Staff

Who We Are

The faculty and staff at Griffith Centers for Children, Chins Up’s J. Wilkins Opportunity School are committed to ensuring that all students receive a quality education and care that helps them thrive.

Meet the Staff

Children,Running,In,Physical,Education,Class,,Close-up,Of,A,Foot

Only the Best

Our Staff Have the Knowledge and Expertise to Help Kids THRIVE!

The faculty and staff at Griffith Centers for Children, Chins Up’s J.Wilkins Opportunity School are constantly coming up with innovative ways to help kids learn and stay motivated throughout the program, no matter what challenges they face at home or in the classroom. With experienced educators and licensed therapists, on-site, our kids have the best chance to succeed in the classroom.

Our

Faculty & Staff

Will Sanders

Principal

William Sanders Sr. was raised in Alabama and a proud graduate of Weaver High School. After graduating from Coalinga Junior College in California, he transitioned to Ohio and received his undergraduate degree from Youngstown State University. William completed his graduate work at Regis University with a Master of Special Education Generalist degree. Inspired by his stepmother, William has worked as a special education teacher and director for 13 years in both Colorado and Ohio. William’s career is devoted to guiding children to become productive and caring individuals.

On a personal note, William says that his biggest accomplishment is becoming a father of two intelligent, energetic, and amazing young boys.

Litia Sistrunk

English Teacher

Hi my name is Litia Sistrunk. I have a B.S. degree from Auburn University Montgomery. Since graduating, I have devoted my time to helping children in foster care, however I have always had a love for teaching. After an opportunity to teach English in China, I knew that I should continue in my calling. So I am honored to join the education team at the Griffith Centers for Children alongside pursuing my Master of Education in Special Education.
I believe that to teach is to touch a life forever so I am excited for the opportunity to continue to impact lives.

Nicole Emmert

Elementary Teacher

My name is Nicole Emmert. This is my second year teaching but fourth year working in a school. I love teaching and helping my students to succeed. I hope to help all of my students to grow in each subject area as well as in their social emotional needs as well.

Danielle Stuut

High School Social Studies Teacher

I am the high school social studies teacher! I am the proud mom to 6 kids and 2 pups. This will be the start of my fourth year teaching at The Griffith Centers for Children. When I am not teaching social studies, you might find me teaching Art or playing Spikeball with the students. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, art, and (as the staff and students well know) baking. I am passionate about bringing creativity, fun, and light to our wonderful school. The students here have made a huge impact in my life. I am proud to call GCC my work home!

Jade McIntosh

High School Science Teacher

I am the High School Science teacher! I am beginning my fourth year at the Griffith Centers! I started as a Youth Treatment Counselor on the Rockies Lodge and then transitioned to Education where I was a Teachers Assistant for a year and a crisis management specialist for another year. This is my second year teaching science and I love all the STEM labs I get to do with my students! In my spare time, I coach girls basketball at a local high school. I enjoy watching these kids grow, overcome adversity and be successful!

Jennifer Stansberry

Education Program Supervisor

Brandie Woodall

Middle School Teacher

Dave "DB" Hagood

Physical Education Teacher

Sue Osburn

Interventionist and Title IX Coordinator

Monica Holick

Special Education Teacher

My name is Monica Holick.
I am a country girl at heart and grew up in the state of Iowa. I attended Wichita State University, in Wichita, KS; and graduated with a Master’s in Health Science in the early 80’s. I have had many wonderful career opportunities throughout my lifetime. My earliest jobs included working in the Aviation industry. I worked for Boeing as a Systems Analyst and for Textron (known as Beechcraft) as a Project Manager. After working over two decades in the corporate world, I decided to return to school and become a teacher.
I returned to Wichita State University and graduated in 2013, with a Master’s in Teaching (Early Childhood Special Education). I moved to Colorado soon after I graduated. I have lived in Colorado since May of 2014. During my journey in Colorado, I have acquired a license as a Special Education Generalist.
I am honored to be working for Griffith Center for Children, as a Special Education teacher this year. I will be primarily teaching Secondary Math, as I continuously focus on the healthy development of each of my student’s social and emotional well-being.
When I am not in the classroom, you will find me in the great outdoors. I love the mountains and everything that is associated with them. One interesting fact about my life is; two years ago, I mastered the Manitou Incline. What an adventure!

Tommy Bryant Jr.

Charge