Meet our Incredible Team

From the moment I began my career in early childhood education, I knew that someday I wanted to create my own special school. I was always thinking, “I love this, but I think this could be even better.” I dreamed of creating a school that brought together the things I knew worked best for children while giving them as much time and space outdoors as possible. That dream became Castlewood Community Preschool & Kindergarten. My hope is to create a place where children feel known, valued, curious, and free to learn through play, relationships, and exploration.

My husband and I live in Castle Rock with our daughters, two dogs, and two cats. I feel incredibly lucky to have turned my passion for early childhood education into a school that feels like home to so many children and families.

I've wanted to be an educator for as long as I can remember. As a child, I loved creating lesson plans for my dolls, stuffed animals, and younger brother, so it's no surprise that teaching became my calling.

Growing up, I was always babysitting, helping my teachers, or finding opportunities to work with younger children, making education the only career I ever truly considered. Before joining Castlewood Community Preschool & Kindergarten, I spent 15 years in public education as an elementary teacher (2nd and 5th grade) and later as an Assistant Principal. After taking two years to stay home with my own children and watching them experience the joy of preschool, I realized my heart had shifted toward early childhood education. I became a preschool teacher and quickly discovered that there is nothing quite like learning through play. The curiosity, imagination, laughter, and wonder that fill a preschool classroom make every day meaningful.

Today, I have the privilege of serving as the Director of CCPK. I love supporting our incredible teachers, partnering with families, and helping create a school where children feel safe, known, and excited to learn. Castlewood is a truly special community, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of it.

A few things about me is that I am happiest in comfy sweats with a good book and a warm beverage. After three years in Houston, I do not take cool Colorado mornings for granted! I have lots of old lady hobbies—plants, pilates, puzzles, and hopefully soon I will learn to needlepoint. I'm a huge Golden Retriever fan. If it were up to me, we'd probably have three. My family loves to ride bikes, camp, and play in creeks.

Hi! I'm Kendra Schichtel. I am originally from Texas, but moved to Colorado after my daughter was born. I have an elementary education degree from Tarleton State University. This will be my sixth year in the classroom and third year teaching Kindergarten. I am so excited to be part of CCPK's first Kindergarten class. I love that I finally get to incorporate all the best play focused research into our classroom this upcoming year. CCPK is the most amazing learning environment I've had the pleasure to be part of. My favorite part of teaching this age is the natural curiosity they all have and getting to know all of their fun personalities!

I live in Castle Rock with my husband, daughter and Fox student, and our miniature dachshund Snickerdoodle. I love travel, puzzles, hiking, and reading.

Hello everyone! My name is Kendra Wenzel, but you can call me Ms. Kendra. I am so excited to be your child's teacher this year! This will be my first year teaching at Castlewood Community Preschool, and I am so thrilled to be a part of this wonderful community once again.

My husband, Jeremy, and I have three children ages 6, 4 and 3. My oldest attended CCP in 2024 and we had the most amazing experience—so much so that my two younger children are now attending and I am teaching!

In my spare time, I enjoy hiking with my family, being outdoors, gardening, and attending as many yoga classes as I can. I feel so lucky to be a part of your family's preschool journey.

Hello! My name is Kelsi Snyder, and I am so excited to be joining your child's classroom this year at Castlewood! This is my first year here, and I can't wait to meet you and get to know your little ones. My husband, Mark, and I have five wonderful children ages 15, 12, 9, 6 and 5! As a mom, I understand how important it is to know your child is in a safe, caring, and encouraging environment. I feel honored to have the opportunity to be a part of your child's preschool journey. I look forward to a year filled with learning, laughter, growth, and fun.

Growing up I always wanted to be a teacher, but it wasn't until I had my own kids that my dream became a reality. Outside of school I am an avid reader, will endure hiking if there is a good treat afterwards, can have a bag packed for vacation at a moment's notice & if I wasn't teaching I would love to be an audio book narrator!

Getting to come into my classroom at CCPK each day is such a blessing! I get to explore, experiment, play & have the best time ever with the most magical creatures in the world—preschoolers! Our students are passionate, thoughtful, compassionate & capable! I love being able to help guide my classroom kiddos into being the best version of themselves, by supporting them as individuals & working together as a team.

In our classroom we PLAY TO LEARN—which means students are free to choose activities, explore independently & are encouraged to take risks & get messy! I adore messy play, using non-traditional art materials & bringing as much fun/learning outdoors! Playing in our outdoor classrooms is one of my favorite things to do & being able to share that time with students is such a privilege.

Learning together as a class also means we have to practice how to be good humans. Each day we talk about feelings, problems we are facing & work together to find ways to be kind, be safe & be helpful…which goes beyond the classroom!

I love teaching because I am passionate about learning. One of my greatest joys is being part of a child's journey as they discover their own love of learning. I strive to create a safe, nurturing environment where children feel comfortable being curious, asking questions, taking risks, and growing at their own pace. I believe children learn best through play, so I love incorporating hands-on, play-based experiences that encourage exploration, creativity, and problem-solving. I am also passionate about supporting children's social-emotional development, helping children build confidence, develop meaningful friendships, and learn the skills they need to express their emotions, solve problems, and thrive both in and out of the classroom.

One of the many reasons I love working at Castlewood Community Preschool is because it has been such a special place for both of my children. They were encouraged to express themselves, develop independence, and nurture their natural curiosity in a warm and supportive environment. Seeing them grow here inspired me even more, and I hope to provide that same sense of belonging, confidence, and joy in learning for every child in my classroom.

