Special Programs Team
Piper Bittman, High School Program Coordinator and Mentor
Piper has been a part of the Horizons Colorado community for over 15 years. She started as a volunteer in 2009 and has since been an intern, assistant teacher, lead teacher, Social Emotional Learning coordinator, and currently serves as the High School Program Coordinator as well as a mentor. She helped head up and create the revamped Horizons High School program in 2019. Piper is currently completing her final year at the University of Colorado, Denver where she obtaining her Master’s degree in Couple and Family Counseling and Therapy. She graduated from the University of Oregon in 2020 with a degree in Family and Human Services, and a minor in Special Education and Psychology. Piper has always had a passion for helping her community. She aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for the HCCA students while encouraging them to discover themselves throughout their high school years as they pursue their next adventure in life.
Jose Martinez, Director of Henning Health & Wellness Program and Restorative Justice Coordinator
Jose currently serves as the Dean of Students at Knapp Elementary, his alma mater. As a Horizons alumnus, Jose has remained deeply involved with the HCCA community and now oversees the Henning Health and Wellness Program, supporting and promoting students' physical activity and well-being. As the Restorative Justice Coordinator, Jose empowers our staff and students to find amicable solutions to difficult interpersonal situations as they arise. Jose conducts extensive professional development with our HCCA staff as well as with Horizons National to promote a caring and empathic culture within our Horizons community
Celina Gomez, Reading Specialist
With 30 years of teaching experience in Jefferson County at Title I schools teaching 1st and 2nd grades as reading and math interventionist, Celina brings passion and enthusiasm for education. She has played a pivotal role in supporting Horizons students with their reading skills and growth during our six-week summer program. Celina has a BA in Elementary Education and Special Education and an MA in the Diverse Learner.