Meet Our K-8 Teachers
Master Teachers
Master Teacher for Grades K-4
Nicole Johnson is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with eight years of teaching experience. She graduated from Messiah College with a bachelor's degree in elementary education, and from Shippensburg University with a master's degree in reading. Before becoming a virtual educator, Nicole taught fifth grade in the Mechanicsburg Area School District for five and a half years. Nicole is a Pennsylvania-certified reading specialist.
Master Teacher for Grades 5-8
Rebecca Cooper is a Pennsylvania-certified elementary teacher with 18 years of teaching experience. She taught fourth grade in Bucks County, PA and worked as a private school teacher providing learning support in the areas of reading and writing for children in elementary and middle school. Before joining Agora in 2006, Rebecca worked as a middle school teacher in a virtual setting using the K¹² curriculum. Rebecca is pursuing a master's degree in educational leadership at Penn State University.
Math and Reading Specialist Coordinator
Kelli DiVito starts her fifth year as a virtual educator as the math and reading specialist coordinator. Last year, she was a middle school Title 1 math teacher. She has five years of teaching experience in the brick-and-mortar setting as a seventh- and eighth- grade math teacher. Kelli received her secondary math teaching certification from Immaculata College and a master’s degree in educational development and strategies from Wilkes University. She has a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. Before becoming a teacher, she worked as a research and development engineer.
Master Teacher of Assessment and Accountability
Michelle Goodman has six years of experience working in the virtual setting in a variety of roles, including K-6 classroom teacher, lead teacher of programs, and Agora Days Out coordinator. Before that, she taught first and second grade in the Muhlenberg School District. She graduated from Alvernia University earning BS degrees in early childhood and elementary education. She also holds a master's degree in elementary education from Kutztown University and is currently pursuing her principal certificate with Alvernia University.
Coordinators
Math and Reading Specialist Coordinator
Kelli DiVito starts her fifth year as a virtual educator as the math and reading specialist coordinator. Last year, she was a middle school Title 1 math teacher. She has five years of teaching experience in the brick-and-mortar setting as a seventh- and eighth- grade math teacher. Kelli received her secondary math teaching certification from Immaculata College and a master’s degree in educational development and strategies from Wilkes University. She has a BS in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown. Before becoming a teacher, she worked as a research and development engineer.
Coordinator of Special Education, K-8
Melissa Holler graduated from Duquesne University in 2001 with her BS in elementary education and special education. She graduated in 2002 with her master’s degree in instructional technology. She taught for four years in Pittsburgh public schools before starting a career with Agora Cyber Charter School in 2007. She has also taught learning support and emotional support at an approved private school. Melissa has recently passed all tests to obtain her certification in supervisor of special education and is completing her last piece of coursework.
RTI Coordinator
Shannan Dieter is a certified special education teacher and reading specialist with a Bachelor of Science in education and a Master of Education in literacy, both from West Chester University. Shannan taught high school learning support for four years in brick-and-mortar schools and is entering her second year at Agora Cyber Charter School. She is furthering her education by beginning studies for her Master of Science in education from Temple University, including courses toward her special education supervisory Certificate.
Related Service Coordinator
Alison Potter is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with 14 years teaching experience, including six years in virtual education. She has been with Agora for three years. Alison earned a Bachelor of Arts in education with a dual certification in elementary and special education from Carlow University in Pittsburgh. Before starting in virtual education, she taught for six years in an APS with students with severe emotional disturbances. Alison has completed graduate level courses in curriculum development and special education methods and her future plans include finalizing her master's degree and certification in supervision of curriculum and Instruction.
Advanced Learner Program Coordinator
Nancy Kelly majored in English and secondary education at Chestnut Hill College, and went on to teach English, reading, and language arts, as well as gifted enrichment during her time in brick-and-mortar schools. She is currently completing her master’s degree from Gwynedd-Mercy College.
K-8 Teachers
ELEMENTARY LEAD TEACHERS
Denise Curry is the K-2 lead teacher. She has over 13 years of teaching experience, including pre-K through sixth grade. Denise is entering her fifth year using the K12 curriculum. Before becoming a cyber school teacher, she taught kindergarten at a private school in Wilkes-Barre, did substitute teaching in local northeast school districts, taught eighth grade math at a Higher Achievement Program, and directed a daycare/learning center. Denise earned a Bachelor of Science degree from East Stroudsburg University. She has a dual certification in early childhood and elementary education.
Holly Fiore is a K-2 lead teacher. She is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with six years of experience working in virtual education using the K12 curriculum. She has a total of 17 years of instructional experience ranging from pre-school age children through middle school. Mrs. Fiore's favorite aspect of teaching is encouraging children to build a lifelong love for reading and making sure they reach their academic goals. Mrs. Fiore earned her B.S. in elementary education, with a specialization in mental and physical impairment, from West Virginia University.