Fun Fact: When I was younger, I had the amazing opportunity to travel to England and train at an Arsenal soccer camp! My love for the game has stayed with me ever since, and today I enjoy coaching both of my children's soccer teams. I love helping young athletes build confidence, work together as a team, and have fun along the way!

Hi! I'm Ms. Abbie, and I'm a lead teacher in the Bear Classroom! Teaching preschool is truly my dream job, and I feel incredibly lucky to spend my days learning, laughing, and growing alongside young children. I believe the best learning happens through play, meaningful relationships, and lots of hands-on experiences. My goal is to create a classroom where every child feels safe, loved, and celebrated for exactly who they are. I want each child to know that our classroom is a place where it's okay to ask questions, make mistakes, be creative, and have fun.

When I'm not at school, you'll usually find me spending time with my family, cheering on my kids with their sports, creating with my laser engraver, or working on home projects. I love finding ways to be creative! I'm so excited to make this a wonderful year full of learning, laughter, and unforgettable memories!

Hello! My name is Dasha Balderston, and this is my fourth year teaching at Castlewood Community Preschool. I first discovered Castlewood as a parent when my oldest child attended, and I was so impressed by the school's values and sense of community that I knew I wanted to become part of the team.

My husband and I have three wonderful children, ages 8, 6 and 4. Outside of school, I love spending time camping with my family and cheering on my husband at the race track as he races cars. One fun fact about me is that I have four pet snakes!

I have always loved working with young children and watching them discover the world around them. It is amazing to see how quickly they learn, absorb new information, and confidently share their thoughts and ideas. Every day brings new moments of curiosity, creativity, and joy.

My approach to teaching is centered around the belief that young children learn best through play, exploration, and meaningful experiences. I love creating a classroom where children can learn through exploration, creativity, and meaningful play, so each day feels like an exciting adventure with friends rather than a typical school day. My hope is that every child leaves our classroom knowing that learning is fun and that they are capable, confident learners. I also believe that social-emotional growth is just as important as academic learning. I strive to create a caring, supportive environment where children feel valued and understood. Throughout the day, I encourage children to recognize and express their emotions, build positive friendships, solve problems together, and develop kindness and empathy. My goal is for every child to leave my classroom feeling confident, capable, and excited to continue learning.

I am originally from France and came to the United States in 1999 as an exchange French teacher. I've been here ever since! I taught French to students from preschool through high school before discovering that my true passion is working with young children.

Since 2008, I have been teaching preschool, and I truly love what I do. I have been happily married since 2002, and we have a wonderful 21-year-old daughter who will be graduating from an Accelerated Nursing Program in December.

I love to spend time with my family, travel, read, exercise… I am excited to spend another wonderful year with the amazing team at CCP.

Hello! My name is Michelle Arens. I was born and raised in the frigid state of North Dakota. I moved to Castle Rock in 2004. I am married with 2 children, 19 and 15 years old.

I have been teaching preschool for 20+ years. I love working with children because there are never 2 days that are exactly the same, so it keeps it very interesting. The job itself is very rewarding, helping and watching these kiddos grow, and making connections with all the families as well.

Castlewood Community Preschool is a unique hidden gem of a preschool. My favorite part is the outdoor aspect of it. The outdoor classrooms, nature trails and tree climbing are one of a kind. I am a firm believer in movement and fresh air does the body good.

I grew up near Castle Rock, and moved back to the area about 8 years ago. My husband Tristan and I have two boys, 7 and 5 years old. I went to the University of Colorado in Boulder, studying Chinese and earning my teaching license in elementary education. Aside from substitute teaching, I've spent over 7 years working one-on-one with students (and adults) with various learning challenges, doing everything from sensory processing therapies and cognitive coaching to academic tutoring and ACT Prep. I have a huge passion for the brain, and for learning. I don't think there is a better job than helping kids discover what they are capable of!

I also love art, gardening, reading, and anything outside. I was a Castlewood parent first, and just knew I wanted to be a part of this special place. This will be my third year teaching here, and I love orchestrating meaningful play, steady growth, and lasting friendships for these amazing kiddos!

My name is Nicky Joyce, and I work as a float staff member at Castlewood Community Preschool, where I enjoy supporting different classrooms and being part of the children's daily learning and play. I'm a proud grandma to five wonderful grandchildren who keep life lively and full of fun.

In my spare time, I enjoy DIY projects, tending to my garden, or reading a good book. I also love to travel whenever I can, discovering new places and collecting memories along the way. I'm happiest when I'm creating, exploring, and sharing meaningful moments with the people I love.

I'm a proud mom of three wonderful children and a very grateful Gigi to five precious grandchildren. My family is my greatest joy, and I treasure every opportunity to make memories with them, near and far.

I feel just as fortunate to be part of the Preschool family, where every day brings new smiles, big imaginations, curious questions, and plenty of laughter.

I love creating a warm and welcoming place where children feel safe to be themselves, have fun, and grow in their own unique way. Being part of their early years is such a gift, and I'm grateful for all the little moments that make each day so special!

I was born and raised in Los Angeles and moved to CO with my husband 15 years ago. I love CO but will always be a huge Dodgers fan! I have a degree in Literature from American University and a Master's in Secondary Education from Pepperdine University. I taught high school English for ten years—six years in CA and four years in Highlands Ranch at ThunderRidge High School.

My husband Steve and I have three kids—ages 11,9 and 8.