High School - Grades 9-12
Source: http://www.denveracademy.org/academics/high-school-grades-9-12
Archived: 2026-04-23 17:21
High School - Grades 9-12
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High School - Grades 9-12
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Denver Academy’s high school is where students discover their passions, determine their goals, and reach their potential.
Students are placed into classes based on their interests, academic readiness, and learning profile. We provide continued remediation in areas where students require extra support and offer the opportunity for students who are thriving to advance their knowledge through accelerated Honors classes. Students take four years of math, science, literature, social studies, and language arts. Students are also encouraged to take Spanish language instruction which meets the minimum requirement set by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education and can be continued all four years.
We know lifelong academic and personal success arises not just from classroom interaction and teacher instruction but also through the use of memorization strategies, note-taking, organization, and effective study skills. Our high school builds these crucial elements into regular classroom participation to prepare students for the challenges of higher education and the world of work.
Classes in arts, metalworking, media, theater, fitness, and music allow students to uncover their passions and cultivate their personal development. Our athletic teams have a no-cut policy because we want all students, no matter their skill level, to enjoy participating in competitive sports. We inspire civic involvement through plentiful volunteer opportunities. Real-world engagement is encouraged with Experiential Education Immersive weeks where students participate in international, national, regional, and local experiences that expand their worldview.
List of 7 items.
High School Course Map
The High School Course Map provides an overview of the academic subjects of science, social studies, mathematics, and language arts.
High School Course Map
We also offer a detailed High School Mathematics Course Map.
High School Mathematics Course Map
Electives
In high school at DA, two electives are offered each quarter and include Spanish, PE, Music, and Visual and Performing Arts.
Click here
to see DA High School elective offerings.
High School Info for Current 8th Grade Parents
High School Info for Current 8th Grade Parents
College and Transition Counseling
Learn About DA's College & Transition Counseling Services
Graduation Requirements
Denver Academy's graduation requirements include the minimum courses required to graduate, as well as recommendations for those bound for four-year, public colleges within the state of Colorado. All DA High School students receive college/post-graduation counseling as part of their tuition and are encouraged to pursue the post-graduate plan that's the right fit for them.
Graduation Requirements and Recommendations
High School Athletics
At Denver Academy, we offer a wide variety of sports in which students can participate, both recreationally and competitively. We have a no-cut policy that allows students to try new sports they may not have been able to participate in previously.
Athletics at Denver Academy
Clubs, Groups & Organizations
DA High School Students have the opportunity to participate in a range of after-school clubs, along with groups and organizations such as National Honor Society, Student Senate, International Thespian Society, National Art Honor Society and more.
Clubs & Organizations
After DA
Students in our high school graduate with more than academic knowledge. They know how to advocate for themselves, have increased self-esteem and confidence, have expanded post-high school opportunities, and have a plan for their first year after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Joe W., Denver Academy Class of 2020
DA helped prepare me for college by teaching me self-advocacy skills and giving me the courage to speak up, ask questions, and share my thoughts.
High School Photos
View All
Meet the High School Team
List of 31 members.
Mark
Wood
Associate Head of School and Head of High School
Read Bio
Since 1989, Mark Wood has been a fixture at Denver Academy. He served as a teacher in Elementary and High School before assuming the positions of High School Dean and Head of High School. He took on the additional role of Associate Head of School in the 2025-26 school year. Prior to his experience at DA, Mr. Wood worked as a counselor at a residential childcare facility and as a drug and alcohol counselor. He works closely with his assistant,
Diane Berry
.
Mark earned his B.S. in Human Rehabilitation Services and his M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Northern Colorado.
Chad
Lindburg
Dean of 12th Grade
Read Bio
Mr. Lindburg started teaching at Denver Academy in 1998. He has taught all high school math subjects—from Algebra I to Calculus—and held various titles at DA including, High School Math Chair and Learning Specialist. Mr. Lindburg likes the musical stylings of Radiohead and can't find a single bad thing to say about his job.
Mr. Lindburg holds a B.A. in Music from Colorado Christian University.
Kacie
Wulf
Dean of 11th Grade
Read Bio
Ms. Wulf joined Denver Academy in the fall of 2018 as the Sophomore Divison's TA. She now teaches 10th grade English and Humanities. Beyond her role as a mentor in the classroom, Ms. Wulf enjoys coaching cheerleading after school. She is known for her love of poetry, grammar, and creative writing. Outside of academics, you can catch her walking her dogs and spending time with her family!
Ms. Wulf graduated with honors and her BSBA in Marketing from the University of Arizona in 2016.
Perry
Butler
Dean of 10th Grade
Read Bio
After nearly 20 years of teaching in and administrating the Denver Academy Middle School, Mr. Butler became the 10th Grade Dean in 2012. An avid hiker, Mr. Butler frequently leads field trips and experiential trips to the wondrous state and national parks in our own backyard. He lives in Littleton with his wife, sons and golden retriever, Canyon.
