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WHO’S WHO AT THE SAGEMONT SCHOOL
ZORAYA AHUMADA BUS DRIVER/MAINTENANCE CREW
VANESSA AVERY
2nd GRADE TEACHER Vanessa Avery was born and raised
in New Jersey. She graduated from the University of Scranton with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary
Education and went on to receive her Master’s degree in ESL from
Boston University. She moved to Florida in 2006 and taught 2nd and 3rd grade in the Miami Dade County
Public School system for 11 years. Vanessa feels fortunate to have come across a teaching
opportunity here at The Sagemont School where the sense of community instantly drew her in. Each year, she
looks forward to building relationships with her students and their families, watching them grow, and creating a love for learning. She is looking forward to meeting all of her new students and their families.
NYDIANNE AYALA ADMINISTATIVE ASSISTANT - UPPER SCHOOL
Mrs. Ayala has been with The Sagemont School for three years. Prior to that, she had taken a 13-year hiatus in her career to raise her three
children. She has a Master’s Degree in Translation from the University of Puerto Rico and a Bachelor’s of Science in Nutrition and
Dietetics from Kaplan University. Being an island girl Ms. Ayala loves the beach.
SANDY BARON MUSIC TEACHER - LOWER SCHOOL
Sandy Baron has been with The Sagemont School for four years and has created a program
which includes all aspects of learning Music. Sandy came to
Sagemont from the Miami-Dade County Public Schools where she taught general music and
chorus at both the elementary and middle school level. Sandy
also held the position of Magnet Lead Teacher at South Miami Middle
Community School Center for the Arts. She earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music and Music Education from Florida International University.
Sandy hopes to develop a life-long love of music while solidifying that appreciation with practical skills and true musicianship and in so doing “Nurturing the Highest Aspirations of the Human Spirit Through the Arts”.
MARTHA BASS SPANISH TEACHER - LOWER SCHOOL
Martha Bass has over twenty years of classroom experience. She earned a Bachelor's
Degree in Education awarded by the University of Miami, which is the equivalent of Licentiate in Teaching Languages, granted by the
University of Antioquia in Medellin, Colombia. She has a Florida Teacher Certification in Foreign Languages-Spanish and ESOL. In
Colombia, she taught English as a second language as well as fourth and fifth grade. For
the last seventeen years, she has been teaching Spanish as a second language. She has been a member of The American
Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, which provide teachers with great and up to
date teaching tools. She has also participated in some of their annual conventions. Her main goal is to help students to develop their four
communicative skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) with the integration of language learning and content learning through many exciting activities and projects that will enhance the process of learning a second
language.
DEBBIE BITTER ASSISTANT – LOWER SCHOOL
Mrs. Bitter was born in Kingston, Jamaica. Mrs. Bitter loves
supporting children and watching them grow throughout the year. She
has worked at The Sagemont School for the last eighteen years. She loves playing with her orchids, going to the
beach or relaxing with a good book.
JOSE BLANCO BUS DRIVER
DIEGO BOLANOS MAINTANCE - UPPER SCHOOL
JARVIS BROWN SCIENCE/BUSINESS - UPPER SCHOOL
Jarvis Brown holds a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental science, from Florida A&M University and an MBA from Nova
Southeastern University. He is certified in chemistry 6-12 and business 6-12. Currently,
he sponsors the Junior Achievement program at Sagemont, as well as the DECA club that manages the Sagemont School’s Pride Rock
coffee shop.
ANA CASTANEDA MAINTENANCE CREW - LOWER SCHOOL
HUGO CASTANO FACILITIES MANAGER
BARBIE CACERES 4th GRADE TEACHER
Barbie Caceres graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a B.A. in Elementary Education. She earned her M.S. in
Elementary Education with a specialization in Montessori from Barry University. She
has been an educator in Broward County for the last 13 years. Teaching has been her passion ever since childhood. She has a
strong passion for upper elementary students and feels as if she connects with
them the best. Barbie Caceres believes that every day is a new day where you should always strive to be kind, positive, and helpful
to others. The feeling of “a home away from home” is what she loves the most about teaching at Sagemont.
DANIEL CARLSON MATH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Daniel Carlson has been teaching secondary math for over 20 years. He graduated from
University of Florida with a B.S. in Geology. He has taught math in Guatemala for two years at a school for the children of evangelical
missionaries, then became a scientist for 12 years testing geosynthetic materials, publishing a number of technical papers.
Thereafter, Mr. Carlson joined Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory as a
Physics/Math teacher for the next 17 years. He also taught at Archbishop McCarthy High
School. Mr. Carlson joined The Sagemont School in 2017 and loves the school’s
emphasis on learning, and enjoys reaching students through his non-traditional teaching style. His signature quote is: “It is better to be a kind
person than to be particularly good at math. Nevertheless, we will do our best.”
IRENE CARLUCCIO PRE-KINDERGARTEN TEACHER
Ms. Carluccio has a Bachelor
of Science in Early Childhood Education and has a Post-
Graduate Degree in Pre-school Management. She grew up and studied in Medellin,
Colombia. Ms. Carluccio has been teaching for over 30 years. She has also taught
kindergarten through third grade though pre-k is her
favorite. Ms. Carluccio has been teaching at Sagemont
since 2003 and her daughter Catalina graduated from Sagemont this past year.
Ms. Carluccio loves traveling, swimming, and painting abstract pictures. Children have always been part of her life and she loves to observe how they
grow, mature, and especially she loves receiving their hugs and beautiful smiles each day. One of her favorite quotes is “Let me love you a little more before you’re not little anymore!”
