Mrachek Middle SchoolHome of the Titans!

Emily Austin

As a dedicated special education teacher, I have spent over 10 years in the classroom but have been in education my entire career. I am currently a 6th-grade Learning Specialist, passionate about ensuring that all students have equitable access to education. I graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 2002 and recently made the move to Colorado—I’m thrilled to be here! In my role, I support students by pushing into literacy classrooms and leading small group instruction. Outside of work, I enjoy getting to know Colorado with my wife and our two wonderful dogs, and playing nightly board games and card games. If you have any questions or needs, please feel free to reach out!"

Malcom Brownell - ESS Staffing Chair

Alexandria Batiste

As a Special Education teacher in the Mild/Moderate program at Mrachek Middle School, I bring over 5 years of classroom experience in both U.S. and international settings. My background includes language development, literacy instruction, and culturally responsive teaching, which allows me to support a wide range of learners in reaching their fullest potential. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Global Relations and Mass Media Strategies from Metropolitan State University of Denver and an IDELT TEFL certification, and I am currently completing my Master’s degree in Special Education. I believe that every student is capable of growth and success when their strengths, needs, and individuality are recognized and valued. My approach emphasizes building an inclusive, supportive learning environment where students develop confidence, independence, and a strong sense of personal accountability—skills that will serve them both in and beyond the classroom. In addition to my role at Mrachek, I served as the Dean of Operations and Student Support Leader with Generation Teach Summer 2025, where I helped mentor and develop future educators. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling, learning new languages, and exploring world cultures with my young son, and I look forward to continuing to serve the Mrachek community for years to come.

Valerie Travis - Autism

"I’m thrilled to be starting my teaching career at Mrachek as the autism teacher. I earned a B.S. in Applied Social Sciences from CSU–Global, and I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Special Education at MSU Denver, where I am learning current and effective strategies for supporting all learners. As a parent of a child in the special education program and a family member of individuals with autism, I’m passionate about helping students with diverse needs grow in confidence, independence, and success through academic, social, emotional, and communication development. I value having a compassionate, structured, and inclusive classroom where students feel safe, respected, and supported. I work closely with families and support teams to support partnerships that help my students grow, learn, and discover their unique potential.

Outside of school I enjoy being with my husband and five children (twin girls - 20, and three boys - 18, 16, and 13). I also like to craft, spend time outdoors, watch movies, and travel. This is going to be a fantastic year at Mrachek Middle School!"

Francine Jordan - Severe Needs

Hello, my name is Francie Jordan and I am an SSN teacher at Mrachek Middle School. This is my second career, so I am in my first year of teaching, and I am loving it! I graduated in May 2024 from Grand Canyon University, after taking 1 course at a time on-line while working as a restaurant manager full time. I believe that all children need all the help they can get to grow up healthy, wise and strong, and I want to be a part of that process. I have 3 children, 2 grandsons, and spending time with them is the most important thing to me.

Jeremy Bell

Hello! My name is Jeremy Bell, and I am a Social Worker at Mrachek Middle School. My passion is guiding students on their journey to becoming kind, respectful individuals who recognize the inherent dignity of others and listen with empathy.

This is my first year working in a middle school, but I bring experience from roles as a Paraeducator and Driving Instructor at high schools in Bellingham, WA, as well as a year-long internship at Shiloh House in Littleton, CO. I am a recent graduate of the University of Denver’s Social Work Program, where I developed D.R.E.—a framework centered on Dignity, Respect, and Empathy. I firmly believe that every human deserves to be treated with these three values in every situation, and they serve as my guiding principles in social work and beyond.

Outside of work, I enjoy kayaking, golf, most sports, music, and a good movie. Originally from Los Angeles, CA, I served in the United States Navy for over eight years and have lived in several states, fueling my love for travel and new experiences. I’m excited to be part of the Mrachek community and look forward to supporting our students