About

Michelle Carroll, Director / Teacher of United Hearts Community School 

Michelle brings 25 years of teaching experience working in Early Childhood Education as a Head Start Teacher, Kindergarten Teacher, First Grade Teacher, Before and After School program leader, Summer Camp leader, Summer Arts program teacher, Childcare Center Lead Teacher and In-home Childcare Provider. She has a BS degree in Child Development and MA degree in Teaching and Learning with Technology. She currently holds a Professional Teaching License in Colorado and is Large Center Director qualified through Colorado Shines.

Silvana Zavala, Teacher of United Hearts Community School 

Silvana is a native of Lima, Peru. She is excited about sharing her culture and the Spanish language with the kids. She holds a BS degree of Applied Science Hospitality Administration from Southern Hampshire University and is currently pursing a career in Early Childhood Education with Pikes Peak State College. Travel is one of her passions in life. After visiting almost 150 cities and 35 countries, she started her most important journey when she became a mother of her son, Liam. She now lives in the Westside neighborhood and her son will be joining United Hearts this Fall.

Congo, Director of Drums for Diversity Music Program/ Teacher of United Hearts Community School

Congo is the Founder of Drums for Diversity and Director of our music and culture program. He has been a professional percussionist for over 25 years. He has worked with Grammy award winning artists throughout his career. He has 20 years of experience working in schools hosting drum workshops and performances. He is sharing his skill and passion for the African and Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz diasporas and World Beats Percussion with our students and their families. He will be teaching the basic rhythms of the congas, bongos, claves, cajon and many other instruments including the history of where they came from. He provides all of the instruments for a full hands-on approach to learning.