Liz Dougan, Executive Director & Principal
I’m Liz Dougan, and I am honored to serve as the Executive Director at Challenge to Excellence. With a deep passion for education and student success, I am thrilled to lead this incredible school community. I hold a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Spanish from the University of Central Arkansas and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Colorado State University. Throughout my career, I have taught Spanish at the university level, worked with students in grades 6-12, and served in leadership roles, including Assistant Principal, Director of Special Programs, and K-12 Head of School.
As a licensed Professional Principal and endorsed Spanish Teacher through the Colorado Department of Education, I am committed to fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment where all students can thrive. Beyond my work at C2E, I enjoy exploring new places, hiking, reading, skiing, and spending time with my family. I am excited to continue working alongside our dedicated staff, students, and families to make Challenge to Excellence the best it can be!
Kristen Parsons, Assistant Principal
I have had the privilege of calling Challenge to Excellence my professional home since 2007, as a 5th-grade teacher. I earned my BA in Communications from the University of Colorado and my Educational License from Arizona State University. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to grow both as a teacher and as an instructional coach, which inspired me to take the next step in my career and become an administrator. I obtained my Master’s Degree from Regis University in Educational Leadership and received my Principal license from CDE.
I am passionate about fostering a positive school culture and climate, and I find joy in supporting both teachers and students as they grow and thrive. I am grateful every day for the opportunity to collaborate with such dedicated educators who share this passion.
Outside of school, I cherish spending time with my family. When I’m not with family or at school, I enjoy spending time outdoors, with paddleboarding being one of my favorite activities.
It is an honor to serve as an administrator and I look forward to all the amazing things we will accomplish together.
Joana Baldermann, Dean of Students
I have been an educator since 1996 and have called Challenge to Excellence (C2E) Charter School my home since 2004. I earned my undergraduate degree from MSU Denver and later pursued a graduate degree in Curriculum and Instruction, with an emphasis on math and science curriculum, from UC Denver.
Throughout my time at C2E, I have worn many hats, spending most of my years as a middle school Algebra and Geometry teacher, as well as serving as the C2E Girls Volleyball Coach, Middle School Team Lead, and 8th Grade Leadership Team Sponsor. In 2022, I transitioned into my current role as Dean of Students, where I am passionate about supporting and guiding students to achieve their academic and personal goals.
Outside of work, I am a proud mom of an 18-year-old son and a 17-year-old daughter, both of whom attended C2E for nine years. I love spending time with my kids and caring for our many pets. I am excited to continue to support C2E students and staff as we reach our full potential together!
