Our Staff

OUR STAFF 2026-2027 School Year

I am Kelly Amadeo (Director of Little School) and have been in the field of education for over 20 years. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Development, a Master's Degree in Elementary Education, and a doctoral minor in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies. I am currently working toward completing my doctoral degree. I have served as both a teacher, a university instructor, and a school administrator. I currently hold a large center director certificate, a current teaching license, and a current principal license for PK-12. I was also part of a small group of early childhood professionals who created the preschool director competencies for the Colorado Department of Early Childhood in 2024.

I started as a parent at Little School when both my son and daughter attended the school. I taught at Little School as a lead teacher before becoming the director.

I love the outdoors and enjoy hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, river rafting, camping, and anything else that gets me outdoors to enjoy my native state of Colorado with family. I have also been a ballet teacher and competitive dance coach for many years.

Email Kelly at kelly(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Cassy Meier (Office Manager) and I'm so excited to be joining Little School this year! This community has been a big part of my life - both of my kids are Little School alumni and St. Luke's has long been our church home - so stepping into this role truly feels like coming home. I graduated from Western State College in Gunnison with a degree in Business Management and Marketing. My background includes corporate and nonprofit work, grant writing and office administration.

When I'm not at Little School, you can usually find me crafting, reading, or camping and traveling with my husband and our kids, Emryn (8) and Everett (6). I'm excited for the year ahead and grateful to be part of this amazing community!

Email Cassy at cassym(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Barry Curtis also known as Mr. Barry (Director of Safety and Security). I graduated from Ft. Lewis college with a degree in Geology, and entered flight school and graduated with my Commercial Pilot Certificate, Flight Instructor and Multi Engine ratings. I previously worked as a flight instructor in Cheyenne, WY before moving to Denver in 1990. I am married to my beautiful wife, Amy (a teacher at Little School), and have two awesome adult children, Kyle and Hannah. I love outdoor activities like camping, hiking, fishing, biking, and flying. As the facilities manager for both the church and the school, I like doing my best to make things work with what's available and providing a safe and secure environment for everyone who uses our building.

I am Taletha Pogge (Finance Manager) and am an accountant specializing in accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll. I graduated from Walla Walla University with a degree in accounting. I enjoy hobbies including hiking in Colorado's great outdoors, sewing, and knitting. Along with my husband and two adult boys, I have lived in Colorado for many years. I enjoy being active and participating in the community.

Email Taletha at lsfinancemanager(a)stlukeshr.com

I am Theresa Richards (Registrar and Aftercare Teacher) and this is my fourth year with Little School. I retired from the U.S. Navy in 2018 after 22 years of active duty service. Our family loved the area and community so much we decided to stay in Highlands Ranch after retirement. I have my Bachelor’s of Science in Healthcare Management. In my free time, I love to travel, visit with friends and family, and read.

Email Theresa at theresar(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Nancy Mussetter (Special Programs Coordinator) and have been living in Colorado since the fall of 2008. I moved here from the Midwest where I was born and raised (Minnesota), went to college (Sioux Falls, S.D.), taught elementary school for 30 years (Iowa and Minnesota), and retired (Wisconsin). I “flunked retirement” and have been a part of Little School since 2014. I have 2 grown sons—Mitch an engineer at Bridgestone Tires in Aiken, South Carolina, and Matt—an attorney in Denver. Plus, I have 5 grandchildren who are the joys of my life. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, exploring new places, riding my bike, and spending time with family and friends.

Email Nancy at nancym(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Sam Leahy (St. Luke's Early Childhood Ministry Liaison to Little School) and currently serve as the Director of Community & Early Childhood Ministry on St. Luke's church staff. I have been on staff since 2003. I studied Health Care Administration at Kirkwood College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. My 30 years of personal and professional experience coupled with my genuine love of children and connecting with people has allowed me to develop my passion for the care and tutelage of others. My partner Tom & I love spending time in small mountain towns, at Colorado sporting events, and with our 4 adult children and their four legged friends.

Email Sam at sam(at)stlukeshr.com

2 1/2-Year-Old Teachers

My name is Chanda Stites (Lead Teacher and Assistant Teacher). I am a Colorado native and live in Highlands Ranch with my husband and dog, Buddy. I have two beautiful girls who are grown and now live and work in Denver and New York. Before children I was a registered nurse at Children’s Hospital in Denver. And now in my empty nest years I love supporting children and families in education. I feel incredibly privileged to be a part of the Little School family!

