Welcome to fifth grade! Fifth grade is broken into two cores. Half of the students will see Rachel Challman for social studies and literacy and Kiki Castle for math and science. Felicia Evans, our English Language Development teacher will be co-teaching with Rachel Challman during literacy. The other half of fifth graders will see Danielle Andrews for social studies and literacy and Barbara Meis for math and science. In focusing on setting your student up for success as a future sixth grader, we strongly believe in the power of communication, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. As educators we will make sure we are meeting the needs of your student(s) and serving them to the best of our abilities.
Felicia Evans
English Language Development
Hi, my name is Felicia Evans and I am the English language development teacher for 5th grade. This is my second year at STEM Launch, my 16th year of teaching, and I am so excited to join you on this learning journey. I am a Colorado native, earning my BA from Metropolitan State University in Denver, a ME from Lesley University, and a MS from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Before STEM I taught 2nd grade, 4th grade, and K-5 ESL at Hillcrest Elementary, and I was an ELD Specialist/Instructional Coach at the district 12 Early Childhood Program and North Star elementary. I firmly believe that collaboration and teamwork are the keys to success in education and life.
When I am not at school I enjoy spending time with my five year old son and my husband. I am a HUGE Denver Bronco fan, and I love to listen to live music!
When I am not at school I enjoy spending time with my five year old son and my husband. I am a HUGE Denver Bronco fan, and I love to listen to live music!
Rachel Challman
Social Studies and Literacy
My name is Rachel Challman and this is my 2nd year teaching. I went to the University of Colorado at Boulder and graduated with my BA in English and Elementary Education. I also teach a Robotics class in Boulder on the weekends. Before teaching fifth grade, I was a long-term substitute in fourth grade at STEM Launch.
In my spare time, I read thriller and mystery books. Ever since I was young, reading and writing have been my favorite parts of school. My goal as an educator is to encourage students to find a love for reading and/or writing. Although it is not included in our STEM acronym, reading will always be an integral part of Science, Math, Engineering, etc. for the rest of students' lives. I look forward to working with you and your child and fostering their passion for literacy.
In my spare time, I read thriller and mystery books. Ever since I was young, reading and writing have been my favorite parts of school. My goal as an educator is to encourage students to find a love for reading and/or writing. Although it is not included in our STEM acronym, reading will always be an integral part of Science, Math, Engineering, etc. for the rest of students' lives. I look forward to working with you and your child and fostering their passion for literacy.
Kiki Castle
Math and Science
Hello! I am so excited to be working with you at STEM Launch this year! My name is Kiki Castle, and this will be my 2nd year teaching. I received my BA from the University of Colorado at Boulder in Psychology and Elementary Education. I am currently getting my MA from the University of Northern Colorado in Curriculum Studies.
Before teaching fifth grade, I was a sixth grade math and science teacher. My main goal as an educator is to prepare my students with the skills they need, such as collaboration and critical thinking. The STEM model of problem-based learning is one that perfectly aligns with my teaching philosophy, and allows students to learn through inquiry and exploration. I look forward to getting to know your students better and immersing them, and myself, in the amazing work!
Before teaching fifth grade, I was a sixth grade math and science teacher. My main goal as an educator is to prepare my students with the skills they need, such as collaboration and critical thinking. The STEM model of problem-based learning is one that perfectly aligns with my teaching philosophy, and allows students to learn through inquiry and exploration. I look forward to getting to know your students better and immersing them, and myself, in the amazing work!
Danielle Andrews
Social Studies and Literacy
My name is Danielle Andrews and this is my sixth year teaching. This year, I am very excited to be teaching fifth grade at STEM Launch K8! I received my BA in Language Arts and minored in Earth Science from Central Michigan University. I also received my MA Education and Elementary Education degree from Regis University in 2006.
My favorite part of teaching is the excitement and wonder that the students have in the classroom and that I am able to be a part of their journey. As a child, my inquisitiveness and curiosity along with my love of science and reading, I knew would lead me to becoming a teacher. Therefore, I am very thrilled to be able to continue my passion and dedication to the STEM model and support problem-based learning activities that enrich students’ lives every day.
When I am not at school, I enjoy traveling, sports, spending time with family and friends and any activity outdoors.
My favorite part of teaching is the excitement and wonder that the students have in the classroom and that I am able to be a part of their journey. As a child, my inquisitiveness and curiosity along with my love of science and reading, I knew would lead me to becoming a teacher. Therefore, I am very thrilled to be able to continue my passion and dedication to the STEM model and support problem-based learning activities that enrich students’ lives every day.
When I am not at school, I enjoy traveling, sports, spending time with family and friends and any activity outdoors.
Barbara Meis
Math and Science
My name is Barbara Meis. I am thrilled to be teaching fifth grade at STEM Launch. This is my first year at STEM Launch, but my thirty-sixth year teaching. I received my BA in Elementary Education from VA Tech. I completed graduate courses for my MA at George Mason University and Trinity College. I have spent most of my teaching career in Maryland.
I moved to Colorado in June 2016 and consider myself very fortunate to be living here and working in this community. I love Math and Science. It is a joy to watch my students collaborate and discover more about the world every day. Outside of teaching, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my husband, children and grandchildren.
I moved to Colorado in June 2016 and consider myself very fortunate to be living here and working in this community. I love Math and Science. It is a joy to watch my students collaborate and discover more about the world every day. Outside of teaching, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my husband, children and grandchildren.