Mr. Butler graduated with a B.A. in History from Providence College and an M.Ed. from the University of Bridgeport.
Jenni
Walker
Dean of 9th Grade
Read Bio
Originally from Oklahoma, Ms. Walker fell in love with Colorado while on camping trips as a teenager. She always knew Colorado would one day be her home. Ms. Walker has been a part of the Denver Academy family since 2002. She loves teaching her literature, English, Anatomy & Physiology, Zoology, and Botany classes. An outdoor enthusiast, Ms. Walker is working through her list of 14ers. While she has lived on a California wildlife refuge, she currently resides in Centennial with her two daughters and her dog, Gypsy. Ms. Walker was proud to be recognized as DA's
Teacher of the Year
in 2015.
Ms. Walker graduated with undergraduate degrees in Zoology and Botany from the University of Oklahoma.
Diane
Berry
Assistant to High School Head, Registrar
Read Bio
After more than 20 years as a teacher in early childhood education in Florida and Colorado, as well as five years as the office manager at Colorado Academy Summer Programs, Diane Berry joined Denver Academy in 2018 as the DA Registrar and Assistant to the Head of High School. In addition to her daily responsibilities, Ms. Berry also coordinates the DA graduation ceremony as well as other special events held at DA. She was awarded DA Staff of the Year in 2020.
Mindy
Adair, Ph.D.
Director of Mathematics & Technology Integration Specialist
Read Bio
Dr. Adair joined Denver Academy with almost three decades of experience in education. Prior to Denver Academy, Dr. Adair enjoyed working at a local independent school where she was the math department chair, college counselor, and dean of students. She is thrilled to be a part of this community of learners.
Dr. Adair earned a B.A. in Mathematics and a Diploma in Education from the University of Colorado and an M.A. from the University of Phoenix in Education Administration and Supervision. She holds a Professional Teacher License and a Professional Principal License for the State of Colorado. Dr. Adair completed her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction specializing in Research Methods and Statistics at the University of Denver.
Ramsey
Brookhart
9th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Since joining the DA faculty in 2003, Mr. Brookhart continues to amaze and delight his students, their parents and his fellow co-workers alike. In 2010, he was honored by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) as a
Teacher of the Future
. The prior year, Mr. Brookhart published a book,
Globalistic
, with his students, detailing life in a millennial classroom. Mr. Brookhart enjoys traveling and takes every opportunity to expose his students to the world through cultural themes and ecological concepts.
Mr. Brookhart earned his B.A. in Spanish and B.S. in Environmental Science from the University of Colorado, Boulder.
Gracie
Cole
11th Grade Lit/Junior Seminar Teacher
Read Bio
Mrs. Grayson Cole earned her bachelor's degree from Baylor University, studying English and creative writing. Mrs. Cole went on to complete her master's degree at Boston College, where she taught introductory writing classes to college freshmen students. This experience not only inspired Mrs. Cole to continue teaching but also instilled in her the academic rigor necessary to grow students into capable writers as they pursue their future goals. At Denver Academy, Mrs. Cole loves to work one-on-one with all of her students and to guide her teaching around their unique needs and interests. When not in class, Mrs. Cole spends time outside exploring the Colorado mountains and also loves working on crossword puzzles with her husband Matt.
Caroline
Conroy
High School Math & English Teacher
Read Bio
Originally from Massachusetts (state of the 2024 NBA Champions, the Boston Celtics), Ms. Conroy earned her bachelor's degree in English and Secondary Education at Roger Williams University in Rhode Island.
After spending some years teaching English and then working as a special education teacher in an inclusive English classroom, she moved to Colorado where she earned her MA in English Literary Studies at the University of Denver. While in Colorado for the past five years, Ms. Conroy continued to teach English and support students as a special education teacher, worked as a writing consultant at DU, and spent some time as a floral designer. She is an avid learner of different subjects and topics, and she enjoys supporting students on their learning journeys.
Art
Curtis
10th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Art is a history and English teacher with more than 10 years of experience teaching, including teaching AP curriculum, at high schools around Denver. He’s committed to designing classes with diversity and equity in mind, and building classes that ensure all students have access to rigorous and challenging content, regardless of their background. Art has spent his career creating strong community spaces by sponsoring and coaching extracurricular programs including student council, anime club, baseball, and even cheerleading.
Art earned his Bachelor's Degree in History from the University of Northern Colorado and his teacher's license through the Metropolitan State University of Denver's Urban Education Program. When he’s not teaching, he loves camping, taking out his antique canoe, and going to the movies.
Monet
Duhamel
Associate College & Transition Counselor, High School Math Teacher
Read Bio
Since joining Denver Academy in 2020, Ms. Duhamel has taught and tutored all areas of high school math, from Algebra I through Calculus. She is passionate about helping students build confidence in mathematics by emphasizing problem-solving, curiosity, and real-world connections. Her favorite college courses included Calculus and Differential Equations, which deepened her appreciation for the ways math can explain patterns in the world.
