D70 Wellness Leaders
Kathy Dodge
I felt compelled to work on student and staff wellness because of my own experiences as a child. I grew up overweight and unhealthy. I didn’t realize how much I was missing out on in life when I wasn’t healthy. I have seen my parents struggle with health in their adult life. If I can help people avoid that then it is worth the effort! It has become apparent that most people want to be healthy, but they simply don’t know how due to a lot of misinformation and/or overwhelming amount of information out there.
Lareen Knezevich
My name is Lareen Knezevich and I am the media specialist and wellness lead at Liberty Point International. This is my 15th year in D70. I am married, have three adult children and two beautiful grandbabies. I love all things outdoors and can usually be found hiking, biking, kayaking, camping, or gardening in my spare time! I am always up for an adventure! I accepted the wellness position because I believe that being active and healthy, (physically, emotionally, and spiritually) is key to be happy and successful. I want students to learn that while they are young!
Tony Pechek
Hello, I am Tony Pechek, one of the Physical Education and Health teachers at Pueblo West High School. This is my 7th year in the district and my first as the Wellness Lead. I love my job and working with students both in the classroom and through activities/athletics. I have a wonderful wife, 3 beautiful daughters and two dogs. I enjoy spending time with my family, sports, coaching, hiking, skiing, and upland hunting.
Melissa Renteria
My name is Melissa Renteria and I am the physical education teacher and wellness lead at Prairie Winds Elementary. This is my 18th year in D70, the last 15 years have been at Prairie Winds. I enjoy being part of the district wellness committee and wellness lead for Prairie Winds, because I believe that lifelong participation in activity/movement along with good nutrition is essential for a happy and healthy life at any age. I want my students to learn the benefit of finding some things that they enjoy doing and use that to maintain physical and mental well-being throughout the course of their lives.
Aubrey Vialpando
