Michael Cordova is more than the new assistant principal at Timber Trail Elementary (TTE). In his 18 years in education, he has been a teacher, coach, counselor and mentor. Alongside new TTE principal Dr. Rob Thelen, Michael said the two are “standing on the shoulders of giants,” referring to Michele Radke, former TTE principal, and Debbie Clement, the former building resource teacher. “I am blown away at the community support at Timber Trail,” Michael said.

Michael’s goals and outlook for the upcoming school year are to expand, grow and enhance existing school education programs, to provide teachers with resources, and to keep what is currently working. Establishing longterm relationships with his students where he provides personal and professional support and focuses on their overall well-being and future is what Michael said he loves about being in education.

A Colorado native and the youngest of five siblings, Michael grew up in Littleton. He graduated from Arapahoe High School and was a peer mentor for confirmations at St. Thomas More Catholic Church.

Michael always enjoyed and excelled at math and science. He graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a BA in secondary education with an emphasis in mathematics and a minor in physics.

Michael began his teaching career at Cresthill Middle School in Highlands Ranch where he taught math. An opportunity came knocking when a new school was opening in Parker, Legend High School (LHS). The school was small and the classrooms were filled with freshmen and sophomores. He taught for seven years as a math teacher, coached wrestling for 13 years and was promoted to assistant principal. Michael played an active role in program development. He believes that kids need three to five trusted adults outside of their immediate family for support and growth.

One student remembered him fondly.

“Mr. Cordova always had a cheerful outlook about literally everything and even as early as 6 a.m., he had his super bright smile on and was ready to go,” said Joey Cummings, an LHS graduate in 2023 and shift supervisor at the Starbucks on Castle Pines Parkway. “He was definitely one of the favorites of students and teachers spoke highly of him as well.”

Michael considers himself a lifelong learner. Three years ago, he earned his masters degree in school counseling online from Campbellsville University to better support his students’ social and emotional needs.

Outside of school hallways, Michael is married to Mandy and a father to four: Grace (20), Joshua (18), Noah (14) and Andrew (13). When school is out of session, Michael enjoys camping and is passionate about ice fishing. He targets the big fish in Green Mountain Reservoir and Lake Granby. A car enthusiast, Michael owns a yellow ‘78 Volkswagen Beetle and a ‘57 Chevy which was his dad’s first car; the latter he said will be a family restoration project.

Michael is excited to be a Timberwolf and to be part of a smaller school where he can continue to connect with staff, students and families.

 

 

 

By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Michael Cordova