Sarah Bradley
Special Education Director

sbradley@taosacademy.org

Mrs. Bradley was raised in Kingsport, Tennessee and attended both the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and East Tennessee State University, receiving a degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology. She worked in the hotel business for Hyatt Regency and Fairmont Hotels  in San Francisco and Dallas. After making her way to Taos, she began a career in education, received a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Reading and has worked as a Kindergarten teacher, Title I Coordinator and Reading Interventionist and Principal. She joins Taos Academy as  Special Education Director.

Deborah E. Branchal

7/8 Advisory, ELL and Community Schools Coordinator

dbranchal@taosacademy.org

I am a native of Taos, New Mexico and the youngest of seven siblings. I am married with two beautiful adult children. I have a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Bilingual and Reading. My Master’s degree is in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Reading. I also hold a Level III B Administration License. I have many years of experience in the Public School setting. I have taught grades K-5, Department Chair, Principal and Family Engagement Coordinator.  

I am in education to continue supporting students and families with the tools needed to be successful. 

Kelsea Connell

Advisor and Humanities Enrichment

kconnell@taosacademy.org

As a proud first-generation college graduate, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in English with double minors in Education and Sociology. Born and raised in Dallas, TX, I recently made the move to Taos, New Mexico with my husband and daughter. My lifelong passion for learning drives me to inspire and nurture a love for education in others. With extensive experience spanning all K-12 levels, I am dedicated to creating engaging and transformative educational experiences for students.

My mission is to cultivate a lifelong love of learning in every student and to be their most enthusiastic supporter, celebrating their growth and achievements every step of the way.

Michelle DeHerrera

Administrative Support

mdeherrera@taosacademy.org

I have lived in New Mexico most of my life and I have been a part of Taos Academy for many years.  I work digitally supporting administrative staff and I enjoy contributing to the success of Taos Academy.

Dr. Mary Diggin – Technology Administrator

mdiggin@taosacademy.org

Mary brings together technical expertise, educational experience, and creative insight in her role as Technology Director at Taos Academy. Originally from Ireland, she worked as a classroom teacher and also taught technology classes to fellow educators before moving to New Mexico, where she has lived for nearly 30 years. With a strong background in both education and information technology, she ensures that students, staff, and families have the tools they need to thrive in a 21st-century learning environment. In addition to her work in technology, Mary is passionate about alternative health practices, using imagery and mythology to inspire personal growth and development. Her wide-ranging interests reflect a commitment to fostering both innovation and imagination—values she brings to every aspect of her work at Taos Academy.

Cruz Duran

STEM Administration/Health Assistant/Registrar/Administrative

cduran@taosacademy.org

 Mrs. Duran was born and raised in Arizona and has raised her children here in New Mexico.  She has many years in school administration. She enjoys helping students and guiding them towards brighter futures.

Jose Espinoza

Facilities Coordinator

jespinoza@taosacademy.org

I was born and raised in Taos, New Mexico and have worked in construction for most of my career.  I enjoy working at Taos Academy, especially working with the friendly staff.  I love that I have been able to contribute to building a beautiful and safe campus.  I enjoy supervising projects from beginning to end.

Dr. Traci Filiss – EdD, Executive Director/Superintendent

tfiliss@taosacademy.org

My career in educational innovation began as a High School Science teacher in Woodstock, VT and continued into NM inspiring kids as a teacher at Enos Garcia and Eagle Nest Elementary. As an innovative teacher I understood that change in educational opportunities was greatly needed. I received my MS in Educational Technology and later my EdD Doctor of Education Administration. Taos Academy’s hybrid model was developed with the flexibility of digital learning with the strength of relational learning found in face to face instruction. As founder of Taos Academy it is my philosophy that by providing an environment for kids to feel empowered, encouraged, and inspired supports the mission and vision of TA for developing student ownership of  lifelong learning.

Jeanette Henshaw, Special Education Coordinator

jhenshaw@taosacademy.org

Before taking on the role of Special Education Coordinator Ms. Henshaw has been an advisor, Special Education and Math Enrichment Teacher here at Taos Academy.  She originally moved to Taos with her daughter to teach at TISA.  She has taught in the UK, NC, MA and VA.  Ms. Henshaw has taught in both regular education and special education schools.  She has taught all core subject areas and several electives (drama, newspaper, animal care, student government, NJHS).  She has taught mainly at the Middle School and High School level.  She was brought up with a creative arts background and spent half of her life overseas in the UK and Germany,  Her parents were a graphic artist and the Music and Theatre Director for the US Army.  She enjoys traveling and bringing the arts into her curriculum.  She has presented workshops on Multiple Intelligences and Student Engagement.  She loves being part of the Taos Academy Family.  She is always here to help.  Feel free to drop her a line with any education questions you may have.

