Alissa graduated from Penn State with a BA in Economics and a BS in Geography. She worked at universities in Pennsylvania, Australia and Oregon before settling in Colorado. Alissa earned an MS in Education from Portland State University and she holds her principal license and teacher endorsements with the Colorado Department of Education. She loves helping people live their best lives, and she believes that education is one key way to do just that. 

 

Alissa loves working with teens and young adults. Prior to teaching at the Pagosa Springs High School, Alissa served as the Check and Connect Mentor at the Pagosa Springs Middle School. She also worked as the Stepping Stones Teacher, Behavior Coach, and Parent Liaison at the Pagosa Springs Elementary School. Alissa is an SEL (social emotional learning) expert who coached students who needed support in order to believe in themselves, regulate their emotions, build their social skills, and thrive in school.

 

Over the years, Alissa has enjoyed working as a mentor, coach, and Special Education teacher. She is a first-generation college graduate who believes that every student has an ability to navigate challenges and enjoy a happy and healthy life!