Administration

Marcos Martinez is the CEO / Founder of PODER Academy Schools. He has created successful public charter schools in Colorado and Wyoming. He has administrative and teaching experience in both K-12 and higher education. He received his B.A. from the University of Northern Colorado, his M.A. from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and earned his Ph.D. at the University of Wyoming.

Nick Vaughn is originally from Bellevue, Nebraska and as an Air Force dependent ended up graduating high school in Cheyenne, Wyoming.

From there, he was part of the first graduating class to receive the Hathaway Scholarship and attended the University of Wyoming from which he obtained his degree in Elementary Education. 

Shortly after graduating, Nick accepted a position at PODER Academy as a kindergarten teacher. He taught 5th and 6th grade while completing his Masters in Education Administration from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln.

He later served as the founding Principal at PODER Secondary before assuming his current position as COO. 

Misty was born and raised in Wyoming growing up in the cattle and hay industry. She has 3 amazing kids ages 16, 11 and 21. Misty is also currently going to college again for her accounting degree. Working at PODER Academy and PODER Secondary School has been an amazing and rewarding experience. 

My name is Hunter Handzus and I am proudly serving as Principal for PASS. 

I am originally from Illinois, but followed my husband to Minot, ND in 2013 as he embarked on his journey in the United States Air Force. While in North Dakota, I obtained by BSE at Minot State University earning my degree in Secondary Education with a focus on History and Geography. 

In 2019, my family and I moved to Cheyenne, WY establishing roots. It was that year I joined the PASS team as the high school Social Studies teacher. 

In 2020, I enrolled at the University of Nebraska at Kearny for my MA in 20th century American History. I completed this graduated degree in 2023.

 I am currently completing my second graduate degree at Eastern Washington University to aid in my ability to better serve my students, parents, and staff as principal of PASS. 

Heather Simon is the office manager for PASS. While this is brand new to her she is excited for all the adventures and learning opportunities. Having lived in Wyoming for most of her life she has grown to love the state and all that it has to offer. When she is not working she is usually reading, hanging with friends and family, or playing with her fur babies (Nala and Katman).