Our Team
Washington, D.C.
Chloe
Founder
Chloe Amore Kaplan is a fourth generation Washingtonian who launched Amore Learning in 2016 to bring a love of learning to children, families, and educators in the DC area. With a Bachelor's in Child Development from Tufts University and a Master’s in Childhood Education from NYU, Chloe began to create after-school programs in high school at Sidwell Friends. She then went on to become an Omidyar/Tisch Scholar, bringing similar programs to the Boston area. A former Kindergarten teacher, Chloe is the daughter of a small business owner, and brought together her passion for education with an entrepreneurial spirit to create Amore!
Liz
Tutoring and Consulting Coordinator
Liz Rosenberg comes to Amore with over a decade of experience teaching in DC charter schools. She has a Masters in Early Childhood Teaching and is a Phi Beta Kappa member from her undergraduate experience at Oberlin College where she studied Sociology. Liz is fluent in Spanish and Italian, and continues her work as a polyglot studying French, Hebrew, and ASL. In her free time, you can find Liz deepening her yoga practice as a certified instructor or fiercely cheering on the Washington Nationals with her husband Mike and daughter Rose.
Abby
Enrichment Coordinator
Abby Maslin is a passionate and seasoned educator with a remarkable 15-year career in public schools, focused on elementary and special education. Her forte lies in crafting engaging language arts curricula and fostering the growth of young writers. As an accomplished author, Abby's belief in empowering students to become active partners in their learning journey is evident through her dedication to building strong relationships and nurturing their unique strengths. She holds a bachelor's degree from St. Mary's College of Maryland and master's degrees in creative arts therapy from Drexel University and elementary education from American University. You can read more about Abby at abbymaslin.com.
Courtney
Teacher
Courtney Wyatt is from Atlanta, Georgia and has a degree in Chemical Engineering and a minor in Mathematics from Howard University. Courtney is currently working toward a graduate degree in Public Health, and she will attend medical school in the fall. Her aspiration is to become a pediatric cardiologist. Courtney has always been passionate about teaching students, and encourages her students to learn through innovative and creative ideas.
Emily
Teacher
Emily (Emi) Erickson is an actor, teaching artist, voice coach, and multi-instrumentalist new to the Washington, DC area after nearly a decade in New York. She received her BFA in Drama and a BS in Mathematics from NYU before completing her MFA in Classical Acting at GWU. Emily has worked as a teacher and tutor with a variety of organizations specializing in standardized test preparation, theater arts, sports and athletics, music, and more. This fall, she can be seen performing in People, Places, & Things at Studio Theatre.
Graciela
Teacher
Graciela Rey is a Helen Hayes nominated actor, dancer, and educator who has performed in 13 professional productions since the pandemic. She has held a residency with DC Public Schools, led a masterclass workshop for the DC commission on the Arts and Humanities (DC CAH) and was a teacher on Harvard Project Zero’s ‘Children are Citizens’ initiative. She has choreographed or directed over 15 educational productions and has served as a grant panelist for the (DC CAH) dance fellowship. Graciela has instructional experience in elementary, secondary, and collegiate settings and is passionate about arts education!
Keisha Henderson
Teacher
Keisha Henderson is an alumna of Howard University, where she studied education. After graduating, she embarked on a fulfilling career in teaching, which has spanned over 26 years. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., she has always had a deep connection to this vibrant city and its diverse communities. She strongly believes in the power of education to empower students and shape their futures. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to fostering strong community relationships that support and uplift her students. By creating a nurturing and inclusive environment, she strives to help each student reach their full potential and achieve success.
Kelly
Teacher
Kelly Paton has been teaching in DCPS since 2016, and has taught first grade, kindergarten, and preschool. Kelly’s dream to work with kids all began in kindergarten, where she was inspired by her joyful classroom and teacher! Kelly graduated from Pepperdine University with a degree in Elementary Education and received her Masters in Early Childhood from the Relay Graduate School of Education. Kelly is originally from San Francisco, California and loves traveling the world, going to workout classes, and being an auntie of twelve!
