disney. I am excited to help students grow as readers and discover the joy that comes with learning.
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Michelle Bufmack

Special Education Paraprofessional (K-5th)

Bio Coming Soon
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Susan Calvert

Special Education Paraprofessional (6th-8th)

Hello! My name is Susan Calvert and I am returning for my second year as a para educator. I have two children who also attend RMCA. I am originally from MD, however have lived in CO since 2016. In my free time you will most likely find me cheering on my kids whether it be baseball, basketball, or gymnastics. I also enjoy traveling with my family whenever possible. I am looking forward to another year working with the middle school. I can’t wait to see what this year has to offer.
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Pam Fitzsimmons

Special Education Case Manager/Teacher (K-5th)

Name: Pam Fitzsimmons ~ Special Education Case Manager/Teacher Experience: 25 years classroom experience-9 years in Special Education. B.A. in Psychology / Teacher Training California State University Fullerton. Educational Philosophy: My goal is to build student confidence and success academically and socially. Interests: Time with my grandchildren, my dog, and travel.
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Ryan George

Behavior Paraprofessional (K-8th)

Hello, my name is Ryan George and this is my first year at RMCA. I am originally from Texas but have been in Colorado Springs for about 4 years. I am currently in college working towards my bachelors degree while coaching football at Sand Creek High School as well. I love working with students and making a positive impact on their lives. Helping kids have better days and smile more is why I do what I do!
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Emily Kost

Occupational Therapist Assistant

Hello, I'm Emily Kost! This is my second year at RMCA as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and my fourth year as a COTA. I am recently married to my husband Ryan, and we love to travel, spend time with family and friends, cook, swing-dance, and any extreme sports! On my own I love to run, work on projects around home, and work part time at Building Three Coffee. This year at RMCA I am very excited to transition from part-time to full-time and really get to know the staff and students better! I'd love to meet you, come say hi in the speech/ OT room!
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Alina Lee

School Psychologist

Hello! My name is Alina Lee. This is my 11th year as a School Psychologist and my 5th year at RMCA. I’m passionate about supporting students and love watching their growth and progress over time. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time outdoors - camping, hiking, paddle boarding, snowboarding, and gardening are a few of my favorite activities. I also love relaxing with a good book or show, cooking and trying new recipes, caring for my houseplants, and spending time with my cat, dog, and boyfriend. I’m always happy to help in any way I can and am excited to be part of the RMCA team again this year!
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Diana Lopez

Special Education Paraprofessional (K-5th)

Bio Coming Soon
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Samantha Martinez

Interventionist (K-5th)

Hello, my name is Samantha Martinez and this is my fourth year as an Interventionist at RMCA! When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, staying active at the gym and spending time with loved ones. I also cherish my time at church, where I find peace and inspiration. Helping kids grow both academically and personally is at the heart of what I do, and it brings me great joy to support them on their journey toward success!
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Allison Muto

Special Education Case Manager/Teacher (K-5th)

Hi! I am excited to be returning for my third year as an Interventionist. I love being able to work with all grade levels and make connections with the students within my group. I have a baby here in the RMCA Early Education Program! When I am not at RMCA I am home with my family watching sports or out enjoying what Colorado has to offer.
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Lekisha Nelson

Special Education Paraprofessional (K-5th)

Hello, my name is Lekisha Nelson. I was born in Bermuda and became an American citizen in 2017. This is my 5th year at RMCA. My husband and I have two children, a dog, and 5 chickens. I have an Associates in Business Administration and a Masters in Social Work. I love seeing students develop healthy coping skills in order to work through struggles to reach their full potential. I enjoy crafting, swimming, listening to music, and hiking.
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Marin Nichols

Occupational Therapist

Hi! My name is Marin Nichols. This is my 10th year as a pediatric occupational therapist and my 3rd year at RMCA. I am excited to step in as the primary supervising OT here and help all of your kiddos reach their fullest potential. Outside of work you can find me hiking, camping, snowboarding, or completing DIY projects on my house!
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Em Oquendo

Special Education Case Manager/Teacher (6th-8th)

Hi! My name is Em Oquendo! This is my 3rd year in Special Education, and my 1st year at RMCA. Previously I have taught ELA to multiple grade levels. I have a service dog named Aislinn (Ash-lyn) who is my K9 partner and helps mitigate my disabilities. I was born and raised in Houston, TX, and graduated from Sam Houston State University in 2016 with a Major in Dance and Minors in Secondary Education and Special Education. My husband, Danny, is in the army and stationed at Ft. Carson. I have 3 cats (2 which are sphynx), and 5 guinea pigs (4 which are skinny pigs). I absolutely love The Peanuts and roosters/chickens. I used to be a professional ballerina, so I love involving movement with learning!
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Maria Ortiz

