At Samsula Academy, educators and administrators work together to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment. Our staff is passionate about education and committed to shaping our students’ futures with creativity, care, and purpose.
Principal
With over ten years of experience in education, I began my journey as president of the school PTA, where I helped organize school events, fundraisers, and celebrations. I later transitioned into the classroom as a kindergarten teacher and went on to teach several grade levels—third grade being my favorite! I am a proud graduate of the University of Cincinnati, where I earned a degree in Biology, and I have since served as both an Instructional Coach and Dean of Students.
What I love most about Samsula Academy is its small-school feel, the opportunity to connect with students and teachers each day, and the incredible support from our families and community. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, learning about history and geography, and traveling with my family to explore new foods, cultures, and places. I also love fine-tuning my culinary skills for family and friends to enjoy.
Email coming soon!
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I have over 18 years of experience in education and have had the privilege of teaching students in grades K–5, working with learners from a variety of backgrounds and abilities. I began my educational journey at Samsula Academy when it first opened as a charter school, making it especially meaningful to return as Assistant Principal. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida, my Master of Science in Education in Elementary Reading and Literacy from Walden University, and most recently completed my Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Educational Administration and Leadership in May 2025. I am passionate about fostering a positive school culture where students and staff can thrive, and I am excited to be back at Samsula Academy as Assistant Principal, serving the school community where my educational journey first began.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
What I enjoy most about Samsula Academy is its small-town community and family-like atmosphere. Samsula Academy has always held a special place in my heart, and my roots run deep in this community. My grandparents were raised in the Samsula area and attended the original Samsula School, and I began my own teaching career here when the school first opened as a charter school. Returning as Assistant Principal is truly a full-circle moment. I am honored to serve the students, families, and staff of a community that has meant so much to me throughout my life.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share
I’m a huge reality TV fan! When I’m not catching up on the latest reality show, you’ll likely find me watching one of the top-rated movies or binge-worthy series on a streaming platform. I enjoy attending church and studying the Bible, which are important parts of my life. I’m also a proud father to a wonderful teenager and four fur babies—two cats and two dogs. And if you ever want to talk football, I’m a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan!
Director of Special Programs and Gifted Resources
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
This will be my eighteenth-year teaching. I have taught kindergarten through third grade and K-5 gifted resource and STEAM. I graduated in 2007 from The University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. I have since then added ESOL, Reading, and Gifted Endorsements to my certificate.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
I love the community, students, staff, and campus!
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺ )
I enjoy being active outside and traveling with my family!
Registrar & Administrative Assistant
More Info Coming Soon
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I am honored to say I have been a part of the Samsula Academy for 9 years, teaching both 2nd grade and now, Kindergarten. In 2017, I accepted a position as a kindergarten paraprofessional and quickly discovered how fulfilling it was to support students during such an important stage of their growth. I loved supporting their daily learning and helping ensure their success. Being part of their daily routines and helping them succeed brought me great joy and ultimately inspired me to become a teacher, despite having earned my degree in business management.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
To be a part of Samsula Academy is truly unlike anything else. Samsula has a certain “way” that makes you truly feel at home. The dedication, encouragement, and support of our students, families, and staff are what makes Samsula Academy thrive. I am so fortunate to work at Samsula Academy, but also to have been a parent at Samsula Academy.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺ )
Outside of the classroom, I am a loud and proud volleyball mom to my daughter, Savannah, and a proud dog mama to my Bernese Mountain Dog, Millie! I enjoy reading, traveling, spending time with family and friends. I love hiking waterfalls and spending time at the beach! Adventure and new experiences bring me joy when I’m not in the classroom.
Kindergarten
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I graduated from Daytona State College with my bachelors in Elementary Education. I am reading and ESOL endorsed. I am on year two of teaching kindergarten at Samsula Academy and I absolutely love it! Before becoming a full-time teacher, I spent lots of time learning and growing in different classrooms. I have interned and substituted in various elementary schools all across Volusia County, which gave me the chance to work with students from kindergarten all the way up to fifth grade.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
There is truly nothing quite like Samsula Academy! I work with the most wonderful group of people who are dedicated to teaching and helping their students grow! Not only do I love my fellow teachers, but I love the family-oriented and close community that is Samsula!
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share)
I love doing anything outdoors! Traveling, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and biking are some of my favorite things! I especially love to do those things with my amazing husband and family!