Nistha
Teacher
Nistha Dube was born in New Delhi, India, and raised in the Northern Virginia area. Holding a B.S. in Cognitive & Behavioral Neuroscience from Virginia Tech University, Nistha's mission is to empower individuals to cultivate intentionality and purpose in their everyday lives. Nistha is fluent in Hindi and Spanish, and is currently learning French and Italian. In her free time, you can find her doing yoga, dancing, writing, or traveling. She aims to bring self-discovery techniques to education systems so that our youth are better equipped with techniques for emotional regulation and self-awareness.
Maura
Teacher
Maura Barry is an experienced elementary teacher with a love of incorporating mindfulness into her teaching. Maura graduated from Miami University with a degree in Early Childhood Education and a certificate in Teaching English Language Learners in 2013. Maura taught as a classroom teacher in Kindergarten, First, Second grade, ESL, special education resource teacher. Maura is the proud new mom to baby Connor and loves spending time with her dog Sonny!
Chener
Violin Teacher
Violinist Chener (Cherry) Yuan has appeared on the main stage of the performing arts; including the David Gefen Hall and Alice Tully Hall of Lincoln Center in New York, Harris Theater of Chicago, the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, and the Guangzhou Opera House. As the co-founder of the Chamber Ensemble “GCG — Game Changer Group”, Ms. Yuan led the debut performance at the “MISA” Music Festival in the Jaguar Shanghai Symphony Hall in 2023, hosted by The Shanghai Symphony Orchestra and its Artistic Director and Conductor Mr. Long Yu. The performance led to the invitation for the upcoming season in 2024.
Coach Mike
Basketball and Soccer Coach
Coach Michael Johnson is a DC native who received a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Science and Fitness Management from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, and he has taught Physical Education in Washington, DC for more than 5 years. He has a tremendous passion for teaching children how to actively engage in learning different sporting activities, and for encouraging men of color to stay in the classroom. You can catch Coach Mike on the courts and fields at Volta Park coaching basketball and soccer!
Jakob
Piano Teacher
Jakob Moberly was born and raised in the Chicagoland area and finished his education at the University of Kansas, studying music therapy and musicology. As a multi-instrumentalist, he focuses on the importance of studying the music elements and their impact on learning about sound, music, and the functional organization of music skills that cross over into other parts of life: teamwork, listening, cooperation, confidence, independence, and more. Jakob continues to pursue his career working as a music clinician and mentor, while also applying his skills in orchestral performances, compositional writing, and music research.
Jenna
Teacher
Jenna is a Speech-Language Pathologist with a M.A. in Speech-Language Pathology from The George Washington University. She currently works as a preschool and elementary age SLP in the schools, where she evaluates and treats children who are diagnosed with a myriad of medical and developmental conditions. Prior to becoming an SLP, Jenna was an elementary school teacher for seven years. During her time as a classroom teacher she discovered her passion for working with students with communication needs. Jenna believes that functional, individualized therapy not only impacts the child but empowers their family too. Additionally, she has worked in the early intervention field for the past five years. Jenna’s expertise lies with children who benefit from support related to language development, articulation needs, stuttering and social skills development. If you were to ask Jenna what the best part of her day is, she would probably say it is watching young children develop and learn, so that they can fully participate in family, community life, and live out a life they truly desire.
Angelina
Teacher
Angelina Shoemaker, a Chicago native, moved to DC six years ago to teach first grade at a DC Public Charter School. Prior to heading to DC, Angelina received her bachelor of science in elementary education from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. She has taught preschool, second grade, and first grade, as well as instructional coaching PreK-1st grade educators. In addition to teaching, Angelina is a self taught photographer and owns her own photography business.
India
Teacher
A native Washingtonian, India has been in education for over 14 years. Most of her experience is in Early Childhood Education. She specializes in early literacy education and currently teaches at Langdon Elementary School in Ward 5.
Maryam
Teacher
As a native New Yorker and lover of education, Maryam is beyond excited to join Amore Learning! She is an enthusiastic and passionate elementary educator that brings a holistic approach to her teaching. She currently works as a Math Interventionist/Specialist at Basis DC. In addition to her vast experience in education, she holds a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Johns Hopkins University. In her free time, she enjoys reading, exercising, and trying out new recipes!
Autumn
Teacher
Autumn is from northern California, graduating with a degree in digital marketing from the University of San Francisco. With a newfound passion for teaching, Autumn likes to volunteer at youth groups at church, women's shelters, and her daughters' school. She also enjoys spending time with her two daughters, traveling the world (over 50 countries and counting), staying active through yoga, hiking, and keeping up with her kids.