Theresa Henderson is the 3-4 lead teacher. She graduated from Slippery Rock University with a bachelor's degree in elementary education and from Gannon University with a master's degree in curriculum and instruction. In addition to working for Agora, she has used the K12 curriculum with her four children for the past seven years. It is her hope to pursue doctoral work at Dusquene University within the next two years. She is passionate about individualized education and is thrilled to work in partnership with families dedicated to laying the foundation of their child's educational journey.
Kathryn Hinshaw is the 5-6 lead teacher. She has nine years of teaching experience: four years for the School District of Philadelphia in elementary and middle school, and four years for Bensalem Township School District teaching high school history and English. For the past five years she has taught developmental reading and writing for Bucks County Community College and Kaplan University. Kathryn graduated from Temple University with a bachelor’s degree in military and diplomatic history with a minor in English literature. She earned a master’s degree in elementary education from Holy Family University. Also, she recently completed a master’s degree in educational administration through the University of Scranton’s online program.
Heidi Gardner is the K-6 Special Education Lead teacher. She starts her second year with Agora Cyber Charter School. She previously taught third grade, as well as coordinating and teaching Title One summer school. She is Pennsylvania-certified in both elementary and special education from Saint Francis University in Loretto, PA. She completed her master’s degree with honors from Marygrove College in Michigan.
Tyler Bui is honored to be serving as a lead teacher this year as coordinator of the Agora Days Out program, where he will have the privilege of working with families in a face-to-face setting. He has 12 years of education experience and is in his third year with Agora Cyber Charter School. Before joining Agora, he worked in traditional public and private schools, teaching students in grades K-6. Tyler attended Philadelphia Biblical University where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education and theological studies. He graduated from Penn State University in 2001 with a master's degree in educational leadership and received the Academic Excellence Award for his studies and contributions to the program. Tyler’s academic experience at Penn State has enabled him to develop curriculum and effectively implement school improvement plans for both inter-city and suburban schools.
MIDDLE SCHOOL LEAD TEACHERS
Middle School Lead Teacher
Holly Allen is in her fifth year of virtual education. She graduated cum laude from Bob Jones University with a BS in elementary education. She completed post-graduate work at Penn State where she earned a master's degree in teaching and curriculum, a reading specialist certificate, and a mid-level English certificate. Holly and her husband served as relief house parents at the Milton Hershey School for 11 years.
Special Education Project Lead Teacher/Middle School Special Education Teacher
Michelle Cukauskas has been teaching at Agora for four years in the middle school and special Education departments. She graduated from Slippery Rock University with dual certification in elementary and special education. She recently completed her supervision certification through Pitt University. In addition to working as a middle school special education teacher, Michelle is also a project lead teacher, supporting the staff and parents in trainings and professional development.
Lead Middle School Teacher
Nancy Wagner attended the University of Pittsburgh for her undergraduate and graduate degrees. She is certified in elementary education, middle school math, and middle school science. She has completed SAP training. She joined Agora in 2007 after six years as a public school teacher outside of Pittsburgh.
ELEMENTARY TEACHERS
Kim Achenbach is a PA-certified teacher with 17 years of experience in grades K-6. She began her teaching career in Ft. Lauderdale, FL where she taught with the School Board of Broward County for 14 years. She graduated from Eastern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in graphic design, then went on to receive her teaching certification through the post-baccalaureate program at Arizona State University. She is also ESL-certified and has worked with ESL students throughout her career. Kim has been an elementary teacher at Agora since 2008.
Tonya Bauer is a PA-certified elementary teacher who graduated from Alvernia College in 2001. This will be her first full year teaching at Agora. Her previous experience was at a private school teaching all-day kindergarten and third grade. She is currently teaching fourth grade and is pursuing her certification in special education.
Donna Britt is a PA-certified elementary education teacher who graduated from California University of PA. She has 23 years of teaching experience, including two years teaching reading in the elementary grades, four years teaching in private Christian schools, and 15 years subbing in public schools. She has also homeschooled her five children and has worked as a homebound teacher in public schools for five years. She worked in a wrap-around program at Family Behavioral Resources as a TSS (Therapeutic Staff Support) for two years, working with children with autism. Donna began with Agora in 2007 and has enjoyed teaching her fourth- through sixth-grade, especially working with them in her Elluminate classroom and meeting face-to-face.
Michele Buck is teaching kindergarten. She is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with 11 years of teaching experience. She earned her Bachelor of Science in elementary education/psychology from Moravian College. Michele completed her graduate studies at Wilkes University and holds a master’s degree in classroom technology. For the past several years she has taught in a virtual setting using the K¹² curriculum at multiple grade levels. Before becoming a virtual educator, Michele taught third grade in the Southern Lehigh School District for five years.
Jennifer Cook is beginning her second year in virtual education working with the K¹² curriculum. She is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with experience teaching pre-K through third grade. Jennifer earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology and elementary education from The University of Texas at Dallas.
Amber Cross has been an educator for ten years. This is her seventh year teaching in a virtual education setting using the K¹² curriculum. She has developed programs in public speaking, character education, and arts integration in both private and public schools. In virtual education, she has developed community building events, provided enrichment opportunities for students, and raised arts awareness and understanding. She has also worked as a private music instructor of voice and piano for 12 years. Amber is a summa cum laude graduate of Valley Forge Christian College with a BS degree in elementary education, and is Pennsylvania-certified in elementary education for grades K-6. Amber earned her master's degree in education, curriculum, and technology through the University of Phoenix Online.
