Faculty & Staff Directory

What is your role at CSS? I am the Visual Arts teacher for grades 3-12. I teach a variety of Art electives in the Upper School such as Ceramics, Jewelry-Making, Printmaking, Video Production, and Digital Photography.

What is one of your favorite memories at CSS? One favorite memory is when guiding a student in class they said, “Mrs. Reynolds, you are like a magician - you are amazing!”

What did you want to be growing up? I wanted to be two things: a musician and an artist. I wasn’t sure what kind of artist, but I wanted to become famous for my art! I played the cello when young, and I wanted to learn how to play the guitar and sing so I could be in a band.

What draws you to teaching? I grew up with a Mom as an artist and a Dad as an architect. We often went to museums, and I would think about how I could share my love of art with others. In addition to creating my own artwork, teaching became a rewarding way to share my love of art with young people. I get incredible joy from creating, making, discovering, and exploring different mediums of art, and I wanted to share that passion with students.

What would people be surprised to learn about you? They might be surprised to know that I created my own business, called Mountain Clayworks, where I was a professional potter for 12 years, making and selling my work locally at Commonwheel Artist Co-op in Manitou Springs, as well as making special orders for people such as dinnerware sets, mug sets, etc. Two years ago, I created another business called Colorado Karma Jewelry by Kaja, where I make beaded, leather, and forged copper jewelry, such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. I sell my jewelry locally at a wonderful Artists Cooperative called EclecticCO, located in downtown Colorado Springs.

Born in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Ryan has built a diverse career that has taken him across the country and through a variety of industries. After pursuing his passion for collegiate athletics, he graduated from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan. His career began in legacy media before transitioning into college athletics, where he served as an athletic communications director at multiple universities.

Eventually, Ryan took his communications experience beyond the sports world, focusing on content creation and marketing. Most recently, he served as Head of Communications at the Asheville Art Museum, where he combined storytelling, media, and creative content to connect audiences with the organization’s mission.

His time in college athletics also sparked a lasting interest in education and the role storytelling can play in building strong school communities. Now, Ryan returns to Colorado excited to bring his communications and creative experience to The Colorado Springs School and help tell the stories of its students, faculty, and community.

Although he has left athletics behind as a career, Ryan’s love for sports remains strong. He still enjoys everything from training and competition to the excitement of game day. When he’s not behind a camera or editing footage, you can likely find him on a mountain bike trail, taking in beautiful scenery, or settling in to watch a random college football game, usually with a homemade snack or two nearby.

Lynn Shepherd has been a member of The Colorado Springs School community since 2015, when she and her family relocated to Colorado Springs from Indianapolis. From the moment they discovered CSS, they knew they had found the right fit, drawn by the school's deep commitment to experiential education and learning beyond the classroom walls.

In 2026, Lynn joined the CSS staff as the Experiential Education Coordinator, bringing her passion for the school's mission along with a diverse professional background. Her experience spans retail management, restaurant and event ownership, and yoga instruction, providing her with strong organizational, planning, and logistical skills that support the many moving parts of experiential education.

Lynn has been an active volunteer and leader within the CSS community, serving as a member of the Board of Trustees, President of the Parents' Association, and coach of the CSS Landsharks.

Outside of work, Lynn enjoys skiing, reading, knitting, practicing yoga, and spending time with her family.

Lea Siegel has devoted nearly two decades to advancing education, beginning her career in Fort Worth, Texas, as a high school teacher inspiring students through service and entrepreneurship. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business and a Master’s in Organizational Leadership, credentials that have supported her progression from classroom teacher to campus administrator and ultimately to district leadership as Head of Operations in the Dallas–Fort Worth area. She is currently proud to serve as Chief Operating Officer at The Colorado Springs School.

A sought-after guest lecturer and presenter, Lea shares her expertise on leadership, educational operations, and community engagement with audiences across the country. A committed community leader, she serves on multiple boards in the areas of fine arts, planning, and development. Her dedication to service includes mentoring youth, volunteering with non-profits that focus on food stability, and championing programs that enrich the student experience beyond the classroom. Her work has earned recognition from Good Morning America, The Birthday Party Project, and No Kid Hungry.

