Elyssa has been working with individuals with diverse needs for over 15 years. She began her career as a Special Education teacher and went on to receive a Master's degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from Arizona State University. She became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) in 2019. Elyssa is a passionate believer in the power of public education and an advocate for individuals with neurodiversities. Elyssa's goal is to empower students to identify their values and advocate for their needs with as much independence as possible.

Elyssa serves the following school sites within the Durango School District: Durango High School, Florida Mesa Elementary, Pathways to Independence, Park Elementary, and Sunnyside Elementary. 

During her free time, Elyssa enjoys spending time with her two young children and husband in the outdoors. 

John serves the following school sites within the Durango School District: Animas Valley Elementary, Escalante Middle School, Fort Lewis Elementary, Miller Middle School, Needham Elementary, and Riverview Elementary.

Victoria earned her Master's of Science in Mind-Body Medicine in 2021.  She specializes in helping people of all ages access mind-body therapies to support nervous system regulation and social-emotional balance.  She is a Veteran, a yoga teacher, and has a depth of experience working in trauma-informed care and resilience.  Victoria is currently earning a Master's Certificate in Behavior Analysis and loves empowering students with techniques and strategies to self-regulate and find their balance so they can feel successful, accepted, and ready to learn.  

Victoria adores being a mother, an outdoor adventurer, and a woo-inclined yogi fueled by good food, nature, and the people she holds dear.

Saydee has been in roles that focus on helping students of many different ages and learning needs build their toolbox of social, emotional and regulation skills for the past 4 years. She brings a deep passion for holistic, person-centered approaches to behavior and mental well-being. Saydee believes in always remaining curious, empowering students to understand themselves, take ownership of their choices, build community, and identify and live in alignment with the kind of person they want to be. Her work is rooted in compassion, respect, play, and a commitment to individual growth. In her free time, Saydee loves to ponder big questions, play outside, travel, music and dance.

Jake began his interest in therapeutic care in college and he got his degree in Cognitive Science at Rice University. He first came to Durango to work at Open Sky Wilderness Therapy, where he was a Senior Guide for nearly two years.  Jake is now excited to directly helping students within the school district!

This school year, Jake will be servicing at Escalante Middle School and Park Elementary, and he is looking forward to developing creative ways to play in order to help develop crucial skills with his students.

When he’s not working, Jake takes plenty of improv classes, goes to the movies with his partner, and plays Dungeons and Dragons with his friends. You might even see Jake performing on the Durango Arts Center stage!