Katey Curry-Puskar is a third grade teacher with Agora. She has eight years of teaching experience and six years of experience with the K¹² curriculum. She has had prior experiences teaching in a variety of grade levels, both in the classroom and the virtual setting. Katey is a 2001 graduate of Bloomsburg University with a dual degree in elementary education and early childhood education. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Scranton and will be graduating in May 2010. She is Level II-certified in elementary education by the state of Pennsylvania.
Linda Dupes graduated from Juniata College with a BS in psychology in 1988 and earned an elementary education certification at the graduate level from West Chester State University in 1991. She is pursuing her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from University of Scranton currently. In addition to working in the teaching field at the pre-school and elementary levels, she also worked in the fields of mental health, human resources, and customer service. Linda joined the staff of Agora initially as a blended-program site coordinator in January 2007 and then as an elementary teacher in April 2008. She has used the K¹² curriculum for over six years with her own two children.
Kimberly Gallis starts her second year with Agora Cyber Charter School. She is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with three years of experience teaching fourth grade at Baltimore County Public Schools in Maryland. Kimberly earned her bachelor’s degree from the Pennsylvania State University and a master’s degree in teaching from Towson University.
Randi Goldberg has been teaching in an elementary setting for the past 12 years. She has had experience as both a teacher and facilitator. She has also designed and implemented workshops for incoming elementary students and parents. For the past eight years Randi has worked in a charter school environment. She is dual-certified and also holds a master's degree in elementary education and special education from Cabrini College.
Jamie Grant is returning to Agora as an elementary teacher. She has a BS in business from Penn State and her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Rosemont College, where she also received her elementary teaching certification. Before coming to Agora, Jamie was a technology coordinator. She also works with a private foundation to help teachers use technology in the classroom.
Melody Gowman in her first year of teaching with Agora, but her sixth year teaching. She has taught pre-K, first grade, and second grade, and is excited about starting this new adventure teaching second grade in cyber school. Melody graduated from Geneva College and has taught in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. Her husband also teaches for Agora as a math specialist.
Beth Healy graduated from Harris Stowe University in St. Louis with a BS in elementary education and minor in special education. She has nine years of experience teaching first, second, and third grades, both as a regular and special education classroom teacher in urban public schools. Beth has been with Agora Cyber Charter School for two years. A professional member of the Council for Exceptional Children for 12 years, she has continued focus on her passion for providing an excellent education to all children.
Bryan Hellam comes to Agora with nine years of teaching experience. This will be his third year with Agora. Previously he spent six years with Mechanicsburg Area School District. He received his BS degree in elementary education from Shippensburg University. He is currently completing courses towards a master’s degree in education leadership and policy. Last year Bryan was a Title 1 math teacher and this year he will be a sixth grade elementary teacher.
Autumn Jarmusik is a Pennsylvania-certified elementary teacher who is starting her second year with Agora. Autumn is also certified as a reading specialist and in middle school science. She enjoys working with her students and getting to know them throughout the year.
Jennifer Johnston is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with seven years teaching experience in private, public and virtual settings. She has taught second, fifth, and sixth grades as well as elementary library instruction. In addition, Jennifer has provided learning support to students in kindergarten through fourth grades in the areas of reading, writing and mathematics. Jennifer taught fourth, fifth, and sixth grades as a virtual teacher using the K¹² curriculum for the past two years. Now in her third year at Agora, she will be teaching fifth grade as well as serving as the Agora Days Out site coordinator in Philadelphia. Jennifer graduated from Neumann College with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and will soon begin pursuing a master’s degree in this same area.
Sue Kachurak is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with 10 years of teaching experience. She spent seven years teaching third grade at St. Jude's School in Mountaintop, Pennsylvania and has taught in the virtual classroom using the K¹² curriculum since 2007. She earned her BA in elementary education, graduating magna cum laude from King's College, and is currently pursuing her master's degree in classroom technology from Wilkes University.
Beth Maines comes to Agora with eight years of teaching experience. She has been in private and public schools in kindergarten through sixth grade. This is Beth's second year teaching elementary students at Agora. Beth received her BS degree from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania in elementary education. She is elementary certified in Pennsylvania for grades K-6. In addition, she has taken graduate courses at Penn State Harrisburg in the teaching and curriculum master’s program
Amy Mazzola is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with nine years of teaching experience. She earned her Bachelor of Science in elementary and kindergarten education from Penn State University. Amy completed her graduate studies at University of Phoenix and holds a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. For the past several years she has taught multiple grade levels in a virtual setting. Before becoming a virtual educator, Amy taught in brick-and-mortar schools for four years.
