Administration Team

Mrs. Melanie Jiskra

Colleges Attended/Degrees Earned:  Oregon State University, NDSU Bottineau, Saint Cloud State University, Saint Mary’s University

Years and roles in Education: 23 years, Elementary Teacher, Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal, Principal, College Adjunct Professor, Executive Director

Why Aspen Academy:  I choose to serve the scholars and families at Aspen Academy to support the school in achieving its vision and mission. School Administration is responsible for providing instructional leadership and developing, implementing, and evaluating district and school systems and policies. I can best serve the scholars and families by advocating for their partnership in addressing immediate and long term goals to reach the school’s vision and mission.

Mr. James Jotter

Colleges Attended/Degrees Earned:  Bemidji State University, Saint Mary’s University

Years and roles in Education: 20 years, Teacher, Principal, Assistant Principal

Why Aspen Academy:  The kids and families at Aspen Academy are the best I have had the privilege to work with. The education staff at Aspen is second to none and the teamwork of the administrative team makes the workplace incredibly rewarding.

Hopes and dreams for the future of Aspen Academy: My future goals for Aspen Academy is to continue to help Aspen grow into a school where we prepare all our students to be 21st century learners and grow into mature young adults.

Mr. Eric Sandberg

Colleges Attended/Degrees Earned:  Saint Olaf College, Minnesota State University

Years and roles in Education: 11 years, High School Social Studies Teacher, Youth Development Coordinator/STEM Coordinator, Dean of Students

Why Aspen Academy:   The scholars, staff, and families of our Aspen Academy community make it an honor to serve in my role. I am humbled by the generosity of the families, the caring of the staff, and the passion of our scholars to learn, learn, learn. They truly inspire me each and every day to arrive to school and give 110% to ensure all stakeholders have a positive experience.

Hopes and dreams for the future of Aspen Academy: One of my hopes and dreams for the future of Aspen Academy is for the school to continue to be a school of excellence where all learners not only receive a top notch education, but leave our school with the THINK values of Tenacity, High Expectations, Integrity, No Excuses, and Kindness instilled in them.