Intermediate Grades 3-5
3rd Grade
Blue Spruce Classroom
Ms. Stacey
I moved to Durango in 2012 for the gorgeous scenery, small town feel, and active lifestyle. I am starting my 9th year teaching in this amazing place and can't wait to grow alongside my students. I have been with Juniper since it opened in 2017 and am excited to continue the journey! I earned my Bachelor's of Science in education from Wilmington College of Ohio with specialties in English Language Arts and Science. I am also an Orton-Gillingham trained reading instructor. In addition, I attained my Master's Degree in Teacher Leadership from Fort Lewis College in the Summer of 2021. Teaching is my calling and my passion. Building a strong sense of belonging and community is one of the first priorities in my classroom! I also love getting kids actively learning in the great outdoors, and Durango is the perfect place to do so!
4th Grade
Painted Turtles Classroom
Ms. Laurel
Embarking on my 2nd year of teaching 4th grade at TJS fills me with pure excitement! While I've called Durango home for the past 5 years, my roots stretch across Austin, TX, Colorado Springs, and Rio Rancho, NM. While holding a B.S. in elementary education from Fort Lewis College, I not only honed my teaching skills but also led the cheer team as a member and captain for 3 years. I continued my 13th year of cheerleading as coach of the FLC cheer team but am now on a "hiatus" to spend more time fishing, camping, paddleboarding, snowboarding, mountain biking, and baking for my students and friends! With every experience I embrace, I bring that same energy into my teaching, fostering an environment where curiosity and growth can flourish. Here's to a year of learning, laughter, and endless exploration together.5th Grade
Bighorn Sheep
Mr. Matt
I’ve been loving my active life in Durango for the past 13 years, and learning with students as a classroom teacher for 21 years. My talented wife also works at The Juniper School. Helping young people has been a family endeavor for us, and working here is an exciting change! I love free flowing rivers and board sports, and continuously find ways to challenge myself on my snowboard, skateboard, or surfboard. As a lifelong learner, and a nerd with insatiable curiosity, I find teaching to be the perfect challenge and reward for me. I aim to inspire curiosity, develop skills and confidence for our students, and contribute my experience to the phenomenal team that works here. Don’t hesitate to stop in and say hi to the new guy in 5th grade.