Teachers Who Nurture a Love of Learning

Abi Loblein has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the interaction with the Bridgeway students and families as well as the positive, upbeat vibe of the staff. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Keiren was an in-person elementary school teacher for grades 5-8 for 18 years, mainly in Philadelphia, Raleigh, and Charleston. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Education and a master’s degree in Literacy and the Content Areas. Keiren resides in Charleston, South Carolina, where she enjoys traveling, gardening, working with any type of plant, and spending time with her dog. Her favorite vacation is anywhere in the tropics.

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 resides in Atlanta, Georgia, where she 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.

Colin Hickey has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. His favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is getting to work with students from all over the world. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Colin was a substitute teacher. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Science in Education. Colin resides in New York and enjoys hiking, camping, fishing, traveling, and snowboarding. His favorite vacation was spent in Flagstaff, Arizona.

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 resides in Pennsylvania, where she enjoys baking, shopping, and spending time with her family and her dog. Her favorite vacation was a trip to Jamaica.

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 lives in Middleburg, Pennsylvania, where she 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.

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 lives in northeastern Pennsylvania, where she 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.

Saeeda St. Aude has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the students, the mentoring support, and the administrative support. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Dr. St. Aude worked as an educator in K-12 for 11 years, primarily online and in person in Special Education, and she also homeschooled her children for six years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Social Science and African Studies, a master’s degree in Education, and a Doctorate of Education. Dr. St. Aude lives in Georgia, where she enjoys karaoke, flying kites, and being with her family. Her favorite vacation spots are Cancun and Las Vegas.

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.

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 lives in southeastern Pennsylvania, where she 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.

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 lives in Rome, New York, where she enjoys reading, swimming, dancing, and spending time with her family and dog. Her favorite vacation spot is Lake George, New York.

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 lives in Fort Worth, Texas, where she 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.

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 lives in Cleveland, Georgia, where she enjoys watching movies, visiting antique shops, scrapbooking, and spending time with her two cats. Her favorite vacation was to Aruba.

Vee Johnson has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher 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 lives in south Florida, where she 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.

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 lives in West Virginia, where she 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.

Matthew Ciarletta has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. His favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the support and camaraderie of everyone working at Bridgeway. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Matt taught at four different schools in China and one in Vietnam. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from William Paterson University. Matt lives in New Jersey, where he enjoys playing guitar, cooking, and working out. He has one cat–a street cat from China–that currently lives with his parents. Matt also loves traveling and has too many favorite places to name.

Sharon Pergerson has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is being able to help homeschool parents and students succeed and feel confident in their homeschooling. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Sharon was an elementary school teacher starting in 1995 and also homeschooled her children for approximately nine years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and a Master of Education degree in Leadership and Policy. Sharon lives in the US and enjoys sewing, writing, teaching, and traveling. Her favorite vacation was to Cape Town, South Africa.

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 lives in Texas, where she enjoys reading. Her favorite vacation was to Thailand.

Kathryn Reitmeyer has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the Bridgeway community and the families. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Kathryn spent 25 years as an educator and also homeschooled her children for nine years. She lives in Waterville, New York, where she and her husband enjoy being outside hiking, riding ATVs, snowmobiling, and visiting family.

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 resides in Florida, where she enjoys camping, going to amusement parks, walking with her husband, and spending time with her dog. Her favorite vacations are cruises in the Caribbean.

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 resides in Pennsylvania, where 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.

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 St. Mary’s 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 resides in Georgia, where 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.

Christine St. Clair has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020, and her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is her students. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Christine was a preschool teacher for six years and a K-12 English as Second Language teacher for 14 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, a master’s degree in Reading, and has certifications for K-6, English 7-12, ESL K-12, and program specialist instruction. Christine resides in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where she enjoys yoga, meditation, reading, and being a mom to her child and her dogs. Her favorite vacations were to Paris and Maui.

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 taught at the University of Southern Mississippi for two years and at Hancock County High School for four years. 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 son with Bridgeway for the past three years. Elizabeth resides in Resaca, Georgia, where she 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.

Tom Herndon has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. His favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is working with students near and far. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Tom spent two decades teaching in the classroom with two-year and four-year college science departments. He holds a master’s degree in Science Education from North Carolina State and lives in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he enjoys trail running, cycling, gardening, and spending time with his four dogs, three cats, four snakes, two lizards, turtle, and fish. Tom’s favorite vacation was a trip to Nepal.

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 resides in Toledo, Ohio, where 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.

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 resides in Pennsylvania, where she 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 resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she enjoys Zumba, oils, exercise, travel, and spending time with friends and family. Her favorite vacation was to London.