Email Chanda at chandas(at)stlukeshr.com

Hello my name is Katie Maldonado (Lead Teacher and Aftercare Teacher), and I am looking forward to starting my fifth year at Little School this year! I am so thankful to be a part of such a wonderful school, community and family. I am a Colorado native and was born and raised in the nearby town of Parker. I have been working with young children in a variety of environments since 2018 and quickly realized that the preschool age group is my favorite to work with! I currently hold an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Arapahoe Community College. I am also a big animal lover and own two precious “fur babies”, Summer Lily (dog) and Holly Jolly (cat). I also love to dance and focused on training in ballet for most of my childhood. In my free time I teach dance to kids ages 3-8 at a local dance studio. I also love to do crafts, play music, read books and hang out with friends and family. Above all I love being a teacher and can’t wait to meet and watch all your Little Schoolers grow!

Email Katie at katiem(at)stlukeshr.com

3-Year-Old Teachers

My name is Amy Curtis (Lead Teacher). I have been teaching at Little School since 2004. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Humanities with an emphasis in Elementary Education from Ft. Lewis College. My husband, Barry, and I have 2 adult children, Kyle and Hannah. I love to hike in the beautiful Colorado mountains, read, bake, and spend time with my family. Teaching three-year-olds is a joy and a blessing because they make me smile every day and keep me feeling young!

Email Amy at amyc(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Jessica Crean (Lead Teacher) and I love being part of the Little School family. I’m grateful to work alongside a fantastic team of educators who inspire me daily, and I’m excited to partner with you to support your child’s growth and development. Throughout my years of experience in the classroom, I have had the joy and privilege of helping young children grow, learn, and thrive during some of the most important years of their development. Outside of work, I’m the proud mom of three who keep me on my toes and all over town with their sports schedules. Being a mom also allows me to understand how much trust it takes to share your child with someone each day. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your child’s early learning journey; I’m looking forward to a wonderful year full of discovery and fun!

Email Jessica at jessicac(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Kathy Peters (Lead Teacher). I have been teaching at Little School since 2022. I taught preschool for 10 years at another preschool prior to Little School. I have worked with children in a variety of settings, but preschool is my passion! I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Recreation, with a minor in Speech Pathology. I later attended Arapahoe Community College for more Early Childhood Education Courses. I live in Highlands Ranch with my husband, son, daughter, dog, and cat. I love to travel to the mountains, play miniature golf, play board games, exercise, and spend time with family and friends. I am very thankful I found the Little School family, and I look forward to watching your children learn and grow!

Email Kathy at kathyp(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Katie Devlin (Lead Teacher) and I have been a parent of St. Luke’s Little School since 2011 where both of my children attended. I am excited to be at St. Luke’s and feel fortunate to be a part of this wonderful family! I am a native of Colorado, growing up in Grand Junction, CO. I first attended UNCW in Wilmington, NC, and a few years later moved back to Colorado graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree at Colorado Mesa University in 2004. For the past 17 years, my husband Tom and I, have called Highlands Ranch our home. Up until just a few years ago, I was a stay-at-home mom to my two children Addyson (17) and Brady (13). I am so happy to be able to work with your preschoolers and to watch them learn and grow. It is certainly an honor to be a part of this caring and welcoming community. In my free time, I enjoy reading, crafting, gardening, and spending time with family and friends. We enjoy many outdoor activities and love all that Colorado has to offer.

Email Katie at katied(at)stlukeshr.com

My name is Mandi Wineinger (Lead Teacher and Assistant Teacher). I have two children of my own who have both attended Little School. I, along with many others, loved the community so much that I asked to work here. I have a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Colorado at Denver in English Writing and I am ECE teacher certified. It is my greatest joy to support children in their growth socially, emotionally, and academically. In my spare time, I’m usually playing music, traveling, or getting outside with my childhood friend and husband, Paul. Our two little ones make sure we never sit down for too long. Thank you for sharing your kiddos with me. I look forward to getting to know you all while providing a safe and compassionate school life for your children!

Email Mandi at mandi(at)stlukeshr.com

4-Year-Old Teachers

My name is Dawn Burger (Lead Teacher and Assistant Teacher), and I have been teaching at St. Luke’s Little School since 2008. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education from the University of Northern Colorado. I have taught different grade levels, but I truly love teaching preschool children. I feel very blessed to be at St. Luke’s, working with preschoolers and watching them learn and grow during the year. My husband Mike, our daughter Michael, and I are all Colorado natives and live in Highlands Ranch. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going to the mountains, reading, and making jewelry.

