Faculty and Staff
All our teachers hold a Bachelor’s Degree or higher
Father John Tapp
Pastor
Elizabeth Agresta
Principal
Elizabeth Agresta
Contact: eagresta@myoll.com
Elizabeth Agresta, a native of St. Petersburg, brings a wealth of educational expertise shaped by her Catholic school upbringing. With 18 years of classroom teaching experience in both public and Catholic settings, and another 17 years dedicated to Catholic school administration at the school and diocesan levels, she has demonstrated a profound commitment to education.
During her tenure as Associate Superintendent of Schools from 2012 to 2016, Mrs. Agresta developed a deep familiarity with our campus and faith community. Now serving as school principal, she expresses deep gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate daily with exceptional individuals.
Mrs. Agresta is driven by her passion for outstanding teaching and learning. She firmly believes that a positive, supportive, and faith-based school environment forms the cornerstone of academic success. Reflecting on her own upbringing, she acknowledges Catholic education and parental guidance as fundamental in shaping her life. She believes that partnering with a Catholic school offers children a robust foundation to navigate life’s journey.
Ashley Kalyan
Assistant Principal
Performing Arts Co-Director
Ashley Kalyan
Contact: akalyan@myoll.com
Mrs. Kalyan’s passion for education has guided her journey through a variety of enriching experiences. A proud alumna of the Diocese of Saint Petersburg, she began her educational path in local Catholic schools before earning her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida. She later advanced her leadership skills with a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Saint Leo University, reinforcing her commitment to Catholic education.
With over eight years of classroom teaching experience, including four years in London, Mrs. Kalyan brings a unique international perspective to her work. Her time abroad deepened her love for curriculum development and inspired her to continuously strive for excellence in creating an optimal learning environment. In college, she combined her love for education and the arts by performing for Disney and Universal, a passion she now brings to her role as co-director of the school’s theatre department.
As Assistant Principal at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Mrs. Kalyan understands the vital role that a positive school culture plays in student success. She strives every day to make OLL the best place to teach and learn. She is honored to be a part of the Our Lady of Lourdes family and looks forward to contributing to the school’s continued growth and achievement.
Barbara Aldrich
Receptionist
Babara Aldrich
Contact: baldrich@myoll.com
Barbara Aldrich moved from Kentucky to Florida and has lived here for 50+ years. She, along with her siblings were all raised in the Diocese of St. Petersburg.
Her previous work experience has been as Executive Assistant to top Executive Teams such as Eckerd Corporation and BIC Graphic.
Barbara adores working with children and feels blessed to be at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School. She has been working for Catholic Schools for four years.
Suzanna Duck
Office Assistant
Suzanna Duck
Suzanna Duck moved from Upstate NY to Punta Gorda in 2019. Shortly after, she met her future husband Tim and moved to Dunedin. He has two children that graduated from OLL, and they regularly share their fond memories of their time there. Suzanna has three children who are enjoying life in tropical Florida. Two are in high school and one in college at UT. She has vast experience managing real estate offices, as well as having a real estate license. She enjoys working at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School.
Contact: sduck@myoll.com
Dina Englert
Bookkeeper
Dina Englert
Dina Englert has been a part of Catholic Education for the past 30 years. Her three children were all raised in the Diocese of St. Petersburg. Her previous work experience was in Sales, Marketing and Finance.
Contact: denglert@myoll.com
Margot Fulham
EC3 Teacher
Early Childhood Director
Margot Fulham
Margot Fulham was born and raised in France and moved to the United States at the age of 11. She pursued a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of South Florida. Her educational journey led her to the Diocese of St. Petersburg, where she began her career at Sacred Heart Catholic School, initially as a teacher assistant and later as the French teacher.
Eager to further her education, Mrs. Fulham moved to Belgium with her husband for two years where she earned a master’s degree in educational studies from the Catholic University of Leuven. After returning to the U.S., she spent three years teaching preschool at St. Thomas More Catholic School in Chapel Hill, NC.