Tammy McCauley graduated from Millersville University with a BS in elementary education and early childhood. She has taken several graduate courses, her favorite being “Successful Teaching for Acceptance of Responsibility.” She has more than four years of teaching experience teaching first, third, fourth, and sixth grades, as well as six years experience working in childcare with young children. She has also worked in brick-and-mortar schools as a Title 1 tutor for two years, where she gained more insight into how some children struggle with learning. She began teaching with Agora last year and enjoyed working with grades K-3. Her goals for the future include pursuing a master’s degree.
Beth Mulhollan comes to Agora with three years of experience in the teaching field. As an instructional coordinator in the 2007-2008 school year at Agora, Beth implemented meaningful Individualized Learning Plans for students in need. In the 2008-2009 school year she was an elementary teacher for the second-and third-grade team. Beth earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Eastern University in Pennsylvania. She hopes to begin working on her master’s degree this year.
Jessica Nicholson is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with five years of experience. She earned her BS in elementary education and early childhood certification, graduating summa cum laude from Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania. She has been with Agora Cyber Charter School for the past year. She truly enjoys connecting with students virtually and face-to-face. She is planning to pursue her master's degree.
Michelle Perzia graduated as salutatorian from Marywood University in 2007 with her BS in elementary education. This is her second year with Agora as an elementary teacher, but she is also certified to teach middle level science. Ms. Perzia has several years of teaching experience in both community and classroom settings at various grade levels. She also has experience working with children with special needs, modifying behavior and implementing strategies. In 2007 she served as a president of a local chapter of Kappa Delta Pi, the Honor Society in Education, promoting programs like America Reads.
Colleen Richardson is thrilled to begin her second year here at Agora. She began her teaching career in 2000, working in an inner-city charter school in Ohio. She also worked for Sylvan Learning Center for three years before becoming a virtual teacher in 2006. Colleen graduated from Youngstown State University in with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She recently earned her a master’s degree in education with a specialization in reading. Colleen plans on earning her certification in special education within the next year.
Stacy Serwinski is a PA state certified teacher who comes to Agora with two years of teaching experience. She earned her bachelor's degree in elementary and early childhood education through Neumann University. Stacy is currently pursuing her master's degree in education with a concentration in reading at St. Joseph's University. Before joining the K-2 team with Agora, Stacy worked in the enrollment department where she assisted families through the enrollment process.
Linda Stauffer is thrilled to begin her second year at Agora. She began her teaching career in 1996 at a Pittsburgh private brick-and-mortar school, where she taught second grade for four years. Linda graduated from Slippery Rock University with a degree in elementary education. Linda's future plans include earning a graduate degree in education.
Krista Stevens joined Agora’s team in February of 2007 after teaching fourth grade in northern Virginia for six years. She graduated from Edinboro University with a degree in elementary education and completed her master’s degree program in curriculum and instruction with a focus in instructional technology at George Mason University. Krista is excited to work with kindergarten students this year as they begin their school adventure.
Jill Swatton graduated from Penn State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education. Jill comes to us with thirteen years of teaching experience. She taught second and third grade students in the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District for six years and then taught her own children at home for the past seven years. Jill has continued her education, taking graduate course work at Penn State’s Great Valley Campus and plans to continue her studies in Instructional Design. Jill is looking forward to her second year at Agora working with the K-1 team.
Amy Terchick is excited to begin her first full year with Agora Cyber Charter. During the 2008-2009 school year she held several positions within Agora as a long term substitute. Amy brings with her over 10 years of traditional teaching experience in the elementary classroom. She received a BS in elementary education from Penn State University in 1993 and an M.Ed. in curriculum and instruction from the University of North Carolina-Greensboro.
Deborah Trout is enthusiastic to begin her third year as a virtual educator with Agora. She enjoys connecting with her students through one-on-one sessions in Elluminate and meeting students face-to face. She is a Pennsylvania- certified teacher in elementary education. She has been working in the field of education for 22 years, eleven of which were as a fourth grade traditional classroom teacher. She has also taught grades K-6 across the curriculum as a contracted teacher with extended time in special education, teaching students with learning differences and autism as well as the and multi-handicapped. She has been a mentor for at-risk students for a number of years. In addition, Deborah has taught as an adjunct professor in the area of reading and has been a college field placement supervisor for student teachers in preparation for certification in elementary education. She earned her BS in elementary education from West Chester University and her master’s degree in elementary guidance counseling from Gwynedd Mercy College.
Eric Turnbaugh is a Pennsylvania state certified teacher with five years of teaching experience in grades four through eight. He graduated from La Roche College with a bachelor’s degree and from Carlow University with a master’s degree. He is currently pursuing a doctorate degree from the University of Phoenix. Eric has been an elementary teacher at Agora since 2008.
Beth Vargas is a Pennsylvania state certified teacher with four years of teaching experience. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education/Sociology from Moravian College. Beth is currently pursuing her Master's degree in Multicultural Education from Eastern University. Before joining Agora in the fall of 2007, Beth was a children's librarian for five years.
