MDS Counselor
dana_crooks@dpsk12.net
Restorative Practice Coordinator (RJ)
d_cutkelvin-heern@dpsk12.net
My name is Denise, and I serve as the Dean of Discipline and Restorative Practices at Colfax Elementary. A native New Yorker, I’ve called Colorado home since 2018 and have proudly worked with Denver Public Schools since 2022. With a background in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, I bring a deep understanding of behavior, empathy, and accountability to my role.
Having started as a Special Education paraprofessional and now serving as Dean, I am committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. As both an educator and a DPS parent, I am deeply invested in creating a school culture that values relationships, encourages growth, and supports restorative approaches to discipline. I believe in working collaboratively with students, staff, and families to build a community rooted in trust, dignity, and shared responsibility.
Native American Culture & Education
destiny_leftwich@dpsk12.net
MDS Counselor
gem_leone@dpsk12.net
Guest Teacher
msmall@dpsk12.net
My name is Marcia Small. I am a retired DPS Dance/Physical Education teacher. I taught one year at East High School, ten years at North High School and finished my teaching career at South High School where I taught for sixteen years. When I retired eight years ago I quickly became extremely bored and so I started guest teaching. Since my son, Cole Hydrick, was already teaching at Colfax Elementary I quickly adopted Colfax as my favorite school for guest teaching.
Speech Pathologist
Karin_Ahern@dpsk12.net
Karin is in her 8th year at Colfax and 25th year in the district. Karin loves supporting children with their communication needs and strives to make therapy sessions engaging and fun. When not working, she enjoys backpacking, puzzling and working in the garden.
Psychologist
Michelle_Mcguire@dpsk12.net