Bethany Gleason

Background

About Bethany Gleason

I am an educator, mentor, adventurer, dreamer, and doer. I have 10 years expertise in teaching and coaching at the high school level. I have 5 years experience in the adaptive sports world. I have also worked at the college level for the University of Michigan as well as a wilderness instructor for Big City Mountaineers. In addition, I was an arborist and tree climber. As a current Physical Education Teacher and Department Head at Durango High School in Durango, CO, I lead the Strength & Conditioning program while teaching Lifetime Recreation Sports. My role focuses on preparing students to thrive academically, socially, and professionally by fostering personal responsibility for health and fitness. Currently, I am involved in developing curriculum for the Colorado Department of Education's Indian Studies initiative in physical education programs. Previously, I worked at Adaptive Sports Association in Durango, Colorado as the Assistant Program Director. Here, with the help of hundreds of volunteers, we were able to provide opportunities for folks with disabilities to explore what is possible in the outdoors. On a daily basis, I managed volunteers, planned, implemented, and evaluated programming and oversaw training. During my time at Adaptive Sports Association, we added a cycling and watercraft rental program and an individual cycle program. I have also previously worked as the Adventure Education teacher at Eaglecrest High School in Centennial, CO. Due to the incredible growth of the program during my time there, I was able to establish a leadership training course, adventure leader class, climbing team and a Cherry Creek School District mountain biking team. In just one year after creating the competitive climbing team, we tripled in size. Previous experience includes work at the University of Michigan Outdoor Recreation Program. Colleagues would probably describe me as someone who has vision and the drive and determination to see those visions become a reality. I am known in my department for being able to communicate effectively with others and hold the team together. I am a collaborator and energizer. I hold a BA from Hope College, professional teaching license, CDL, Leave No Trace Master Educator certificate, Wilderness First Responder certificate, PSIA Alpine Level 1 and Level 1 Adaptive Alpine VI/Cog certificate, am a certified whitewater guide, and held a Climbing Wall Instructor certification from the American Mountain Guides Association. I am also a regional volunteer for SheJumps as an Event Coordinator for Colorado.