Ms. Duhamel graduated from the University of Wyoming with a B.S. in Business Management Consulting and earned her M.S. in Business Analytics from Ohio University.
Bobby
Duhamel
10th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Mr. Duhamel began his journey as a teacher at the Denver Music Institute, where he taught piano, synthesizer and recording techniques. After working in Cherry Creek School District, teaching at an alternative high school for at-risk youth, Mr. D found a home here at Denver Academy. He enjoys working at DA where teachers can thrive, learn and teach and where long-term relationships are valued and encouraged. In 2013, he was honored as the Denver Academy Teacher of the Year.
Mr. Duhamel attended the Metropolitan State University of Denver where he studied English, Creative Writing, and Music.
Tennyson
Flint
10th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Tennyson Flint is a language arts, English, and grammar teacher, originally from Indianapolis, Ind., and Pomfret, Conn., where she began her teaching career. During her time teaching in Connecticut, she helped develop the new grammar curriculum for the English Department while spearheading the implementation of the language arts curriculum. She is excited to hone her focus on English literature and writing at Denver Academy.
Tennyson earned her Bachelor's and Master’s of Arts in English and Comparative Literature and her Master of Letters (MLitt) in Early Modern and Shakespearean Literary Culture from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, UK. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and writing novels and short stories.
Katey
Frankel
10th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Bio coming soon!
Alyssa
Gafvert
High School/9th Grade Spanish Teacher
Read Bio
Ms. Gafvert joined Denver Academy in 2018 and teaches Spanish language and culture. She is currently working on her master’s degree in secondary Spanish education with an emphasis on differentiated learning from Regis University. Ms. Gafvert lived and studied in Buenos Aires, Argentina for six months and travels when she can to Latin and South America. Although Ms. Gafvert’s students groan at all of the cheesy songs she plays in class, she knows the students secretly love them, and she believes that incorporating different media into the classroom is important for engagement and retention.
Andy
Klaus-Corritore
9th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Mr. Klaus-Corritore has been teaching ninth graders at DA about the annals of history since 2005. Beyond his teaching duties, Mr. K coaches high school golf and high school girls basketball.
Mr. Klaus-Corritore earned his degree in History and Education from Villanova University.
Suzie
Ledford
High School Spanish Teacher
Read Bio
Ms. Ledford joined Denver Academy in 2022 after spending the previous 16 years in Spanish classrooms in Kentucky and Colorado. One of the most transformational experiences in her career has been traveling the world with her students. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Ledford loves to read and, of course, travel. She lives in Lakewood with her fiancée and their dog Truman, the feisty Frenchie. Ms. Ledford holds a B.A. in Spanish Language & Literature from Georgetown College in Georgetown, KY.
Denise
Levesque
12th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Denise comes to Denver Academy with more than 30 years of experience working in education. She has a master's in both European History and International Education Administration. Ms. Levesque has taught in Colorado and overseas. She brings a passion for history and a firm belief that every student can learn history and learn it well.
When not in the classroom, she enjoys kayaking, biking and is currently pursuing the perfect golf swing.
Kristi
Mackenzie
10th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Ms. Mackenzie returned to Denver Academy after her previous work at our school from 2000 to 2004. During her four-year tenure at DA as a Prep High School Teacher, Ms. Mackenzie taught multiple science and math classes, mentored five homeroom classes in grades 9 to 11, and organized college visitations for 11th graders. She has also worked as a teacher for the Denver Public and Jefferson County School Districts and as an adjunct professor for Salt Lake City Community College. Ms. Mackenzie has a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in chemistry from the University of San Diego and a Master of Science in Medical Genetics from the University of Colorado, Health Sciences Center.
Aurora
Medina
Director of College & Transition Counseling
Read Bio
With 27 years of experience as a public school educator, Aurora Medina is excited to be a part of Denver Academy. Over her career, Aurora wore many hats: high school English teacher; yearbook, newspaper, and journalism teacher; reading teacher and literacy specialist; school counselor; assessment facilitator; high school principal; and GED program specialist.
Outside of education, Aurora also worked as an EMDR-trained trauma counselor.
Aurora enjoys writing, reading, talking about all things college- and career-oriented, and working with young people. As the new teacher of Senior Seminar, she gets to meld everything she loves the most (besides her family) into one job!
Aurora earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and her Master of Arts in school counseling from Adams State University.
Russ
Mowry
High School Mathematics Teacher
Read Bio
Russ hails from Austin, Texas, the live music capital of the world. He's been teaching for 20 years in subjects including mathematics, technology, public speaking, and religious studies. Mr. Mowry is passionate about diversity/inclusion, mountain biking, playing guitar, running, and exploring the outdoors with his family. He loves finding new and creative ways to teach people about math, and showing them that mathematics can be interesting, accessible, and actually FUN!
Kevin
Narvaez
High School Spanish Teacher
Read Bio
A native of Miami with roots in Nicaragua, Mr. Narvaez discovered the beauty of Colorado after visiting Maroon Bells in 2018. Two years later, he relocated to embrace the state's stunning landscapes, diverse seasons, and outdoor adventures, particularly hiking.
