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.

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.

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.

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.