Welcome to 3rd grade!!! I am delighted to be returning to Woodmen Hills, where I have been teaching since 2105. My goal is to help instill a love for discovery, using strategies that are intentional, personal, and applicable for each child: meaningful learning empowers individuals and enriches communities!

Family - particularly my parents (who now are retired public school teachers) and my grandfather (a college U.S. History professor) - was instrumental in encouraging my curiosity, fostering my love of learning, and challenging my exchange of ideas. Initially, I applied that principle to journalism, working as a newspaper reporter and editor, including at The Gazette during the 1990s. I discovered my love for children and teaching while volunteering in several classrooms and programs throughout the Colorado Springs region.

For 30+ years, I have called Colorado Springs home. I have two sons, ages 23 and 20, three adult step-children, and three step-grandchildren: 5, 18 months,  and 1 year. My oldest is a senior at the University of Wyoming, set to graduate in December with a degree in real estate finance and business administration. My youngest will play his third - and last - year in the North American Hockey Association's (NAHL) Juniors ice hockey with a new team in Northern Colorado, The Colorado Grit. When I am not at school, I enjoy trail running with my dog. My family and I also escape to a small mountain cabin near Lake George, where we hike, fish, and ride ATVs. My husband Tom and I find joy in the arts, backpacking (Camino de Santiago in France and northern Spain!), reading, astronomy, and sports spectatorship.

I believe education best thrives when parents and educators collaborate. My door (physical and electronic) always is open, and I welcome your questions, comments, and input. I look forward to this school year and the accomplishments that, together, we will make.

teresa.zepf@d49.org

(719) 495-5500, (main office)

(719) 495-1149, ext. 6436, (classroom, voicemail)