New school year brings new principal
Assistant principal Michael Cordova (left) alongside principal Robert Thelen (right) are not only excited about the new school but are committed to the students, staff and families of Timber Trail Elementary.
On August 7, Timber Trail Elementary (TTE) opened its doors to a new school year as well as a new principal, Dr. Robert Thelen. Robert has 17 years of experience – in special education, as a general education teacher (elementary and secondary grades), as a literacy instructional coach, as an assistant principal, and as a district level coordinator. Robert is a Colorado native born and raised in Littleton. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Northern Colorado Greeley and master’s degree in curriculum and instruction as well as a doctorate of education- Leadership for Education Equality Program from the University of Colorado Denver.
“What I like most about working in public education is the ongoing challenge of finding what works best for each individual student,” stated Robert. “Throughout my career, I have discovered that while there is not ‘one thing’ that works for every child, there is ‘something’ that works for every child.”
Robert and the new assistant principal Michael Cordova are excited about their new school and being a part of such a connected community of students, staff and families. They plan to build culture, grow the math program, and enhance school programs that are working well, while at the same time finding areas where there could be improvement. “We want to grow what is working and partner with the community to do this,” said Robert.
Robert and Michael are bringing back Watch Dog Dads and will be implementing Moms of Marvelous students. Each of these programs empower the parent volunteers to engage and function as role models for the students. “The purpose of these programs is to be proactive versus reactive, reducing behavior issues before they begin,” said Robert. A campus security specialist will also be implemented this year at TTE.
Robert, his wife Karissa and their three children Kaden (10), Brooklyn (7) and LexiAnn (4) live in Highlands Ranch.
Timber Trail Elementary school principal Robert Thelen with his family and two nephews (who are also Douglas County School District students), showed their community support during the Party in the Park held at Elk Ridge Park last month. Pictured left to right, back row: Kaden (10), Robert, LexiAnn (4) and Karissa. Pictured left to right, front row: Robert’s nephew Landon, his daughter Brooklyn (7) and nephew Carter.
By Julie Matuszewski; photos courtesy of Dr. Robert Thelen
