Teachers Who Nurture a Love of Learning

Desiree Brennan has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the students and the staff. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Desiree was a teacher at a private Catholic middle school and a tutor with Brilliant Grades tutoring company. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies, with a minor in Education and an emphasis in Spanish. Desiree also has teaching licenses for Illinois, Nevada, and California. She enjoys reading, watching movies, listening to music, and practicing archery. Desiree traveled the world as a military child, living in Japan and Hawaii, and has visited and lived in several states–with trips to Texas and Washington, DC ranking as her favorites.

Danae Cooper has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the encouragement and support from all the teachers and families, as well as seeing the smiling faces of her students every day. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Danae taught kindergarten and obtained certificates in Early Childhood Education and Special Education. She enjoys baking, shopping, and spending time with her family and her dog. Her favorite vacation was a trip to Jamaica.

Jenny Cyphert has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is watching her students grow through the year. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Jenny taught preschool and trained and mentored new teachers for 10 years. Jenny holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education. She enjoys reading, baking, crafting, and spending time with her family (including two dogs and a bearded dragon). Her favorite trip was a cruise to the Caribbean.

Megan Gasca has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is getting to see students from all over the world flourish. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Megan taught in pre-K-8th grade inclusive education classrooms as well as English Language Learners and refugee populations. She has also taught private in-home homeschool education abroad and taught in Mexico City. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, a Master of Education degree in Elementary Education, and a K-8 teaching certificate. Megan enjoys reading, learning about learning, hosting a book club once a week, and spending time with her family and two dogs. Her favorite vacation was to her grandmother’s home in Limerick, Ireland.

Michelle Glasso has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is getting to work with families from all over the world and working with teachers that have the same passion for teaching. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Michelle taught in a Catholic school for 26 years and also homeschooled her own children from 7th to 12 grade. She holds a Master of Science in Education degree as well as a New York State teaching certificate for grades pre-K-6. Michelle enjoys reading, swimming, dancing, and spending time with her family and dog. Her favorite vacation spot is Lake George, New York.

Zoe Green has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the support she gets from her co-workers, and the wonderful students she works with. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Zoe spent 20 years as a classroom teacher. She holds a master’s degree in Education and enjoys reading. Her favorite vacation was to Thailand.

Anna McCall has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is everything…especially her students, families, and fun and supportive colleagues. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Anna taught special education for 16 years and has been teaching online since 2013. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Georgia, a Master of Arts degree in Teaching from Oglethorpe University, and a special education certification in Georgia from Georgia State University. Anna enjoys reading, cross-stitching, music, spending time with her husband and son (and two cats), and watching football. Her favorite trip was to Yellowstone National Park in 2020.

Deanna Stock has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is being part of a Godly staff and helping many amazing families and students from all around the world. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Deanna was a preschool director and instructor, as well as an Elementary Title I reading and math instructor. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Bloomsburg University. Deanna enjoys running, being with her family (especially her niece and nephews) and two dogs, and working with her family at their family-owned and run cafe. Her favorite vacation is SeaWorld Ohio because it was the only time she was able to travel with her entire family as well as her extended family.

Melissa Tardif (Mrs. Tardif) joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and truly enjoys having students from all over the world. Mrs. Tardif was a classroom teacher for more than a decade and has privately tutored students from kindergarten through high school. She has a Bachelor of Science-Elementary Education and a minor in Creative Writing. Melissa loves spending time with her husband and children, whom she homeschools. She also enjoys traveling to Prince Edward Island, reading, and everything about summer!

Samantha Todd has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the amazing work environment. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Samantha taught ELA in middle and high school. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English as well as a minor in Political Science. Samantha enjoys traveling, reading, crafting, worshiping, and spending quality time with her husband. Her favorite trip was to Jamaica.

Megan Zysinski has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the connections she makes with her students and their families. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Megan taught Pre-K for seven years and was an elementary school substitute teacher. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Childhood/Special Education and a master’s degree in Literacy. Megan enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, reading, and trying new activities. Her favorite trip was to Hawaii.