With a background that blends philanthropy, service, and operational expertise, Lea brings a holistic perspective to fostering student success and supporting families and faculty. Since relocating to Colorado Springs in 2022, she has been honored to contribute to the CSS community. She is the proud mother of two adult sons, Chris and Bobby, and in her free time enjoys traveling, exploring historic architecture, live music, and spending time outdoors with her family.

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What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I have had two different series of rabies shots! I love animals, and sometimes rescuing them comes with a shot.

If you were a superhero, what powers would you have and why?
Teleportation. I love the notion of being able to magically go back in time or into the future to experience firsthand what life was like and to be able to better understand people and places.

What is one thing you've learned from students?
I have learned kindness from my students. Small gestures can make people feel noticed and important. Saying hello or remembering something specific to a person can immediately build a bridge. Lessons learned: Smile more, and be kind!

What did you want to be growing up?
A novelist

What draws you to working with students?
Working with students allows me to draw a new purpose daily. I love the changing environment and the opportunity to try new things throughout the day. It is a rewarding experience when students have "light bulb" moments, and I like being able to contribute to that in any way I can.

What is one thing you enjoy about CSS?
I was drawn to our experiential learning models. I fully believe that being able to emotionally be connected to your responses to the world around you better prepares you for life. I love that we invest in students' actions and thought processes through travel and hands-on experiences. I am excited to get to know everyone and become an active part of our community.

What is your favorite spot in the world?
My favorite spot in the world is the British Isles. I love the beauty, history, and architecture of Ireland and Scotland. I am an avid reader and favor novelists from this region.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?
I love camping and kayaking.

If you were a superhero, what powers would you have and why?
To make people laugh

What is one thing you've learned from students?
To see the humor in things.

What did you want to be growing up?
An oceanographer. I was going to marry Jacque Cousteau and live on the Calypso.

What draws you to working with students?
It is never boring! I live for the ah-ha moments and seeing kids excited about their learning.

What is one thing you enjoy about CSS?
Everyone's positive attitudes and dedication.

What is your favorite spot in the world?
The beach! Some of my best memories are of vacations near the shore.

Gina began teaching in 1988 at Pine Cobble School in Williamstown, Mass., as the director/lead teacher of the preschool, kindergarten, and after-care program. She then taught at Williamstown Elementary as the kindergarten/first-grade teacher, where she also directed their inclusive summer camp. Gina and her family moved to Colorado in 1997, and she was the general manager of Jack Quinn's Irish Restaurant and Pub for almost seven years before working as a real estate agent. In 2011, she was back to teaching at KinderCare as the Kindergarten Readiness teacher, and then in 2016, began as the Pre-3 teacher at the children's center at Colorado College before joining CSS in 2022.

Emily Warren is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a specialization in child and adolescent mental health. She brings experience from a range of settings, including schools, outpatient clinics, private practice, and primary care. She has developed a person-centered approach to care, focusing on meeting each student where they are and creating a safe space for students to explore challenges and build resilience. Originally from Rochester, NY, Emily moved to beautiful Colorado Springs two years ago.

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If you were a superhero, what powers would you have and why?
If I were a superhero, I’d choose the power of flight. The ability to fly above the world would allow me to travel effortlessly, try new foods, and connect with people from all walks of life. It would be an ongoing adventure, offering both freedom and the chance to learn and grow constantly!

What draws you to working with students?
I’m passionate about working with students because it allows me to be part of their personal and academic growth. I find it rewarding to build strong, supportive relationships with students, helping them discover their unique strengths and navigate their challenges. Watching students gain confidence and find their voice is what makes this work so fulfilling.

What is your favorite spot in the world and why?
One of my favorite places in the world is Letchworth State Park in Upstate New York. The park’s beauty holds a special place in my heart, as it’s where I’ve shared many memorable moments with my family. Whether it’s hiking the trails, enjoying the waterfalls, or simply spending time together, it’s a place that brings me comfort and joy!