ben magras, executive director

bmagras@spcsmn.org | 651-225-9177 x2000

Ben began as the Executive Director in July 2024. He has over two decades of experience as a principal, district leader, and leadership coach for principals at both charter and traditional schools.

Ensuring that each student has the opportunity to achieve their dreams and contribute positively to our community is central to Ben’s work as an educational leader. He is deeply committed to creating an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.

Beyond his professional life, he lives in Minneapolis and is married with two kids. He enjoys running, spending time outdoors, coaching baseball and going to dance competitions.

He is excited to collaborate with the entire St. Paul City School community to build upon the strengths of our school and to continue to provide an exceptional educational experience for our students.

College & Degree(s): University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, B.A. in Psychology University of Wisconsin-Madison, M.S.W. Social Work University of Wisconsin-Madison, M.A. Educational Leadership & Policy Analysis

Licenses: School Social Worker K-12 Principal Special Education Director Superintendent

Esteban Rodriguez-Hefty, Director of finance & Operations

erodriguez@spcsmn.org | 651-225-9177 x2030

Esteban is dedicated to supporting students, staff, and families across the St. Paul City School District. He takes pride in contributing to all facets of district operations, whether that means helping design systems that enhance teaching and learning at scale, or simply creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere for everyone who enters the school.

In addition to his district-wide role, Esteban serves as the Head Coach of the Boys Soccer team at St. Paul City School. He values the opportunity to mentor middle and high school student-athletes, using sports as a platform to foster character, teamwork, and resilience.

Outside of work, Esteban enjoys both playing and watching team sports, as well as engaging in extreme sports during his free time.

College and Degree(s):
Luther College, B.A. Business Management

Leslie Allred, director of social emotional wellness

lallred@spcsmn.org | 651-225-9177 x4000

Leslie developed a passion for working with people from a young age and has pursued opportunities to serve youth, families, and the community through her education, career path, and volunteering over the last 20 years. Before joining the district in 2015 she had experience working in settings, including the Job Corps program, healthcare and health education, trauma counseling, and community programs for youth. Leslie is passionate about social justice and serving students and families with a holistic approach. In her free time, Leslie loves being outdoors with her family, playing board games, traveling, crafts, and cooking.

College & Degree(s): University of Wisconsin, Madison, B.A. in Psychology University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, M.S.W. Social Work
Licensures: Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW)
Licensed School Social Worker (LSSW) MN Board of Social Work Clinical Licensure Supervisor

dr. Jennifer bordonaro, elementary School Principal

Joining SPCS in July 2024, Jennie brings nearly two decades of experience in education and just as much passion for supporting students and staff! Now entering her 20th year in the field, she’s served in a wide range of roles including elementary and middle school classroom teacher, student success coach, continuous improvement specialist, and adjunct instructor for graduate students.

She grew up splitting her time between the Twin Cities metro and rural Iowa, experiences that shaped her perspective and deepened her commitment to inclusive, student-centered education. Outside of school, she’s most at home cheering on her two kids at their sporting events, golfing, enjoying global cuisine, watching Vikings football, and taking long walks with the family dog. Time with family and friends is always at the top of her list.

Wholly committed to the SPCS community, Jennie is eager to learn and grow alongside the students, staff, and families she serves.

College & Degree(s): St. Catherine’s University - BA in Elementary Education. Hamline University - Urban Education Certificate Concordia University: St. Paul - MA in Education; Emphasis: Differentiated Instruction Hamline University- Doctorate in Education; Dissertation: Nonexclusionary Discipline

jbordonaro@spcsmn.org | 651-225-9177 x1110

Rashad watkins, secondary school principal

rwatkins@spcsmn.org | 651-225-9177 x2280

RaShad was born and grew up in Michigan. He moved to Minnesota in 1992 and attended Harding High School in St. Paul. He has been in education for 23 in a multitude of roles. RaShad started his work in St. Paul City School as the Dean of Students for the High School. He served as the Athletic Director and is now the Middle School Principal.

In his free time, RaShad enjoys sitting on the couch and watching the University of Michigan football. He also enjoys traveling to new and old places and spending quality time with family.

College and Degree(s): North Iowa Community College, AAS Southern New Hampshire University, BS Sports Management

krystal degraw, special education director

Krystal DeGraw brings over two decades of experience in special education, having held multiple districtwide leadership roles supporting students from birth through age 22 across diverse settings.

Passionate about helping students reach their highest potential, Krystal is committed to educational equity, culturally responsive practices, and supporting families in navigating the special education process. She thrives on collaboration and creating student-centered solutions that empower every learner.

A proud downtown St. Paul resident, Krystal is excited to serve students and families in the city she calls home. Outside of work, she enjoys walking her dog, Remy, spending quality time with her nephews, and relaxing with TV/streaming shows.

College & Degree(s):
Winona State University - B.S. in Special Education
Pace University - M.S. in Childhood/Special Education
Bethel University - Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorders
Minnesota State University, Mankato - Ed.S. in Educational Administration
Minnesota State University, Mankato - Women in Leadership Certificate

Licenses:
Learning Disabilities
Developmental Cognitive Disabilities
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Director of Special Education

kdegraw@spcsmn.org | 651-225-9177 x2180

nicole peterson, director of teaching & Learning

Nicole Peterson is passionate about culturally responsive education and has dedicated over two decades to supporting student success. Throughout her years in education, she has served in diverse roles, including Kindergarten Teacher, Literacy Specialist/Coach, K–21 Special Education Instructional Coach, and, most recently, Literacy Achievement Manager.

Nicole thrives on collaboration, working closely with colleagues to design innovative programming and data-driven instruction that empowers every student to reach their full potential. She believes that education is the most powerful tool for creating positive change and is deeply committed to equity and social justice.

A Minnesota native, Nicole lives in Bloomington with her husband, two children, and their cat. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and being outdoors—whether running, cross-country skiing, or relaxing at one of Minnesota’s many lakes.

College & Degree(s): University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire, B.S. in Education St. Mary’s University of MN- M.A. Literacy Education St. Cloud State University - Certificate Special Education ABS

Licenses: Elementary Education Communication Arts/Literature K-12 Reading Academic and Behavioral Strategist

npeterson@spcsmn.org | 651-225-9177 x2010