Drew Bellesfield, referred to as Mr. Bellesfield or Mr. B, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2021 and is from Eastern Pennsylvania. He worked at a local public school for two years and has coached youth sports for almost two decades. Drew holds a Bachelor’s degree from Drexel University. He appreciates the professionals at Bridgeway Academy and admires families who take an active role in their children’s education. In his free time, he enjoys sports, cooking, reading, and spending time with family. His favorite vacation spot is Bermuda, and he has two dogs, Abby (a Goldendoodle) and Sadie (a Bernedoodle). He teaches ELA.

Samantha Goetz, referred to as Mrs. Goetz, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from the USA. She has experience as a public school K-5 Title I teacher and PBIS Coach, holding a BA in Elementary Education. Samantha is passionate about how we can all learn from anywhere. In her free time, she enjoys watching scary and funny movies, coloring, attending concerts, theater, festivals, and theme parks. Her favorite vacation destination is Bermuda, and she has a hound mix dog. Samantha teaches Chemistry/Math.

Amanda O’Donnell joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from Pennsylvania, USA. She has experience as a 2nd-grade teacher and holds certifications in General Education (PreK to 4), Special Education (PreK to 8), as well as for teaching 5th and 6th grades. Amanda is excited to join Bridgeway Academy this year. In her free time, she enjoys reading, playing tennis, spending time with family and friends, playing video games, and watching TV. One of her favorite vacation spots is St. Lucia. She has a cat, and her favorite subjects to teach are History and Reading.

Nolan has a passion for education, a passion which includes the strong belief that every student is a unique, and capable, learner. He graduated from Temple University with a Bachelor of Arts degree with completed majors in both Social Work and History before continuing on to obtain his Masters of Education from the University of Pennsylvania. He has taught in both high school and middle school settings as a lead teacher, experiences which helped him learn the strong, and varied, capabilities that each student possesses. As a teacher with Bridgeway Academy, it is these unique strengths inherent to each student that I seek to foster through consistent guidance and support – iterating both academic rigor as well as personal development.

Kelly Boyd has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2019. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is getting connected with students around the world. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Kelly worked as a financial analyst for Lockheed Martin prior to going back to school for her teacher certificate. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and a master’s degree in Education and Standards Reform, as well as a Secondary Teaching certificate. Kelly enjoys gardening, baking, hiking, exercising (running, yoga, and lifting), spending time with her dog, and searching for new coffee shops. Her favorite vacation was to Lake Placid, New York.

Katrina Brown has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2019. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the students and their families. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Katrina taught for more than 25 years and also homeschooled her children for over 25 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Theology, a master’s degree in Counseling and Theology, and is finishing up her Master of Education. Katrina enjoys singing in a community chorale, being outdoors, playing piano, and reading books. Her favorite vacation is to any beach.

Jenelle Fernandez-McDuffie has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the supportive environment from administration and staff as well as working with and getting to know her students. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Jenelle taught Spanish in public schools for 16 years. She holds a Master of Education in K-12 Online Blended Learning: Curriculum and Development. Jenelle enjoys Zumba, oils, exercise, travel, and spending time with friends and family. Her favorite vacation was to London.

Alison Handy has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is interacting with students from all over the country and world. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Alison taught social studies in public schools for four years and taught a semester of U.S. History at the college level for a local leadership college. Alison also began homeschooling her children at the start of the 2021-22 school year. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from the College of William and Mary, a Master of Arts degree in History from Old Dominion University, and secondary teaching certifications for Virginia and California. Alison enjoys singing and performing with her group, the Vocal Group Fond Memories, singing on the worship team at my church, cross stitching, crocheting, spending time with her dog, and watching old TV shows. Her favorite trip was a cruise to Bermuda.

