Meet the Team

Jodi Huffman, M.Ed, BCBA, Owner

I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with a Bachelor's in Psychology, a Master's in Early Childhood Special Education, and a yoga teacher certification. My approach is grounded in evidence-based practices and complemented by my knowledge of yoga philosophy and mindfulness, which enriches the support I provide to families.

My professional journey began in 2004, when I first started practicing yoga and studying child development while working directly with children. Building meaningful connections with others has always been a central part of my work and values.

Over the past 20 years, I have gained experience as a classroom teacher, behavior technician, teacher trainer, team leader, and parent advocate. These roles have deepened my commitment to providing family-centered support that respects each child and family’s unique needs.

I am passionate about honoring the individuality of each family and child. At Mindful Me, I use my expertise in applied behavior analysis, special education and years of experience to create a supportive, inclusive environment where everyone feels welcomed and valued.

 

Tori Hess, M.Ed, Special Educator

I possess an Early Childhood Special Education teacher license granted by the Colorado Department of Education, allowing me to cater to individuals aged 0-21. My undergraduate studies led to a major in American History complemented by a minor in Cultural Anthropology. Subsequently, I pursued a Master's in Education with a dual emphasis on Teacher Leadership and Special Education.

Since obtaining my bachelor's degree in 2013, my professional journey has spanned various roles within the field of education. Progressing from a school librarian to a paraeducator, I eventually assumed the role of a special education teacher for kindergarten through fourth grade. Presently, I am engaged as an Early Childhood Special Education teacher, concentrating on the developmental needs of children aged 3-5 in Carbondale.

I am a firm advocate for a holistic approach that emphasizes a child's capabilities rather than limitations. My commitment lies in acknowledging and addressing the unique needs of each child and their family. I firmly believe in fostering learning through the mediums of play and connection.

How it started:

Mindful Me was established in 2015, inspired by the Baltimore riots that ensued after the tragic death of Freddie Gray. It was founded upon the fundamental belief that every child deserves access to high-quality education, every person should have their basic needs met, and all individuals should feel safe and cared for in their own communities. Initially, Mindful Me started as a trauma-informed preschool program that incorporated yoga and mindfulness techniques within Head Start programs in west Baltimore.