Janet Whippo has been teaching for eighteen years in Christian, public, and private Schools for grades K-8. This is Janet's third year at Agora Cyber Charter School. She is a PA-certified elementary teacher and reading specialist. Janet also has a physical education and coaching background. She graduated with a BS in education from Central Connecticut State University and is currently working on her master's degree as a reading specialist at Westminster College. Janet loves to bring books to life during engaging read aloud sessions with her students. Building a strong partnership with families and students is a top priority for Janet.
Gita Whitney graduated from Colgate University in Hamilton, NY with a BA in English literature. She has her master’s degree in elementary education from University of Pittsburgh and is also certified in ESL. She taught ESL for seven years and tutored students in reading using the Wilson program for two years before entering the cyber school community. Gita supported K-3 students and families at Agora in 2007-2008 and grades 2-3 in 2008-2009. Her future goals are to take courses toward her reading specialist degree in order to better serve young students accomplish success with reading.
Theresa Wiedemann is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with six years of teaching experience. Before becoming a virtual educator, she taught K-6 enrichment as well as fourth grade in the Glendale Elementary School District in Flinton, PA. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the Pennsylvania State University and her master's degree in elementary education from Marygrove College. Theresa is always eager to meet her students through the virtual setting and is looking forward to a fantastic school year.
Lynn Wilson is new to Agora this year. This is her second year of teaching. Lynn has her bachelor’s degree from Penn State university in business management. Lynn was self-employed for several years in the restaurant and catering business and decided to return to school when she had children. Lynn returned for her master’s degree and elementary certification to Alvernia University. Since then, Lynn has also gotten her certification in middle school English and is adding a certification for high school English this fall as well.
MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHERS
Scott Anderson is in his third year as a cyber school teacher. Scott graduated from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania with a degree in elementary education. He relocated and taught three years in an inner city school in Durham, North Carolina. Upon his return to Pennsylvania he was certified in middle school history and joined Agora.
Angela Bayly is excited to be starting her fifth year as a cyber school teacher. Before joining Agora she started her education career teaching in the School District of Philadelphia. Angela originally pursued communications as a college major and career path. She graduated from Millersville University with a Bachelor of Science in public relations. After spending five years in the marketing/advertising field, she decided to return to college to become a certified English teacher. Once she received her secondary English certification from Eastern University, she continued on to Penn State University where she completed her master’s degree in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in literacy.
Brandon Bird graduated from California University of Pennsylvania with a BS in secondary education and a certification in general science. Brandon has three years of experience teaching sixth, seventh, and eighth grades in a traditional setting. Brandon taught in Charles County Public Schools in Maryland and also taught in an urban setting in Pittsburgh. This is his first year with Agora Cyber Charter School. Brandon is in the process of completing his master’s degree in the chemical and life sciences program at The University of Maryland, College Park.
Mike Floyd is an educator with 16 years of experience in both public and private schools as a teacher and administrator. He holds a bachelor’s degree from York College and a master’s degree from Millersville University. Mike is certified in science and middle-level math. He looks forward with great excitement to his second year at Agora.
Kelly Fortney is excited to begin her third year with Agora. She has been teaching for the past five years. She began her career as a seventh grade reading teacher and then continued to focus on reading while conducting a high school reading academy. Kelly graduated from Shippensburg University with an elementary education degree and went on to receive her reading specialist certification. She is currently working on her master’s degree in literacy and learning for secondary levels.
Tia Gaines is beginning her first year at Agora Cyber Charter School teaching Middle School English. She received her BS in English and Biblical Studies at Philadelphia Biblical University in Langhorne, Pennsylvania. She has experience teaching in the United States and Honduras.
Jeanette Geary is dual-certified in English and social studies. She brings eight years of interdisciplinary teaching experience to Agora Cyber Charter School. Before joining Agora, she taught United States history, Advanced Placement European history, British literature, and world literature in a public school in Western Pennsylvania. Mrs. Geary incorporates writing across the curriculum and enjoys creating “webquests” for her students. She is a member of Saint Vincent College’s first graduating class of women.
Crystal Grossman is Pennsylvania-certified teacher with nine years of experience in education. Her experiences include teaching first grade as well as middle school English and a year of civics. In addition to classroom experiences, she was a director of an early learning center working with families and children infancy-preschool. This will be Crystal’s third year as a virtual school teacher with Agora. She has also dedicated time to extracurricular activities, including coaching and organizing clubs for students. She earned her BS in elementary education K-6 from Slippery Rock University. In addition, she has a minor in elementary Spanish and an additional PA certification in middle school language arts grades 7-9.
Karen Hamburger is certified in elementary and middle school math. She has more than 11 years of teaching experience. This is her first year with Agora. Karen has taught fourth grade for a number of years, middle school for the last five years, and has been an in-patient psych teacher. She is currently attending Drexel University for her ESL certification.
Erin Howe graduated summa cum laude from West Chester University in 2000 with a BS degree in elementary education. She is currently working towards her graduate degree in educational development and strategies from Wilkes University. Erin is Pennsylvania-certified in elementary education, middle school language arts, and middle school math. This is her ninth year as a public school teacher in Pennsylvania, and her fifth year as a virtual teacher.
