Paladin Knights

Brandon Wait joined Paladin’s team in 2008, bringing with him over two decades of extensive experience in diverse educational roles. His notable experiences span across various sectors including non-profits, juvenile interventions, social services, and public education. He has a robust background in student social and emotional health, and has been instrumental in cultivating a supportive, brave learning community at Paladin.

With a deep belief in a school community that fosters students’ strengths, promotes unity, and addresses the unique needs of each individual, Brandon has been a champion for trauma-responsive, restorative practices, social and emotional learning (SEL), and student-centered approaches. He is a strong advocate for empowering students, encouraging unity, and delivering personalized learning experiences.

As a school leader, Brandon employs a collaborative approach to make ethical, informed, and evidence-based decisions. He inspires the staff, educators, and leadership team to prioritize the interests of students and ensure equity is a fundamental principle. One of the highlights of his day (other than presenting a high school diploma) is sharing his enthusiasm for educational innovation through school tours.

Outside of Paladin, Brandon is equally passionate about outdoor activities. Whether it’s biking, skiing, climbing, playing broomball, practicing yoga, or hiking with his son Owyn, you can always find him embracing the great outdoors.

Brandon is a relationship-first person. If you’d like to learn more about him or Paladin, he welcomes you to call the school and schedule an appointment.

Ashley Evans is a Special Education Director at Paladin Career and Technical High School contracted through Designs for learning since 2015. She is also an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Developmental Cognitive Disabilities (DCD), and Work Basked Learning (WBL) Consultant. Ashley received her Bachelor of Science Degree in teaching from St. Cloud State University in 2005, her Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning from Saint Mary’s University in 2007, and her Administrative License (Director of Special Education) from Saint Mary’s University in 2012. She previously worked as a special education teacher in a self-contained classroom for 10 years working with students with a variety of disabilities. Her focus has shifted from teaching in the K-12 public school system, to administrative leadership and teaching in higher education. Ashley is also an adjunct instructor at the University of Minnesota and supervisor of student teachers in the special education Academic Behavior Strategists (ABS) and ASD programs. Ashley previously taught at Concordia University St. Paul in the Master’s program, St. Cloud State University, and has been a recurring guest speaker at Augsburg College. She thoroughly enjoys teaching others about the field of special education! When she isn’t working, she enjoys hanging out with her four children, reading, running, and traveling.

Through the thirteen years years that Adam has served Paladin, he has held positions as a success coordinator, media arts project facilitator, orientation coordinator, educational technology integrator, district assessment coordinator, and is currently Paladin’s Information & Technology Director. Beyond those titles, he is more commonly known to the Paladin community as “The Wizard.” Adam lives in the great city of Dundas about 60 miles south of Paladin, with his geeky wife and two equally geeky sons.

Eric joined Paladin during the 2014-15 school year and oversees the school’s finances and operations. He brings a diverse background of accounting and business management experience to the team. He lives in Andover with his wife and four children ages 15, 13, 10, & 8.

Caitlin came to Paladin in 2014, and has been sharing her love of all things language arts for almost 8 years. She loves reading, writing, speaking, and finding ways to connect. Caitlin’s big heart and passion for learning has led her to many places while in this Paladin community. She completed Breathe For Change in 2017, and is a certified yoga instructor. She’s also grown into the role of Academic & Instruction Coordinator, which means she helps guide the education team in addition to teaching and advising.

Recently, Caitlin made the decision to continue learning professionally, and is currently enrolled in a Master’s program for Educational Leadership at MSUM.

When she’s not reading or writing, you can find her at home with her family. If she’s not chasing the tiny humans in her house, she’s probably baking, cooking, or eating something delicious. Caitlin also enjoys rolling out her yoga mat, rowing, or trail walking with her fluffy Golden Retriever Jackie.

Caitlin believes that we are all on a continuous path of learning, and would love to know what you’ve learned recently.

Ejay started his career at Paladin in 2013 shortly after finishing school at Bemidji State University. He has always said that this place picked me and not the other way around. As the Dean of Students, Ejay enjoys helping all students by engaging their strengths through innovative, individualized learning with a restorative and trauma responsive approach. His passion for the outdoors is emphasized in our Experiential program. Whether hiking, exploring nature, or engaging in hands-on activities; this has always been an important part of his life. Ejay has seen firsthand how outdoor experiences can build confidence, resilience, teamwork, and curiosity in students. That’s why he’s so energized by the opportunity to bring this passion into his role at Paladin. Our experiential programs give students a chance to learn in meaningful, memorable ways, and Ejay loves being part of a team that values this type of growth. He has been fortunate enough to lead overnight trips to the north shore every fall, and even ice fishing trips to Lake of the Woods. Whether it’s helping lead outdoor activities, supporting field experiences, or incorporating nature-based learning into our routines, Ejay enjoys contributing to experiences that help students connect with the world around them.