Our Leadership

Selina Ortiz, M.Ed.

Co-Founder & Vice President

Educator- Assistant Principal

Master’s Degree in Special Education

Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership

Doctoral Candidate EDL- Special Education

Alexandra Barraza, PA-C

Co-Founder & President

Physician Assistant :

Family Medicine, OBGYN, Psychiatry and Pediatrics

Former Special Education Educator

Former Speech Language Pathologist

Bachelor of Science Communication Disorders

Master's in Physician Assistant Studies

Kassie Schneider, Secretary

Juniper Valley

The name.

In the Bible, Elijah sits under a tree and finds himself feeling forgotten. Unimportant. Abandoned. Much like some people with disabilities transitioning to adulthood find themselves aged out of public education and alone. No resources. No programs. No employment. No opportunities to pursue purpose. No community. It was here under this tree that God met Elijah and gave him cake, drink and friends. That tree, a juniper tree, was used to show how the lowest point can be made holy. Latin in origin, juniper means “young and evergreen.” A tree known for its patience requiring many years to grow and mature. A tree known for its resilience and ability to thrive anywhere.


Under the juniper tree you are embraced, nourished and comforted.


Welcome to Juniper Valley.