Elizabeth Hicks has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is meeting students from all over the world, facilitating their learning, and seeing the level of engagement our students have. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Elizabeth has taught two years at the university level and four years at public high school. During that time, she developed educational resources to be used by NASA and the State of Mississippi. Since 2019 she has been an Adjunct Science Instructor for Southern New Hampshire University. Elizabeth holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and a Master of Science degree in Science Education and was the recipient of the 2017 Herb Handley Outstanding New Science Teacher Award from the Mississippi Science Teachers Association. She has also homeschooled her child with Bridgeway for the past three years. Elizabeth enjoys going on adventures as day trips or weekend trips to national parks and historic sites and cites as well as kayaking. Her favorite vacation was a trip to Crystal Spring, Florida, where she and her family kayaked into the springs and swam with manatees.

Lorrie Horn has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is bringing her experience and love for teaching to Bridgeway Academy, where she can help make a positive impact on her students’ lives from the comfort of their own homes. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Lorrie taught 6th, 7th and 8th grade English Language Arts and English as a Second Language in New York City classrooms for 13 years. She also homeschooled her son during the pandemic. Lorrie holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Stony Brook University and is also a certified ELA and ESL teacher. Lorrie enjoys spending time with her family and friends and taking long walks with her dog. Her favorite trip was to Arizona.

Maryalice Lester has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the enthusiasm of the students and commitment of the families. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Maryalice taught high school English for 18 years, K-12 English at Ohio Virtual Academy for 13 years, and with the Electronic Classroom of Tomorrow (ECOT) for three years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Education from California State University, East Bay, and a Master of Education in Online Teaching and Learning, Instructional Design. She enjoys writing, creating pottery, volunteering, doing bead loom work, and spending time with her dog. Her favorite vacations were childhood summers spent in Ocean City, New Jersey.

Melissa Lindahl (Ms. L) has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2017. Over her 20+ years of teaching, she has taught biology, chemistry, Earth science, health, physics, and middle school science. She has a permanent NY teaching certification: 7-12 Biology and General Science. Ms. L says the best part of being a teacher at Bridgeway is interacting with her students. When she is not teaching, she works as a barista, loves a good cup of coffee, and makes soaps, candles, scarves, and necklaces. Melissa loves to travel to Maine, and her favorite subject in school growing up was Art.

Anne Mollman has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is that Bridgeway cares about the students, families, and staff and finds a way to foster a love of learning while still holding to high standards of education. Anne has been homeschooling her own children since 2012; three have graduated and she is currently homeschooling six children. She holds a degree in Marine Science from the University of San Diego; she also is nationally certified as a virtual teacher for multiple subjects. Anne enjoys hiking, camping, running, surfing, and tending to her two dogs, two bunnies, and nine chickens. Her favorite trip was to Redwoods National Park in northern California.

Sandra Moreno (Ms. Moreno) has taught with Bridgeway Academy since 2023. She loves teaching, learning, and sharing that passion with students, families, and colleagues. Ms. Moreno attended the University of Texas as a computer science major and has a Master of Education from Sam Houston University. Before joining Bridgeway Academy, she taught for three years at a brick-and-mortar school and 11 years as a virtual teacher. Sandra’s favorite place to travel was the Osa Peninsula in Costa Rica. She also enjoys reading, drawing, walking, and cooking.

Yvonne Morris has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the people she works with and the encouragement she gets from others. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Yvonne spent 23 years as a teacher and has been an online teacher for the past 12 years; she also homeschooled her children for 12 years. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Deaf Education, Gifted Education, Science Education, and Math Education, as well as a master’s degree in Instructional Technology or Computer Education. Yvonne enjoys camping, going to amusement parks, walking with her husband, and spending time with her dog. Her favorite vacations are cruises in the Caribbean.

Kathryn Reitmeyer has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part of being a teacher with Bridgeway is the support from coworkers and the opportunity to make a positive impact on students. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Kathryn spent 20+ years teaching in a traditional classroom. She and her husband enjoy being outside hiking, riding ATVs, snowmobiling, and traveling to visit family.

Natalie Meyer Schira has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2023. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is her students as well as the “knowledgeable, communicative, and authentic” team with whom she works. Before joining Bridgeway, Natalie taught in a traditional classroom for nine years and has been a virtual instructor for the past three years. She holds degrees in literature and secondary education from Saint Mary’s College Notre Dame. Natalie enjoys spending her free time practicing her faith, reading, watching her beloved Chicago Cubs, and singing. Her favorite trip was to Walt Disney World in Florida.