Now in her third year at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Mrs. Fulham is passionate about creating a nurturing and faith-based environment where every child can thrive. She believes in fostering a community where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore their creativity. Mrs. Fulham is dedicated to building strong relationships with parents and students, ensuring that each child’s educational journey is filled with joy, discovery, and growth.
Contact: mfulham@myoll.com
Carlie Vogeney
EC3 Teacher Assistant
Carlie Vogeney
Carlie Vogeney was born in Pennsylvania but raised in Clearwater, FL, since she was one and has always been an active member of her community. She grew up attending St. Cecilia’s Church, where she participated in youth groups, Vacation Bible School (VBS), and numerous retreats, building a strong foundation in faith and community service. After graduating from Clearwater High, she worked in customer service until 2018 when she decided to become a stay-at-home mom, rediscovering her passion for working with children during this time. Married with three children, two of whom attend Our Lady of Lourdes, Mrs. Vogeney is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in PreK/Primary Education at St. Petersburg College. Last year, Mrs. Vogeney began her journey at Our Lady of Lourdes as a substitute teacher in the preschool. This year she is eager to continue her career as the EC3 teaching assistant alongside Mrs. Fulham. Her goal is to create an environment where children feel safe, seen, and nurtured, fostering their spirits and love for learning.
Contact: cvogeney@myoll.com
Anna Dahlbacka
VPK Lead Teacher
Anna Dahlbacka
Anna (Fidelus) Dahlbacka was born and raised in Chicago and went to high school in Goose Creek, SC (a small town outside of Charleston). She completed her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an ESOL and Reading endorsement at the University of Central Florida (Go Knights!) and Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Saint Leo University. She has worked in the Diocese of St. Petersburg as a teacher since 2011. She has taught VPK Preschool, 1st grade, 2nd grade, Art (Pre-K through 8th grade), and Enrichment.
During the summer, Mrs. Dahlbacka teaches high school students with Junior Achievement/CAP about budgeting, finance, and career readiness strategies. She is a first-generation American with Polish roots and learned English in school as an ESOL student. Her previous teachers made a positive impact and influenced her to become an educator, too! During her free time, she enjoys travelling, spending time with her husband, Joey, and family, and spending time at the beach. The moment she stepped foot on the Our Lady of Lourdes campus, she felt a sense of community and even received her Sacrament of Marriage at OLL June 2021! She enjoys teaching and aspires to inspire the students to become the best version of themselves with a positive mindset!
Contact: adahlbacka@myoll.com
Jolie Gracy
EC4 Teacher Assistant
Jolie Gracy
Jolie Gracy is a Dunedin native and Our Lady of Lourdes alumna. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics from the University of Florida and aspires to pursue a Master’s degree in the future. Driven by a profound passion for education and child development, Jolie has accumulated valuable experience working with children through babysitting, tutoring, and currently, teaching EC4.
During her time at OLL, Jolie was an active member of the community, participating in after-school sports, plays, student council, and altar serving, among other activities. Since then, she has continued to support the community by volunteering at events such as the Fall Festival and Vacation Bible School. Last year, she began as a substitute teacher at our school and is now thrilled to serve as the instructional assistant for VPK. Her dedication to fostering a nurturing and dynamic learning environment reflects her deep commitment to inspiring and educating young minds.
Outside of work, Jolie loves paddleboarding, spending time at the beach, and taking walks in nature. She’s passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures and landscapes. She also enjoys being a barista, getting to chat, and connecting with amazing people.
Jolie says she has always had a home at OLL and is excited and honored to return. She is eager to contribute her skills and energy to the community once again.
Contact: jgracy@myoll.com
Dr. Heidi Maier
Kindergarten Teacher
After Care Director
Heidi Maier
Dr. Maier is a dedicated educator with over 25 years of experience, spanning from early childhood education to college-level teaching. Her diverse career includes instructing at the pre-kindergarten to college levels, leading master’s level and teacher preparation programs, as well as administration and designing and consulting on curriculum development.
