Meet the Principal

I am so honored to step into the role of principal at Ryan Elementary. Education has been my passion for the past 28 years, and I’ve had the joy of serving in a variety of roles along the way. I began my career in the classroom, teaching kindergarten, 2nd grade, and 4th grade, and I also had the unique experience of working on a vertical team with 1st through 4th grades. Those years of teaching gave me a deep appreciation for the growth and development that happens across the elementary years. Later, I had the privilege of supporting teachers as an instructional coach and then serving as an assistant principal. Each of these roles helped shape my belief that strong relationships and a culture of learning can truly transform a school community.
I grew up in New Mexico, but my heart has long been tied to southwestern Colorado, where I spend as much time as I can at my family’s cabin. Jeffco is also home for me in a very personal way—my own children are proud graduates of Jeffco Schools. I am incredibly grateful for the excellent education and opportunities they received, and I am committed to ensuring that same level of excellence for every student here at Ryan.
As your principal, I want our community to know my commitments are clear:
Listening to learn and understand
Building and sustaining a culture of instructional excellence
Treating ALL with dignity
I am thrilled to begin this journey with the Ryan community. Together, I know we can create a school where students feel safe, challenged, and inspired, teachers feel supported and valued, and families feel connected and heard. Ryan already has such a strong foundation, and I am excited to partner with each of you to build on that foundation for years to come.
Sincerely,

Joanna Menard