Holly Strickland has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is her students and her flexible work schedule. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Dr. Strickland taught middle school science for 34 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education, a Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership, and a Doctorate in Child and Adolescent Development. Dr. Strickland enjoys watching movies, visiting antique shops, scrapbooking, and spending time with her two cats. Her favorite vacation was to Aruba.

Lisa Vanderbloemen has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is enlightening her students. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Lisa taught at Oak Park Middle School. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology as well as a Ph.D. in Oceanography. She enjoys golfing and spending time with her dogs. Her favorite vacation was to St. Thomas.

Nicole Wilkins has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2019. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is working with people from around the world. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Nicole was an English teacher in South Korea, an online EFL teacher, and English teacher in South Carolina. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in English Education and has been homeschooling her own children for three years. Nicole enjoys hanging out with her family and dog, playing video games, listening to music, reading stories, hiking, swimming, snowboarding, and traveling. Her favorite vacation was to Venice, Italy.

Sarah Wilt has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is working with students from so many places and diverse backgrounds. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Sarah spent over 10 years working in alternative education environments, including theater, Girl Scouts, juvenile detention, and various summer programs. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Secondary Education: English and a minor in History from Juniata College. Sarah lives in Mill Hall, Pennsylvania, where she enjoys long walks with her dog, birding, being outdoors with nature, meditation, journaling, reading (long books and manga/comics), playing video games, watching anime or Netflix, and learning new things. Her favorite travel experience was when she studied abroad during college in York, North Yorkshire, England.

Stacey Batzel has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is that Bridgeway is a family and that there is abundant support and learning opportunities. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Stacey was a Teaching Assistant for seven years, a public school teacher for seven years, and a private school teacher for three years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education as well as certificates in Elementary Education, Mid-Level English, and Mid-Level Math. Stacey enjoys reading, spending time with her family and dog, attending church, singing in her choir, and watching movies. Her favorite vacation is Disney World in Florida.

Marsha Absher, also known as Mrs. Absher or Mrs. A, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024. She hails from North Carolina and brings over 29 years of experience in public education, along with 2 years in private Christian education, teaching grades 3-9. Marsha holds a Bachelor of Science in Middle Grades Education from Appalachian State University in Boone, NC, and has earned National Board Certification in Early Adolescence English Language Arts. She is excited to express her Christian faith and interact with others who share a desire to grow in their faith, appreciating the kindness and warmth of her new community. During the pandemic, Marsha homeschooled for one year. In her free time, she enjoys reading, crocheting, knitting, Cricut crafting, stained glass, sewing, and walking with friends. One of her favorite places is Juneau, Alaska. Marsha has two cats, and her favorite subjects in school were English and history.

Chris Balda joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is based in South Carolina. With 19 years of experience as a high school English teacher, Chris holds a Master’s in Secondary English Education from the University of Connecticut. He is passionate about connecting with his students through literature and their writing. Although he has not homeschooled, Chris enjoys various hobbies, including music, film, poetry, weightlifting, and exploring new places. His favorite vacation spots are anything by the sea. He shares his home with three dogs, and his favorite subject to teach is English.

Chris Swanson, known as Mr. Swanson, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from Detroit, MI. He has 23 years of experience as a social studies teacher for grades 6-12 and history at the college level. Chris holds a BA in Secondary Education and an MA in History. He enjoys meeting kids from everywhere and has not homeschooled. In his free time, he loves traveling, cooking, football, and spending time with family. His favorite vacation spot is Costa Rica, and he has two dogs named Ricky Bobby and Cupcake. Chris teaches History.

Holly Walker, known as Dr. Walker, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from the United States. She has experience teaching K-12 Spanish, K-12 ESOL, and college/university Spanish at a non-profit language academy. Holly holds a B.A. in English and Spanish, an M.A. in Language Learning, and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership. She enjoys connecting with students and spending time with friends, gardening, and traveling. Her favorite vacation spots are numerous, as she believes every place offers something to learn. Holly has a cat and a dog, and she teaches Spanish.