Email Dawn at dawnb(at)stlukeshr.com

Hi! I’m Deon Zitek (Lead Teacher), and I have had the pleasure of working here at Little School since 2010. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and a Master’s Degree in Special Education. I have teaching experience in a variety of situations and grade levels but my heart is with these sweet little preschoolers. I love being part of their first steps in a journey of lifelong learning and strive to create a classroom of learning, friendship, and fun! I am a Colorado native and love our beautiful state. My husband and I live in Centennial and have three grown sons and 2 daughters (in law). Our newest excitement in life is becoming grandparents. We have 5 grandchildren under the age of 5 (4 of them will be attending Little School this year!). We also have a German Shepherd named Luna who still thinks she's a puppy and a cat named Bo. In my free time I love to travel, read, and spend time with my family and friends.

Email Deon at deonz(at)stlukeshr.com

My name is Holly Marx (Lead Teacher). I am originally from the Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania and received my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Development from the University of Delaware. My husband Chris and I live in Castle Pines with our 2 children and 2 Westies - Steve and Miss Pickles. Our daughter Ferron is a junior and cheers for San Diego State University. Our son Sully, is a junior at The Firefly Autism School. Before taking time off to be a stay-at-home-mama, I taught kindergarten in Douglas County at Arrowwood Elementary. In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching movies, shopping, and going back to the East Coast to visit my family and friends. I am so super excited to meet all of your children and get back to what I love doing the most…TEACHING PRESCHOOL! Woo-Hoo, Let’s Go HIPPOS!!!

Email Holly at hollym(at)stlukeshr.com

My name is Jennifer Noonan (Lead Teacher). I am originally from the Chicago area and moved to Highlands Ranch in 2017. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Spanish Language and Literature and a Master's Degree in Education. Previous to staying home with my two kids (Nathan, 8 and Annalise, 6), I taught high school for 2 years and middle school for 5. I started as a Little School parent in 2019 and later became a substitute teacher, aftercare teacher, and lead teacher. I love the Little School community and am excited to get to know your littles this year. In my free time, I like to garden, hike, go camping, play board games, and spend time with my family.

Email Jennifer at jennifern(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Julie D’Ascoli (Lead Teacher), and I have been teaching at St Luke’s since 2009 when my youngest daughter Chase was in the 4-year-old class. She is now 20! I also have a son that is 23 and twin daughters that are almost 25. My husband Tony and I are Colorado Natives and we have been married for 29 years. Our family loves to be outdoors doing all sorts of activities, and we love to travel anywhere we can be on the sand at the beach. I come from a family of 10 and have 20 nieces and nephews that all live close by so we enjoy spending time with family.

I have a Bachelor's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies from CSU. Two of my children attended CSU and my husband graduated from there as well. So I guess you can say we are huge CSU Ram Fans!!! I love to teach, but my favorite part is watching the children learn as they are so curious about the world. I truly enjoy getting to know all of my kiddos and their families.

Email Julie at julied(at)stlukeshr.com

My name is Katie Matthews (Lead Teacher and Assistant Teacher). I graduated from Westmont College with a degree in Elementary Education. I taught Outdoor Education, 6th grade social studies, and 4th grade before becoming a full-time mom. My children (Nate-13, Natalie-11, and Julia-8) all attended and LOVED Little School. I had a wonderful experience as a St. Luke’s parent and once my youngest graduated, I was blessed with the opportunity to join the Little School staff! I love supporting my kids in their many activities, walking my dog Frisco, skiing, camping, shopping, and listening to audiobooks. I look forward to working with your children and helping them learn and grow!

Email Katie at katiemat(at)stlukeshr.com

Hello! My name is Kenna Burnett (Lead Teacher), and I am excited to be part of the St. Luke’s family as a Lead 4-Year-Old Teacher! I have been an elementary educator for 11 years and am passionate about creating a classroom where children feel loved, encouraged, inspired, and excited to learn each day. I grew up in Colorado, attended Littleton Public Schools, and later graduated from Colorado State University (CSU). One of my favorite experiences was dancing for 20 years, including my time on CSU’s Golden Poms dance team. My husband, Taylor, and I now have two young children, Berkley and Braxton, along with our giant dog, Norman, and sassy cat, Gracie. We even had chickens for a season!