With a deep passion for Spanish and language, Mr. Narvaez creates an engaging learning environment where students feel inspired to explore the richness of the Spanish language and culture. His enthusiasm for teaching goes hand in hand with his belief that learning is a collaborative experience, where both students and teachers inspire and learn from one another.
An avid traveler, Mr. Narvaez enjoys immersing himself in new cultures and cuisines, further enriching his understanding of the world. He holds a degree in Business Administration from Florida International University and earned his teaching certification through the ASPIRE program at the University of Colorado Denver.
Natalie
Pope
12th Grade English Teacher
Read Bio
Prior to joining the DA team in 2024, Natalie spent five years teaching writing and composition courses at the University at Buffalo in upstate New York while working toward a doctoral degree in English. She also holds a master’s degree in English from the University of Colorado Boulder, where she worked as a writing center consultant. Natalie has taught a variety of classes, including Introduction to Writing & Rhetoric, Writing About the Environment, Writing About Science, and The Novel. She is excited to bring her experience and passion for teaching to Denver Academy!
In her free time, she enjoys cooking Italian and vegetarian cuisine, baking, and spending time outdoors.
Alan
Price
12th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Mr. Price spent the first 16 years of his career working as a counselor, teacher, and administrator at a residential treatment facility for youth. In 2005, he came to Denver Academy to teach science and in 2008 became the High School Science Chair. Unsurprisingly, Mr. Price, "the science guy," thinks that everyone should read
The Greatest Show on Earth: Evidence for Evolution
by Richard Dawkins.
Mr. Price earned his B.S. in Political Science from the University of Michigan (Go, Blue!) and is pursuing his M.A. in Special Education from the University of Colorado, Denver.
Ryan
Stander
High School Science & Chemistry Teacher
Read Bio
Prior to coming to Denver Academy, Mr. Stander spent eight years teaching many different high school science courses at Marburn Academy, a school with a similar student population as Denver Academy. Before becoming a teacher, he also spent 13 years managing the Ecology Research Center at Miami University of Ohio where Mr. Stander earned both his B.S. and M.S. in Zoology with a focus on Ecology.
Clifford
Thompson
High School Mathematics Teacher
Read Bio
Mr. Thompson has been passionate about mathematics since first discovering numbers, earning his B.S. in economics and mathematics. Since that time, he has worked in a variety of professional capacities including as a Budget and Policy Analyst for the State of Colorado and as a college-level mathematics tutor.
Mr. Thompson spent two years at St. Anne’s Episcopal School teaching fourth grade, tutoring mathematics, and substituting for a variety of grade levels. He is currently enrolled in a Master's of Mathematics Education program at the University of Colorado - Denver.
Rick
Umbach
12th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Mr. Umbach has been working with 12th graders at Denver Academy since 2015, teaching Literature for the last six years. Prior to DA, he worked in the Douglas County School District, including the last 21 years at Douglas County High School. Mr. Umbach has extensive experience teaching various subjects in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program as well as Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Throughout his career, he has worked to create an atmosphere that welcomes all students and learning styles. Working at DA continues to be a rejuvenating and fun experience.
In his free time, Mr. Umbach enjoys cycling, flyfishing, golfing (not as good as he thinks he is), and hiking with his dog, Stella.
Kirsten
Wander
11th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Bio coming soon!
Cayla
Warneke
11th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Ms. Warneke says the best part of her job is building relationships with students. Indeed, it's not surprising that parents and students alike can't help being won over by her bright, good-natured personality. At Denver Academy, you'll find Ms. Warneke teaching Spanish and Literature and acting as a 9th Grade Homeroom Teacher. Outside of school, she loves being with her family and teaching dance.
Ms. Warneke earned her B.A. in Secondary Education (English and Spanish) from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Wanda
Zimmermann
High School Teacher
Read Bio
Twenty years in the IT sector provided Ms. Zimmermann with a solid foundation of applied mathematics as well as managing diverse groups of personalities. She celebrates her inner geekdom and enjoys bonding with her students over their shared love of programming languages and breadboards. Now in her second career, she's still having fun.
Ms. Zimmermann earned her B.S. in Mathematics from Binghampton University.
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Main/Attendance: 303.777.5870
Admissions: 303.777.5161
General:
info@denveracademy.org
About
Denver Academy is an independent private school for grades 2-12 located in Denver, CO. DA
inspires and empowers a diverse group of learners through student-centered, differentiated, and transformative education.
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© 2022 Denver Academy. All Rights Reserved.