FLORHEIM DECAYETTE EXECUTIVE ADMIN. ASSISTANT - UPPER SCHOOL
Florheim Decayette is a Sagemont parent as well as one of the Administrative Assistants at
the Upper School Campus. She graduated from Kean University in New Jersey, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior
Design. Although the creative industry is her passion, she also enjoys working with children which landed her opportunities as a teaching
assistant in early childhood education for several years, and aftercare programs. She
also contributed to an enrichment program for disadvantaged and gifted kids, where she taught the importance and relevance of math
and science in the creative industry. In her spare time, Florheim enjoys the great outdoors
and traveling with her two beautiful boys. Her high energy and colorful spirit blend well
within the Sagemont environment.
AYISHAH DENNIS
ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL - UPPER SCHOOL Ayishah Dennis earned a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish
Language and Literature from SUNY New Paltz, a Master’s degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and a Doctorate degree in Leadership
in Education from Capella University. Dr. Dennis joined Sagemont as a Spanish teacher in 2010, where she encouraged a love of Spanish to native and non-native
students. As an ESOL teacher, she taught English to international students while holding them to high
expectations. Dr. Dennis is excited to return to the role of Assistant Principal to continue to support a collaborative school culture. She is looking forward to
building relationships with students, staff and community members and is dedicated to providing for the curricular needs of
teachers to assist in meeting the learning outcomes. Dr. Dennis is committed to empowering students to take control of their learning by putting students and their needs first.
BARBARA EISENSMITH PRE-KINDERGARTEN TEACHER
Barbara Eisensmith has been a teacher for
over 30 years. Prior to coming to Sagemont in 1998, she taught Middle School Remedial Reading and Math and Pre-Kindergarten in
public school. Mrs. Eisensmith has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education and a Reading Certification from the University of
Florida. Mrs. Eisensmith will be entering her 20th year at the Sagemont School in
August. Pre-Kindergarten is a special place for Mrs. Eisensmith where she feels that “little things mean a lot!”
LONI FRANCESCH 3rd GRADE TEACHER
Loni Francesch received
her Bachelor’s degree from Florida State
University in psychology with a minor in education. She further
received a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Barry
University. Her first year teaching was at
an alternative school teaching reading and
career building for middle and high school students. After, she began teaching
elementary education at Summerville Advantage Academy and at Santa Fe Advantage Academy for a total of seven years. She later found herself at The
Sagemont School where she has taught third grade the past four years, and is excited to have the best year yet in third grade.
MARIA ISABEL FRANCO 1st GRADE TEACHER
Maria Isabel Franco has been teaching for over 30 years. She earned her Master’s degree in
Elementary Education from the University of Alabama and holds a BA in Education granted by Metropolitan University in Caracas,
Venezuela. Before coming to Sagemont, she worked at Escuela Campo Alegre, an international school (US curriculum based).
She has attended many professional development workshops, seminars, and
conferences related to the different subject areas taught in first grade and executive functioning. She recently attended a workshop
on the Wilson Reading System, which provides practical applications of reading research. She
has practiced Yoga for a very long time, and loves teaching the benefits of breathing, concentration, and relaxing to her own
students. She believes in providing a safe, happy, and stimulating learning environment for all children. She also feels that it is very important to instill in each child the love of learning, and to guide them to become independent,
responsible citizens.
ELIZABETH GARRARD THEATRE TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Elizabeth Garrard studied acting and directing at FSU and FAU before graduating Suma Cum Laude with a Bachelor Degree in Musical
Theatre and Opera performance from Barry University. She received her MS in Education
from Nova Southeastern University, specializing in Interdisciplinary Arts and Drama Therapy. Ms. Garrard joined the Sagemont family in
2009 and began her quest to build one of the most prestigious high school theatre programs
in the state of Florida. She was a finalist for the Arts Educator of the Year in Broward County in 2014, 2016, and 2017 and Teacher of the Year
at The Sagemont School for 2014-2015. During her time at The Sagemont School she has directed her students in over 30 productions;
two of which were selected as Florida State Thespian Mainstage productions; Dracula and The Miracle Worker. Her
students have been nominated for and continuously receive over 80 Cappies Awards. In addition to her work in the classroom, Ms. Garrard participates in
professional development in the local theatre community and has won awards for acting, directing, playwriting, and costume design, and appeared onstage
with many of South Florida's most prestigious theatre and opera companies. She enjoys sharing her real world experiences with students in the classroom and working collaboratively with students to unleash their
boundless creative power both onstage and off, encouraging them to take creative risks and strive for their highest goals.
MATTHEW GOLDBERG
MUSIC TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL Matthew Goldberg has been educating
musicians in South Florida for twenty-five years. After studying music at the prestigious
Berklee College of Music and Barry University, he began his career at Broward Schools as a music teacher. Matthew also taught at
American Heritage School and NSU University School prior to finding his home here at Sagemont, where he established Synergy, a
unique curriculum which combines guitar, keyboard, vocal and rock band programs. In
addition to his instructional path, he has also been a sought-after songwriter, producer, performer and studio musician. Matthew’s
journey has taken him from the stages at the Broward Center for Performing Arts to the Hard Rock. He also worked several years as a
musical director for Gioia Bruno from the group Exposé, recorded in Gloria Estefan’s legendary Crescent Moon Studios
and performed with recent Rock ‘N Roll Hall of Fame inductees Bon Jovi! Matthew’s passion for music is exceeded only by his desire to share it with his students!
