Laura McNally – Principal
I am privileged to serve as the principal of Academy International. With over 24 years of experience in education, I have been part of Academy District 20 since 2008 and have been working closely with our wonderful school community since 2015. I thrive on collaborating with our dedicated staff and engaging with parents. The most rewarding part of my job is watching our students develop and succeed!
After earning a BA in Elementary Education from Adams State University in 2000, I began teaching 3rd and 4th grade in Falcon District 49. My passion for literacy led me to earn an MA in Curriculum and Instruction with a Specialization in Reading from UCCS, and I later became a literacy coach. This was my favorite job! In addition to supporting struggling readers, I enjoyed leadership and working with the adult learner. I pursued Principal Licensure at the University of Phoenix and worked as a Teacher on Special Assignment in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. In 2008, I joined Academy District 20’s Curriculum and Instruction department and later served as an Assistant Principal at Woodmen-Roberts and The da Vinci Academy before joining Academy International.
When I'm not working, I love spending quality time with my husband, son, and extended family who live nearby. They bring me immense joy. My husband and I, both Colorado natives raised in Colorado Springs, call Academy District 20 home. We enjoy taking advantage of our state's beautiful outdoors through hiking, e-biking, fishing, boating, and camping/RVing. We’re always on the go, eager to travel and explore new places and experiences.
Leigh Ann Lawrentz – Assistant Principal
Bonjour! I am thrilled to join the AIES community as your Assistant Principal. It feels like coming home, as I began my career here 22 years ago as a 2nd-grade French Immersion teacher. With 20 years of experience in education, 16 of which were in Academy District 20, I look forward to partnering with everyone in our journey towards excellence.
I graduated from Lewis and Clark College in 1996 with a BA in French Studies and a minor in Education. After teaching English in Japan for two years, I earned my teaching license and Master of Education from Regis University. I worked at Academy International Elementary for four years, developing a deep appreciation for the IB PYP Program. After a break to be with my first son, I taught 1st grade at Rockrimmon Elementary School until we moved to Japan for four years. Returning to Colorado Springs, I spent 10 years back at Rockrimmon Elementary, five in 3rd grade and five as the IB Coordinator. In 2022, I followed my dream of becoming an administrator, earning my Principal License through UCCS/ASD20. Last year, I served as the MTSS Coordinator for Behavior at Mountain View Elementary School and the Interim Assistant Principal at Legacy Peak Elementary School.
Outside of work, I enjoy life in our beautiful state with my husband and two sons, staying busy with sports, travel, and family time. This year, our oldest son is off to college, and our youngest will be a freshman at Air Academy High School. It's an exciting year full of starting new chapters for us all!