Mustang Spotlight

Mustang Spotlight 2024-25

March 2025

Shoemakeer. is getting an awardLuz Shoemaker
Principal Carolyn Leyes to recognized Luz Shoemaker for going above and beyond to accommodate Mrs. Hammel's class. She has handled the sudden change of combining two classes with such grace, love and kindness. These unforeseen changes could be extremely challenging, but Luz has risen to the occasion every time. Luz loves her students and cares so much for not only their academic well-being, but their social emotional growth.






Kerrigan receiving an awardAmanda Kerrigan
Principal Anna Conrad recognized Amanda Kerrigan for challenging her students to become the best versions of themselves, both as learners and individuals. She creates engaging lessons that foster student ownership and push students to produce high-level work through creative experiences, such as the March Madness Poetry Bracket and AP Lit Jenga. Amanda brings an exceptional work ethic, positivity, and experience to our students, staff, and community.




Paul Bonner
Mr. Cameron Jones and Mr. Paul Bonner recognized two wrestlers from the high school girls wrestling team. Abby Reeves is a 3-time state qualifier, has placed 2 times at state, had 34 wins this season, and place 2nd at state. Kara Donegan is a 3-time state qualifier, had 30 wins this season, and placed 4th at state. Ms. Jones also thanked the coaches for the many hours that they put in to create a successful program.Mr. Cameron Jones and Mr. Paul Bonner recognized two wrestlers from the high school girls wrestling team. Abby R. is a 3-time state qualifier, has placed 2 times at state, had 34 wins this season, and place 2nd at state. Kara D. is a 3-time state qualifier, had 30 wins this season, and placed 4th at state. Ms. Jones also thanked the coaches for the many hours that they put in to create a successful program.







February 2025

Students were given awards for their literature submissions.MSMS Students
MSMS students were given awards for their literature submissions.











Maddie Goldman
Maddie Goldberg reciving the awardMaddie Goldman demonstrates unwavering dedication to her students’ success, going above and beyond to ensure meaningful learning experiences. She generously volunteers her time on various school and district committees, contributing her expertise and leadership. Maddie actively seeks feedback from colleagues and administrators to continuously refine her teaching practices and offers thoughtful guidance to others. A true leader, Maddie is always the first to step forward when her school needs support in planning or implementing initiatives. She builds strong, positive relationships with her students and colleagues, dedicating extra time to those who need it most while maintaining high expectations for learning and behavior. Maddie’s commitment and passion make her an invaluable member of the school community.



December 2024
Manitou Springs School District’s Mustang Spotlight recognized staff members from Ute Pass Elementary School and Manitou Springs High School and a high school senior who are making an impact at our schools during the Mustang Spotlight presentation at the board of education meeting on December 16 held in Manitou Springs High School’s media center.


Chris LewisChris Lewis
Chris Lewis, Manitou Springs High School School Counselor, was recognized for his efforts in supporting staff and students. “Chris demonstrates the core value of relationships simply by who he is and how he can relate to people,” said Director of Safety and Security Janie Anderson. “He is an asset to our mental health team and gets along well with his co-workers.” Lewis joined MSSD14 in August 2024. In his short time, he has built trust with staff and students.







Terrance BatsonTerrence Batson
Terrence Batson, Ute Pass Elementary School Spanish and Gifted and Talented Teacher, was celebrated for his unmatched passion for education. Terrence has helped with World Language and Culture Night and works hard to align the foreign language classes throughout the district. When it comes to our core values, Terrence demonstrates them daily. “Terrence is someone that shows up for work and says, ‘Put me where you need me,’” said Ute Pass Elementary School Principal Jackie Powell. “He is selfless, caring, and loyal to our school and district.”






alexanderAlexander Steger
Alexander Steger, a senior at Manitou Springs High School, was commended for his hard work and dedication as a student, athlete, and human being. He’s even earned a spot as a semi-finalist for the highly competitive Daniels Fund Scholarship, a testament to his bright future. “He is fully engaged in every class,” said Jennifer Trainor, Manitou Springs Gifted and Talented School Counselor. “His dedication to learning is evident in the insightful questions he asks, always striving for a deeper understanding of the material.”









November 2024
Manitou Springs School District’s Mustang Spotlight recognized Manitou Springs High School’s Cross Country Teams and coaches who had a remarkable 2024 season. These athletes and coaches were recognized during the Mustang Spotlight presentation on November 21 held in Manitou Springs High School’s media center.

cross coutnry teamThe girls’ team became the Tri Peaks League Champions, Regional Champions, and CHSAA 3A State runner up. The boys’ team took 3rd place at Regionals. Both boys' and girls' teams qualified for the State Championship meet—an accomplishment that has not been achieved since 1997. This milestone reflects the dedication and consistent effort of the coaching staff and the athletes. “As Manitou Springs celebrates the successes of its cross country program, we are grateful for the dedication of Coach Sherwood, Mack, and Bresnahan,” said Athletics and Activities Director Cameron Jones. “[Their] vision and transformative leadership continue to inspire our student-athletes, shaping them into leaders on and off the track.”

Mustang Spotlight is the district’s recognition program that celebrates students and staff members at the Board of Education meetings.


