Mrs. Banda

Welcome to first grade! This is my second year teaching first grade at JA, and I am truly honored to be part of your child’s personal cheerleading squad!

I’m a Colorado native and a proud graduate of the University of Oklahoma, where I earned my degree in elementary education (Boomer!).

Outside of the classroom, I love reading, hiking, working on house projects, and spending time outdoors. I also recently got married this past summer!

I can’t wait for a fun year full of learning!

Mrs. Reisbeck

Welcome to 1st Grade! This is my 4th year teaching, and I’ve been part of the JA community for over 12 years in various roles. I earned my BA in Behavioral Science with a minor in Early Childhood Education from MSU Denver.

I'm passionate about creating a positive, inclusive classroom where all students feel valued and can thrive.

I'm a Colorado native, married to Dave. Together, we have three amazing children, Ethan, Ella, and Elias, and two playful dogs. When I'm not in the classroom, you'll find me enjoying time with family and friends, shopping, crafting, or curled up with a good book.

Mrs. Berthold

This is my 5th year teaching at Jefferson Academy, and I am a Jefferson Academy child! I started at JA in first grade and graduated in 2014. It is so wonderful to be back home. Please feel free to reach out to me through email sberthold@jajags.com. I am so thankful to be working with you and your child this year. Let’s make this year a true adventure!

In my free time you'd see me in the mountains with my husband and Australian shepherd Koda! I am a true outdoors woman, but also love having my nose in a book.

Mrs. Porreco

I have had the joy and privilege of teaching 1st grade for the past 16 years. Originally from Virginia, I’ve called Colorado home for many years now. My husband, Marco, and I are proud parents to three amazing girls—who also attend JA.

Teaching has always been my passion. I find so much fulfillment in helping young minds grow, guiding them to become creative thinkers, confident problem-solvers, and independent learners.

Mrs. Beeson

Hello! I'm Samantha Beeson, and I'm very happy to be joining the JA family. With nearly four years of experience as an EA, I truly enjoy working with children and am eager to connect with yours. Originally from San Diego, my family and I moved to Colorado twelve years ago. My husband and I are proud parents of our four kids: our son Syrus is serving in the Army in Alaska, Joce is in her second year of college, Sierra is a senior in high school, and Scarlett is in eighth grade. We enjoy outdoor adventures, from camping in the mountains to soaking up the sun at the California beach. I also love attending live music events and curling up with a good book at home. I look forward to getting to know all the children and making this year an exciting one!

Ms. McNeil

Hello! I’m Ms. McNeil and I’m so excited to start my first year at Jefferson Academy! I was previously a Pre-K teacher for 4 years and a paraprofessional at an elementary school for 2 years. I love helping children learn and grow. 

I was born and raised in Colorado. The majority of my family lives in Hawaii, I go there a couple times a year to visit! It truly is one of my favorite places on earth. During my free time I love being outside. I enjoy paddle boarding, camping, and hiking.

I can’t wait to create new memories this year and see the students grow! 

Mrs. Hose

Hi, my name is Vicki Hose. I have been an EA at Jefferson Academy for 26 years! All of those years have been spent in the same classroom in first grade! Seeing the "lightbulb" light up in the students during first grade is so rewarding! My amazing husband, Bob, is a Westminster Firefighter. We have two beautiful daughters who graduated from JA.  Stephanie who is a high school teacher and Susie who is an orthopedic PA. Welcome to first grade and our amazing team who love teaching!

Mrs. Wolfe

This will be my seventh year at JA as an Educational Assistant. I’ve lived in three states, Colorado is my favorite. I am happily married with two wonderful daughters, two dogs, and a frog.

I enjoy reading, learning, and getting outside. I also absolutely love first grade! I love to see those aha moments that so often occur in first. I’m so excited to help our class learn and grow!