When I’m not in the classroom, you can usually find me cheering on my favorite sports teams, relaxing at Grand Lake, spending time with family and friends, or enjoying a good cup of coffee and brunch at a local spot. I feel incredibly grateful to work with young learners and look forward to a fun and joyful year at St. Luke’s!

Email Kenna at kennab(at)stlukeshr.com

My name is Kristi Tomlinson (Lead Teacher and Assistant Director) and I have been teaching 4's at Little School since 2015. I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Family Relations and Child Development/Early Childhood Education from Oklahoma State University (I was born and raised in Ponca City, Oklahoma so I am a midwestern girl at heart). I taught kindergarten and first grade in Oklahoma and California for 9 years before staying at home for 10 years with my own children. My husband Thane and I have been married for 26 years, and we've made our home here in Colorado in Castle Pines. We have a 20-year-old daughter Avery who is a junior at Franklin College in Franklin, IN, a 17-year-old son Jack who is a junior at Rock Canyon High School, and an 9-year-old Australian Shepherd named Skylar. We are a very busy family as both our children are active athletes. I enjoy reading, yoga, being in the water, shopping, watching movies, being outdoors, and spending time with my family and friends. I absolutely love my job and teaching at Little School and look forward to helping your children learn and grow!

Email Kristi at kristinat(at)stlukeshr.com

My name is Laura McGee (Lead Teacher) and I have been teaching at Little School since 2021. I have a Master of Arts in Education and have been involved with teaching in many ways. In the past I’ve worked as a media specialist in an elementary school and have done dyslexia intervention, kindergarten enrichment, science camps, and a preschool co-op.

I’ve lived in Colorado since 2006 with my husband, an aerospace engineer, and together we have a daughter in college, a son in high school, and two crazy doodle pups. I love introducing my students to art techniques I learned while earning my BFA in art, as well as doing nature discovery with them around our Little School property.

Email Laura at lauram(at)stlukeshr.com

Explorers Teachers

My name is Colleen Goad (Lead Teacher), and I’m so excited to be your child’s Explorers teacher this year at Little School! This will be my fourth year teaching here, and I truly love being part of this amazing community. My husband and I moved to Highlands Ranch from Chicago ten years ago, and we’ve been part of Little School ever since. We have four awesome kids—Riley (12), Myles (10), Norah (7), and Maverick (3)—who definitely keep us on our toes! Over the years, Little School has become a big part of our lives, and I feel so lucky to be teaching in a place that means so much to our family. Outside of school, I love being active—whether it's running, hiking with my family, or coaching and cheering on my kids at their games and activities. There's always something going on, and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
Thank you for sharing your child with me this year. I can’t wait to get to know them and be part of all the learning, growing, and fun we’ll have together in the Explorers class!

Email Colleen at colleeng(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Katie Wolfe (Lead Teacher), and I have been working at St. Luke’s since 2015. I received my Bachelor's from UNC in Elementary Education and my Master's from UCCS in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Linguistically Diverse Education. I taught kindergarten, 3rd grade, and was a literacy coach/interventionist for eight years before joining the St. Luke’s team. I am a Colorado native and currently live in Highlands Ranch with my husband, daughter, son, and beloved pets. I love my job and am looking forward to getting to know each and every one of you.

Email Katie at katiew(at)stlukeshr.com

Music Teachers

Hi! My name is Marisa Rodriguez (Assistant Music Teacher). I have been a parent at Little School since 2022. This will be my first year as a teacher at Little School and I couldn’t be more excited!

I was born and raised in Colorado. I received my bachelor’s degree in Trumpet Performance and my master’s degree in Elementary Music Education. After living in Santa Fe, NM and Pittsburgh, PA for several years, I moved back to Colorado in 2015. I taught Elementary General Music in Jeffco before having our 3 wonderful children.

I’m passionate about kids being exposed to music because it nurtures the whole child, fostering everything from motor skills to emotional regulation. Early childhood is the perfect time to cultivate a love for music, and my goal is to make our music time a fun and special part of the school week.