September 2024
Manitou Springs School District’s Mustang Spotlight recognized a Ute Pass Elementary School staff member who has made a difference in the district and at UPES during the Mustang Spotlight presentation at the board of education meeting on September 16 held in Manitou Springs High School’s media center.



spotlight awardKym Ferguson
Kym Ferguson, Ute Pass Elementary School Kindergarten Teacher, was recognized for her ability to foster incredible student growth and nurture young minds for nearly 25 years at UPES. “Kym has helped mentor many new teachers in her career and cares deeply about the field of education and fostering a deep appreciation and curiosity of the natural world around us,” said UPES Principal Jackie Powell. “The opportunities she provides are not only limited to field trips and experiential learning, but also moments to explore, create, and imagine- concepts every childhood should be filled with.”

Mustang Spotlight is the district’s recognition program that celebrates staff members at the Board of Education meetings.





Mustang Spotlight 2023-24

May 2024
Manitou Springs School District’s Mustang Spotlight recognized staff members from Manitou Springs School District and Manitou Springs High School who are making an impact at the high school and district wide during the Mustang Spotlight presentation at the board of education meeting on May 22 held in Manitou Springs High School’s media center.



santosGabby Santos
Gabby Santos, Manitou Springs High School’s P.E. Teacher, was celebrated for her commitment to creating inclusive learning experiences for all of her students. She has dedicated herself to creating a purposeful Scope and Sequence for Lifetime Recreation that teaches students not only how to be active and well now but across their lifetimes through various activities. “Gabby also creates opportunities both inside and beyond her classroom,” said MSHS Principal Anna Conrad. “She is the kind of person who makes the people around her better day in and day out.” When it comes to our core values, Gabby demonstrates them daily. She connects with students individually and celebrates them as both a student and as a person.




bakerChristina Baker
Christina Baker, Manitou Springs School District’s Data Specialist, was recognized for her efforts helping staff and families across the district with Choice and registration, all things PowerSchool, Canvas, and assessments. “Christina is a hard working, open-minded, kind and thoughtful teammate,” said Director of Student Success Kolleen Johnson. “She sees herself as a support for all our stakeholders and does so with kindness and thoughtfulness.” Christina is highly respected by everyone she comes into contact with even when she is needing to maintain high compliance needs.


fine line

Manitou Springs School District’s Mustang Spotlight recognized staff members from Manitou Springs Middle School and Manitou Springs School District who are making an impact at the middle school and district wide during the Mustang Spotlight presentation at the board of education meeting on April 15 held in Manitou Springs High School’s media center.


Mustang Spotlight
April 2024

Jennifer TrainorJennifer Trainor
Jennifer Trainor, Manitou Springs School District’s 6-12 Gifted and Talented Counselor/Career and College Coordinator, was celebrated for the progress she has made as a leader on our mental health team and among secondary students. Jennifer works with students at Manitou Springs Middle School and Manitou Springs High School. “Jen has jumped into her position over the past two years as an open-minded learner,” said Director of Student Success Kolleen Johnson. Jennifer co-facilitates the mental health team and acts as a mentor to her peers. She also supports middle school and high school students and families and helped spearhead the creation of a college fair, career fair, and work-based learning field trips for students.




Marcus JordanMarcus Jordan
Marcus Jordan, Manitou Springs Middle School Media Tech, was recognized for his efforts helping staff and students across the district with technology questions and concerns. “Every time I walk into the media center, Marcus is busy working with students, fixing devices or supporting the principal with the weekly newsletter,” said Director of Technology Cat Olimb. “He never says no if asked to supervise students during lunch or cover a class in the media center.” Marcus demonstrates and lives our core values of Relationships, Deep Learning and Opportunity in his work as a media tech and the Robotics Team Head Coach.



fine line



Mustang Spotlight
February 2024

Manitou Springs School District celebrated staff members who made an impact in their schools and district wide during the Mustang Spotlight presentation at the board of education meeting on February 12 held in Manitou Springs High School’s media center.


erika_warrenErika Warren
Erika Warren, MSSD14 Human Resources Specialist, was recognized for her role in the creation and implementation of district-wide systems, most notably our substitute workforce. Erika has quickly become a well-respected member of the central office team as well as the greater Manitou Springs School District. “Erika is a very quick learner and has a problem-solving approach to her work,” said Eric McMartin, Assistant Superintendent. “When I come to her with questions, she is quick with an answer or begins to research when she's unsure.”




julie_lavigneJulie Lavigne
Preschool teacher at Manitou Springs Elementary School, Julie Lavigne, was honored for her dedication and adaptability as she navigates the intricacies of Universal Preschool Education. MSES Principal Maria Masone spoke about Julie at the BOE meeting and her work on the NME Core Team. Her commitment to continuous learning and growth is evident in every aspect of her work, from developing innovative protocols to creating engaging educational experiences for our youngest learners.




maria_medinaMaria Medina
Maria Medina, who works as a custodian at Manitou Springs Elementary School, was thanked for working tirelessly to maintain the cleanliness of MSES and ensuring that the building remains in impeccable condition. “Ms. Medina fosters opportunities for both staff and students at MSES by establishing a secure, healthy and clean work environment,” said Maria Masone, principal at MSES. “Her warm smiles serve as a bridge between languages, connecting individuals in a harmonious and inclusive atmosphere.”




mat_krutkaMat Krutka
Concluding the evening, District Network Manager, Mat Krutka, received praise for his efforts in MSSD14’s security upgrades. Mat spends multiple hours learning new systems, working with vendors, helping with computer questions and teaching staff how to use the equipment properly. “I am proud to have Mat as our safety and security team member and he is one of the hardest workers I know,” said MSSD14 Director of Safety and Security Janie Anderson.




Mustang Spotlight is the district’s recognition program that celebrates staff members at the Board of Education meetings.