JESSICA GRONBERG MUSIC TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Ms. Jessica Gronberg is pleased to be finishing
her sixteenth year of teaching, her sixth year at The Sagemont School as the Director of Bands, Percussion and AP Music Theory. Ms. Gronberg
is also the Director of the Drama and Vocal Camp for Camp Sagemont and has been for the last five summers and will begin teaching
Chorus in the fall. She has taught previously at Pembroke Pines Charter High School in
Pembroke Pines, Florida, West Miami Middle School in Miami, Florida, as well as L. A. Ainger Middle School in Rotonda West. A graduate of
Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa (2003), she graduated with a Bachelor of Music degree in
Music Education with emphasis in both vocal performance and flute. Ms. Gronberg is currently the Broward County Band Directors’
Association Co-Chair and a member of the Broward Music Educators Association Executive Board and is an active guest conductor (was the Guest Conductor for the 2008 Superintendent's Middle School Honor Chorus in
Miami-Dade), clinician, performer, private instructor and FBA Adjudicator for both Solo and Ensemble and Jazz Band Assessment.
Ms. Gronberg is so very fortunate to get to come in and do each and every day what she absolutely loves doing at The Sagemont School! It’s not work when
that happens….It’s a pleasure…a blessing! She loves that her students constantly strive to better themselves and play more than just the black and white notes on the page-but to truly make music! Ms. Gronberg asks to always
remember that with “higher expectations foster higher outcomes” and to “Leave Your Legacy!”
SHANNON GREGOREK ENGLISH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Shannon Gregorek has been a part of the Sagemont
family since 2017. Shannon attended West Virginia Wesleyan College as a student-athlete where she was a part of the volleyball team for 4 years. She has a
Bachelor’s degree in Educational Studies and English. At Sagemont, Shannon is the women’s head volleyball coach and an English instructor. Although
she has only been at Sagemont for a short time, Shannon loves being a part of students’ lives and
developing a strong relationship not only in the classroom, but on the court as well.
JUDI GROVE
1st GRADE TEACHER Judi Grove has been
part of the Sagemont team since 2014. Prior to Sagemont, Judi taught
in Michigan for 10 years. Judi loves teaching and has taught kindergarten
to third grade, as well as Spanish K-6. Judi has a
Bachelor of Arts with a major concentration in
Language Arts and a minor in Elementary Education from Madonna University.
She received her Master of Arts for teaching English as a Second Language from Eastern Michigan University. Judy loves the diverse and devoted
community at Sagemont and is proud to be a part of it. She speaks English, Spanish and Portuguese.
KEVIN GUTTERMAN MATH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Kevin Gutterman has been a teacher for over 20
years. This time has included the New York City Board of Education as well as Broward County Schools. He was born in Brooklyn, New York and
grew up in Queens. He has a Bachelor’s Degree from the State University of New York at Binghamton and a Master’s Degree in Education
from Queens College in New York City. Kevin is happy to be part of the Sagemont Team and is
enjoying working with his students and colleagues. When he is not teaching Mathematics, Kevin likes to spend time with his wife and two daughters. He
loves baseball, reading and travel. He also enjoys camping, nature and going to the movies.
NATALY HARTSTONE PRE-SCHOOL TEACHER
Prior to joining the Sagemont team this year, Nataly Hartstone spent the last 10 years of her
career teaching at Temple Dor Dorim in Weston Fl. She began as a floater on all levels and within a year she had moved up and taken on the
position as a lead teacher on the one and two-year old level. Nataly also developed programs over the summer that included music, sports and
art. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Florida International
University. Nataly is passionate about helping young children develop into their own person. She enjoys being hands on with the children by
creating fun sensory driving activities.
SCOTT HEMEON ART TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Scott Hemeon grew up on Cape
Cod, comes from a family of teachers, and has been involved in the arts his whole life. After
completing a four-year studio program at The School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston,
he graduated from Tufts University with a bachelor’s
degree in fine arts. In other lives he was the general manager of a hotel in the U.S. Virgin Islands, a day trader, and a woodworker. In addition to developing his own arts career, Mr. Hemeon
freelanced as a decorative painter, worked with a cabinet maker on yacht interiors, and worked designing and finishing fine furniture for homes in
Newport Rhode Island. He has been teaching since 2004 at independent schools in Newport and Pittsburgh, and is beginning his 7th-year teaching middle school art and running the chess club here at Sagemont.
BONNIE HENDRICKX 5th GRADE TEACHER
Bonnie Hendrickx graduated from UCF in 1995 with two B.A.’s in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. She also received both
her M.S. in Elementary Education in 1998 and EdS in Educational Leadership in 2009 from Nova Southeastern University. She has been a
school teacher for 22 years in both the public and private school sectors. She has also been a
part of Camp Sagemont for the past 5 years as the LIT Director and Travel Adventure Coordinator Counselor and loves having fun!
She is a true athlete and being outdoors participating in distance riding, hiking,
triathlons, 1/2 marathons and anything that challenges her to be a better version of herself than she was yesterday! She is looking forward
to implementing the Growth Mindset method with the students this year to help them realize they can accomplish anything they set their mind to!
BLANCA HERRERA REGISTRAR/ADMINISTRATIVE ASSSITANT – LOWER SCHOOL
DARCY HILDEBIDLE
ART TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL Darcy Hildebidle teaches art and art history to
high school and advanced placement students. Originally from Flint, Michigan, Darcy worked as an art gallery manager and
grant writer after completing her bachelor’s degree in art and art history from the
University of Michigan. After transitioning to South Florida, Darcy completed a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Arts Education,
focusing on the holistic benefits of the arts in formal and community education. She then completed a program in advanced graduate
studies in art therapy, before transferring into a doctoral program in curriculum and
instruction with an emphasis in her research on the arts in education. She continues to find inspiration in the creative studio process and its critical learning outcomes in social, emotional, and
cognitive domains.
CAMY ISNADY BUS DRIVER
JENNIFER JIMENEZ SPANISH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Jennifer Jimenez has been in education for more than a decade. She has taught all middle and high school levels, as well as college
students. Jennifer enjoys teaching both Spanish and ESOL courses. She has a
Bachelor’s degree in International Business and Spanish, and a Master’s degree in Latin American Studies. Jennifer studied abroad in
England, Spain, and Costa Rica. She has a passion for traveling and loves to share her
experiences with her students and motivate them to continue their study of the language.