Email Marisa at marisar(at)stlukeshr.com

Hi, my name is Sheri Urdiales (Music Teacher and Aftercare Teacher). I’m blessed to have been part of the St Luke’s music team since 2016. My husband Aaron and I have lived in Highlands Ranch since 2005. We have two active children, Aucencio (18) and Siena (15), and one crazy dog Captain. My journey at Little School began when my daughter attended the 4-year-old program, with Ms. Sandi! The loving community at Little School welcomed us from day one. When the opportunity presented itself to join the music team, I was more than thrilled! I was active in the performing arts community most of my life through dance, musical theater and show choirs. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts with an emphasis in Psychology from Colorado State University. I was a preschool Sunday school teacher for 2 years and was a classroom volunteer for 9 years at my children’s elementary school. I enjoy being with my family (majority live in Colorado!), cheering my children on at their many activities and everything our beautiful state has to offer! Singing, acting and dancing has been a passion of mine since I was little, and I feel blessed to share this joy with your children!

Email Sheri at sheriu(at)stlukeshr.com

My name is Siena Davis (Assistant Music Teacher). I hold a Master of Public Health degree from Brigham Young University, where I learned how early childhood experiences shape lifelong social, emotional, and mental health outcomes. I have two daughters (ages 5 and 9) and my youngest began attending Little School shortly after our family moved to Colorado in 2024. We immediately appreciated the school’s warm and nurturing environment, and I was excited to join the community as a substitute teacher while my daughter was still in preschool. I especially loved helping in music classes.

My love for music began in childhood through piano and voice lessons, and I have enjoyed teaching children in preschool co-ops and church Sunday School classes over the years. I look forward to singing, dancing, and making music with your Little Schoolers this year!

Email Siena at sienad(at)stlukeshr.com

Assistant Teachers

I am Amy Goings (Assistant Teacher) and I have been teaching at St. Luke's since 2009. Prior to St. Luke's I taught kindergarten and third grade. I have my Bachelor's Degree in Human Development and Family Studies from CSU and a master's degree in curriculum and instruction. I have two adult children and live in Littleton with my husband. I love working with children and look forward to each year!

Email Amy at amyg(at)stlukeshr.com

I am Alyssa Gough (Assistant Teacher), and I’m excited to be joining the St. Luke's team as an assistant teacher! I have a bachelor’s degree in Child Development and am currently applying to Occupational Therapy school. I’ve been teaching for 9 years and have loved working at the HRCA Preschool for the past 3 years. My daughter, Payton, was in Ms. Jessica’s Fox class this past year and will be returning to St. Luke’s in the fall. My husband and I moved to Colorado from Texas in 2022 with our two golden retrievers, and we’ve loved making Colorado home. I’m passionate about helping little learners grow, explore, and have fun each day!

Email Alyssa at alyssag(at)stlukeshr.com

Hi, I’m Chelsea Bauer (Assistant Teacher)! St. Luke’s Little School has been a special part of my family’s lives. My twins attended Little School for two years and loved every minute of it. Through our time here, I experienced firsthand the caring community and wonderful environment that makes this school so unique. Joining the Little School team feels like a full-circle moment, and I am excited to be part of a place that has meant so much to our family. I earned my bachelor’s degree from UNC Greeley and have spent many years working with children, which I find both fun and incredibly rewarding. As a Colorado native, I love spending time outdoors, cheering on my favorite sports teams with my husband and kids, and getting lost in a good book. I feel grateful to be part of this wonderful community and can’t wait to help create a fun, nurturing, and memorable experience for your little ones.

Email Chelsea at chelseab(at)stlukeshr.com

My name is Priyanka Khanna (Assistant Teacher), and I am a proud mom of two wonderful daughters. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Communication and a heart for early childhood education. I am passionate about helping little ones grow through play, creativity, and kindness. Originally from India, I bring a nurturing, inclusive vibe to the classroom—just like I do at home. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, playing tennis and traveling. I look forward to supporting your child’s learning journey and making every day fun and meaningful!

Email Priyanka at priyankak(at)stlukeshr.com

Hi, my name is Stephanie Portocarrero (Assistant Techer), I am a Colorado native and grew up in the Centennial area. I attended Colorado State University where I studied art and hospitality. I now live in Highlands Ranch with my husband, three kids (Lena, Norman, Harriet) and one too-curious for his own good Golden Retriever, Otis.
I have been so lucky to find such a great community within St. Luke's Little School when my twins started in the 3 year-old class. They just finished the Explorers program and I have absolutely loved the families and teachers that we've met along the way, so much so that I didn't want to say goodbye to this special place! I couldn't be more excited to be assisting the teachers in the 3 year-old classes this year.
I can't wait to watch your kids grow and learn while bringing a creative energy to our classrooms as that is a huge passion for me.
Email Stephanie at stephaniep(at)stlukeshr.com