Administration

Welcome to Abrams Elementary School! I am thrilled to join this wonderful community as your new principal. My name is Ben Baldner, and I recently moved to Colorado Springs from El Paso, Texas, with my wife and three small children. We are excited to be closer to family and to explore all the beauty that this area has to offer.

This marks my 8th year as a principal, with six of those years dedicated to the elementary level. My career in education has been diverse and enriching. I have taught elementary school, served as an instructional coach, and held administrative roles spanning PK-12th grades across various states, including Arizona, Ohio, and Texas. I am passionate about education and am committed to supporting every student's growth and success.

At Abrams Elementary, our theme is Peace, Kindness, and Learning, reflecting the school's rich history since its establishment in 1975. This retro theme honors our past while we eagerly anticipate the future, with the new Abrams building set to open in fall 2025. The values of peace and kindness are at the heart of our school culture, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where every student can thrive.

I firmly believe that all students can learn and achieve their highest potential. My educational philosophy centers around creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment where students feel safe, valued, and motivated to explore and excel. Building strong partnerships with families is crucial, and I look forward to collaborating with you to ensure the best outcomes for our children.

Outside of school, my family and I love traveling, being outdoors, visiting parks, hiking, baking, and simply enjoying life together. I am an avid fan of basketball and football, and I proudly cheer for the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – go Tar Heels! Originally from Pennsylvania, I carry a deep appreciation for diverse experiences and cultures, which I bring into my approach to education.

I am genuinely excited to get to know each of you and to work together in fostering a positive and enriching educational experience for all our students. Let's make this last full year in our current building memorable as we prepare for the exciting transition to our new home. Thank you for welcoming me into the Abrams Elementary family. Here's to a fantastic school year filled with peace, kindness, and a love for learning!

 

I am excited to serve the students, staff, and parents at Abrams as the assistant principal.

Prior to joining the Abrams family, I worked at Mesa Elementary in FFC8 for 13 years as a classroom teacher and in Widefield District 3 for two years as a classroom teacher and interventionist. These experiences taught me the importance of building relationships with students and the value of working as a team to support the whole student. 

I am a Colorado Springs native and love the beautiful state of Colorado! I completed my undergraduate degree at Colorado Mesa University where I studied Elementary Education and Social Sciences in 2006 and then my master’s degree in Educational Leadership in 2022. During my time teaching, I met my husband and became a step mom to his son, who now serves in the U.S. Navy.

I am passionate about the important role schools play in shaping how children see themselves. I believe what when educators are working together with families and communities, to help out students, all children be successful. I am looking forward to getting to know the students and families at Abrams!

I am excited to serve the staff, students, and Abrams Community as Dean of Students!

This will be my second year as part of the Abrams team! Prior to joining Abrams, I worked at Patriot Elementary in FFC8 for six years as a teacher and one year in Denver Public Schools as a teacher. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree from William Paterson University and a Masters degree in Administration from Lamar University.

Originally from New York, my wife and I moved to Colorado in 2015 to enjoy hiking, skiing, and everything this state has to offer. I am a proud dad of two amazing sons, Logan and Hudson. Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my family, golfing, hockey, skiing and being outside.

I believe that it takes a team to help students grow. Educators, parents, students, and administration must work together to help students succeed. I’m excited to get to know everyone and start this new school year. Thank you for supporting our school, teachers, and students!