JOSEPHINE JORGE MPP TEACHER - LOWER SCHOOL
Josephine Jorge has been at The Sagemont
School for one year and has developed a learning environment that encourages students to use their diverse learning styles to gain
knowledge while fostering growth in all subject areas. Josephine came from the Tri-state area with more than 10 years of special education
teaching experience at both elementary and middle schools. Josephine earned a Bachelor’s
degree in Exceptional Education from Nova Southeastern University and a Master’s degree in Bilingual Special Education from City
College of New York. She believes that individualized and group instruction assist
students to progress both academically and socially.
LEAH SOLOMON-KETCHUM
3rd GRADE TEACHER
Leah Solomon Ketchum graduated with a Bachelors and Master’s degree from the University of Florida. She has
a specialization in reading and is ESOL endorsed. She has taught K-3rd grade and pullout reading support for
kindergarten to 5th grade students. Leah taught at Country Hills
Elementary before joining the Sagemont family in 2010. When she is not with her classroom kids, she
enjoys spending time with her children who attend the Sagemont School.
TAMRA LAFLEUR ENGLISH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Tamra LaFleur received her Bachelor’s degree in
Elementary Education from University of Phoenix. Mrs. LaFleur has been teaching for fourteen years and became a member of the
Sagemont family in 2011. She has been an active member of the staff by coaching the varsity cheerleading team, assistant coach for
track and field, and is a sponsor of SGA. In addition, she took on the role of the yearbook
advisor in 2017. Currently a teacher in the English department, Tamra teaches 6th grade English, critical thinking, and yearbook. She bases her lessons off of project-based learning while providing a
positive environment for the students to grow. She believes that student success is created through meaningful relationships.
MICHELE LE MAR
SCHOOL COUNSELOR – UPPER SCHOOL Michele Le Mar has been with Sagemont since 2010
as the Upper School Campus School Counselor. She has many years of independent school experience in
Pre-K – Grade 12. Mrs. Le Mar received her Bachelor’s degree in History from the State University of New York at Cortland. She earned her
Master’s degree of Education in Counseling and Consultation from Keene State College in New Hampshire. Mrs. Le Mar holds a Florida certification
in School Counseling for students in Pre-K – Grade 12. She is very happy to be part of the Sagemont
family.
YULIET LORENZ MEDIA/MPP ASSISTANT - LOWER SCHOOL
Yuliet Lorenz is the Media/Mountain Peak Assistant at the Sagemont Lower School Campus. Yuliet
graduated from Flagler College with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary/Special Education and
earned her Master’s degree in Elementary Reading. She began her
career as a public school elementary Math/Reading Paraprofessional in the Ridgefield, Connecticut School
system. She continued her educational career teaching First and
Second Grade initially in Bethel, Connecticut and then at the Royle School in Darien, Connecticut. Yuliet Lorenz brings over ten years of classroom experience to our faculty and she supports Sagemont’s passion for early
childhood education, the schools commitment to developing independent lifelong learners, and she enjoys contributing to a staff that emphasizes a collaborative learning environment.
SUE MALLAK ENGLISH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Mrs. Mallak joined Sagemont in 2012 and has Bachelor’s degrees in English, Journalism, and Criminal Justice, as well as a Master’s degree in Education. She began her teaching career 18
years ago in the Department of Defense Dependents School (DODDS) system in Japan.
She has taught in Tennessee, Maryland, Delaware, and Florida. She received the 2008 Archdiocese of Baltimore Award for Teaching
Excellence. Mrs. Mallak studied Shakespeare at Oxford University, and she brings her love of classic literature to her middle school students,
challenging them to think and read critically and logically. When Mrs. Mallak is not
teaching middle school English, she enjoys teaching the elements of public speaking and
Lincoln-Douglas debate to high school students, encouraging them to “flip the
pancake” when analyzing current events and making impactful decisions. She enjoys sharing the importance of the Art of Language with her students!
MARIA MANZOLA 4th GRADE TEACHER
Dr. Maria Manzola has a multi-faceted Educational Professional
with 15+ years of extensive experience in developing, and directing educational operations that
enhance learners’ experience. Maria is highly skilled in curriculum design, learning theories, training
technologies, virtual training, and content development. Maria studied
at a number of higher education institutions, including Indiana University, Western New Mexico
University and SUNY Buffalo State College. Maria finds happiness when she has the ability to translate student development behaviors into high-impact
learning designs, curriculum, and tools to create an internal knowledge transfer that maximize learners’ academic and personal skills. She is passionate about enjoying life with a SMILE through experiences in culture,
exercise, music, art and food as a first generational Italian American from Brooklyn, New York. Maria collaborates well with students, parents and school community in a positive and enthusiastic approach while striving to deliver
educational targets and goals.
SHAYNE MARCEY ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
Shane Marcey studied at the University of Florida and is entering his second year as the Athletic Director, overseeing all varsity, junior
varsity, middle school and elementary interscholastic athletic programs. Prior to arriving at Sagemont, Shane coached and taught
at Coral Springs High School. In 2010 he became Sagemont’s girls’ varsity volleyball
coach. During his tenure the team reached the state tournament six consecutive seasons and won its first district championship in
2016. Shane has extensive background in coaching and training elite volleyball athletes
and has been a Director for Wildfire Volleyball Academy in Weston for 10 years.
JORGE MARTINEZ MATH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Jorge Martinez graduated from Don Bosco Technical
Institute in Southern California earning an A.S. in Automotive Technology. For undergraduate and graduate studies in math, philosophy and theology.
