RVES Leadership

"After a rigorous and collaborative process with several strong leadership candidates, I’m pleased to announce that Georganna Rapaport will be the new principal of Ridgeview Elementary School," said Theresa Ritz, POWER Zone Superintendent.

Georganna Rapaport brings 13 years of dedicated experience in education, along with a strong background in communication and leadership. She began her professional journey as a marketing manager in the financial services industry, where she developed a deep appreciation for strategic communication and relationship-building.

Her passion for teaching took root when she transitioned into education as an elementary classroom teacher in the Lewis-Palmer School District. It was there that her love for learning and student growth truly flourished. Georganna later served as a Teacher on Special Assignment in Academy District 20, supporting educators and leaders at the district level. In this role, she refined her expertise in professional development, instructional coaching, and data-driven decision-making.

Most recently, she served as the Coordinator for Literacy Performance in District 49. In this position, she led the district’s Primary Literacy Initiative and managed implementation of all READ Act requirements, championing early literacy for students across the district.

Mrs. Rapaport is excited to continue the tradition of excellence at Ridgeview Elementary School. She was drawn to Ridgeview for its strong record of academic achievement and its deep commitment to fostering meaningful relationships with students.

She prides herself on being a relational leader who values strong, authentic connections with students, staff, and families. She believes that effective partnerships between school and home are essential to every child’s academic success and social-emotional development. At the core of her leadership is a dedication to building a welcoming, inclusive, and collaborative school culture.

Mrs. Rapaport has been married for 27 years to her husband, Darren, a retired Army officer. Together, they have two children—Brennan (22) and Hayden (19)—and a spirited golden retriever named Quincy. Outside of work, she enjoys early morning workouts, reading, and hiking the beautiful trails of Colorado.

Hello Husky Nation! My name is Blake Hesselberg, and I have the distinct pleasure of serving as the assistant principal of Ridgeview Elementary! My educational career has spanned for over 20 years, and I have taught in three different school districts including two in Southern Colorado and one on the Western Slope. My teaching experience ranges from both the elementary and middle school levels as well as an elementary academic coach for math, science, social studies, and enrichments. In addition to teaching, I have coached high school and middle school softball and boys and girls middle school basketball. 

I am a Colorado Native and hail from the Western Slope town of Rifle, Colorado. I moved to Colorado Springs when I began my college journey at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs where I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Geography and Environmental Studies and my Master’s Degree in Elementary Curriculum and Instruction. I later obtained my Principal Licensure through the University of Phoenix.

My wife and I have three daughters, one grandson, and one granddaughter. Together we enjoy being out and about either participating in or watching sporting events or being outdoors. 

I feel blessed each and every day to have the opportunity to work with your students. I thoroughly enjoy meeting and greeting your children as well as getting to know them. My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming environment where children are given the opportunity to grow both academically and personally. I look forward to partnering with you and your child(ren) to have a wonderful school year!

Hello, my name is Mary Spencer, I'm thrilled that I have been given the privilege to serve as the Dean of Students at Ridgeview Elementary!

My educational background includes a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education, a M.Ed. in Special Education, and a M.Ed. in Instructional Leadership, and an Ed.S in Educational Leadership and Special Education Administration. 

I  have had the wonderful experience of teaching 1st. and 2nd grade general education and K-5 special education. Most recently I supported multiple school special education teams, students, and families as a special education facilitator. 

On a personal note, my wonderful husband and I have 3 beautiful kids- they are 31, 26 , and 18 years old. We have moved 7 times for military assignments before happily landing here in Colorado 12 years ago. 

I'm honored to be a part of the Ridgeview Team!