Special Education

Ms. Allende, Speech/Language Pathologist

Hello, my name is Ms. Allende and I have the privilege of beginning my fifth year at Ruby Duncan ES as the Pre-K Speech/Language Pathologist. I am originally from Brooklyn, New York; however, I have been living in Las Vegas since 1980.I received my Bachelor’s degree in speech pathology from St. John’s University, and my Master’s degree in speech pathology from Teachers College, Columbia University. Through the years, I have had the opportunity to work with elementary, middle school, and high school students, but it is a great honor and joy to be working with our preschool students here at Ruby Duncan. When I am not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, reading, and music. I am truly excited about the great possibilities for our students, and the growth they will experience this school year.

Ms. Berger, Primary SLD

Hi! My name is Debra Berger and I am the Primary SLD teacher! I am originally from New York but moved to Las Vegas before 1st grade! This is my 4th year teaching in CCSD but my first year at Ruby Duncan, and I am so excited to be here! I received both my Bachelor’s Degree (in Criminal Justice) and my Master’s Degree (in Special Education) from UNLV. I love to read, learn, and explore. In my spare time I love to travel, do yoga, write, and learn about different cultures and ways of living.

Mrs. Higgins, School Psychologist

Hello! My name is Mrs. Higgins and I am the school psychologist at Ruby Duncan Elementary School. This is my 3rd year at Duncan Elementary and my 10th year with the Clark County School District. I am originally from Poughkeepsie, New York. I received my Bachelors degree in psychology and my Masters degree in school psychology from Marist College. I have two kids under two who keep me and my husband very busy. I enjoy hiking, yoga, reading, and traveling.

Mrs. Kimball, Special Education Instructional Facilitator

Hello Dreamkeepers! My name is Mrs. Kimball. I have been at Ruby Duncan for nine years. I have previously taught preschool special education and primary resource. This will be my third year as a Special Education Instructional Facilitator. I am originally from Yorktown, Virginia. I received my Bachelors degree from George Mason University and my Masters degree from George Washington University. When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending time traveling with my husband and son.

Mrs. Kocur, Intermediate Resource

I am new to Ruby Duncan Elementary, but have been teaching special education within the Clark County School District for over seven years. I have earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Education and a Master of Education degree in Special Education. I also have an endorsement to teach children with Autism. While not at school, I spend my time with my husband, our four children, and three dogs. I enjoy hiking and am an avid reader. I believe that communication is the key to a great parent-teacher relationship. I encourage you to contact me if you have any questions or concerns at any time.

Ms. Salazar, STAR

Hello! My name is Ms. Salazar and this is my second year at Ruby Duncan, but I have been teaching in CCSD for 5 years. I have taught both Kindergarten and 4th grade. I was born in California and moved to Las Vegas when I was 14 years old. I graduated from Eldorado High School. I have obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and my Master’s Degree in Special Education both from UNLV. In my spare time, I like to travel, watch the Lakers and the Dodgers, and spend time with my friends and family. I am excited to join the Ruby Duncan Family!

Mr. Stetler, Primary Resource

Hello, my name is Mr. Stetler and I am the Primary Special Education Resource Room teacher. I am orginally from Missoula, Montana. I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Montana with a major in Health, Physical Education and Recreation and a minor in Special Education. I taught in Montana for ten years as a special education teacher. I moved to the state of Washington and taught four more years in a special education classroom. I then received my Masters Degree in Ed. Aministration from Western Washington University. The next ten years I served as a principal and an assisstant principal in two different Washington school districts. I moved to Las Vegas in 2005 and for the last 12 years I have been an elementary special education teacher. I relish the chance to work with your children and provide them with the best educational opportunities available here at Ruby Duncan Elementary! DREAM, BELIEVE, ACHIEVE!