Having earned his teaching credentials in math along with a B.A. and a M.Div., Mr. Martinez has taught in schools in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Mr.
Martinez brings a wealth of real world learning to math lessons having previously worked as a sales
associate, a postal worker, a golf course maintenance manager, a 911 operator, a youth worker, and even as an associate pastor. As a licensed security officer,
Mr. Martinez brings to The Sagemont School, his current educational home in Weston, Florida, a
commitment to safety and security. With this uniquely extensive experience Mr. Martinez’s math
classes are not only academically rich and purposeful, but they are above all
“lessons on how to live life.” ROB MOCKRISH
HEAD OF SCHOOL Dr. Rob Mockrish has worked as a teacher
and school leader in the United States and abroad, including 26 years of private school leadership experience. He is passionate
about educational leadership in the areas of assessment, appraisal, school design, and classroom application of brain research. Rob
has studied at a number of institutions of higher learning, including Furman
University, Emory University, the Union Institute and University, and Teachers College, Columbia University. He is also
passionate about the co-curricular domain, and continues to be involved in sports,
music, and drama events in the community. Rob embraces diversity as a strength, and has a profound belief that all students can
learn. He sees learning as both an individual and collective endeavor that involves solving problems, communicating appropriately,
organizing and researching, being technologically literate, demonstrating perseverance, and interacting respectfully and responsibly.
FELICIA MYERS DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AND INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS
Felicia Myers has been immersed in the educational
world for over ten years. Prior to joining Sagemont in 2017, she taught at every grade level from pre-kindergarten to college in both private and public
institutions, served as a high school Guidance Services Professional, was a Federal Grant Manager and coordinated Early College Programs for Brevard public
schools, and even spent time selling and designing luxury homes. Felicia has a Bachelor’s degree in French
and economics from Boston College, a Master’s degree in French language and literature from Middlebury College and the Sorbonne in Paris, France and a second Master’s
degree in education from the University at Albany. Felicia is passionate about sharing all the Sagemont School has
to offer prospective students and ensuring our enrolled students are on track to achieve their academic goals.
STELLA NAVAS
SPANISH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL Stella Navas is a native of Caracas,
Venezuela and joined our foreign language department in 2017. Stella holds a Bachelor’s in social
communications from the Universidad Católica Andrés Bello and an associate of science in
graphic design from the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale. Prior to becoming
a teacher Stella developed a career in Spanish advertising. Stella brings to the classroom her knowledge of the
Spanish language, creativity and passion for education.
NAHOMY NEGRON BUSINESS MANAGER
Nahomy Negron has been in the Business
Field for over 6 years, and recently relocated to Miami, FL from New York to join the Sagemont community. Nahomy obtained her Bachelor’s
Degree in Business Administration from CUNY, Lehman College and is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree. In her free time,
she enjoys practicing Yoga and teaching Zumba! Nahomy is extremely excited to be part
of the Sagemont community, and is determined to give Sagemont her ultimate best!
JENNIFER NEIRA
KINDERGARTEN TEACHER Jennifer Neira has been a teacher for eight
years. She joined The Sagemont School in 2011. Mrs. Neira has a Bachelor’s degree in Communications and a Master’s degree in
Elementary Education from Nova Southeastern University. She grew up in Colombia, and loves to learn about different cultures. She has two
sons that attend The Sagemont School. Mrs. Neira enjoys reading and traveling during her
free time. She loves teaching and cannot imagine doing anything else!
MELLESIA NELSON PRINCIPAL – UPPER SCHOOL
Mellesia Nelson received her Bachelor’s degree in
Psychology from Boston College. She went on to obtain a M.S.W. in Child and Family practice from The University of Illinois and a Masters in
Educational Leadership from Florida Atlantic University. Ms. Nelson has been a valued member of the Sagemont family since 2004. She
began her career at Sagemont as the Guidance Counselor, where she successfully implemented
and facilitated drug prevention, self-esteem, and anti-bullying programs by building strong, lasting community partnerships. In 2010, Ms.
Nelson accepted the position as College Counselor. While in that position, she increased college and university representation on the Sagemont campus by
over 550%. She also raised scholarship dollars awarded by over 100%, matching students with right fit colleges. Ms. Nelson’s journey at Sagemont now continues as the Principal of the Upper School. She works collaboratively
with students, facilitating their ability to reach their full potential and tap into their passions and talents. She provides students with the tools to explore, take risks, think critically, and create. Ms. Nelson’s vision for the students at
Sagemont is that they own their education. She encourages students to put themselves in the driver’s seat of their future and set high standards for their
educational growth. ADRIANA OROZCO
PS ASSISTANT
Adriana Orozco has been passionate
about being a Preschool teacher for 14 years. She has been working at
Sagemont for 6 years. Adriana hopes to continue for many more years. She holds several certificates
such as; CPR, teacher assistant and CDA as well as other interests such
as; and fashion design, photography, ceramics, batik, yoga and writing poems. She has two sons; Tomas
who studies at FSU soon to graduate and Pablo who will graduate this
year from high school. She is passionate about riding a bike every day and
enjoys beach days and traveling. Her goal every day is "to enjoy today more than yesterday".
HELENA OSPINA SPANISH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Originally from Colombia, Helena Ospina came to the United States 21 years ago
and earned her Bachelor’s degree in International Business, from Florida International University. After having
her two sons, Helena discovered her passion for teaching and has been in the education world for over 8 years. Prior to
joining Sagemont in 2016, she taught ESOL at every grade level in elementary,
taught Spanish at elementary and middle school levels and was a Kindergarten teacher. She has worked in Private and
Charter Educational institutions. At Sagemont, she currently teaches Spanish for native and non-native speakers to middle and high school students. Helena
loves teaching Spanish and the Hispanic culture to her students by inspiring them with a hands on approach to learning. Helena is also the sponsor for the Spanish Junior Honor Society where students are involved in different
Hispanic community activities and events throughout the year.
