Mikaela Sanders

I was born in Minnesota but moved frequently during my childhood, living in 5 different states. I earned my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Towson University, near Baltimore, MD. Following graduation in 2001, I taught first, fourth, and fifth grades in both public and private schools in the Baltimore area.

After visiting CO a few times, my husband, Will, and I fell in love with all this beautiful state has to offer. In the Fall of 2014, we settled in Castle Rock. After a couple of years adjusting to our new surroundings, I realized I missed the thing I’m most passionate about- teaching! I returned to education and taught second grade before becoming a literacy interventionist, working with students from kindergarten to eighth grade.

Around the same time, our son Mason began attending Renaissance Elementary Magnet School and I witnessed firsthand what a special place it is. Wanting to continue my connection with REMS beyond Mason’s elementary years, I joined the REMS staff in 2019 as a third grade teacher. First grade has always been my favorite, so when the opportunity arose in 2022, I enthusiastically transitioned to teaching first grade.

Teaching at Renaissance fills me with joy as I am deeply passionate about expeditionary learning, adventure education, and our core values. Each day, I strive to instill a love for learning, inspire my students, and challenge them to grow. In 2023, I returned to school to earn a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, embracing new opportunities for personal and professional growth.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, hiking, camping, paddle boarding or simply reading a book. I also enjoy learning and trying new things and traveling.

I am excited for the journey ahead with my students at Renaissance — together, We Are Crew!