Anthea Justice: K-5 Learning Specialist anthea.justice@jeffco.k12.co.us
This will be my 16th year at Ryan Elementary, my 6th as a Learning Specialist. I spent my first 10 years teaching 3rd and 5th graders. My own education has led me to a Masters in ESL Curriculum & Instruction and an endorsement in Special Education. I look forward to continuing my work - in classrooms - helping contribute to the fun, meaningful, and successful learning environment Ryan has to offer.
When I'm not at school learning, I enjoy spending time outdoors, cooking, reading as many books as I can, and practicing yoga. I look forward to working with you and our amazing Ryan families.
Hello! This will be my sixth year as a Learning Specialist and my second year at Ryan! I'm originally from Maryland, but my fiance & I just bought our first home in Denver! I have taught three years at the elementary level and two years at the middle school level. I have my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and my Master's Degree in Multi-Categorical Special Education & Autism from West Virginia Wesleyan College. It is my top priority to create a positive classroom environment where all students will have fun learning new skills and be successful each day! I can't wait for another amazing year here at Ryan!
When I am not teaching, I enjoy hiking, camping, traveling, tie dying, crafting, reading and cooking! I also love playing volleyball and watching hockey, football, and college basketball!
Darcy Sowords: Speech Language Pathologist
darcy.sowards@jeffco.k12.co.us
This will be my first year at Ryan and my 20th year in Jefferson County Public Schools. Prior to working in Jefferson County I worked in schools and hospitals in North Carolina, Georgia and Texas. I provided communication support to a wide variety of individuals from toddler to geriatric. I'm looking forward to my first year at Ryan and am excited to meet and work with the students here!
When I'm spending time outside of work I enjoy cooking, crafting, and reading.
Andrea (Tresp) Melnick
School Psychologist
andrea.tresp@jeffco.k12.co.us
Hello! This is my first year at Ryan and my seventh year as a school psychologist. I am excited to collaborate with the families and teachers at Ryan to help our students succeed academically, socially, behaviorally, and emotionally. Please feel free to connect with me at any time throughout this year for more support in understanding your child’s learning and mental health needs!