JANET PADRON MEDIA & TECHNOLOGY SPECIALIST - LOWER SCHOOL
Janet Padron began her teaching career in 1996
after graduating with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Florida
International University. Since then, she has
taught in both public and private schools from first to sixth grade. In 2011
Janet earned her Master’s in Educational Media from Nova Southeastern University and joined Sagemont shortly thereafter as a third grade teacher and
Media Specialist. She enjoys promoting the school’s reading program, teaching students how to become responsible digital citizens and to explore STEAM skills in our Innovation Lab. Janet uses her knowledge as the Vanguard
Technology Teacher to promote the school’s iPad initiative with both teachers and students. Her experience as an Apple Teacher opens many opportunities to embrace 21st century learning.
ALDENICE PAES-LEME
EARLY CHILDHOOD SCIENCE TEACHER
Aldenice is passionate about children. With a
Bachelor’s degree in Education from University
of Fortaleza, Brazil and post-graduate degrees
in Counseling, School Supervision, and School
Administration from University of São Paulo,
Brazil, she spent most of her professional life
doing what she loves: working with little ones.
She began as a teacher and, after ten years,
moved to be a guidance counselor in early
childhood education. For the last four years,
she's been with The Sagemont School as a
teacher’s assistant, science teacher and an
Innovation Lab Teacher for Sagemont's early
childhood students. Ms. Aldenice loves the
children from The Sagemont School and is
happy to be a part of the Sagemont family.
MATTHEW PALMER MATH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Matthew Palmer has been involved in education over the last five years. This is his 4th year at Sagemont having taught various math courses during the 2013-
2016 school years. Following this he served as a graduate assistant at Florida Atlantic University’s department of teaching and learning while pursuing his
Master’s degree in education. Matthew has Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences with a focus in Economics from the University of Southern California.
MELISA PARKER PRE-KINDERGARTEN ASSISTANT
Melissa Parker has a Bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic
University and has VPK certification. Prior to working at The Sagemont School, she taught in Broward County Public Schools at Colbert
Elementary and Everglades Elementary for a combined total of 7 years where she taught 1st through 3rd grade. This year Melissa will be
entering her 6th year with The Sagemont School. She has over 20 years of experience
working with students in early childhood. She has 2 children attending the Sagemont Upper School and a recently graduated senior.
WILSON PARRA BUS DRIVER/MAINTENANCE CREW
SARAH PERKINS 5th GRADE TEACHER
Sarah Perkins has been working at the Sagemont School for three
years. She originally is from Los Angeles, California where she taught third grade at a Charter School for
several years. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from University of Arizona where she majored in
Psychology and minored in Special Education. She then went on to get
her Master’s degree from Pepperdine University. There she earned her
teacher certification in Early Education. She loves teaching at The Sagemont
School, where everyone is so welcoming, positive and passionate about teaching!
MARISELA PINCHEVSKI
2nd GRADE TEACHER Marisela Pinchevski has been working with The Sagemont School since she moved from
Venezuela over 14 years ago. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the
Universidad Católica Andres Bello in Caracas, Venezuela. Before moving to the United States, she worked with students of different ages and
from very diverse backgrounds which allowed her to truly understand how each child is unique and able to succeed when having high expectations
set up for them. Mrs. Pinchevski is a strong believer in a well-rounded education that allows
for social, emotional and academic growth as this will provide for lifelong learning skills and this is what she has found at Sagemont. The sense of community Sagemont has, and working together with
the families to help each student reach their highest potential is one of her greatest rewards as a Sagemont teacher.
LISA PUNSALAN SCIENCE TEACHER - LOWER SCHOOL
Lisa Punsalan has been an educator for almost
twenty years. Prior to joining Sagemont in 2015, she taught fifth grade in Connecticut for 14 years. Lisa received a Master’s degree in
Elementary Education from the University of New Haven. She also holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Clinical Dietetics from the University
of Connecticut. Lisa was a registered dietitian and worked in hospitals and as a consultant
for ten years before returning to school to become a teacher. Lisa has brought her love of learning and teaching to The Sagemont School
and is dedicated to ensuring her students develop a love of learning as well.
HELIANA RENDON
SPANISH TEACHER - LOWER SCHOOL Heliana Rendon has over 24 years of teaching experience. She has a bachelor’s
degree is in Elementary Education from the University of St. Tomas in Bogota,
Colombia and has a Florida Teacher Certification as a Spanish teacher. She has participated in the Council of the
Teaching of Foreign Language Annual Conventions. She taught first through third grade for 8 years in a private school
in Colombia, then joined the Sagemont staff in 2004 as the Spanish teacher for
Spanish speaking students. She feels very proud and fortunate to be a member of the Sagemont faculty and believes that
it provides the perfect environment for student achievement. She also believes that students are most successful when
they feel valued as individuals, supported, and motivated to learn.
ROSEMARY RIJOS EXECUTIVE ADMIN. ASSISTANT - LOWER SCHOOL
Rosemary Rijos has been at Sagemont for 14
years now. She is originally from the Bronx New York and has enjoyed living in sunny South Florida for 15 years. Her first job in
Florida was at The Sagemont School and has been here ever since. She worked for 8 years in the Business office and now is currently
working at the front office at the Sagemont Lower School campus as an Executive
Administrative Assistant. Rosemary truly enjoys working with family, students and staff.
