Siena grew up in the beach town of San Clemente, California, and moved to the Roaring Fork Valley to pursue higher education in social work and work with a local nonprofit. She holds a B.A. in Sociology-Human Services with a minor in Environmental Studies from Westmont College in Santa Barbara. Before joining ACDS, Siena lived abroad while working in nonprofit communications and later taught elementary students in an outdoor, farm-based learning program. Days spent learning alongside sheep, chickens, and avocado orchards deepened her appreciation for outdoor education and her love of working with elementary-aged students. She is especially interested in supporting students’ social-emotional development through holistic, child-centered approaches that both challenge and nurture.
Which ACDS core value is most meaningful to you, and why?
I find the core value of responsibility particularly meaningful; responsibility offers agency to each person within and around the school community. This value, paired with the others, considers how every contribution matters.
What energizes you?
I am energized by time with the people I love, a spontaneous mini-adventure, any sort of crafting, and being in a body of water.
Bucket-list travel destination?
I am so thankful to have close friends from around the world that I have met while traveling; we dream and scheme of a meet-up exploring Peru.
What trend do you hope makes a comeback?
Heelys shoes: efficient and fun.