5th Grade
Meet our Fifth Grade Teachers
Shannon Burgert
I've been teaching since 2004 (at Fireside since 2006), after I switched careers as a reporter and writer, most recently as a science writer at the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. I have a master's degree in aesthetic education and a PhD in curriculum and instruction; ecological education was the focus of my dissertation. I am National Board certified, and I teach arts integration (to teachers) through Think 360 Arts Education. I am also a scuba diving instructor, and I love to travel, sail, and dive around the world!
Jed Cook
I am thrilled to be a part of Fireside after teaching 6th-8th grades at several different types of schools across Colorado’s Front Range! I was born and grew up (mostly) in Oklahoma, but spent a good deal of my childhood here in Colorado, After studying political science CSU in Fort Collins, I started my career in education as a 6th grade teacher at a K-8 school in Pueblo. At the same time, I worked as a youth pastor for elementary, middle and high schoolers, and volunteered with the Pueblo County Search & Rescue Team. While in Southern Colorado, I earned my MA in American history, married my wife, Alyson, and that's where we had our first child, Emily. I then spent two years teaching 6th Grade at a K-8 school in the Mapleton School District in Denver before coming to BVSD to teach at Angevine. Eight years ago we welcomed our son, Weston, into the family, and both kids now attend Blue Mountain Elementary in Longmont where we live and my wife teaches 2nd grade. Outside of school, I enjoy doing just that—being outside. My family and I usually spend our weekends skiing, hiking, camping, riding motorcycles, or just walking our dogs to the park, so Boulder County is the perfect fit for us!
Jason Henkhaus
I cannot be more excited to be part of the Fireside family! I spent the first 12 years of my teaching career at Bear Creek Elementary teaching 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th grade. After a brief stint at a small health care company, I missed the teaching profession and taught 3rd at St. Mary’s Academy two years ago and 3rd at Dawson School last year.
I grew up in the Summit County area and love everything outdoors. During the winter months, you can find me skiing at A-Basin with my daughter or getting out in the backcountry. During the summer months, we love to camp, fish, and mountain bike. I live in Louisville with my wife, daughter Lucy (who is 10), and Winnie the Golden Retriever.