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Login
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arrow
The DA Difference: How We Teach & Learn
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arrow
Why Denver Academy
Apply to DA
Tuition & Tuition Assistance
Inquire About DA
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Elementary School
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Middle School - Grades 7-8
High School - Grades 9-12
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Diversity Equity Inclusion and Belonging
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arrow
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College & Transition Counseling
Tutoring
Library
Elementary After-school Activities
Experiential Education
Denver Academy Symposium 2026
Give to DA
arrow
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Performing Arts Center
Ways to Give
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Alumni
News
Calendar
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Privacy Policy
Academics
High School - Grades 9-12
Visit
Inquire
Give
Denver Academy’s high school is where students discover their passions, determine their goals, and reach their potential.
Students are placed into classes based on their interests, academic readiness, and learning profile. We provide continued remediation in areas where students require extra support and offer the opportunity for students who are thriving to advance their knowledge through accelerated Honors classes. Students take four years of math, science, literature, social studies, and language arts. Students are also encouraged to take Spanish language instruction which meets the minimum requirement set by the Colorado Commission on Higher Education and can be continued all four years.
We know lifelong academic and personal success arises not just from classroom interaction and teacher instruction but also through the use of memorization strategies, note-taking, organization, and effective study skills. Our high school builds these crucial elements into regular classroom participation to prepare students for the challenges of higher education and the world of work.
Classes in arts, metalworking, media, theater, fitness, and music allow students to uncover their passions and cultivate their personal development. Our athletic teams have a no-cut policy because we want all students, no matter their skill level, to enjoy participating in competitive sports. We inspire civic involvement through plentiful volunteer opportunities. Real-world engagement is encouraged with Experiential Education Immersive weeks where students participate in international, national, regional, and local experiences that expand their worldview.
List of 7 items.
High School Course Map
The High School Course Map provides an overview of the academic subjects of science, social studies, mathematics, and language arts.
High School Course Map
We also offer a detailed High School Mathematics Course Map.
High School Mathematics Course Map
Electives
In high school at DA, two electives are offered each quarter and include Spanish, PE, Music, and Visual and Performing Arts.
Click here
to see DA High School elective offerings.
High School Info for Current 8th Grade Parents
High School Info for Current 8th Grade Parents
College and Transition Counseling
Learn About DA's College & Transition Counseling Services
Graduation Requirements
Denver Academy's graduation requirements include the minimum courses required to graduate, as well as recommendations for those bound for four-year, public colleges within the state of Colorado. All DA High School students receive college/post-graduation counseling as part of their tuition and are encouraged to pursue the post-graduate plan that's the right fit for them.
Graduation Requirements and Recommendations
High School Athletics
At Denver Academy, we offer a wide variety of sports in which students can participate, both recreationally and competitively. We have a no-cut policy that allows students to try new sports they may not have been able to participate in previously.
Athletics at Denver Academy
Clubs, Groups & Organizations
DA High School Students have the opportunity to participate in a range of after-school clubs, along with groups and organizations such as National Honor Society, Student Senate, International Thespian Society, National Art Honor Society and more.
Clubs & Organizations
After DA
Students in our high school graduate with more than academic knowledge. They know how to advocate for themselves, have increased self-esteem and confidence, have expanded post-high school opportunities, and have a plan for their first year after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Joe W., Denver Academy Class of 2020
DA helped prepare me for college by teaching me self-advocacy skills and giving me the courage to speak up, ask questions, and share my thoughts.
High School Photos
View All
Meet the High School Team
List of 31 members.
Mark
Wood
Associate Head of School and Head of High School
Read Bio
Since 1989, Mark Wood has been a fixture at Denver Academy. He served as a teacher in Elementary and High School before assuming the positions of High School Dean and Head of High School. He took on the additional role of Associate Head of School in the 2025-26 school year. Prior to his experience at DA, Mr. Wood worked as a counselor at a residential childcare facility and as a drug and alcohol counselor. He works closely with his assistant,
Diane Berry
.
Mark earned his B.S. in Human Rehabilitation Services and his M.A. in Rehabilitation Counseling from the University of Northern Colorado.
Chad
Lindburg
Dean of 12th Grade
Read Bio
Mr. Lindburg started teaching at Denver Academy in 1998. He has taught all high school math subjects—from Algebra I to Calculus—and held various titles at DA including, High School Math Chair and Learning Specialist. Mr. Lindburg likes the musical stylings of Radiohead and can't find a single bad thing to say about his job.
Mr. Lindburg holds a B.A. in Music from Colorado Christian University.
Kacie
Wulf
Dean of 11th Grade
Read Bio
Ms. Wulf joined Denver Academy in the fall of 2018 as the Sophomore Divison's TA. She now teaches 10th grade English and Humanities. Beyond her role as a mentor in the classroom, Ms. Wulf enjoys coaching cheerleading after school. She is known for her love of poetry, grammar, and creative writing. Outside of academics, you can catch her walking her dogs and spending time with her family!
Ms. Wulf graduated with honors and her BSBA in Marketing from the University of Arizona in 2016.
Perry
Butler
Dean of 10th Grade
Read Bio
After nearly 20 years of teaching in and administrating the Denver Academy Middle School, Mr. Butler became the 10th Grade Dean in 2012. An avid hiker, Mr. Butler frequently leads field trips and experiential trips to the wondrous state and national parks in our own backyard. He lives in Littleton with his wife, sons and golden retriever, Canyon.
