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About Us
Eric Dinnel - Executive Director
Eric Dinnel is an award winning educator with over 24 years experience in the field. He is an internationally recognized education visionary, global education catalyst, entrepreneur and speaker. Dinnel has received awards in each of his educational experiences as a superintendent, principal, assistant principal/athletic director, teacher and football coach. Dinnel has school leadership experience in all grade levels, urban and rural schools, traditional, private, online, turnaround, charter and international schools. He also has an extensive background in homeschool programs. His schools have been recognized on local, regional, national and international levels. Dinnel has directed an international student exchange program, international student council, and international educator/administrator cultural exchanges. He has trained school leaders and educators around the globe and is passionate about their growth and success. He has led and directed several new school and start up projects. Dinnel has conducted extensive work and trainings with school boards in Colorado, Arizona, California, Minnesota and Ohio. He is enthusiastic and dedicated to quality school governance, financial responsibility, academics and operations. Dinnel’s education network provides insight and perspective on best practices around the globe. In 2020, he received the Global Education and Learning Forum’s Top 100 Leaders in Education award.
His prior education work experiences include being a licensed financial representative for the Vanguard Group and an extensive internship with a law enforcement special operations team.
Dinnel holds a B.A. from Colorado State University and a M.A in Education/Administration and Supervision from the University of Phoenix
Eric and his wife, Tracey, live in Colorado Springs and have 3 children. He enjoys outdoor adventures and spending time with his family. He is a Colorado native!
BRandon Monson - Director of operations
Brandon Monson is a seasoned educator with 27 years of experience in the field. Throughout his career, he has served in various capacities, including teacher, dean of students, assistant principal, principal, and Director of Operations for charter school, private school, and traditional public schools. Brandon has demonstrated a strong commitment to educational leadership and student development, mentoring future leaders and fostering a positive learning environment.
In addition to his administrative roles, Brandon has dedicated significant time to teaching and coaching basketball at both the elementary and middle school levels. He has also led varsity basketball programs for 13 years, where he has successfully combined his passion for sports with his dedication to student growth and achievement. His multifaceted experience underscores his versatility and unwavering commitment to excellence in education.
MArk carlson - director of enrollment
Mark Carlson is an educator, veteran, coach, father, and husband who lives in Colorado Springs. Over the past 15 years, Mark has been coaching, teaching, leading, and mentoring within education in a number of different roles. Mark attended the United States Air Force Academy and Prep School from 2001-2006 and played football for the Falcons. After graduating, he was a communication officer at Barksdale Air Force Base (Shreveport, LA). After leaving active duty, Mark attended the University of Phoenix and received his Masters in Secondary Education. In 2021, Mark attended the University of Colorado - Colorado Springs, and received his Educational Leadership Principal License.
Since 2008, Mark has held positions in K-12 education at all grade levels and various content areas. He has coached basketball, football, track and field, and weightlifting in California and Colorado. In 2019, Mark exited the classroom and sports field and became the Dean of Students at Banning Lewis Ranch Academy.
Mark has a passion for supporting families, teachers, and students within education. His areas of concentration consist of school wide systems of support, safety and security, behavioral support, community engagement, fundraising, extracurricular activities, teacher mentorship, compliance, human resources, and staffing.
In 2021, Mark Carlson was awarded the Community Essential Worker Award from the Mayor of Colorado Springs, John Suthers. Coordinated by NorthEast U.S. Army Recruiting and the City of Colorado Springs, the award pays tribute to those in the Colorado Springs community who have gone above and beyond to serve during challenging times.
Mark has lived in Colorado Springs with his wife Emmalee and his three kids Rosie, Porter, and Ruby since 2016. He enjoys watching Chicago Cubs baseball, golfing, and spending time with his family and friends.