Administration

Head of School
Philip Werline, EdD 
 
WerlineI started my educational career nearly twenty years ago as a volunteer soccer coach.  Since then, I have served as a science and technology teacher, coach and sponsor of a variety of sports and clubs, and a school leader in the Denver area.

As an undergrad, I studied physics at the University of Missouri and history and communication at William Jewell College where I played soccer and ran the college radio station.   I earned two master's degrees from the University of South Florida in Exceptional Student Education and Educational Leadership and a doctorate from the University of Colorado in Leadership for Educational Equity completing my dissertation on STEM instruction.  I am honored to be a 2022-23 finalist for Colorado Principal of the Year and as the board vice-president of the Powerhouse Science Museum.
 
Outside of education, I was one of the author's of the original Port Huron Statement (not the compromised second draft) and a member of the Seattle Seven (along with six other guys).  
 
I enjoy skiing, soccer, computer games, dreaming about completing my science fiction novel, and quoting movie lines from the same five movies.
 
 
Assistant Head of School
Kristin Harmon
 
KristinMy name is Kristin Harmon and I am the Assistant Head of School at the Juniper School.  I am so excited about this school year!  I have lived in Durango for 28 years and consider this place home.  I have raised my 18 year old son Cyrus here and we love being a part of the Durango community.  I have a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education and truly love working with children.  As we establish our relationship as partners in your child’s learning, I encourage you to  feel free to contact me at any time so that we can start to build a strong connection.  I consider it a privilege to work with you and your child!
 
 
Juniper Club Director
Micah Waterhouse
 
MicahI am super excited to be a part of the Juniper team this year! I am originally from Colorado Springs, and have been in the Durango area for about a year. After graduating from Colorado State University with a degree in Natural Resource Tourism and Business Administration, I found myself immersed in Wilderness and Adventure Education all over the country. I have been working everywhere from Alaska to Idaho to New Jersey to Colorado teaching Ice Climbing, Mountaineering, Skiing, Snowboarding, Backpacking, Climbing, Surfing, and more! I am passionate about getting students outside and out of their comfort zones. Looking forward to creating an inclusive and adventurous after school program.  
 
 
 
2023-24 Newsletters