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 is currently pursing 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. At PODER Academy, he taught 5th and 6th grade while completing his Masters in Education Administration from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln

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.

Jessica was born and raised in Columbus, Nebraska. After high school, she joined the U.S.A.F. where she received her degree in Accounting and Finance. She is now married and a mother of 3 kids who all attend PODER Academy. 

After teaching Social Studies for three years Mr. Polland is now entering his first year on the administrative side.  He is from Greeley, Colorado and received his Bachelors in History/Secondary Education and Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of Northern Colorado. He lives in Cheyenne with his wife, daughter, and two dogs. 

andy@poderacademy.com