Explorers

Mr. Jeremy Riggert

Rocky Heights has been my home as a teacher since 2009. While much has changed during this time, some things that haven't are my enthusiasm for helping students grow and the power and opportunity language gives a person in this world.

I strive to make the study of language arts accessible and rewarding for avid readers as well as those who are reluctant to pick up a book. In addition, the writing projects I implement often take the form of those created in the real world (i.e., blogs, editorials, podcasts).

Stretching beyond your comfort zone and learning via experimentation are mindsets I try to encourage in students. Therefore, most grades I assign are provisional (open for improvement) if a student struggles with the task on the first attempt.

Reaching Out

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact me at jeremy.riggert@dcsdk12.org.

Classroom Resources

Daily agendas and course materials are posted for students (and parents) at Google Classroom.

Ms. Dani Mertz

My name is Dani Mertz-Dieterle, most students call me Miss Mertz. I teach 8th-grade science and have been at RHMS since 2016. I coach multiple sports at RHMS, including volleyball, flag football, and track. I am a mother of two boys who attend Timber Trail. My family enjoys hiking, swimming, and camping. I enjoy teaching science because it helps students learn to think critically and to understand the physical world around them.

My email is: dcmertzdieterle@dcsdk12.org

I will check my email during school hours.  If you send an email after school hours, I likely will not read or respond to your email until the next school day.  

Mr. David Callaway

Mr. Callaway has been teaching Social Studies at Rocky Heights Middle School since 2010. He enjoys helping students connect the past to the present and encourages critical thinking and connections to the world around them.  He strives to make history meaningful and engaging through discussion, primary sources, and hands-on learning.

Feel free to email Mr. Callaway at drcallaway@dcsdk12.org

Mr. Connor Sherry

Sherry has been a Wellness teacher at Rocky Heights Middle School since 2023. In addition to his passion for teaching, he is also a football coach at Heritage High School, where he brings energy and teamwork both on and off the field. Outside of school, Mr. Sherry enjoys golfing, spending time with friends and family, and being outdoors in any capacity. Whether he's in the classroom or on the field, he’s committed to helping students grow and succeed.

Please contact me via my email: csherry@dcsdk12.org 

I am normally pretty good at responding to emails during school hours. Outside of this time frame, it is likely that I won't read or be able to respond until the next school morning.

Ms. Nancy Staiert

My name is Nancy Staiert, and I am an 8th-grade Learning Specialist with a passion for helping students discover their unique strengths and developing the skills they need to thrive both academically and personally. I have been a part of the RHMS community since 2017, working closely with students, families, and teachers to create inclusive and supportive learning environments.

With a background in education and specialized training in learning differences, I focus on helping students build confidence, strengthen executive functioning, and develop effective strategies for learning. A key part of my work in 8th-grade involves preparing students for their transition to high school—supporting them in becoming more independent, organized, and self-aware as learners.

I believe that every student has the potential to succeed when given the right tools, encouragement, and opportunities. Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading, spending time in nature with my husband and dog, and going to the movies. I’m committed to fostering a growth mindset and contributing to a school culture where all learners feel seen, valued, and capable.

Contact Information:

Email: nancy.staiert@dcsdk12.org or nastaiert@dcsdk12.org (I will check email during school hours. If you send an email after school hours, I likely will ot read or respond to your email until the next school day.

Office Phone: 303 (387) 3300

Ms. Sarah Windlow

My name is Sarah Windlow, and I am thrilled to be serving as a 7th and 8th Grade Learning Specialist  I have been in education in various roles since graduating from college in 2000.  I earned my Master's in Educational Policy and Administration from the University of Minnesota in 2006, and have lived and worked in the Douglas County School District since 2022.  While I have taught in many different places, Rocky Heights is by far my favorite school!

You may contact me via email at swindlow@dcsdk12.org or via phone at (303) 387-3300.  Please allow 24 hours for a response.