Kendra Bearer has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2023. Her favorite part about being with Bridgeway Academy is working with kindhearted people who share similar beliefs and values. Before joining Bridgeway, Kendra gained experience working in daycare. She enjoys walking, hiking, playing the piano, and photography. Her favorite vacation was her senior year trip to England.

Rebecca Bryan has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2023. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is supporting the teachers and watching the students get excited about the topic they are learning about during class. Before joining Bridgeway, Rebecca homeschooled her children for 13 years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in environmental safety and health, a minor in biology, and a master’s degree in safety and loss prevention. Rebecca enjoys spending her free time kayaking, camping, reading, and spending time with family and friends. Her favorite trip was to the Grand Canyon.

Laquita Collins has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher assistant with Bridgeway Academy is watching the students elevate in their studies from home. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Quita was a teacher’s assistant, a substitute teacher, a youth instructor, a camp counselor, and a J.A. instructor. Quita enjoys beautification activities, researching, and spending quality time with her family. Her favorite trip was to the Bahamas.

Holly Davis has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2023. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is contributing to fellow homeschooling families. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Holly was a preschool and first-grade teacher and homeschooled her own children for 10 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Pre-K/primary education and enjoys reading, fellowshipping with friends, and traveling. Holly’s favorite trip was to Bulgaria.

Anastajia Dempsey has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher assistant with Bridgeway Academy is that everyone is exceptionally nice and understanding, and that the learning and teachings are effective for student and teacher progression. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Ana taught on many different platforms as a head English teacher. She holds two associate’s degrees, one in Early Childhood Education and one in Liberal Arts. She also has a bachelor’s degree in English and Creative Writing and is working on her master’s degree in screenwriting. Ana enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, traveling, studying, watching movies, and trying new restaurants. Her favorite trips have been to Paris, Hawaii, and Aruba.

Yazmin Irigoyen has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher assistant with Bridgeway Academy is that it allows teachers to use and create fun, interactive methods for students so they can learn the subject and stay engaged. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Yazmin taught Spanish 1 and 2 in middle and high school; she also homeschooled her children for a year. Yazmin has a bachelor’s degree with a minor in Spanish and enjoys running, dancing, and swimming. Her favorite vacation is to Disneyland and Universal Studios in California.

Carolyn Lester has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is working with the students and teachers. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Carolyn taught preschool through eighth grade as well as adult health education and is in her fifth year homeschooling her own children. Carolyn graduated with honors in Early Childhood Education and enjoys painting, art, traveling, reading, and her two leopard geckos.

Melissa Poliska has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher assistant with Bridgeway Academy is interacting with students and teachers. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Melissa was a child care aide at a medically fragile daycare center and a paraprofessional for a preschool program. She was also homeschooled for most of her school career and assisted in homeschooling her younger siblings. Melissa enjoys art, fashion design, hiking, and kayaking. Her favorite trips were to South Korea and Portland, Oregon.

Rosetta Pouncy has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher assistant with Bridgeway Academy is interacting with the students, as well as the supportive staff and Bridgeway’s outstanding professional development training. Rosetta holds a teaching certificate in mathematics (4-8) and enjoys taking morning walks, exercising, gardening, and replenishing old furniture. Her favorite trip is to Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

Lisa Tomlin has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher assistant with Bridgeway Academy is working online and being able to reach people from around the world. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Lisa tutored college students for two years, served as a substitute teacher for five years, and tutored ESL students for five years. She holds a Master of Arts degree in Education as well as a West Virginia state teaching license. Lisa enjoys playing computer games and taking pictures of nature and animals. Her favorite trip was to Colonial Williamsburg.

