Mike Zufall, Principal
michael.zufall@cottonwoodclassical.org
Mr. Zufall is the Principal at Cottonwood Classical Preparatory School. He is originally from Tempe, Arizona and has lived and worked in education in New Mexico since the fall of 1997. He has his BA from Arizona State University in Secondary Education with a minor in History, and earned his MA in Secondary Education in 2001 from the University of New Mexico. As an administrator, he feels strongly that it is vitally important to be both visible and accessible to staff and students to help support their efforts at school. He is here to help make the day-to-day details and bumps in the road go more smoothly so that teachers and students can get to the important work of teaching and learning. He has an open door policy and is ready to listen and assist teachers, staff, and students alike.
Carisa Petrie, Assistant Director for Compliance & Support
carisa.petrie@cottonwoodclassical.org
Carisa Petrie, CCPS’s Assistant Director, has spent her life using her personal and career experiences to help her school and provide support for students, families, and staff in an ever-changing world. As the daughter of educators, she knows how education can impact every area of one’s life. While her focus in on support services at Cottonwood Classical, she also provides the staff with opportunities for professional development. Carisa knows there is no single approach that works for everyone, so she continues to educate herself on best practices in supporting students. Her years of experience in the classroom allows her to provide the most comprehensive supports for students. She received her education at St. John’s College with a bachelor’s degree in liberal arts and the University of New Mexico, where she earned a master’s degree in educational leadership. Carisa enjoys reading and spending time with her husband, two daughters, and rescue dog, Buttercup.
Alejandro Torres, Director of Technology & Infrastructure
alejandro.torres@cottonwoodclassical.org