Kindergarten
email address coming soon
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I hold a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and am certified in both Reading and Exceptional Student
Education (ESE). With 14 years of teaching experience, I have had the opportunity to work with students across a
variety of grade levels and educational settings, allowing me to develop a well-rounded and adaptable approach to
meeting the diverse needs of learners.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
I appreciate the culture of encouragement and support among the staff, where everyone genuinely uplifts one
another. There is also a strong sense of community that extends beyond the classroom, fostering meaningful connections among students, families, and staff. This collaborative and welcoming environment makes Samsula
Academy a truly special place.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺ )
My husband and I live in New Smyrna Beach. I have a 9 year old daughter who keeps me on my toes!
In my spare time, I love spending time with my family, going to the beach and exploring new places. My hobbies are tap dancing, ice skating and whatever my daughter is into!
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I have been in education since 2004 and I have been teaching for 12 plus years. My degree is in Elementary Education and Special Education. I have my ESOL endorsement, Reading endorsement, and a certificate in Agriculture. I work with the Cloverbuds (4-H littles) and I also put together our yearbook.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
I love being here at Samsula. I enjoy the family atmosphere, love the kids, and my co-workers.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share
I have worked with students from Kindergarten to 12th grade. I moved from New Jersey in 2006, I have 2 grown children. My daughter is Theater Teacher at New Smyrna Middle School and my son is a Videographer and owns his own company, Straight Line Media. Last year I became a grandmother to an adorable baby boy.
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I have been in education for over 16 years and have worked in many areas from K-5. Educating the primary students is my passion, especially, working with them in our 4-H club after school. I’m always attending professional development courses when I have free time to fine tune my teaching craft.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
I love being an educator at Samsula, where I enjoy the close nit family/community and atmosphere. It feels like home when I am here.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺ )
Originally from OH, settled in the New Smyrna for over 24 hrs. My husband and 3 grown children have all attended Samsula Academy. Now, that is rooted in history! I love to spend time with family and friends.
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I have been teaching children for over 20 years, in grades Kindergarten through third and have experience supporting students with diverse learning needs. I received my Bachelor’s of Science degree in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida and have endorsements in Reading and ESOL. I am certified in LiPS, a phoneme sequencing program that helps with reading, spelling and speech development. I hold certification as an agricultural literacy educator and am currently the president of our school’s 4H club.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
I value working at a small town school, where collaboration is at the heart of all that we do in order to help our students be successful. I am grateful for the strong relationships with our parents and community, whose partnerships helps our school thrive.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺)
I enjoy spending time with my family, serving in my church, and being outdoors. I enjoy going to the beach, the springs, and hiking in the mountains. I love to travel and see new places and meet new people.
email coming soon
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I am a proud graduate of the University of Central Florida – go Knights! I graduated from UCF with a BA in History but after teaching elementary just one year, I fell in love and worked to earn my FL teaching certificate. Here I am, 17 years later and still teaching and still loving it. I’ve taught kindergarten – 3rd Grade and have earned my Reading Endorsement and am finalizing my ESOL endorsement.
I can’t imagine doing anything else.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
My recent transition to Samsula Academy was inspired by the teachers and staff here. In my 17 years of teaching, I have never met a community of educators as dedicated to their profession, to their students and to their school as the teachers at Samsula are. It’s incredible!
Then add their programs like agriculture and STEAM … there was just no question that I wanted to be a part of all this beautiful work.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share☺)
I am an “outdoorsy” mom and grandma. The more off grid I can be, the better. Top off an adventure with some hiking, biking or paddling and I’m a happy camper.
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Daytona State College. I am both Reading and ESOL endorsed. I have been teaching in Volusia County for 10 years and 6 of them have been at Samsula Academy. I have mostly taught 3rd grade, however the last two years have taught a 2nd/3rd grade combo class. I have also taught 4th grade and 1st grade in my early years of teaching.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
Samsula Academy is a wonderful school. I love working in a place where students, staff, and families all work together to help children thrive. It is a supportive environment where the administration and teachers collaborate effectively and students are motivated to succeed. Most of our families come from a strong, small community. I am passionate about helping young learners grow academically and emotionally and I feel grateful to work in a place that truly values teamwork and student success.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share☺)
I enjoy spending time with my amazing family and friends. In my spare time, I love to read books and go to the beach. Fun Facts: My father was in a band with Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons back in the early 70’s. I was born in London, England and have lived in the UK several times before. My inspiration to teach was my fifth grade teacher who taught me so much, not just educationally, but also how to be an engaging, kind and compassionate teacher.
