Welcome to 3rd grade!!! I am delighted to be returning to Woodmen Hills, where I am beginning my sixth year, five of which have been in third grade. My goal is 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 20 and 17, three adult step-children, and one step-grandson who is 2 years old. My oldest has finished Juniors ice hockey playing with the St. Cloud (Minnesota) Blizzard and is off to college at the University of Wyoming. My youngest has been drafted to play with the Kansas City Scouts, a Juniors North American Hockey Association (NAHL) team. When I am not at an ice rink, I enjoy 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.

Tzepf@d49.org

(719) 495-5500, (main office)

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