Keiren Velez has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is how everyone truly cares about their coworkers and students. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Keiren was a kindergarten teacher, a preschool teacher, and a curriculum coordinator. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Baylor University and is ESL and EC-6 certified in Texas. Keiren resides in Houston, Texas, where she enjoys Pilates and dancing and spending time with her two dogs. Her favorite vacation was to Germany.

Megan Cataldo 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 resides in Albany, New York, where she enjoys traveling, spending time with her family, reading, and trying new activities. Her favorite trip was to Hawaii.

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 resides in Charlotte, North Carolina, where she enjoys spending time with her family and friends and taking long walks with her dog. Her favorite trip was to Arizona.

Ryan Batzel has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. His favorite part about being a teacher’s assistant with Bridgeway Academy is watching the students form connections within a class’ material, and also between classes he assists in. Ryan holds a bachelor’s degree in History and resides in Pennsylvania, where he enjoys working with computer hardware, gardening, spending time with his dog, and building models of historical vehicles and structures.

Robin Pearce Lebedev has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is that the students are eager to participate and the staff is very kind and helpful. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Robin taught in public and private school classrooms for over 30 years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology, with a minor in Chemistry; she also has a master’s degree in Teaching and owns a California teaching credential. Robin resides in California and Chicago and enjoys traveling, missions, and playing with her grandsons. She’s been to too many places to have a favorite, but Robin enjoyed recent trips to Romania, Africa, and Italy.

Vivian Graupner has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is sharing the journey in learning, because together she and her students can explore new concepts and watch uncertainty become confidence. The opportunity to strive for each student’s unique personal excellence is what makes the journey a successful and exciting adventure. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Vivian tutored online (elementary through college level coursework); she also tutored math and facilitated a “Fun with Numbers” program at her local library, featuring “fractivities” and cyphers among other math-themed activities. Vivian also homeschooled her children from K-12. She holds a degree in Accounting as well as certification in software integration and instruction. Vivian resides in Pennsylvania and enjoys camping, exploring new places, being outdoors, cuddling with her dog, and relaxing on a comfy chair with a good book. Her favorite trips have been to her grandparents’ cabin on Lake Champlain and to visit family in Switzerland.

Lisa Tomlin has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher 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 resides in West Virginia and enjoys playing computer games and taking pictures of nature and animals. Her favorite trip was to Colonial Williamsburg.

Melissa Poliska has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher 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 resides in Pennsylvania and enjoys art, fashion design, hiking, and kayaking. Her favorite trips were to South Korea and Portland, Oregon.

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 resides in The Villages, Florida, and enjoys golfing and spending time with her dogs. Her favorite vacation was to St. Thomas.

Sherry Panas has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is being able to help bring a class of students from all over the states together and support their math education. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Sherry was a public and private school teacher as well as a tutor in math and science; she also homeschooled her own children for three years during middle school. She holds a master’s degree in Math Education and resides in Charlottesville, Virginia, where she enjoys cooking, swimming, doing puzzles, and reading. Her favorite vacation is camping in the mountains.

Rosetta Pouncy has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher 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 resides in Texas, where she enjoys taking morning walks, exercising, gardening, and replenishing old furniture. Her favorite trip is to Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

Laquita Collins has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher 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 resides in Mississippi, where she enjoys beautification activities, researching, and spending quality time with her family. Her favorite trip was to the Bahamas.

Anastajia Dempsey has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher 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 resides in New York, where she 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.

Rebecca Kimbrough has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is that everyone is working with students and families to help create a virtual place of learning. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Rebecca spent 14 years as a substitute teacher and a teacher’s assistant and also worked with children in summer camps. She holds an associate’s degree from Central Piedmont Community College as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in Literature, with a concentration in Children’s Literature, from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Rebecca resides in Charlotte, where she enjoys drawing, swimming, and spending time with her dog. Her favorite trips have been to Brazil and London.

Siera Schwartz has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is interacting with the students and seeing those “light bulb” moments when things click. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Siera taught middle school in public education for five years before coming to Bridgeway as an academic advisor and teacher’s assistant. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences Education. Siera resides in Iowa, where she enjoys reading, cooking, sewing, and spending time with her children, husband, and two dogs. Her favorite trip was to Uganda, where she loved experiencing the different aspects of their culture and getting to enjoy their music and food.

Meredith Roe has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is being able to show families that education is best designed when catered to the needs of the student rather than the needs of a system…and that the flexibility that homeschooling provides is amazing. Meredith, a former homeschooler, has been working as a special education teacher for five years and is an employment specialist for adults on the autism spectrum. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Liberty University and a Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction from Western Governors University. Meredith resides in North Carolina.