Lizzie
Learning Development Strategist
Lizzie Pichowicz is a dynamic special education teacher who makes learning accessible, fresh, and inspiring for her students. She graduated from the University of Maryland with her B.S. in Elementary & Middle Special Education, where she taught at The Center For Young Children. Currently, Lizzie is a full-time Learning Disabilities Teacher & Reading Interventionist in Falls Church, VA. She is also a Fien Reading Fellow at the University of Florida as she pursues her M.Ed in Reading & Dyslexia Education remotely. Lizzie’s known to cultivate “all the good vibes'' with her learners and their families! You can find her on Instagram @the.good.vibes.teacher.
Ellen
Teacher
Ellen Walker, a native of Akron, OH, has lived and worked in the Washington, DC area for over 10 years. She received her Masters in Public Health, concentrating on Physical Activity in the Public Health Context and Epidemiology, from GWU in 2014. Ellen currently works as a mixed methods researcher who focuses on leveraging community voices for health equity and systems change. She conducts most of her research and evaluation in the areas of maternal and child health, health disparities, and reproductive health.
Laura Howell
Consultant
Laura Howell has been an educator for almost 30 years, spending most of her career at Georgetown Day School in Washington, DC. In 2021 she left the classroom and began working with students individually and in small groups to support their social learning as a social coach. When Laura works with students from pre-k through middle school, she strives to make the rules of the complicated social world more explicit to increase their social awareness and ability to positively connect with others. Since leaving the classroom, she has also worked with the GDS admissions team conducting kindergarten and first grade play visits, and she currently runs the after school social groups at GDS. Laura earned her BA in Psychology and Masters in Early Childhood Education from Tufts University. Laura also serves on the advisory council of Resilience Across Borders. When not “socializing” with her students, Laura enjoys taking long walks, doing yoga and visiting family in her hometown, San Diego, California.
Katherine
Teacher
Katherine Randolph is a graduate of Georgetown University and holds a degree in American Studies with a thesis speciality in Children’s Literature. She started her career working in communications at Beauvoir, the National Cathedral Elementary School and currently works as a kindergarten partner teacher in DCPS. A Texas native, Katherine loves writing, snuggling with her cats, and playing softball with friends. As a teacher, she finds joy in helping students improve their writing, giving children tools to process their emotions, and meeting young learners where they are for engaging and exciting instruction.
Keisha Harris
Teacher
Keisha Harris is a native Washingtonian who began her time in the classroom working with CityYear, an AmeriCorps program in 2009. During that experience, she fell in love with education and volunteering. Keisha has been teaching for 12 years and began her career in Pre-K. She is currently a first-grade teacher at Lafayette ES.
Zubair
Teacher
Originally from Maryland, Zubair Potter is a student at Capitol Technology University and is very passionate about teaching and learning. Zubair has been teaching coding and robotics in Baltimore for two years and is excited for the opportunity to teach in the nations capitol. Currently pursuing a B.S in Cyber Security, Zubair is very enthusiastic about all things tech and loves to start new projects every weekend. Zubair wishes to give children the opportunity to develop a love of learning tech in this digital age. By bringing creativity into the classroom, she believes that children are inspired to learn in their own unique ways.
Mostafa
Teacher
Mostafa Darban has over ten years of experience as a teacher and educational consultant. Mostafa has lived in Iran, Malaysia, Singapore, the UK, and now the US for the past decade. He holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Electrical Engineering and is fluent in Persian. Now he teaches K-9 math, science, English, and social studies, specializing in comprehension, retention, and test-taking. He also supports students with special needs such as dyslexia, ADHD, and ASD.
Will
Teacher
Will Phillips is from Washington DC and is currently a junior at Georgetown University majoring in Math and Economics with a minor in Spanish. He attended Horace Mann Elementary School and graduated from Sidwell Friends School where he played varsity baseball and soccer. At Georgetown he is a math tutor for all levels, leads the club baseball team, works with the Special Olympics, and continues coaching and mentoring children with disabilities in the Northwest Little League Challenger program. He is happy to be on the team at Amore to share his love of math with his students!