Clifford Knox is beginning his career with Agora Cyber Charter School, teaching Middle School Science. He graduated from Point Park University with a Degree in Secondary Science education. He is certified in Biology (7-12), General Science (7-12), Technology Education (K-12) Business, Computers & Information Technology (K-12), Environmental Science (K-12), Earth/Space Science (7-12).
Kelly Krelove graduated from University of Maryland, College Park, with a BS in environmental science. She received her post-baccalaureate teaching certificate in 7-12 general science from Drexel University in Philadelphia. She has five years of experience teaching sixth, seventh and eighth grades in traditional, experiential, and cyber school settings and has taught in both Pennsylvania and California. Kelly has taught with Agora Cyber Charter School for two years and is in the process of completing her master’s degree in the science of instruction through Drexel University.
Becky Leonard is excited to start her first year with Agora. After teaching elementary school for three years and middle school for two years in brick-and-mortar schools, she is eager to start her journey with Agora Cyber Charter School. Becky is currently working on her master's degree in educational strategies and foundations.
Meg Rebholz is very excited to begin her first year at Agora, which is her fourth year teaching virtually and eighth year overall in education. She earned her teaching degree in secondary social studies from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and later earned her second certification in K-12 health. Meg taught in both private and traditional public schools in Atlanta before returning to Pennsylvania.
Tim Sager is new this year to virtual teaching. Previously, Tim held math positions at both the high school and middle school level in public, private, and charter schools. He graduated from Arcadia University with an MA in education and an M.Ed. in education leadership, and has a BA from Williams College in Massachusetts. Before teaching, Tim worked in business for 20 years.
Aly Scheib has been teaching middle school science in both public and private schools for the past 11 years. She was the science coordinator for a K-8 school in Maryland and facilitated science fair programs in both Maryland and Pennsylvania. Aly has spent the past six years working in cyber education using the K¹² curriculum. During that time she taught middle-school science and was the master teacher for state standardized testing and evaluation. Aly earned a BS degree in secondary education and an equivalent BS degree in behavioral science from York College of Pennsylvania. She is certified to teach general science in Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Lauren Shaffer is in her second year at Agora teaching middle school history. Lauren earned her BS in social studies education from Millersville University and is currently enrolled in a master's program through Wilkes University for a degree in classroom technology. Lauren has five years of teaching experience and has held other roles, such as a National History Day school coordinator.
John Thomas is teaching Middle School History at Agora. This is his first year. Mr. Thomas graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a BS in Social Studies and a minor in geography. He is certified to teach American History, American Government, Anthropology, Economics, Geography, International Politics, Psychology, Regional History, Sociology and World History.
Vallorie Volpe is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with 22 years of teaching experience, including nine at the elementary level and 13 years in middle school teaching math and science. She served as the chairman of the Educational Assistance Program for Sharon Middle High School. This is her second year with Agora. She earned her BS degree in education from Clarion University of PA. She has her elementary education certification as well as middle school math and middle school science certifications. She plans to obtain her secondary math degree this year.
Gitana Wasserman has a BS in Mathematics education from Lock Haven University. She has experience teaching in PA and CT, and has also studied abroad in England. She joined Agora’s Middle School team this year.
READING AND MATH SPECIALISTS
Kate Camarda is in her second year with Agora as a Math Specialist. She is also an ESL teacher. Kate has three years of experience teaching in brick-and-mortar schools. She graduated with a BA in international studies and minors in Spanish and business from Millersville University. After two years in the business world, Kate went back to school to become an ESL teacher. She recently earned her master's degree in multicultural education with the ESL track from Eastern University.
Jami Doan is entering her third year of teaching in a virtual environment and her seventh year as an educator. While at Agora, Jami has worked on the elementary and Title 1 teams. She graduated from Messiah College in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and received her master’s degree in middle school math from Walden University in 2008. Before joining Agora in 2007, Mrs. Doan taught middle school math for an Edison Charter School outside of Philadelphia and then served as a math specialist for the Tredyffrin-Easttown School District.
Joel Gowman is entering his second year with Agora. Last year he worked with middle-school students as a Title I math teacher. This will mark Joel’s fifth year of teacher. Previously he taught fifth grade and eighth grade math in a public school setting, and various subjects at a Christian school in both middle and high school levels. Joel has his Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Geneva College and is also certified in middle school mathematics.
Natalie Hinshaw graduated with honors from Lock Haven University and The University of Scranton with a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction and a concentration in literacy. She comes to Agora with eight years of experience in charter school education. Natalie has provided professional development in effective reading instruction to teachers working with at-risk students and emergent readers. In addition to her work with Agora, she is also an adjunct college instructor. Natalie is a PA-certified reading specialist and secondary English teacher. She is also a certified elementary teacher. Natalie has also completed graduate coursework in special education.
Maria Lee graduated from Loyola University in Chicago as a math and computer science double major, with secondary certification in math. She is Pennsylvania-certified to teach math for grades 7-12. Though her brick-and-mortar experience was at the high school level, she loves working with the Agora middle school. This is her third year teaching in the virtual setting.