Interventionist (6th-8th)

Hi! I’m Maria , and I’m in my 4th year of school at RMCA. I love helping students spot their strengths and tackle challenges with confidence. When I’m not at school, you can usually find me with my husband and our son—usually laughing, exploring, or chasing down whatever adventure he comes up with next. I’m all about encouraging growth, building connections, and making learning feel doable, joyful, and even a little fun. Excited for another great year!
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Danielle Pieper

Interventionist (6th-8th)

Hey there! I’m Danielle Pieper, and I’m thrilled to be stepping into a new adventure in Middle School after seven amazing years teaching first grade. Watching those little learners blossom into confident young adults has been amazing, and I can’t wait to support them as they continue to grow academically and personally. Outside the classroom, my family and I are passionate explorers! We love hitting the road to discover our National Parks—and we never pass up the chance to wander through a ghost town or two. I’m also a big fan of treasure hunting through thrift shops and antique stores, diving into genealogy, and getting creative with a paintbrush. Here’s to new beginnings and unforgettable journeys—both in and out of the classroom!
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Kaylee Richardson

Special Education Paraprofessional (K-5th)

Hi! My name is Kaylee Richardson. This will be my 5th year working with elementary students and my 1st year at RMCA. My family just moved here from Nebraska and we are thrilled to be in Colorado! We love spending time outdoors, being in the mountains and hiking.
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Shauntel Ristine

Special Education Paraprofessional (K-5th)

Hello! I'm Shauntel Ristine. This is my 2nd year at RMCA and my first year as a Para educator. I have lived in Colorado for 6 years and I have 2 children who also attend RMCA. I have been married for 17 years. As a family we love to travel, hike, UTV riding, and go to the movies. In my own free time I enjoy reading, singing, and escape rooms. I'm excited to see what this school year brings!
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Meagan Rivera

Speech Language Pathologist Assistant

Hi! I'm Mrs. Rivera and this is my 5th year as a Speech Language Pathologist Assistant. I have really enjoyed the last 3 years at RMCA! I have a little Knight in Training here at RMCA and two fur kids at home. I love collecting plants, walking the dogs with my husband and reading. If you see me in the halls say hi!
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Latoya Warner

Interventionist (K-5th)

Hello, I am Latoya Warner. I am a dedicated Literacy Interventionist currently in my fourth academic year, passionate about helping students grow into confident, capable readers. Originally from Georgia, I’ve called Colorado home for the past 15 years and have developed a deep appreciation for both mountain views and snow boots. Outside of work, I enjoy weight lifting, beach vacations (the ocean is my happy place), and spending time with my wonderful family. I’m married to an incredible husband, and we’re proud parents to a bright, curious middle schooler. We also share our home with Ocean, our adorably spoiled dog.
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Margaret Warren

Interventionist (K-5th)

My name is Margaret "Maggie" Warren. I am returning to RMCA as a reading interventionist after being away for about two years. Previously I was here for six years. My favorite author is Kate diCamillo. My favorite color is purple. I have lived in Colorado Springs since 2010. In my spare time I enjoy taking my dog for walks and spending time with family and friends.
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Emily Woodhouse

Special Education Case Manager/Teacher (6th-8th)

My name is Emily Woodhouse, this will be my 9th year as a special education teacher; my 4th year as a special education case manager/teacher in middle school at RMCA. I was born and raised in Albuquerque, NM where I graduated from the University of New Mexico with dual certification in Special Ed & General Ed. K-12. My husband and I moved to Colorado Springs 6 years ago, we enjoy hiking with our dogs, playing pickleball and paddle boarding. A fun fact about me is that I am fluent in ASL: American Sign Language. I'm looking forward to a great year!
Students with Special Learning Needs

In most cases, the services required by a student with disabilities can be provided at Rocky Mountain Classical Academy. In some cases, a student’s individual needs require that they be placed in a different program or location as determined by an IEP or Section 504 team.

To ensure that the needs of students with disabilities are met, the following procedures are followed by Rocky Mountain Classical Academy:

  1. Enrollment materials specify that RMCA serves students with disabilities.

  2. Following admission, RMCA shall require that the student provide the most recent IEP (including eligibility IEP) or Section 504 Plan, if available. 

  3. A review team consisting of the Falcon School District 49 Special Education Coordinator, iConnect Zone Operations Administrator and/or school counselor shall review the IEP or 504 plan and determine whether the school will be the least restrictive environment appropriate for the student. 