ELIZABETH RIOS COLLEGE COUNSELOR
Dr. Rios has worked in education for
over 28 years in a variety of roles such as Academic Dean, Academic Advisor, Assistant and Adjunct
Professor at a number of universities, both on-ground and online. Her K-12 experience was through her role in
helping establish a Bilingual charter school in NYC where she also served
as Vice President of Institutional Development writing grants that helped develop educational programs
for at -risk youth. She has written about and advocated for educational equity and access to college especially for underrepresented students. She has earned a Master of Arts in Management
from Regent University, a Doctorate in Education from Nova Southeastern University and is in her dissertation phase for a second doctorate from
Southeastern University. To keep abreast of all the changes in the college counseling world, Dr. Rios is an active member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling and the Southern Association for College
Admission Counseling. She sees education as a life calling and her greatest joy
is helping students see education as a pathway that opens doors no matter where they come from. She loves working with Sagemont families and is
passionate about helping students find the best college fit.
EMMA RODRIGUEZ UPPER SCHOOL MAINTENANCE
ANNA ROE ASSITANT- LOWER SCHOOL
Anna Roe is entering her 19th year at Sagemont and 26th year overall in education. During her tenure at
Sagemont she has been an assistant for every grade level, a camp
counselor, and front office aid at the lower school campus. For the 2018-2019 school year Anna is excited to
be a contributing member of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. Her contributions are not just limited to
the classroom, she also assists with our school's chorus and is the co-
head coach for the lower school campus cheerleading team. For the past 19 years she has facilitated our annual 5th grade marine lab field trip which allows students to bring their education to life. This upcoming school year she
is eager to help the Sagemont community achieve excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts.
DAVID ROE
SOCIAL STUDIES - UPPER SCHOOL David Roe has been a contributing member of The Sagemont community for the past ten
years. He received his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Florida State University. David
began his career at Sagemont in 2009 as a social studies teacher. After just three years he was promoted to the instructional lead teacher
of the department. In addition to his ITL position, David Roe also teaches our Advanced
Placement US History, Microeconomics, and US Government and Politics courses. He successfully runs our annual Senior Market
project where he guides students into building their own companies from the ground-up and applies economic concepts to create real world
application. In 2012, David was awarded with the Sun-Sentinels TeenLink Rockin’ teacher of
the year award for the tri-county area. David’s contributions are not just limited to the classroom, he is also a valued member of our athletic department overseeing our boys’ basketball program and the head coach of Sagemont’s
boys’ varsity basketball team.
CHRISTINA SAFONT SCIENCE TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Christina Safont has been an educator for over 13 years in the area of science. She graduated with a degree in biology and has
taught a range of different science classes. As well, she has coached varsity cheerleading and was a cosponsor of student
government. She truly enjoys teaching and introducing students to the wonderful world of science.
BILL SAMPSON BUS DRIVER
DANIELLE SANDI PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER - LOWER SCHOOL
Danielle Sandi has been engaged in education for over 13 years. She has a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Sports, Entertainment &
Event Management with a concentration in Athletic Coaching and a Florida Teacher
Certification in Physical Education K-12. Prior to joining Sagemont’s team in 2014, she was engaged in higher education, working in
various trades, from Athletics, Admissions and Experiential Education & Career Services.
Whether working with the collegiate level or elementary school, Danielle has a true passion for helping people gain real life experience,
build and prepare their skills to ensure a healthy lifestyle.
JULIUS SANDI PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Coach Julius Sandi has been working as an
educator for the past 15 years. Prior to joining
Sagemont in 2009, Coach Sandi pursued his
dream of playing collegiate basketball at
Johnson and Wales University and earned
degrees in Hospitality Management and Sports
and Recreation Management. Coach Sandi has
worked at Cooper City High School as a
permanent substitute teacher, Head Boys
Basketball Coach, Peer Mentor Liaison and
World History teacher. Coach Sandi also spent
a year at Dolphin Park High. Coming to
Sagemont was a breath of fresh air for Coach
Sandi and he has since embraced the culture of
The Sagemont School and having Lion’s Pride.
Coach Sandi is always striving to be a positive
role model, father figure and coach to all of his students. His ultimate goal and
belief is to make an IMPACT on the lives of one student at a time.
ANN SPONNOBLE MEDIA ASSISTANT - UPPER SCHOOL
Ann Sponnoble has been with The Sagemont
School since 2004. She taught English and was a member of an examination board for many years in England. Ms. Sponnoble has a degree
from Antioch College in Ohio and a Post Graduate Teaching qualification from University of Exeter in England. She also earned a degree
in Russian Language and Literature from the University of London, School of Slavonic and
East European Studies. Ms. Sponnoble is now the Media Center assistant at the Upper School campus.
CHRISTINA STETTNER ADMISSIONS SPECIALIST – LOWER SCHOOL
Christina (Diaz) Stettner specializes in
guiding prospective families through the admissions process at Sagemont’s Lower School Campus. She has a
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Florida International University with minors in Education and Business, as
well as a background in Applied Behavior Analysis. She is available to
answer any questions you may have about our technologically-rich, supportive and culturally diverse
learning community.
ROSEMARY TERAN PRE-KINDERGARTEN ASSISTANT
Rosmary Teran has a Bachelor of Architecture and design from Colombia Atlantic University,
Early childhood Education from Jose Maria Vargas University and VPK certification.
Previously she taught preschool, design and art, and worked as an Assistant Director for Coral Ridge Christian Academy. She is
currently teaching Cool Creations for The Sagemont School Summer Camp. In the upcoming school year she will be entering in
her 5th year working for The Sagemont School, a place that has helped her grow as a person
and professional, filling her heart with happiness every day. She has been working in education for more than 18 years. She has
three kids attending to the Sagemont School Upper campus, and another attending Florida
Atlantic University. She is always willing to learn from those around her and is eager in accepting change and new ways to better herself as a person.
