Assistant Principals
Leroy James
Email: ljames@hsd2.org
Phone: (719) 527-3405
Mr. Leroy James will be entering his second year as an Assistant Principal at Mountain Vista Community School. Originally from Texarkana, Texas, Leroy began his professional journey at the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts in Natchitoches, where he served as a Student Life Advisor and later as Assistant Director of Residential Life. He then moved into higher education as an Area Coordinator at Regis University in Denver before transitioning back to K-12 education. Mr. James taught Social Studies at Smoky Hill High School in Aurora and Falcon High School in Peyton. Most recently, he served as Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Falcon Middle School in District 49. Mr. James holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Science/Secondary Education and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership K-12, along with a Principal Licensure.
Mr. James is committed to servant leadership and focused on supporting the success of every student, staff member, and family at MVCS. He values strong relationships and works to create a school environment where academic growth, life skills development, and personal well-being are at the center of everything. He’s also passionate about helping educators grow professionally and enjoy their work each day.
Outside of school, Mr. James enjoys spending time with his wife, Kayla, and their son, Tobias. He loves hiking, camping, playing basketball, and has an impressive sneaker collection.
Aaron Vandewarker
Email: avandewarker@hsd2.org
Phone: (719) 527-3417
The 2026-2027 school year marks Mr. Aaron Vandewarker’s 22nd year in education—a journey that has been both deeply meaningful and richly varied. Throughout his career, he has served in a variety of educational roles, including paraprofessional, special education teacher, general education classroom teacher, and currently, school administrator. This year will be his fifth as Assistant Principal at Mountain Vista Community School, following three impactful years in the same role at Turman Elementary.
Mr. Vandewarker earned his B.S. in Psychology with a minor in Biblical Studies from Biola University. He completed his teaching licensure through the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and later earned his M.A. from the University of Kansas in Lawrence.
Although originally from Southern California, Mr. Vandewarker has called Colorado Springs home since 2002. His wife, a proud Colorado native and former 4th-grade teacher, currently substitute teaches while continuing to inspire their family’s shared love for learning. Married for 16 wonderful years, they are the proud parents of a daughter who will be entering 10th grade this fall. As a family, they enjoy bike rides, hikes, reading, park adventures, and road trips that create lasting memories.
Mr. Vandewarker is deeply grateful to be part of the Harrison community—a place where compassion, dedication, and a shared commitment for students to truly shine.