Meghan
Consultant
Meghan Bracewell, a native New Englander, has called Washington D.C. home for almost 20 years. A graduate from Amherst College, Meghan worked in state politics in Massachusetts before moving to DC to attend law school at Georgetown. Community involvement is very important to Meghan, and he has served as a Girls on the Run coach, on the Board of the DC Library Foundation, PTA President Horace Mann Elementary, Chair of the WTA (Women’s Tennis Association) at Congressional, and lots more.
Keandra
Teacher
Keandra is originally from Columbia, South Carolina. She attended the University of South Carolina, graduating with a degree in Public Health. Currently, Keandra is a DC classroom teacher and attends GWU, pursuing a Master's in Public Health. In the future, she has ambitions to work in health policy. In her free time, she loves to cook, explore DC, and read about different topics in public health.
Janel
Teacher
Janel Hofmeister, a veteran educator, holds a Masters degree in Education and certifications in both Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education. In her 15 years of experience, she has taught in both public and private Montessori settings in cities across the US, including St. Louis, Detroit, Redmond (Washington), and Washington DC. Janel especially loves working with primary-aged students and is borderline obsessed with helping students unlock the magic that is reading! Outside of teaching, Janel enjoys reading voraciously, baking, crafting (especially crochet and embroidery), and hiking and camping with her partner and pup!
Chelsea
Yoga Teacher
Chelsea has been practicing yoga for 8 years and teaching for the last 2. Her classes focus on combining cardio-based moves, free weights, and strength training exercises. She combines elements of Vinyasa and Hatha styles. She is passionate about helping her students find balance in their practice. Her classes are known to be both challenging and exciting. Currently, she is working on obtaining her 300 hour advanced teacher certification. Outside of teaching, Chelsea is a graduate of Prairie View A&M University (2015) and Virginia Commonwealth University (2018). She can be found exploring Arlington, Virginia where she recently purchased her first home with her husband, Dexter, and their cat, Mosi.
Karen
Teacher
Karen Bralove, a native Washingtonian, is a graduate of Holton-Arms School and Vassar College. She created the Drama Dept. in the Upper School at Sidwell Friends and taught there for 24 years. For the past several years she has been substitute teaching at Sidwell in both the Lower School and Middle School. She feels energized working with the youngest kids. What could be more fun than finding things in the classroom that begin with the letter "B?" She lives in Bethesda with her dog, Bellina, and luckily, lives 10 minutes away from all 4 of her grandkids.
Matthew B.
Teacher
Originally from New York, Matthew Baker is a student at Capitol Technology University and is excited to inspire and uplift students by fostering a positive environment for learning, while equipping the next generation with a foundation to enter the TECH industry. Matthew walks in with a friendly demeanor and energetic personality, always looking for ways to support students throughout their journey of learning. Fascinated by technology, Matthew loves to meet new people, and learn from their experiences while going on many adventures.
Emily
Teacher
Emily is a Kindergarten teacher in her second year teaching professionally! She is originally from Pittsburgh, PA. Emily is an alumni of Slippery Rock University where she studied Early Childhood Education and Special Education with a minor in Professional Spanish. She loves to read books, go on walks with her pug Tulip, and try out new recipes!
Kavita
Teacher
Kavita Maharajh-Ali is a rising senior at American University in the School of International Service. Her primary thematic area is International Development, and her secondary is Comparative Governance. She has a certificate in Global Human Rights from the University of Pennsylvania’s Carey School of Law, and a certificate in Implementing Sustainable Development Goals from Foundation for Environmental Stewardship. Kavita is proficient in Chinese, Spanish, and English, and is taking on her fourth language, Czech. She has worked with NGOs centered around helping youth in a developmental capacity and loves inspiring children through teaching.
Casey
Teacher
Casey is a Virginia native and teacher of six years. She started her teaching career in Harlan, Kentucky, where she taught 6-8 grade language arts for three years with Teach For America. Casey then moved to D.C. and earned a master's in Education and Human Development from George Washington University. She strives to cultivate a love of reading in all her students and is so happy to have found a home here at Amore!
