Student Support
I’m Lesley Ogburn, the counselor at Juniper School. I’ve been an elementary school counselor for 19 years, and am a certified mindfulness/meditation teacher. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Masters Degree in Educational Psychology, with school counseling, as my area of specialization. I am passionate about using mindfulness, brain science, and trauma informed practices to guide my work. My husband, Matt, and I have lived in Durango for 14 years and love our community! I love snowboarding, paddle boarding, rafting, camping, hiking, spending time on the beach, and swimming in the warm waters in Costa Rica in the summers. I’m grateful to be a part of the Juniper family!
I will be rejoining Juniper School for the 2023-24 school year as a reading and math interventionist supporting learners in a small group setting, supporting our advanced learners, and of course, returning as our school postmaster and librarian. I have taught in Durango for over ten years since graduating from Fort Lewis College with a degree in Elementary Education. Outside of school, and now living in Durango for over ten years I enjoy all outdoor things but especially playing tennis, skiing, and kayaking the Animas.
Learning Specialist
Ms. Meghan
My name is Meghan Russo and I am very excited to be working at The Juniper School this year. I am thrilled about working with you and your child! I can’t wait to see what the year has in store for us. I thought you all might like to know a little bit about me.
I am a native of Colorado but just moved to Durango this summer. I attended the University of Northern Colorado where I graduated with a degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in reading. This is my 17th year in education! 5 of those years I was teaching special education. When I am not at work I enjoy hiking, biking, snowboarding, travel, and anything outdoors!
Teaching has always been a passion of mine. I have a love of learning and I hope to instill this love of learning into my students too! I will be there to help your child flourish and feel successful. I hope to not only give each one an education but also a passion to learn. I believe that communication is very important for a successful year.