  4. If the team finds that the IEP or 504 plan requires a significant change of placement* or raises other concerns about the student’s ability to access a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), the Falcon School District 49 Special Education Coordinator and/or iConnect Zone Operations Administrator shall convene a complete IEP team to determine the appropriate placement.

  5. If the team determines that RMCA is the appropriate placement for the student, the student shall be placed directly in a program that meets the requirements of the student’s existing IEP or Section 504 Plan, unless and until the school convenes an IEP meeting or 504 meeting is held and the IEP or Section 504 Plan is changed. 

  6. If the IEP team determines the IEP or 504 Plan requires a significant change of placement, then the IEP team will refer the student to the Special Education Coordinator for District 49. The Special Education Coordinator will confer with the student and family regarding placement opportunities available in accordance with the placement determination made by the IEP team and assist the family in making proper application(s) for the placement setting.

Gifted & Talented

RMCA's definition of a Gifted Student/Child:  A student/child between 4 and 21 whose aptitude or competence in abilities, talents, and potential for accomplishment in one or more domains are so exceptional or developmentally advanced that they require special provisions to meet educational programming needs.  Gifted students/children are hereafter referred to as gifted students.  Children under five who are gifted may also be provided with early childhood special educational services.  Gifted students include gifted students with disabilities (i.e. twice exceptional) and students with exceptional abilities or potential from all social-economic, ethnic and cultural populations.  Gifted students are capable of high performance, exceptional production, or exceptional learning behavior by virtue of any or a combination of these areas of giftedness:

 

  • General or specific intellectual ability

  • Specific academic aptitude

  • Creative or productive thinking

  • Leadership abilities

  • Visual arts, performing arts, musical or psychomotor abilities 

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​RMCA's Gifted Education Vision: All Gifted students will accomplish challenging post secondary work/force goals and become productive, creative citizens capable of succeeding in their area of strength.

 

​RMCA's Gifted Education Mission: Ensure gifted student growth and achievement through systems of support, programming and advocacy.

RMCA is dedicated to identifying and providing exceptional programming for gifted students. Schools throughout the district are committed to identifying those students who meet the district and state criteria of a “gifted learner.” Teachers work collaboratively with Gifted Specialists to develop Advanced Learning Plans for all our identified gifted students to ensure gifted children are challenged and experience academic growth throughout the year.

Gifted needs are addressed using a variety of instructional strategies and programming options. RMCA offers early access for highly gifted kindergarten and first grade students who do not meet the age requirements for enrollment. Elementary schools provide differentiated instruction through grouping, advanced learning opportunities, and after-school academic classes, clubs, and contests.

RMCA believes that parents are partners when it comes to meeting the needs of gifted learners. Parents and teachers work together to ensure children are not only challenged, but also valued for their unique abilities. The gifted education website is designed to provide parents of gifted learners support and resources as well as provide information on RMCA's gifted education and associated processes and procedures.

For information regarding Early Access please contact Jeanne Gallacci at jgallacci@rmcacs.org

 

For more information on Gifted and Talented through D49, click here.

Our Gifted and Talented Team

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Kayla Lehr-Heggem

My name is Ms. Kayla Lehr (L-air). This is my 7th year teaching at RMCA. I taught Pre-K at Pikes Peak Community College and The University of Colorado Colorado Springs for 3 years. I taught 2nd grade for 5 years here at RMCA. This year I am very excited to start my 2nd year in Gifted and Talented and it is a privilege to have your children entrusted to me daily. I have an amazing husband and three rambunctious boys (ages 12, 13, & 17)! We enjoy the outdoors and binge watching the newest shows on Netflix! I am thrilled to start this year in Gifted and Talented to serve our amazing students at RMCA!
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Jorrin McGee

Hello! I'm Jorrie McGee, and this is my 5th year at RMCA, although my 1st year in Gifted/Talented. When I'm not at school, I love cooking, baking, watching movies, and hanging out with my family. I'm so excited to learn this side of education!
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Vanessa Mitchell

Hi, my name is Vanessa Mitchell and this is my first year working at RMCA as a Gifted and Talented Teacher. I am a Colorado native and love the picturesque views that Colorado provides. I have been married to my amazing husband for 16 years and have 3 incredible children. I enjoy watching and supporting my children in all their extra-curricular activities. My children all participate in different competitive sports that include Gymkhana horse competitions, baseball, softball, soccer, and volleyball. When we are not at a sports event our family loves to spend time together boating, camping, hiking, exploring Colorado, and making memories together. I am looking forward to a great year at RMCA.
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