PILAR VALDES
LOWER SCHOOL ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL
Pilar Valdes joined the Sagemont family in 2014. A motivated and hands-on leader, Pilar is passionate about education and has had a successful
career. She is experienced as an Elementary School Teacher and a Math Curriculum Specialist/Math Coach, overseeing three different
elementary schools in South Florida. Under her leadership, the three schools were able to use data-
driven instruction which led to significant growth in student math scores on the state assessments. Mrs. Valdes earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biological
Sciences from Florida International University, and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from
Barry University. She is currently pursuing her Doctoral degree in Organizational Learning and Leadership. Additionally, she is state certified in
Elementary Education, Educational Leadership, and has an ESOL Endorsement. Mrs. Valdes’ philosophy for learning is that each child is unique and learns in a different way. As a leader, her goal is to assist students in discovering their
potential and individuality, working alongside them and their families to maximize their growth.
JULIANNE VECERE SCIENCE TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Julianne Vecere started her educational career
working with children at a marine science summer program where she discovered how much she enjoyed instilling and encouraging
the love of science in her students. She then decided to transition from researching to teaching science. Julianne has a Bachelor’s of
Science in Marine Vertebrate Biology from Stony Brook University. Prior to joining
Sagemont, she worked in a variety of scientific roles, spending time researching shellfish in New York to working with sea turtle rescue in
Florida. She is also the sponsor of the science club and is looking forward to helping students
find their own passions in science!
MONICA VIGNA PRINCIPAL – LOWER SCHOOL
Monica Vigna has been with The Sagemont School for over 10 years. Her tenure at The Sagemont
School began in the classroom but Monica also served as The Sagemont Lower School Assistant Principal for seven years. Earlier in her career
Monica taught kindergarten through fifth grade, as well as the dual language program at an International Baccalaureate school. She is certified
in early childhood, elementary education and administration and supervision, and is ESOL
endorsed. Monica earned Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Florida International University, as well as a specialist degree in Educational
Leadership from Florida International University. She is very excited to be part of the Sagemont family. She enjoys working hand in hand with students,
faculty, parents, and the community and believes that each child has a special gift and will bloom with the collaboration between home and school.
CHAANDA WEBER KINDERGARTEN TEACHER
Chaanda Weber is beginning her ninth year with The Sagemont Team. She graduated
magna cum laude from Florida International University with a masters in social work and a minor in psychology. Her teacher
certification ranges from age 3 to grade 3 and her teaching experience encompasses all prekindergarten ages. She believes
her background in social work greatly complements and enhances her knowledge
of pedagogy. Being passionate about working with children and aspiring to be a child and family therapist, she focused
much of her college education on childhood development. Her social work career included counseling children and
adolescents and being a research assistant at FIU’s social work department. After having her child, she became passionate about teaching and dedicated her studies towards education. Chaanda believes that early education is the
most vital phase of life in terms of intellectual, emotional and social development, and research shows that children who attend high-quality education programs perform better in school and throughout life. For these
reasons, she feels truly passionate about facilitating and nurturing young minds to their fullest potential through education.
ANDREA WOLVERTON SCIENCE TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Andrea Wolverton studied Physics and Astronomy at FIU and taught at the college while she was there. In her first year, she
became a founding member of the Students for Environmental Action at the college and participated in the American Cancer Society’s
Relay for Life every year, and has since. She holds a certificate of mastery in Computer
Programming as well as a minor in Art, and teaches classes in arts and crafts to children and adults on her own time.
YASMIN LUBNA ENGLISH TEACHER - UPPER SCHOOL
Lubna Yasmin has been an educator for over 15 years. She completed her Masters in
English, a Bachelors in Science and a Bachelors in Education. Lubna is a professionally certified Florida teacher. Before
joining Sagemont, she taught first grade through high school at private and public institutions. At Sagemont, she has taught
English and writing to grades 6 through 12. She has recently completed her Reading
Endorsement with Florida Department of Education. Lubna is passionate about her profession. She thinks that the best part of
teaching is working with the students and being able to inspire them.
MARITZA ZEA GUIDANCE COUNSELOR - LOWER SCHOOL
Maritza Zea has been The Sagemont Lower School
Campus guidance counselor for over 15 years. She earned a Master’s in Social Work from
Barry University in Miami, a Master’s in Public Administration and a Master‘s
in Psychology from S.U.N.Y. at Stony Brook. She received her
Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the Universidad Javeriana in Bogota, Colombia. Ms. Zea is
endorsed with a Florida Professional Educator’s Certificate as a School Social Worker (K-12). In addition, she is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, as well as
a certified Bullying Prevention Specialist. She is an active member of the American School Counselor Association as well as the National Association of Social Workers, which keeps her up to date with the most relevant innovations
and challenges in her profession. Ms. Zea enjoys sponsoring the Lower School Student Council, empowering Sagemont students with a voice, leadership skills and cooperative skills. She has a passion for helping children and for the
school community, which is made evident in some of the initiatives led by her such as the Character Education program, school-wide Anti-Bullying program
and the Great Kindness Challenge. Ms. Zea is dedicated to providing superior customer service to students and parents.
CARLA ZENSEN ADMISSIONS SPECIALIST – UPPER SCHOOL
Carla Zensen has been part of The Sagemont School
team for 6 years and has spent time working at both campuses. As the Admissions Specialist at the
Sagemont Upper School Campus, she is dedicated to helping prospective families and students discover what Sagemont has to offer, while assisting current
families and students with any questions and concerns that might arise. Prior to The Sagemont
School, Carla worked in the marketing and admissions department at Academia Cotopaxi, an international school in Quito, Ecuador. The multi-
cultural environment at Academia Cotopaxi helped Carla develop a deep understanding of the diverse values and academic needs that students have. Carla
has a Master’s Degree in Marketing from Southern New Hampshire University.
