Our Staff

My name is Althea Ellis. I am from the beautiful island of Jamaica. I have a Masters of Education in Literacy, a Bachelors in Language and Literacy, and a Teaching Diploma in Literacy and Social Studies. I am thrilled to be a part of the Lower Elementary Team!

Andy Waterman, M.A. in School Counseling, has been working and playing in the Southwest for over twenty five years. “Mr. Andy,” started out as an elementary teacher and then transitioned to be a school counselor over a decade ago. Mr. Andy divides his time between presenting SEL lessons in the classroom and working with students individually and in groups. When not at work he is most likely spending time with his family somewhere in the mountains.

My name is Cassy Whitehead and I have been working at Kiva for 10 years now. I have a Bachelors in Elementary Education and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in STEM. I also have an endorsement in Special Education and have been in my role for 6 years. I love animals, board games, reading, and being outdoors.

 I have experience working as an administrative assistant, which is also what I do part-time here at Kiva. I have 2 kids, Nicholas and Lilly and a granddaughter Kinlie. When I am not working or with family I am playing with my dogs, Mollie, a Borador and Nora, a mini Aussie. I also love to read, do puzzles and walk.

I came to Cortez 21 years ago from Pittsburgh, PA and I love living here for all the various outdoor activities. I have been a registered nurse since 1990. During my time as a Montezuma-Cortez district school nurse from 2004-2020, I achieved my national school nurse certification and was nominated CO School Nurse of the Year. I left school nursing in 2020 to care for my terminally ill husband and to work for Indian Health Services in Towaoc, CO. Last November 2023, I had the joyful pleasure of returning to school nursing part-time at Children’s Kiva Montessori School. I especially enjoy working with parents to help their students be the healthiest that they can be. I encourage parents to reach out to me with any health concerns that I can assist with either through the school office or at [email protected].

I have a Bachelor’s degree from Brigham Young University with a major in Theatre Education and a minor in Mathematics Education. I also have a Master’s degree from Xavier University in Montessori Education. I am licensed as a teacher in Colorado with endorsements in Theatre and Mathematics. This is my tenth year working at Kiva Charter and my ninth year serving in the position of Middle School Teacher.

My name is Kathy Carpenter. I am the K-8 reading and math interventionist here at Kiva. I have been a teacher for the past 10 years; hold a bachelor’s in education, am READ Act certified and am currently completing my master’s degree in mathematics education for elementary students. My hobbies include knitting, reading, gardening and spending time with my four amazing children and my awesome husband.

Ms. Katie is a very passionate educator with a Bachelor’s Degree in Humanities, English and Spanish, and two masters degrees in English and Education. She comes from Medellin, Colombia with experience in K-12, as a college professor, and as a head of school for both kindergarten and elementary school! Specializing in the fundamentals of the English and Spanish languages, she not only brings knowledge to her classroom, but also brings charisma, enthusiasm and a love for teaching. Her kindness helps her build strong connections with her students and creates a fun and positive learning environment.

My name is Kerry Scales. I have worked in libraries and/or schools for 19 years now, and literacy is my passion. I also have an Associates degree in psychology. My favorite things are reading, hiking and all things outside!

Lurleen McCormick is our Head of School and grew up in a very rural area of SW Georgia. She is embarking on her 20th year in education and 5th year as a principal. She studied Ag & Animal Sci. at Florida A & M University and the University of Georgia, and then she taught sustainable animal production while in the Peace Corps serving in Ecuador, South America. She received her Masters in Education at Regis University and completed her Education Specialist degree in Administrative Leadership & Policy Studies at the University of Colorado. Lurleen loves learning, hiking, snorkeling, and fishing with her family and friends. She is honored and humbled to have an opportunity to put her years of experience and education to use to serve our community.

With a diverse background in graphic design, culinary arts, snowboarding, and computer building, I bring a range of skills to my role as part-time specials teacher. Currently studying medical coding, I was born and raised in southwest Colorado. Outside of school, I enjoy mountain biking and cooking for my wife, and I share my home with two dogs and a tuxedo cat.

I am originally from Cincinnati Ohio and we moved to the area three years ago. I am currently completing my bachelors in Biology. Last year was my first year teaching. I enjoyed teaching the 4th-6th graders math. This year I am excited to be back as the Art teacher. I have two boys who are currently enrolled at Kiva. As a family we love to travel and go on hiking adventures.

Ms. Panther grew up in Iowa City, Iowa where her parents still live. She studied Biology and Spanish in college and later went back to earn her teaching license. Ms. Panther is teaching P.E. and wellness this year, which will incorporate the school garden and cooking lessons. When not teaching, Ms. Panther spends time in the desert wandering canyons or climbing with her friends.

Hi, I am Robert Rime. My professional educational experience includes being a teacher, principal, superintendent, Tribal Division Educational Director, and a District Career and Tech Ed Director. My current role at Kiva is functioning behind the scenes for administrative and operational duties.

Hi my name is Sandra Smith, this is my second year teaching in Lower Elementary at Kiva. When I’m not in the classroom my favorite pastime is playing video/board games with my family. I’m excited to be back and continue to help the students THRIVE!

My name is Tasha Freeman. I have been working in education since 2017. I hold my associates degree in Early Childhood Education, and am currently completing my student teaching for My bachelor’s degree in general education. I will graduate in December. I am Orton Gillingham trained and experienced in Montessori philosophy. In my spare time you can usually find me with my own kids doing various things. We enjoy 4H, the outdoors and volleyball.

Ms Violet is our secretary extraordinaire! She is great with the parents, compassionate with the students, and so very helpful to Ms. Lurleen and our whole Kiva team. In her free time she loves to do art!