Megan Jenkins, Academic Advisor/ SMART Lab

mjenkins@taosacademy.org

Megan Jenkins is a driven and accomplished professional with a diverse background. With 10 years of experience in the financial sector, Megan has honed her skills in financial analysis and management, budgeting, and client relations. She spent 7 years at Wolfgang Puck Catering, where she served as Lead Caterer and Finance Manager, overseeing all aspects of catering operations and ensuring financial success for the business.

In addition to her work in the private sector, Megan has also made significant contributions to the education field. She has served as an Administrative Assistant and Substitute Teacher/Educational Assistant for 8 years at Costilla. Her experience in education has given her a unique perspective on the importance of effective communication, organization, and attention to detail.

Megan holds an AA in Energy Management and is currently working towards her BA in Science and Career Tech. She is a dedicated learner who is committed to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in her field. She balances her professional and educational pursuits with a busy family life, as she is the proud mother of three children.

In her free time, Megan enjoys outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and skiing, as well as traveling. Her passion for adventure and exploration is reflected in her work and personal life, as she constantly seeks out new challenges and opportunities for growth.

Patti Kravitz, PE Instructor/Community Schools

pkravitz@taosacademy.org

I have been in education for over 10 yrs in various roles in Ohio, Colorado, and here in Taos. I am also a professional Voiceover artist as well as have been in the health and wellness world for over 30 yrs as a Musculoskeletal Therapist/Personal Trainer working with all ages (MY OTHER PASSIONS). I enjoy working with youth providing them with tools for their toolbox for life¨. When not working with kids I am either behind my mic, running, hiking, stretching, keeping my mind/body/ spirit in balance.

Dr. Mae LaBella, Principal

mlabella@taosacademy.org

I come from a long line of family generations that were born and raised in Taos. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Political Studies from Pitzer College, a Master’s degree in Teaching Math and Science from NMSU/LANL, a Doctorate in K-12 Administration from Jones International University and attended law school for 2 years at Concord University.  This will be my 24th year in education.  During the past 23 years,  I have held many roles such as teaching k-12 and college courses, instructional coach for teachers, department chair, principal, athletic director, director of school improvement-student nutrition-transportation, and hearing’s officer. 

I am in education and at Taos Academy to provide opportunities to students so they can follow and accomplish their dreams.

Amy Lucero, Front Office Manager

alucero@taosacademy.org

I was born in La Jara, Colorado and grew up in Amalia, New Mexico. Growing up in a small community I understand the importance of providing children with a good support team and a safe environment where they can flourish. I have worked with children for about 15 year and enjoy helping students around campus and with navigating their every day lives.

Jamie Lucero-Martinez, Program Director – STEM +Arts Coordinator, District Test Coordinator, Equity Council Lead

jlucero-martinez@taosacademy.org

Mrs. Lucero Martinez was born and raised in Taos. She earned a B.U.S. in University Studies Music/Creative Writing, and M. Ed in Educational Administration. She has over two decades experience in education working from elementary grade level through college. She enjoys empowering our students to build their community.be successful.

Tami Martinson, Humanities Enrichment/Curriculum Coordinator

tmartinson1@taosacademy.org

I was born in Seattle, Washington, and attended Eastern Washington University where I graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Technical Communications. I’ve worked in the Cellular Communications industry, and later in the field of mental health where I learned the importance of personal advocacy, self-care, and early intervention. I am passionate about lifelong learning, and in 2013, I decided to become a full-time educator. I earned my Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning from Colorado State University, and have enjoyed serving our Taos Academy community since 2014. I am the Digital Curriculum Coordinator, and I also teach Humanities Enrichment. I live in El Prado with my family, and I love reading, writing fiction and creative non-fiction, and playing with my dog. 

Patricia Meagher NBCT, College Link Advisor/ELA Enrichment Teacher/Gifted Coordinator/NHS Sponsor

pmeagher@taosacademy.org

After living part time in Taos for nearly fifteen years, Mrs. Meagher permanently moved to Taos in 2020. In her previous life, she lived in Chicago where she taught for over twenty years for the Chicago Public Schools. Mrs. Meagher’s teaching focus is in the areas of English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Gifted Education. She has received the Fund for Teachers Fellowship, the Transatlantic Outreach Program Fellowship, as well as multiple education grants from the Chicago Foundation for Education. Mrs. Meagher was also an adjunct professor for Loyola University of Chicago, and has served as mentor to several pre-service teachers. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Michigan State University, and a Masters of Education from Depaul University of Chicago. In her free time she loves to read, cook, hike, travel, knit and play with her kitten Fitzy. Mrs. Meagher’s philosophy of teaching is if the students and teacher aren’t having fun – then you’re not doing it right!

