Sage Elementary

Hello everyone! My name is Darcie Punches-Mickelson and I am thrilled to be the new principal at Sage Elementary. I have been a teacher for over 22 years and fortunate to have spent the last twelve in SWCSD # 1. As a Rock Springs native, I take great pride in our community and state. I am a graduate of Rock Springs High School. I earned both my Bachelors and Master’s Degrees from the University of Wyoming. I am a proud Tiger and Cowboy. 

My family is very special to me. I have an amazing husband and two daughters. In my spare time you might see me watching hockey, walking my dog, reading, or lifting weights. I also believe in giving back to your community and do so by volunteering for community organizations like the United Way. 

My goal for our school community is to be a collaborative, caring place that fosters high expectations, good citizenship, and growth for all students. School should be a place where everyone feels welcome, safe, and loved so they can work to their highest potential. Sage is blessed to have an amazing staff and we will continue working together to make sure our school feels safe and welcoming. 

Anyone who knows me will tell you that I truly enjoy kids. They are the best part of being an educator. I look forward to meeting all of our Sage students and families. 

Hello!

My name is Adam Shankle and I will be the new Assistant Principal this year. I was raised in Northeast Ohio and spent much of my life in that area, graduating from a small high school there. After high school I attended Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania and Hiram College where I earned my Bachelor’s in Integrated Social Studies Education. I finished my Master’s in Educational Leadership in 2018. I am married and have two beautiful children. My family and I moved to Wyoming 4 years ago and have loved it ever since. 

My adventure in education began with my first teaching job in Alaska, I then moved back to Ohio where I took a teaching position at my alma mater as a Seventh and Eighth Grade Social Studies teacher. After we moved to Wyoming I worked as a Job Coach and Social Studies teacher in Campbell County before moving here to Rock Springs to join the team here at Sage. 

I am excited for the opportunity to help your students and looking forward to a great year!