Mr. Butler graduated with a B.A. in History from Providence College and an M.Ed. from the University of Bridgeport.
Jenni
Walker
Dean of 9th Grade
Read Bio
Originally from Oklahoma, Ms. Walker fell in love with Colorado while on camping trips as a teenager. She always knew Colorado would one day be her home. Ms. Walker has been a part of the Denver Academy family since 2002. She loves teaching her literature, English, Anatomy & Physiology, Zoology, and Botany classes. An outdoor enthusiast, Ms. Walker is working through her list of 14ers. While she has lived on a California wildlife refuge, she currently resides in Centennial with her two daughters and her dog, Gypsy. Ms. Walker was proud to be recognized as DA's
Teacher of the Year
in 2015.
Ms. Walker graduated with undergraduate degrees in Zoology and Botany from the University of Oklahoma.
Diane
Berry
Assistant to High School Head, Registrar
Read Bio
After more than 20 years as a teacher in early childhood education in Florida and Colorado, as well as five years as the office manager at Colorado Academy Summer Programs, Diane Berry joined Denver Academy in 2018 as the DA Registrar and Assistant to the Head of High School. In addition to her daily responsibilities, Ms. Berry also coordinates the DA graduation ceremony as well as other special events held at DA. She was awarded DA Staff of the Year in 2020.
Mindy
Adair, Ph.D.
Director of Mathematics & Technology Integration Specialist
Read Bio
Dr. Adair joined Denver Academy with almost three decades of experience in education. Prior to Denver Academy, Dr. Adair enjoyed working at a local independent school where she was the math department chair, college counselor, and dean of students. She is thrilled to be a part of this community of learners.
Dr. Adair earned a B.A. in Mathematics and a Diploma in Education from the University of Colorado and an M.A. from the University of Phoenix in Education Administration and Supervision. She holds a Professional Teacher License and a Professional Principal License for the State of Colorado. Dr. Adair completed her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction specializing in Research Methods and Statistics at the University of Denver.
Ramsey
Brookhart
9th Grade Teacher
Read Bio
Since joining the DA faculty in 2003, Mr. Brookhart continues to amaze and delight his students, their parents and his fellow co-workers alike. In 2010, he was honored by the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) as a
Teacher of the Future
. The prior year, Mr. Brookhart published a book,
Globalistic
, with his students, detailing life in a millennial classroom. Mr. Brookhart enjoys traveling and takes every opportunity to expose his students to the world through cultural themes and ecological concepts.
Mr. Brookhart earned his B.A. in Spanish and B.S. in Environmental Science from the University of Colorado, Boulder.
Gracie
Cole
11th Grade Lit/Junior Seminar Teacher
Read Bio
Mrs. Grayson Cole earned her bachelor's degree from Baylor University, studying English and creative writing. Mrs. Cole went on to complete her master's degree at Boston College, where she taught introductory writing classes to college freshmen students. This experience not only inspired Mrs. Cole to continue teaching but also instilled in her the academic rigor necessary to grow students into capable writers as they pursue their future goals. At Denver Academy, Mrs. Cole loves to work one-on-one with all of her students and to guide her teaching around their unique needs and interests. When not in class, Mrs. Cole spends time outside exploring the Colorado mountains and also loves working on crossword puzzles with her husband Matt.
Caroline
Conroy
High School Math & English Teacher
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Originally from Massachusetts (state of the 2024 NBA Champions, the Boston Celtics), Ms. Conroy earned her bachelor's degree in English and Secondary Education at Roger Williams University in Rhode Island.
After spending some years teaching English and then working as a special education teacher in an inclusive English classroom, she moved to Colorado where she earned her MA in English Literary Studies at the University of Denver. While in Colorado for the past five years, Ms. Conroy continued to teach English and support students as a special education teacher, worked as a writing consultant at DU, and spent some time as a floral designer. She is an avid learner of different subjects and topics, and she enjoys supporting students on their learning journeys.
Art
Curtis
10th Grade Teacher
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Art is a history and English teacher with more than 10 years of experience teaching, including teaching AP curriculum, at high schools around Denver. He’s committed to designing classes with diversity and equity in mind, and building classes that ensure all students have access to rigorous and challenging content, regardless of their background. Art has spent his career creating strong community spaces by sponsoring and coaching extracurricular programs including student council, anime club, baseball, and even cheerleading.
Art earned his Bachelor's Degree in History from the University of Northern Colorado and his teacher's license through the Metropolitan State University of Denver's Urban Education Program. When he’s not teaching, he loves camping, taking out his antique canoe, and going to the movies.
Monet
Duhamel
Associate College & Transition Counselor, High School Math Teacher
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Since joining Denver Academy in 2020, Ms. Duhamel has taught and tutored all areas of high school math, from Algebra I through Calculus. She is passionate about helping students build confidence in mathematics by emphasizing problem-solving, curiosity, and real-world connections. Her favorite college courses included Calculus and Differential Equations, which deepened her appreciation for the ways math can explain patterns in the world.
