The DPS Board of Education unanimously passed the agreed upon climate policy, setting the district on a path to develop a comprehensive Climate Action Plan. The plan uses the student’s proposed climate goals from the City of Denver and the State of Colorado as guides and has a strong focus on environmental justice.

Maria Agazio (she/her)

Senior Manager, Operations 

Maria leads impactful initiatives in resource efficiency, sustainable transportation, and renewable energy integration. With degrees in both environmental sustainability and business management, Maria combines environmental science with strong business acumen to develop solutions that promote both ecological and economic resilience. She’s even co-founded a waste diversion nonprofit that expands access to solar energy for low-income families, a commitment that earned her recognition on the Forbes 30 Under 30 list. When not spearheading sustainability programs or deciphering the latest policy jargon, you’ll likely find her elbow-deep in clay at the pottery wheel, covered in grease restoring a classic car, on the volleyball court, or somewhere across the globe, trying to figure out how to say “energy efficiency” in a new language.

Chris the Garden Guy (he/him)

Program Specialist

Chris supports DPS’ many gardens and the Garden of Youth job skills training program, and he has served in several roles since joining DPS in 2009. Chris was raised just outside of Denver and has gardened since he was just a seedling (pun totally intended). He grew his knowledge of plants working at a local garden center, and now he works “growing plants and people.” He enjoys inspiring students to get their hands dirty and grow their own food. Outside of work, Chris loves to enjoy the wonder of nature with his young daughter.

Abigail Harkey (she/her)
Program Manager, School Sustainability

Abigail supports teachers and administrators with sustainability curriculum and professional development. She transitioned from a 20+ year career in arts education to the Sustainability Team after an inspiring Fulbright grant in Finland where she learned about the national commitment to integrate sustainability into all academic contents. She is a true believer in the power of nature and outdoor education to promote student wellbeing and agency for environmental stewardship. Originally from Rhode Island, she moved to Colorado in 2015 for the mountains, but this mermaid misses the ocean! Abigail is a world traveler, dancer, gardener, ceremonialist, hiker, and hot springs enthusiast.

Kelly Moses (he/him)

Program Manager

Kelly collaborates with DPS school communities to put passion for sustainability into action. He connects schools with programs and resources to help build a district-wide culture of environmental stewardship that extends to all students and staff. He is passionate about community-led action that deepens connection across groups through a shared vision. After graduating with a bachelor’s in international studies and African language, he made the move from New York to Colorado for the year-round sunshine. In his free time, Kelly enjoys playing ultimate frisbee, watching NBA basketball, and sipping coffee between bites of something sweet.

Adam West (he/him)

Energy Engineer

Adam advances sustainable design and construction, energy and water efficiency, and renewable energy at DPS. He earned a master’s degree in civil & environmental engineering and a bachelor’s degree in environmental studies. Adam was raised in Knoxville and Atlanta where he spent much of his time outside. Have you ever had a mudball fight? Adam has. When he’s not feeling the crushing weight of his never-ending to-do list, Adam can be found doing all things cycling, going to concerts, and exploring Denver.