Kathleen
Teacher
Born and raised in Washington, DC, Kathleen is a Georgetown University grad, where she received her BA in psychology, with a particular interest in affective neuroscience. She loves working with children and has done so in several independent schools in the DC area, as well as Children’s National Hospital and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Georgetown University Hospital. In her free time Kathleen enjoys long distance running, learning how to needlepoint and sew, a good DIY home improvement project, and spending time with her golden retriever, Georgia!
Colleen
Teacher
Colleen Reilly, a NJ native, received a BA in Fine Art from West Virginia University. Her love of art led her into the field of visual merchandising and hospitality, allowing her to explore living in Philadelphia, NYC, and, for the past six years, DC. During the pandemic, Colleen decided to pursue a career in early childhood development. Earning her Masters in Early Childhood Education from American University and teaching preschool. Colleen brings her love of art, creative thinking, and exploring the unknown to her classroom. In her free time, you can find Colleen practicing yoga, exploring DC on her bike, and spending time wandering museums for inspiration to bring into the classroom.
Khadija
Teacher
Khadija Sahib was born in Morocco and raised between France and Morocco. She is a native speaker of French and Arabic. She has 8 years of teaching experience. Ms. Khadija is an AP/IB French literature teacher, and French1, French2, French3 teacher with MCPS. She studied Physics and Chemistry at University Abdelmalek Essaadi at Tetouan Morocco and also studied la littérature française at University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg VA. Ms Khadija is a lifelong learner and is pursuing her M.Ed at George Mason University.
Marti Jo
Teacher
Marti Jo Jackson is delighted to join the Amore team supporting children and their families. With decades of experience working in education, including teacher and school based administration, Marti Jo is eager to continue working with students. Her work experiences include elementary, secondary and university level education. Marti Jo earned a Master’s in K-12 Special Education, as well as a Master’s in Education Leadership.
Selam
Teacher
Originally from Ethiopia, Selam earned her Bachelors degree in Public Health from the University of Maryland and is currently pursuing her Masters in Database Information Systems. Selam has over 5 years of tutoring experience and specializes in math instruction.
Gali
Intern
Gali Laska is a senior at The George Washington University double majoring in Psychological & Brain Sciences and Sociology. She is passionate about working with children and making a difference in their lives and education. Previously, Gali was a HelpLine Specialist at the National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) and an intern for DC Autism Parents. In her free time, Gali enjoys listening to music on a walk exploring DC with a nice cup of coffee. She is beyond thrilled to join the Amore team!
Grace
Teacher
Grace Buchanan is currently a student at American University studying International Relations. Originally from the suburbs of Detroit, Grace spent much of her middle and high school years tutoring students. Last summer, Grace worked in the education department of a small farm in Long Island teaching children of all ages about environmental and food systems. Grace, a fluent Spanish speaker, is excited to bring her passion for education to the Amore team!
Coach Starr
Tennis Coach
Starr Foster received her first tennis racket from the late great Arthur Ashe when she was four years old, and has had a passion for the game ever since. She teaches kids how to crush it on the courts and also the importance of being a true "Starr Player" through a curriculum developed in honor of Ashe, which combines on-court tennis skills and drills with court-side journaling and conversation about bravery, sportsmanship, respect, and kindness. Starr is also the co-founder of StarrMark Academy.
Jasmine
Teacher
Jasmine Flowers is a senior at Sidwell Friends School. She loves acting in her school's productions and is a Meditation Club Co-Head. She loves seeing children's eyes light up when they learn a new subject. Jasmine has been a 9th grade biology tutor and has taught elementary school students writing skills at Amore's book publishing workshop. In her free time, she enjoys baking and board games.
Rachael
Teacher
Rachael Rabinovitz is originally from Massachusetts, and has lived in Virginia for just over a year. She has been teaching young children for fifteen years, and has her Masters Degree in Elementary Education. She is an actress in theatre and film, and has an enormous love and passion for the arts. She loves helping children become confident in their skills, and curious, engaged learners.
Frances
Teacher
Frances Jackson, born in Washington, D.C. and raised in Portland, Oregon. In 2008, Frances returned to the East Coast to finish high school and attend college. Frances has a Master’s Degree in Criminology and Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice. Frances currently works as a Community Supervision Officer, and takes pride in advocating and helping those in need. Frances also has experience in the academic setting, as she has tutored part time for over 7 years. She also has experience facilitating and leading small group lessons and sessions for grades K-12. Her motto is “when you see a seed in need, water it!”