Bre Messerole, Academic Advisor/FLEX Program Coordinator

bmesserole@taosacademy.org

As a teacher, my aim is to support students’ imaginations and enrich their concept of self and the world. I believe teaching and learning is all about inquiry, exploration, curiosity, and creativity. Graduating from the University of South Dakota with a Bachelors in English Education and Library Media, I am passionate about helping students find their voice and learning how to communicate in this big wide world. I am a mom of a young son, and you can find us hiking, swimming in the river, jumping in mud puddles, and eating Taos Cow ice cream.

Emmett Moulton, Middle School Advisor/Geometry Enrichment

emoulton@taosacademy.org

I was born in Taos and raised in Embudo, New Mexico. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in TESOL from The University of New Mexico. After graduation, I moved to Spain and taught English there for two years. As of now, my time in Europe has come to an end and Taos Academy is next on my journey. I graduated from Taos Academy in 2017 and I am super stoked to be teaching at such an amazing school! 

I chose the field of education to help encourage students to be enthusiastic lifelong learners.

Billy Pepper, Grade 7,8,9 Advisor, Fitness/Health Instructor, Math Enrichment Teacher

bpepper@taosacademy.org

Born and raised in New Mexico I spent most of my days anticipating the next sunrise or sunset. Following the sun led to a fabulous childhood full of wide open spaces, biking with buddies, kicking the ball around on the pitch, shooting hoops in the gym and of course learning within New Mexico’s public education system. Ultimately earning a MA in Education from UNM. I spent 14 years giving back what I have learned on this journey through life to the youth of various ages in a variety of public school settings in Albuquerque. Seven years ago my family relocated to Northern NM. I taught 5 years for Cimarron Municipal Schools then made the transition to Taos Academy. I believe you should play as hard as you work and vice versa!

Kelci Pike, Career Pathways Coordinator, ECHS Liason

kpike@taosacademy.org

After working for a high school global service learning program, Rustic Pathways, for 5 years, I came to Taos Academy excited to work with the wonderful youth of our Taos community. I graduated from Brandeis University with a focus in International Studies and Sociology. At Taos Academy I have the pleasure of teaching several subjects including Global Studies, Leadership, Career Pathways, Geometry and Pre-Algebra.

Pamela Rodriguez, HR & Assistant Finance Manager

prodriguez@taosacademy.org

Pamela was born and raised in New Mexico. She has worked in business offices for most of her career.  She has over 12 Years of experience in School Administrative Assistant positions.  Her children were her inspiration to get into the educational field.  She likes the schedule that schools provide and she enjoys working as part of a team to help students be successful.

Chris Torrez, Security and Maintenance

ctorres@taosacademy.org

I have been living and working in Taos most of my adult life.  Before Taos Academy I was working security in a variety of places.

I enjoy making the Taos Academy campus clean and safe for staff and students.  Working security gives me the opportunity to see people and make sure everyone is safe.

Ashley Trujillo

Administrative Assistant

aduran@taosacademy.org

I was born and raised in Taos, New Mexico. I have worked as an administrative assistant in several organizations in Taos.  I am happy to be at Taos Academy.  I enjoy relating to students in a variety of settings and helping them find their way.

Cal van Willigen, 5th & 6th Grade Adviser

cvanwilligen@taosacademy.org

Cal van Willigen began his teaching career in southern Colorado where he earned a MA Degree in Education from Adams State University. Returning to his hometown of Taos, NM he has a certain “joie de vivre” that permeates into the classroom and creates a fun, exciting learning environment.

Jason Weisfeld, Advisor, Career Pathways and 7th & 8th Grade Science/Math Enrichment Teacher/ Internship Coordinator

jweisfeld@taosacademy.org

I was born and raised in Taos. I have been teaching for many years. My passions include my family, teaching, learning, spending time in the great outdoors and playing music. I have a Tier 3 NM Teaching Licence and Master of Science Teaching from NM Tech.

Dorota Witney, Math Instructor

dwitney@taosacademy.org

I was born, raised and educated in Poland, finishing my formal education with Masters of Geophysical Engineering degree. I relocated to England with my work in the Oil and Gas sector and where I also started my own family. While raising my two daughters I continued my education, finishing with a Bachelor of Honors Psychology degree. In 2005 we relocated to Houston, Texas with our jobs in the energy exploration fields. I started to teach in Houston and following our move to Angel Fire, NM, I continue to serve local communities teaching math and science.

I am in education to invest in our future.