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I am a dedicated and enthusiastic educator with five years of experience in the field of education. I hold a degree in History from the University of Central Florida and bring a diverse professional background in marketing and investments. My passion for teaching was sparked while volunteering at Samsula alongside my oldest daughter, where I discovered the meaningful impact of education within a strong school community.I am passionate about creating engaging and supportive learning experiences that help students grow academically and personally. I look forward to continuing to inspire curiosity and a love of learning in all of my students.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
Samsula holds a special place in my heart. My children have attended this school, and through them I’ve experienced the warmth, unity, and dedication that define this community. The supportive families, incredible staff, and wonderful students make Samsula feel like home. It’s a privilege to work in a place with such strong values and a genuine commitment to student success.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺ )
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, cooking, camping, and gardening. I am a proud parent of three daughters, who keep life both busy and rewarding. I also have a strong love for animals and previously worked with animal rescue organizations in Tennessee and West Virginia, an experience that reinforced the importance of compassion and community service.
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I hold a Bachelor of Science degree from Oswego State University in New York and a Master of Science degree from the University of New Haven in Connecticut. Prior to entering the field of education, I worked as a zookeeper, a forensic scientist with the New York State Police, a deputy, a program director, and a university professor. This is my third year teaching at Samsula Academy, where I have had the privilege of teaching both fourth and fifth grade. Each day, I strive to instill a strong appreciation for education and encourage students to put forth their best effort. Creating a positive learning environment that fosters lifelong skills and meaningful lessons is at the heart of my teaching practice.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
Samsula Academy is an exceptional school with a strong support system for both teachers and students. It is a rewarding experience to come to work each day knowing I can rely on my colleagues and administration for collaboration, encouragement, and shared commitment to helping every student succeed.The most meaningful moments in teaching come from the connections I build with my students—their stories, their enthusiasm, and especially the joy on their faces when they finally understand a concept that once felt challenging.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺)
When I am not in the classroom, I am proudly a baseball mom. Much of my free time is spent at the ballfield, where my husband manages our boys’ teams, and I am always their biggest fan. I am also a devoted cat and raccoon enthusiast.I enjoy spending time outdoors—whether relaxing at the beach or exploring the mountains. When my schedule allows, I love scuba diving and traveling to new places.
Email coming soon!
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I have dedicated the past 16 years to elementary education, serving as both a K–2 classroom teacher and a
reading interventionist. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education (K–6) from Florida Gulf Coast
University and hold both ESOL and Reading K–12 endorsements. I am passionate about helping young learners build strong academic foundations and develop a lifelong love of reading and learning.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
What I enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy is getting to see my son’s adorable little face during the day.
I also love the close-knit community that has been built among the staff, parents, and students. It truly is a special
place where everyone can learn, grow, and feel supported.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺)
I’m a creative at heart who loves making jewelry, working with ceramics, painting, decorating, thrifting, and exploring new places. My greatest joy is my family—my husband of 15 years, our four children (one daughter and three sons), and our grandbaby, who brings so much happiness to our lives. A fun fact about me is that my handmade earrings are available for purchase at The Hub on Canal Street.
Email coming soon!
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
Coming Soon
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
Coming Soon
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺)
Coming Soon
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
I have been with Samsula Academy since 2018, My alma mater is Broward College in South FL.
Positions held at Samsula Academy have been Substitute Teacher, Extended Day, Kindergarten Paraprofessional, Music Teacher, and now Music & PE!
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
I love the wonderful children at Samsula Academy and getting to know all of the amazing families!
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share
I love to perform. I perform in community theatre productions throughout Volusia County. I enjoy singing, and also improv comedy! My husband and I have lived in Volusia for 21 years and we have two children who both attended Samsula Academy.
Email coming soon!
Experience (Background, Education, Degrees, Years Taught, etc.):
In 2018, I earned my certification as an Orton-Gillingham reading interventionist and provided interventions to elementary
school children in the state of Delaware. I was then recruited to work at a residential high school outside of Boston called Landmark School, which exclusively serves students with learning disabilities. While working for 5 years at Landmark School as a history teacher and reading interventionist, I earned a Master’s Degree in Special Education through Boston University, as well as my teaching certifications in Special Educations and Social Science. In 2024 I moved back to the Daytona area. For the past two year I have worked in the counseling department at Father Lopez Catholic High School as their ESE Coordinator and Learning Strategies teacher.
What do you enjoy most about working at Samsula Academy?
Samsula Academy is a great place to work because it is a place that values community and collaboration. The
school’s history is so deeply rooted in the Samsula area, and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join this
community and contribute to the culture moving forward.
Tell Us about YOU (Hobbies, interests, family, fun facts or whatever else you would like to share ☺)
My favorite thing to do in my free time is be by water. Whether it is going to the beach, the pool, or going
out on the river in my kayak, I love being by the water. I am also an avid reader, currently making my way
through the Dune series. Lastly, you should know that I am a huge Philadelphia sports fan (Go Birds!).