Cathy Clay, known as Ms. Clay, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from Michigan’s Thumb. She is a retired Math, Science, and Technology teacher with an M.Ed. and a BS in Computer Science. Cathy values the respectful way that students interact. In her free time, she enjoys sports, fishing, relaxing on the lake, and singing karaoke. Her favorite vacation spot is Hot Springs, AR, specifically the Crater of Diamonds. She does not have any pets at the moment and teaches Physical Education and French.

Glorie Vazquez, known as Mrs. V, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from North Carolina. She is an English Language Arts teacher for middle school students. Glorie holds a BA in English and an AA in Accounting. She appreciates the sense of community and collaboration at Bridgeway Academy, which fosters creativity and personalized learning. Glorie has not homeschooled but enjoys baking and gardening. Her favorite travel destination is Mexico, and she has two dogs (a Chihuahua and a Shih Tzu). Reading was her favorite subject growing up.

Stephanie Smith joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from Indiana. She has 8 years of experience as a brick-and-mortar teacher and 8 years as a virtual teacher. Stephanie holds a Bachelor’s degree from Purdue University and is passionate about live online classes. In her free time, she enjoys working out, cooking, reading, relaxing, and traveling. Her favorite vacation spot is Culebra, Puerto Rico, and she teaches Health.

Tammy Kindig, known as Ms. Tammy, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and lives in Northeast Pennsylvania. She has over 23 years of experience teaching all grade levels, subjects, and electives in her local co-op, with her favorite being Elementary. Tammy is an avid reader and has participated in many authors’ book launch teams. Her favorite vacation spot is the beach, and she has one dog (a Border Collie-Whippet) and raises chickens and turkeys. Her favorite subject is Reading.

Thierra Walker, known as Ms. T, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from the Greater Philadelphia area. She has 2 years of experience as a social worker for inner-city youth in the foster care system and 4 years as a lead preschool teacher with an emphasis on holistic learning. Thierra holds a B.A. in Communications from West Chester University of PA. She enjoys seeing the growth and potential in her students and team. In her free time, she supports local cafes, visits museums, and writes poetry. Her favorite vacation spot is Epcot, and she has a dog and a cat. Thierra teaches English.

Lauren Bartl ,referred to as Mrs. Bartl, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from North Carolina, USA. She is a life-long learner working toward her AAS degree and holds a Bachelor of Science in Fine Arts and an Associate of Applied Science in Surgical Assisting with an emphasis on Business and Education. Lauren enjoys learning new things and helping others learn and grow. She has 4 years of homeschooling experience and enjoys reading, swimming at the beach, gardening, and spending time with family. Her favorite vacation spots include Disney World and Germany. She plans to get a rabbit, dog, or cat soon. Lauren doesn’t have a specific favorite subject, as she liked them all once she understood them better.

Amy Kunkel, referred to as Mrs. K, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from Texas. She has experience running a licensed home childcare center, completing training to care for children. Amy is in the process of starting additional classes and has homeschooled for one year. She enjoys watching her kids play sports, fishing, and spending time with family. Her favorite vacation spot is Wimberley, Texas, where she has a Great Pyrenees and some chickens. She teaches Math.

Gabriella Fernandez, known as Ms. Fernandez, joined Bridgeway Academy in 2024 and is from the Southeast, specifically South Carolina. She has been a nanny and tutor for the past six years and is currently a Junior Psychology student at Clemson University. Gabriella is excited to help out in the classroom and make a positive impact in education. Her favorite activities include taking walks by a lake and baking treats. Her favorite travel spot is San Sebastián, Spain, and she has a 4-year-old golden retriever. English was her favorite subject in school.

Vee Johnson has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher assistant with Bridgeway Academy is having a community with her co-workers and classes and learning to work together. Vee’s philosophy on teaching is, she teaches the way she wishes someone would have taught her, because not everyone learns the same and virtual teaching shouldn’t limit teachers or students in any way. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Vee was a behavior therapist and middle school educator. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and a Florida teaching certification. Vee enjoys sewing, gardening, swimming in the ocean, hiking in the mountains, painting, cooking, and generally exploring with her service puppy. Her favorite trip was an impromptu adventure Key hopping in Florida after she missed an exit.