Elizabeth McEwen graduated from Gartmore College (UK) in 1987 with a B.Th. degree in research and teaching. She completed her master's degree in elementary education with distinguished honors at Cabrini College in 2005, and was inducted into the Kappa Gamma Pi Honor Society in 2006. Liz is certified in PA to teach elementary education, special education, and middle school English, and is currently pursuing certification as a reading specialist. Liz has over 25 years of experience of teaching Christian groups in the UK and the USA, and has taught and tutored children of all ages, from first through eighth grade. This will be Liz's fourth year at Agora.
Jackie Myers is our parent liaison. She is a certified Pennsylvania teacher with a total of 16 years in education, including 11 years teaching kindergarten through first grade and three years instructing teachers as a literacy coach/curriculum specialist in South Carolina. During her teaching years in Pennsylvania, she was part of a faculty that received the International Reading Association award for their comprehensive, balanced approach to reading. She continue her literacy endeavors by sharing her experiences with a K-5 faculty, providing staff development, model instruction, and team teaching, and observing a K-5 faculty in advancing literacy instruction and strategies. Jackie has a BS in elementary education, a master’s degree in early childhood, and a reading specialist certification.
Julie Pottinger will be with Agora as a math specialist for the second year. Julie earned her bachelor's degree at Penn State in elementary education. Following that she taught a variety of subjects at both the elementary and middle school levels. Discovering a love for teaching math and a desire to do it better, Julie then pursued a master's degree in teaching elementary and middle school math from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Lisa Samar is a reading specialist serving third-grade students. This is her second year at. She has been working in cyber education for two and a half years and was previously employed as an elementary teacher with the Milton Area School District for eight years. Lisa started her career in education working at a preparatory school in the primary grade levels. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in education from the Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania, where she graduated with honors.
Michelle Tilsner is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with 13 years of teaching experience. This is her second year teaching in a virtual environment. Before coming to Agora, Michelle taught various subjects at the middle and high school level in a traditional brick-and-mortar setting. Michelle earned her BA from West Chester University, and Master's in Education from St. Joseph's University. Several years ago she acquired her Reading Specialist certification from LaSalle University.
Lauren Verner has four years of teaching experience at the Elementary and Middle School levels before teaching in a virtual setting. This will be her third year teaching Middle School Math at Agora. She has a BS in Elementary Education from Penn State University and a master’s degree in instructional technology from St. Joseph’s University. She is Pennsylvania-certified to teach elementary education, middle school math, and middle school science.
Maggie Weagley graduated in 2002 with a degree in elementary education from Lebanon Valley College. Upon graduation she taught for one year in Frederick County, Maryland and four years in Birmingham, Alabama. This is her second year with Agora. Last year she was a fourth- through sixth-grade teacher and this year she will be focusing on helping students succeed in the area of math at the middle school level. Maggie is currently working on receiving her master's degree in curriculum and instruction.
Orientation Team
Carol Bryan is beginning her seventh year in virtual education working with the K12 curriculum. She is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with 16 years of teaching experience, 10 of which were in Philadelphia brick-and-mortar schools. For the past six years, she taught all grades in a virtual setting using the K¹² curriculum. Carol earned her BS degree in education from West Chester University, and has completed graduate courses in literacy and teacher leadership. Her future plans include earning a graduate degree in education.
Michelle Johnson came to Agora with more than 10 years of teaching experience. She is a 1992 graduate of the Penn State University, earning a degree in education with a minor in math. This degree has given her the opportunity to teach at different elementary and middle school levels. Michelle also has served on many committees such as head teacher, curriculum specialist, teacher trainer, mentor, and reading coach. Before teaching virtually, Michelle spent seven years in Wisconsin teaching a second grade classroom. She has been working with the K12 curriculum for the past three years as an elementary teacher. She is very excited to help new families have a successful education with Agora.
Alina Kitchell is a third-year virtual educator for Agora. She taught kindergarten for three years in private and public school settings. She was a homeschooling mom for six years before joining Agora. She also used the K12 curriculum as a parent for six years before joining the Agora staff. She received her BS in elementary and early childhood education from Oklahoma State University and is currently working on a master's degree in educational development and strategies through Wilkes University. It is her goal to help learning coaches feel confident in their role and excited about being a part of the Agora family.
Special Education Teachers
ELEMENTARY SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS
Maura Basso graduated from Slippery Rock University with a dual certification in elementary and special education in 2005. She is currently earning her master’s degree in reading to become a reading specialist from Edinboro University online. She worked for Midwestern Intermediate Unit IV for four years as an emotional support teacher in a partial hospitalization program. This is Maura's first year at Agora Cyber Charter School. She looks forward to working closely with all the wonderful families enrolled in the program.
Brenda DiEugenio has taught special education for the past five years. Her teaching experiences include learning support, emotional support, and multiple-disabilities support for three years in various brick-and-mortar schools. Brenda has served as a virtual special education teacher for the past two years. She graduated from California University of PA with a Bachelor of Science degree in education with dual certifications in elementary and special education. Brenda also graduated from Walden University in 2009 with a master's degree in curriculum, instruction, and assessment.