Kenzi Barwell has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the community as well as the different opportunities there are to get to know one another and feel involved and valued. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Kenzi worked at her church’s local preschool as an assistant teacher. She is currently studying Early Childhood Education at Temple University and plans to teach elementary grades once she graduates with her degree and completes her certification. Kenzi resides in Philadelphia, where she likes to go out with friends, paint, take walks outside, make jewelry, and spend time with her three dogs and two cats. Her favorite trip was to New Mexico because the landscapes are absolutely beautiful and it is a great place to go to look at the stars.

Yazmin Irigoyen has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher 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 resides in Texas, where she enjoys running, dancing, and swimming. Her favorite vacation is to Disneyland and Universal Studios in California.

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 resides in Florida, where she enjoys traveling, reading, crafting, worshiping, and spending quality time with her husband. Her favorite trip was to Jamaica.

Alexandra Broussard has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is seeing the students enjoy learning each day. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Alexandra taught online for 2-½ years and has been teaching for 11 years in total. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Pre-Law and master’s degrees in Psychology and Education. Alexandra resides in San Bernardino County, California, where she enjoys watching movies, shopping online, and spending time with her dog. Her favorite trip was to Maui.

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 resides in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and 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.

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 resides in California, where she 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.

Bruce Sarte has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2021. His favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is working with the students to open their minds and inject a little fun. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Dr. Sarte taught computer science courses at the Moorestown Friends School in New Jersey and the Perkiomen School in Pennsylvania; he also homeschooled his two children for several years. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from Temple University, a Master of Science in Information Technology from American University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Abilene. Dr. Sarte resides in Gilbertsville, Pennsylvania, where he enjoys spending time with his family’s three dogs and two cats. His favorite trip was to Hawaii.

Christina Gill-Lindsey has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is the creativity that she can apply by teaching with technology. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Christina was a pre-K-12 health teacher and also homeschooled her own children for eight years. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mental Health and Human Services and also has a Professional Certification as a grade K-12 health educator. Christina lives in Maine, where she enjoys photography, digital art, writing, yoga, cooking, and spending time with her dog and chickens. Her favorite vacation was to Bavaria.

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 resides in Georgia, where she enjoys painting, art, traveling, reading, and her two leopard geckos.

Hannah Bottita has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is having the opportunity to help students from all over the world. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Hannah was a fifth grade teacher’s assistant. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development, with an emphasis in Early Childhood Education. Hannah resides in California, where she enjoys hiking, camping, and going to the beach. Her favorite trip was to Hawaii.

Helen Green-Esterly has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is seeing the kids’ faces when they learn something new. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Helen was a teaching assistant with Bridgeway for two years and taught in college for 12 years; she also homeschooled her children during the pandemic. She holds a Master of Education degree and resides in the U.S. Helen enjoys watching SpongeBob Squarepants with her kids and spending time with their cat. Her favorite vacation is to Hilton Head, South Carolina.

Jade Bowins has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2020. Her favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is working with a diverse group of students across America and abroad. In addition to her role as a teaching assistant with Bridgeway, Jade was a student teaching intern at Oakdale High School in Frederick, Maryland, in 2023. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Sacred Heart University, a Master of Science degree in Environmental Biology from Hood College, an M.A.T. in Secondary Biology Education, and is currently working on her Doctorate in Education Policy. Jade resides in Hermosa Beach, California, where she enjoys coaching softball, traveling, and spending time with her two rescue dogs. Her favorite trip was to Okinawa, Japan.

Kyle Conniff has been with Bridgeway Academy since 2022. His favorite part about being a teacher with Bridgeway Academy is meeting and working with the extremely talented kids. Prior to joining Bridgeway, Kyle spent over 10 years tutoring (ages 5-60 at all levels) and has experience as a teacher’s assistant in college and high school-level classes. Kyle owns a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and a Doctorate in Statistics. He resides in California, where he enjoys doing research in Native American healthcare settings, playing ultimate frisbee (including professionally for the past few years), occasional juggling, watching anime, and relaxing with his rescue dog. Kyle’s favorite trip was studying abroad in Perth, Australia, where he visited Brisbane and the Australian Zoo and had the opportunity to watch the filming of a Crocodile Hunter show with Steve Irwin, tour the zoo, and meet dingoes (his favorite animal since Steve Irwin introduced them in an episode) for a photo shoot and conversations with the handlers–his childhood dream come true.