Show Local Teachers Some Love!
Help Us Stock Their Classrooms
We’ve all had a teacher who made a difference in our life. Maybe it was the elementary art teacher who encouraged us to express ourselves, the middle school English teacher who taught us to appreciate a good book or the high school physics teacher who expanded our understanding of the world. Though they impacted us in different ways, they all have one thing in common: a true passion for helping the next generation grow.
Join us in thanking some of the incredible teachers in Northern Colorado by purchasing an item from their classroom wish lists.
Evans
Isaac Mitchell
6-8th band & orchestra, Prairie Heights Middle School
“My biggest ‘win’ as a teacher is seeing my students work together to realize our goals. Music class provides such a strong sense of community and a safe space for students. It is incredible to watch them perform as a team to achieve things they never thought were possible.”
Fort Collins
Lisa Evans
3rd grade, Tavelli Elementary
“Our classroom theme song would be “Don’t Stop Believing’” because we try and focus on positivity and we incorporate a growth mindset way of thinking – if we don’t know something, we don’t know it YET. Students support and encourage each other to be their best in all aspects.”
Tatiana Grogan
5th grade general education, Laurel Elementary School
“It’s never just one moment, it’s the small ones that add up. I teach for the girl who finds stability at school, where she is fed and supported. For the reader who wants to learn, but needs decodable words, shutting down when blending sounds feels impossible. For the boy building his math fluency, always wanting more. For the chronically absent student, who still tries each day they make it to class. I teach for them all. Despite those saying we are failing, I keep going because these moments matter, just like my students who walk in my door.”
Shannon Strike
5th grade all subjects, Bauder Elementary School
“This year at promotion, students wrote down their top 3 favorite memories of elementary school. Several students put that having me was one of them. After the ceremony, a grandmother of a student from another class came up to me to tell me that I must have made a difference in these students lives and that they must love me. I just responded with, ’They are a special group and I will miss them.’”
Greeley
Jessica Van Thorre
Kindergarten, James Madison Steam Academy
“The moments throughout the year when I witness student brilliance like when a lightbulb ignites because a student finds the confidence to try something new, feels pride in their achievement, and when our classroom community reflects the respectful, supportive relationships we’ve built. These are the most powerful and meaningful times in a school year and why I teach!”
Johnstown
Cara Neve
3rd grade, Riverview PK-8 School
“If my classroom had a theme song, it would have to be “Try Everything” by Shakira. This catchy song embodies what I want my students to feel and emulate in our classroom: risk-taking, perseverance, confidence, and self-love. I find that these qualities cultivate a safe and loving classroom all around and the perfect space for learning. Plus, I love breaking out some fun dance moves with my students!”
Mikayla Pennock
3rd grade, Riverview PK-8 School
“One of the most heartwarming “wins” I’ve had as a teacher is when one of my current students older sister (who I never had in class) wrote me a letter explaining how she was so thankful that I was her sisters teacher. I love when I can create relationships and connections with the entire family as a teacher. I truly believe teachers and families are on the same team to help our kids grow.”
Loveland
Kimberly Hardouin
6th grade language arts and science, Walt Clark Middle School
“If my classroom had a theme song, it would be “I’ll Be There for You,” because like the FRIENDS theme song suggests, no matter what my students and I bring into the classroom from our daily lives, I am always going to be there for them.”
Jenna De Jane
1st grade, Firestone Charter Academy
“In my classroom we always have music playing as much as possible and my students break out in song and dance. It is amazing and brightens my day!”
Jessica Joslin
3rd grade – general education, Sarah Milner Elementary
“Nothing excites me more as a teacher than when a student grasps a concept they have been struggling with for a while—when that lightbulb moment happens. The way their little face lights up and their confidence soars is priceless. This is why I teach.”
Abby Mielke
K-5th grade – Center Based Autism teacher, Bamford Elementary School
“My most heartwarming win was when one of my student’s who started their year as a struggling reader was able to pick ANY book they wanted from the Book Fair and was able to read it independently as their skills and confidence had grown tremendously through hard work and lots of practice!”
Felicia Snyder
2nd & 4th grade history, Loveland Classical Schools
“I am going into my 5th year teaching and the biggest win or reason why I teach is the “gotcha” moments. We have had some tough students the last couple years and one student last year takes the cake. He was disrespectful, unwilling and unfriendly. I worked him, gained relationship with him and earned his trust. By the end of the year you could see the moments of “I know what I need to do” on his face because he trusted me and the other teachers. That is why I teach. To build trust in the kids.”
Catherine Trumbo
6th ELA and 6-12 Intervention, Loveland Classical Schools
“My students are great at giving compliments. When they can tell I’m having a tough day, several notice and will show kindness, not only to me, but to others around them. Their kindness is contagious. I also love getting invited to sit with the students while covering lunch duty. Those are the best conservations and a fun way to get to know them outside of the classroom.”
Kendra Vair
9, 10, 12th grade English, Ferguson High School
“If our classroom had a theme song it would be “The Room Where it Happens” from Hamilton the musical because we value and encourage student inquiry, curiosity, and being part of the process. Students see the value in what they are learning and the real world applications instead of just reading and writing. There is something magical about being in the, “room where is happens” and I want our students to look forward to finding out what that is each day.”
Marie Williams
Kindergarten, Ponderosa Elementary School
“One unexpected way a Kinder friend inspired me was through his joyful habit of saying, ‘This is the best day ever!’—no matter what. Whether snack was delayed, math was hard, or it rained, his positivity never wavered. At first, I thought it was just something he said. But over time, I realized he truly meant it. That simple phrase reminded me how powerful perspective can be. He taught me that joy doesn’t come from perfect circumstances—it comes from noticing the good in each moment.”
Pierce
Krista Fuller
Kindergarten, Highland Elementary School
“There is NOTHING like kindergarten. It is a year of pure magic. The first of everything and the first chance I have to set the tone of loving school for the rest of their years!”
Elizabeth Sanchez
5th grade math, Highland Elementary School
“The many moments that continue to motivate me and make me proud to be a teacher are the times I hear students authentically say out loud, “OH!” when they finally understand a concept they were struggling with. Their excitement when they get it is encouraging for me and their classmates!”
Timnath
Bethany Rayls
3rd grade – multiple subjects, Timnath Elementary School
“When I see my students show kindness to each other it really makes my day; like helping a classmate who is struggling or sharing their supplies without being asked. It warms my heart to see them developing empathy and teamwork!”
Wellington
Morgan Smith
4th Grade, Rice Elementary
“When a student lights up and says, “Ohhh, I get it!” or “This is so fun!”—that joy is everything. But it’s also when they come back to visit, share a memory and invitation, or say they still use something we learned. That’s when I know the relationships we built really mattered. Watching their confidence grow, seeing them take pride in their learning, and knowing I played a small part—that’s the best feeling in the world. Those little everyday moments add up, and they’re exactly why I teach.”
Windsor
Kathlynn Mooney
3rd Grade, Skyview Elementary
“One thing my students do that makes my day is share conversations with me about their lives. I’m always amazed by what I learn from them. Their imaginations are unique and inspiring. I love when they feel comfortable opening up about their hopes, dreams, and even fears. I’m truly thankful to be a part of their lives.”