Ms. Duhamel graduated from the University of Wyoming with a B.S. in Business Management Consulting and earned her M.S. in Business Analytics from Ohio University.
Bobby
Duhamel
10th Grade Teacher
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Mr. Duhamel began his journey as a teacher at the Denver Music Institute, where he taught piano, synthesizer and recording techniques. After working in Cherry Creek School District, teaching at an alternative high school for at-risk youth, Mr. D found a home here at Denver Academy. He enjoys working at DA where teachers can thrive, learn and teach and where long-term relationships are valued and encouraged. In 2013, he was honored as the Denver Academy Teacher of the Year.
Mr. Duhamel attended the Metropolitan State University of Denver where he studied English, Creative Writing, and Music.
Tennyson
Flint
10th Grade Teacher
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Tennyson Flint is a language arts, English, and grammar teacher, originally from Indianapolis, Ind., and Pomfret, Conn., where she began her teaching career. During her time teaching in Connecticut, she helped develop the new grammar curriculum for the English Department while spearheading the implementation of the language arts curriculum. She is excited to hone her focus on English literature and writing at Denver Academy.
Tennyson earned her Bachelor's and Master’s of Arts in English and Comparative Literature and her Master of Letters (MLitt) in Early Modern and Shakespearean Literary Culture from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland, UK. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and writing novels and short stories.
Katey
Frankel
10th Grade Teacher
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Bio coming soon!
Alyssa
Gafvert
High School/9th Grade Spanish Teacher
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Ms. Gafvert joined Denver Academy in 2018 and teaches Spanish language and culture. She is currently working on her master’s degree in secondary Spanish education with an emphasis on differentiated learning from Regis University. Ms. Gafvert lived and studied in Buenos Aires, Argentina for six months and travels when she can to Latin and South America. Although Ms. Gafvert’s students groan at all of the cheesy songs she plays in class, she knows the students secretly love them, and she believes that incorporating different media into the classroom is important for engagement and retention.
Andy
Klaus-Corritore
9th Grade Teacher
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Mr. Klaus-Corritore has been teaching ninth graders at DA about the annals of history since 2005. Beyond his teaching duties, Mr. K coaches high school golf and high school girls basketball.
Mr. Klaus-Corritore earned his degree in History and Education from Villanova University.
Suzie
Ledford
High School Spanish Teacher
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Ms. Ledford joined Denver Academy in 2022 after spending the previous 16 years in Spanish classrooms in Kentucky and Colorado. One of the most transformational experiences in her career has been traveling the world with her students. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Ledford loves to read and, of course, travel. She lives in Lakewood with her fiancée and their dog Truman, the feisty Frenchie. Ms. Ledford holds a B.A. in Spanish Language & Literature from Georgetown College in Georgetown, KY.
Denise
Levesque
12th Grade Teacher
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Denise comes to Denver Academy with more than 30 years of experience working in education. She has a master's in both European History and International Education Administration. Ms. Levesque has taught in Colorado and overseas. She brings a passion for history and a firm belief that every student can learn history and learn it well.
When not in the classroom, she enjoys kayaking, biking and is currently pursuing the perfect golf swing.
Kristi
Mackenzie
10th Grade Teacher
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Ms. Mackenzie returned to Denver Academy after her previous work at our school from 2000 to 2004. During her four-year tenure at DA as a Prep High School Teacher, Ms. Mackenzie taught multiple science and math classes, mentored five homeroom classes in grades 9 to 11, and organized college visitations for 11th graders. She has also worked as a teacher for the Denver Public and Jefferson County School Districts and as an adjunct professor for Salt Lake City Community College. Ms. Mackenzie has a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in chemistry from the University of San Diego and a Master of Science in Medical Genetics from the University of Colorado, Health Sciences Center.
Aurora
Medina
Director of College & Transition Counseling
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With 27 years of experience as a public school educator, Aurora Medina is excited to be a part of Denver Academy. Over her career, Aurora wore many hats: high school English teacher; yearbook, newspaper, and journalism teacher; reading teacher and literacy specialist; school counselor; assessment facilitator; high school principal; and GED program specialist.
Outside of education, Aurora also worked as an EMDR-trained trauma counselor.
Aurora enjoys writing, reading, talking about all things college- and career-oriented, and working with young people. As the new teacher of Senior Seminar, she gets to meld everything she loves the most (besides her family) into one job!
Aurora earned her Bachelor of Arts in English and her Master of Arts in school counseling from Adams State University.
Russ
Mowry
High School Mathematics Teacher
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Russ hails from Austin, Texas, the live music capital of the world. He's been teaching for 20 years in subjects including mathematics, technology, public speaking, and religious studies. Mr. Mowry is passionate about diversity/inclusion, mountain biking, playing guitar, running, and exploring the outdoors with his family. He loves finding new and creative ways to teach people about math, and showing them that mathematics can be interesting, accessible, and actually FUN!