Becky Fisher is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher with six years experience. Her certifications include special education and language arts 7-12. She graduated from Utah State University in 2003 with a degree in special and elementary education. She has previously taught in brick-and-mortar schools in Maryland and Pennsylvania. Becky has taught middle school, high school, and also as an alternative school experience. This is her third year with Agora and she is excited to be working with her students and families.
Rosita Franzone has over nine years of classroom teaching experience, teaching bilingual special education in New York City. She has also worked as a mentor teacher assisting new teachers. Before coming to Agora, Rosita was providing early intervention services to special needs children up to age 5, a position she loved because she was able to work so closely with families. She is dual-certified in special education N-12 and elementary K-6. Rosita received her Bachelor of Arts in child study/special education, with a minor in Spanish from St. Joseph’s College, and her Master of Arts in special education: learning disabilities (neurologically impaired) from Teachers College, Columbia University. Rosita is looking forward to her second year working with Agora families to help their children succeed.
Jennifer Fritz taught elementary special education in the Allentown School District for five years. Before that she taught as a speech therapist at Centennial School in Bethlehem for three years. This is her second year as a virtual teacher at Agora Cyber Charter School. Jennifer worked with children with autism, pervasive developmental disorder, learning disabilities and emotional disturbance. She earned her undergraduate degree with honors from Kutztown University in speech pathology, and her master’s degree with honors from East Stroudsburg University in special education.
Maryann Johnson begins her second year with Agora Cyber Charter School. She is Pennsylvania-certified in elementary education K-6 and special education N-12. She has experience working with students in an inclusive setting for grades four and six. She also taught students in a summer school/camp setting for three years.
Renay Litz is a certified special education teacher and elementary education teacher. She earned her elementary certification from West Chester University and her special education certification from Immaculata University. She is currently finishing her master’s degree at Immaculata. Renay has been teaching for 10 years and is beginning her second year teaching virtually. Throughout her 10 years she spent eight years teaching middle school and currently teaches fourth- through sixth-grade special education.
Careen Lomago graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a dual certification in elementary education and special education. She worked for the Pittsburgh Public School District for seven years as a special education teacher. This is Mrs. Lomago's first year working with Agora Cyber Charter School. She is very excited to work with all of her new students in such a great academic setting.
Cherry Pechart is a certified special education teacher with four years of teaching experience, including teaching in the learning support environment at the middle and elementary levels, specializing in reading and language arts. In her positions she has worked collaboratively with her educator teams to effectively meet the needs of students and encourage their academic success. Her certification includes special education as well as middle school mathematics and English. Cherry graduated from Millersville University with her bachelor’s degree in special education K-12.
Jessica Scott is a certified special education teacher who joined Agora in the fall of 2007. She earned her degree in special education and graduated summa cum laude from California University of Pennsylvania in 2004. Jessica is in her sixth year of teaching and her third year as a cyber educator. Jessica’s experiences include working in both emotional support and learning support classrooms. Jessica has worked with students in fourth through twelfth grades and currently supports students in fifth and sixth grades at Agora. Jessica is pursuing a master's degree in elementary reading and literacy from Walden University.
Lisa Timms is a Pennsylvania-certified teacher who graduated from the University of Scranton with her MS in special education, and has been teaching for four years. Ms. Timms has had the opportunity to teach in different states including Hawaii and California. Her prior teaching experience includes K-8 resource in California and tenth-grade learning support life science in Hawaii. She began with Agora March 2008. Ms. Timms also has an extensive behavioral background. She worked with wrap-around behavioral services for five years before teaching. She has had specialized training in functional behavioral assessments, behavioral intervention plans, positive behavioral interventions/strategies, sensory integration, and understanding by design.
MIDDLE SCHOOL SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHERS
Michelle Berghoff has taught special education and elementary education for the past eleven years. She has ten years of classroom experience in a variety of brick-and-mortar elementary schools, including second grade, inclusion, learning support, and as a self-contained teacher for students with special needs. Michelle joined the Agora team last year as a middle school special education teacher. She graduated from Indiana University with a Bachelor of Science degree in special education. She later added her teaching certificate in elementary education.
Heather McCaslin-Clark comes to Agora with dual certification in elementary and special education. Heather has two years of experience in a Montessori elementary school teaching, a first grade class and a third- and fourth-grade combined class. In addition, she has four years of experience in a private alternative education program where she taught English and worked with troubled youth. She incorporates her training and techniques learned from Montessori into her lessons to ensure a better understanding by her students.
Leslie Spratt is a PA-certified special education teacher with eight years of teaching experience. Five of those years were spent in a life skills classroom at an approved private school. She earned her bachelor's degree at the University of Central Florida in Orlando and is currently pursuing a master's degree online with Capella University. This is her first year at Agora and she is excited to be a part of it.
Trisha Zellers graduated from Lebanon Valley College in 2002 with a bachelor's degree in elementary education as well as special education. Before joining Agora Cyber Charter School, she taught in a public school for five years in a learning support classroom.