Kendall
Teacher
Kendall is an enthusiastic and dedicated educator, with over 12 years of experience working in elementary schools as a lead teacher, interventionist, and instructional coach. As an educator, Kendall’s ultimate goal is to provide direct support to her students and foster their academic growth; this is achieved by leveraging individualized and engaging lesson plans that are designed to target each student’s highest needs. Her greatest joy lies in helping students find success in their academic endeavors, while also feeling more confident in their ability to learn and apply these concepts in the classroom. Kendall holds both a Master's and Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Relay Graduate School of Education (New York, NY) and The University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, AL). When Kendall is not in the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their three wonderful children.
New York
Jill
Teacher
Jill Levy is excited to be tutoring students in NYC! She completed her undergraduate degree at UT Austin, and two years ago she moved to New York to pursue a Masters in Childhood/Special Education at NYU. She currently teaches in Gramercy at Learning Spring School as a first grade teacher for students with autism. She is extremely passionate about teaching and strives to support her students' growth in academics and social emotional learning.
Lauren
Teacher
Lauren Messina was born and raised in the Westchester County, NY. She started working with children twenty years ago when her first child entered kindergarten. She is a certified Teaching Assistant registered with NYS Department of Education and works with kids from kindergarten through high school in all different capacities. She has also taught Arts & Crafts, Cheerleading, Fashion Club, Theatre & Movement, Woodworking, Building & Robotics, and more.
Leo
Teacher
Leo Canty is a graduate of the New School with honors in Anthropology and Religious Studies. He is a lifelong fan of literature. Ever since he was a child, he has loved reading and writing fiction of all genres, and his favorite thing to do is share that excitement and passion with students. Leo lives in New York and also plays in a band which just toured Europe.
Juliette
Teacher
Juliette Fratto grew up in Washington, DC and is now based in New York City. Juliette studied graphic design at Paris College of Art, but completed her degree in Textiles and Costume History at Parsons School of Design in New York. During the pandemic she discovered an interest in knitting and fiber arts after spending time in the Pennsylvania countryside. Despite being new to teaching, Juliette is extremely excited to join the Amore team to run Fashion Design classes!
Lucia
Teacher
Lucia comes to Amore Learning with a long affinity for continued learning and the world of education. She holds a BA in International Studies and French from Seattle University and spent a semester at Sorbonne University in Paris. Lucia is experienced in the field of education at various types and levels of service from days of kinder care privately and at the Boys and Girls Club (Wallingford, Seattle) to her time in development work at San Diego State University to private dissertation support. She lives in New York City and is a private French instructor, community engagement support, and volunteer.
Connecticut
Sophia
CT Program Director
Sophia Jacobs, a recent graduate of American University, grew up in the suburbs of Connecticut and is now launching Amore CT! She found her passion for education through her work with the Connecticut Institute for Refugees and Immigrants (CIRI) where she was awarded the Angela R. Anderson Award by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal. Sophia strongly believes that education is power, and allowing students to get excited about it is the first step to success! She is so excited to bring Amore to children and families in the Fairfield Country area.
Yoga Teacher
Vernatha
Vernatha Montoute is the owner and CEO of Peace of Royalty Yoga & Wellness Studio. She is a Certified Yoga Service Teacher with special training in Trauma Informed Yoga, Urban Youth Yoga, Early Childhood Yoga, and Chair Yoga. She is also a Certified Sound Bowl Practitioner, Usui Reiki Master Teacher and a Mindfulness Coach, working with all ages and groups to help cultivate peace of mind. In May 2017, Vern obtained her 200 Hour Yoga Service Teacher Training from 108 Monkeys founded by Dr. Peg Oliveira whose motto is Practice Yoga, Practice Peace. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Human Services from University of Phoenix while serving in the U.S Army. After her service she discovered the practice of Yoga and has since been in various schools, events and organizations sharing her passion for health & wellness.
Matthew M.