Kevin
Narvaez
High School Spanish Teacher
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A native of Miami with roots in Nicaragua, Mr. Narvaez discovered the beauty of Colorado after visiting Maroon Bells in 2018. Two years later, he relocated to embrace the state's stunning landscapes, diverse seasons, and outdoor adventures, particularly hiking.
With a deep passion for Spanish and language, Mr. Narvaez creates an engaging learning environment where students feel inspired to explore the richness of the Spanish language and culture. His enthusiasm for teaching goes hand in hand with his belief that learning is a collaborative experience, where both students and teachers inspire and learn from one another.
An avid traveler, Mr. Narvaez enjoys immersing himself in new cultures and cuisines, further enriching his understanding of the world. He holds a degree in Business Administration from Florida International University and earned his teaching certification through the ASPIRE program at the University of Colorado Denver.
Natalie
Pope
12th Grade English Teacher
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Prior to joining the DA team in 2024, Natalie spent five years teaching writing and composition courses at the University at Buffalo in upstate New York while working toward a doctoral degree in English. She also holds a master’s degree in English from the University of Colorado Boulder, where she worked as a writing center consultant. Natalie has taught a variety of classes, including Introduction to Writing & Rhetoric, Writing About the Environment, Writing About Science, and The Novel. She is excited to bring her experience and passion for teaching to Denver Academy!
In her free time, she enjoys cooking Italian and vegetarian cuisine, baking, and spending time outdoors.
Alan
Price
12th Grade Teacher
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Mr. Price spent the first 16 years of his career working as a counselor, teacher, and administrator at a residential treatment facility for youth. In 2005, he came to Denver Academy to teach science and in 2008 became the High School Science Chair. Unsurprisingly, Mr. Price, "the science guy," thinks that everyone should read
The Greatest Show on Earth: Evidence for Evolution
by Richard Dawkins.
Mr. Price earned his B.S. in Political Science from the University of Michigan (Go, Blue!) and is pursuing his M.A. in Special Education from the University of Colorado, Denver.
Ryan
Stander
High School Science & Chemistry Teacher
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Prior to coming to Denver Academy, Mr. Stander spent eight years teaching many different high school science courses at Marburn Academy, a school with a similar student population as Denver Academy. Before becoming a teacher, he also spent 13 years managing the Ecology Research Center at Miami University of Ohio where Mr. Stander earned both his B.S. and M.S. in Zoology with a focus on Ecology.
Clifford
Thompson
High School Mathematics Teacher
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Mr. Thompson has been passionate about mathematics since first discovering numbers, earning his B.S. in economics and mathematics. Since that time, he has worked in a variety of professional capacities including as a Budget and Policy Analyst for the State of Colorado and as a college-level mathematics tutor.
Mr. Thompson spent two years at St. Anne’s Episcopal School teaching fourth grade, tutoring mathematics, and substituting for a variety of grade levels. He is currently enrolled in a Master's of Mathematics Education program at the University of Colorado - Denver.
Rick
Umbach
12th Grade Teacher
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Mr. Umbach has been working with 12th graders at Denver Academy since 2015, teaching Literature for the last six years. Prior to DA, he worked in the Douglas County School District, including the last 21 years at Douglas County High School. Mr. Umbach has extensive experience teaching various subjects in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program as well as Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Throughout his career, he has worked to create an atmosphere that welcomes all students and learning styles. Working at DA continues to be a rejuvenating and fun experience.
In his free time, Mr. Umbach enjoys cycling, flyfishing, golfing (not as good as he thinks he is), and hiking with his dog, Stella.
Kirsten
Wander
11th Grade Teacher
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Bio coming soon!
Cayla
Warneke
11th Grade Teacher
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Ms. Warneke says the best part of her job is building relationships with students. Indeed, it's not surprising that parents and students alike can't help being won over by her bright, good-natured personality. At Denver Academy, you'll find Ms. Warneke teaching Spanish and Literature and acting as a 9th Grade Homeroom Teacher. Outside of school, she loves being with her family and teaching dance.
Ms. Warneke earned her B.A. in Secondary Education (English and Spanish) from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Wanda
Zimmermann
High School Teacher
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Twenty years in the IT sector provided Ms. Zimmermann with a solid foundation of applied mathematics as well as managing diverse groups of personalities. She celebrates her inner geekdom and enjoys bonding with her students over their shared love of programming languages and breadboards. Now in her second career, she's still having fun.
Ms. Zimmermann earned her B.S. in Mathematics from Binghampton University.
Find Us
4400 E. Iliff Ave. Denver, CO 80222
Main/Attendance: 303.777.5870
Admissions: 303.777.5161
General:
info@denveracademy.org
About
Denver Academy is an independent private school for grades 2-12 located in Denver, CO. DA
inspires and empowers a diverse group of learners through student-centered, differentiated, and transformative education.
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