Teacher
Matthew P. Melucci is an award-winning digital media specialist and writer/journalist, who has founded, managed and developed several web and mobile-based businesses serving the nonprofit, STEM, entertainment, music, travel, social media, marketing and content space. He is a professor of graduate media studies, design and writing/journalism at the New School and Parson’s School of Design and has served as Senior Director of Content Strategy and Communications for Stony Brook University and the Alan Alda Center for Communicating Science. In addition to his work developing and managing marketing plans, campaigns and applications for startups, Melucci has founded and helped develop several innovative companies with business models built around social interactions, technology and digital media. His passion is in teaching the art of storytelling, content development, and how to engage today’s audiences and readers with words, images and ideas.
Dina
Teacher
Dina is passionate about sharing the joy and benefits of dance and the arts! She is known for her positive energy and dedication to the unique needs of each student. Her classes are fun, uplifting and dynamic! She has been a dance instructor/ choreographer for 14 years with an education in expressive arts. In her free time, she loves to go on hikes with her fiancé & dog! She teaches children to help build a healthy mind + body relationship through the arts!
Bella
Teacher
Bella Tartaglia is a student at the University of Connecticut studying Human Development and Family Sciences. Bella's passion for yoga goes beyond the physical postures; it encompasses mindfulness, self-awareness, and emotional well-being. Through age-appropriate practices, her goal is to foster self-confidence, promote relaxation, and encourage a love for movement and self-expression. She believes that introducing yoga to young minds can empower them to navigate life's challenges with grace and resilience. With a deep understanding of child development, Bella brings a holistic approach to her teaching.
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Nohea
Teacher
Nohea was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai'i. She is currently studying English and Education at Fairfield University. After graduation, she plans to be a classroom teacher. In her free time you can find her going out with friends, reading, and relaxing!
Shannon
Teacher
Originally from Westchester County, NY, Shannon has a bachelor’s degree in English Language & Literature with a concentration in Creative Writing, earned from Pace University in NYC. She is currently scheduled to earn a Master’s degree in Adolescent Education, focused on ELA in May 2024 at Pace University in Pleasantville, NY. She has worked as a substitute teacher and aide for students with varying needs grades K-4. She is currently student-teaching at Port Chester High School, working primarily with 9th graders some of whom are learning English as a new language. In her free time, she loves to read, write and play music with her band! She also spends her free time doing arts and crafts like journaling, jewelry-making and painting. Shannon is a lover of animals and nature. She has a pet lizard and two dogs that accompany her on hikes sometimes!
Emily
Teacher
Emily is a current Junior at Fairfield University. She is from Norwell, a small town by the water in Massachusetts. In her free time you will likely see her with my dogs, or at the beach. At Fairfield she is studying psychology with a minor in education. Post graduation, she aspires to become an elementary education teacher. She has a passion for helping students reach their goals and feel confident in the classroom. She has worked with kids for the past 6 years nannying and volunteering at schools.
Victoria
Teacher
Victoria Pisano received a BA in English from Concordia College and an MSED in School Counseling from Lehman College. She has served as a social-emotional educator and program director for the past five years years. Victoria is very passionate about helping students express themselves and supporting their emotional well-being.
Jessica
Yoga Teacher
Jessica draws immense inspiration from yoga, a transformative practice that fuels her boundless imagination and expands the horizons of her mind. After graduating from UCONN with a communications degree, her passion for wellness led her to pursue education as a Reiki II practitioner, a certified Yoga Teacher, and attain an Arts in Therapy certification. Additionally, Jessica leads meditation workshops and co-partners in Art Buzz, modern art workshop classes with a contemporary style that allows for more freedom and individuality in one's work. Her personal practice, Jessica Daly Art, serves as an outlet for her creative expression. Embracing a perpetual student mindset, Jessica remains committed to the journey of continuous learning and self-discovery. In her free time, Jessica finds joy in hiking, meditating, and savoring good food alongside cherished friends. These moments of connection and exploration fuel her spirit, providing a balance to her dedication to wellness and artistic endeavors.
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Madison
Teacher
Madison is a full-time college student within the study of psychology at Westchester Community College, with plans to transfer to John Jay of Criminal Justice. She has held a Behavioral Therapist certification for the past 4 years, helping children and young adults with Autism manage cognitive struggles and challenging behaviors. In her free time, you can catch her working on an art or DIY project, teaching people hula hoop dancing, or adventuring in nature. She is very dedicated to supporting and encouraging positive growth within all children! She believes that every child is unique with their own array of strengths and challenges, as well as that there are no barriers to individual success!