She holds a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Child and Youth Studies with a focus on early childhood education, an Educational Specialist’s Degree (EdS) in Reading, and a Master of Science (MS) in Pre-K to Primary Education, all from Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida. Additionally, she earned her Bachelor degree from Cameron University in Lawton, Oklahoma.
Dr. Maier maintains current certification from the Florida Department of Education in Pre-K to Primary (age 3 to grade 3) Education, Elementary (K-5) Education, Middle Grades Integrated Curriculum, Exceptional Student Education (ESE, K-12), Reading (K-12), and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL, K-12). She also holds an endorsement in Early Childhood Special Needs.
Throughout her career, Dr. Maier has collaborated on numerous projects aimed at developing curriculum, setting educational standards, and creating teacher certification programs and exams for the Florida Department of Education.
Contact: hmaier@myoll.com
Melissa Brochak
Kindergarten
Teacher Assistant
Melissa Brochak
email to: mbrochak@myoll.com
Melissa is a dedicated kindergarten instructional aide with a passion for nurturing young minds. With a warm and engaging approach, she creates a supportive and stimulating classroom environment that fosters both learning and growth. Melissa’s commitment to education is evident in her ability to connect with each student individually, helping them develop a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.
Angela Seitz
Grade 1 Teacher
Angela Seitz
Angela Seitz has been a teacher at Our Lady of Lourdes since 2012. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida, along with certifications in ESOL and Reading Endorsement. Angela began her teaching career in 2010 at St. Stephen Catholic School in Riverview, Florida, where she taught for two years before joining OLL. At OLL, she has taught various grades, including 4th grade, early childhood 3, 2nd grade, Kindergarten, and now 1st grade. Besides her role as a classroom teacher, Angela also serves as the Yearbook Advisor alongside a fellow faculty member.
Throughout her teaching career, Angela has gained extensive knowledge about children, the Catholic faith, communication, and her own professional growth. Her goals at OLL are to help children reach their full academic potential while integrating Catholic faith and values into their daily lives. She strives to create a safe and welcoming environment that fosters productive learning, creativity, and communication. Angela loves being part of the Our Lady of Lourdes community and looks forward to coming to school every day.
Contact: aseitz@myoll.com
Kristen Sampson
Grades 1 & 2
Teacher Assistant
Kristen Sampson
Mrs. Sampson has been a long time parishioner at Our Lady of Lourdes. Her three children have attended Our Lady of Lourdes since they were in Kindergarten. She began her teaching career at a local Christian preschool teaching two year-olds. She came to the OLL team as an aftercare assistant and later became the assistant in the EC3 classroom. This year she has moved on to assist in the first and second grade classes. Mrs. Sampson is passionate about helping children learn and grow, and strives to provide a loving, safe, and nurturing environment to help each child become the best version of themselves.
Contact: klsampson@myoll.com
Jill Ruggieri
Grade 1
Teacher Assistant
Jill Ruggieri
Jill Ruggieri joins us this year as the 1st grade teaching assistant. Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, Jill is now happy to call Florida her home, where she is an active member of the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School community.
Jill earned her Medical Assistant and Medical Secretary certificates from the Sawyer School in Rhode Island. She then went on to work as a medical assistant at both Leonard Morse Hospital in Massachusetts and at MCI-Framingham, a women’s correctional institution also in Massachusetts.
Jill eventually transitioned to elementary education as a teaching assistant at Beatrice H Wood school in Plainville, Massachusetts, where she worked with all grade levels. It was there Jill realized her passion for working with children and now excitedly returns to the classroom at Our Lady of Lourdes. Jill is also a volunteer nurse in the school health clinic, where she provides care and comfort to our children.
Not only does Jill work at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, but she is also the proud parent of two daughters. Her youngest is now in her fourth year at OLL, an experience that has been wonderful for the entire family.
Jill welcomes all your children into the 2024-2025 school year at Our Lady of Lourdes and looks forward to helping them learn and grow in Christ.
Contact: jruggieri@myoll.com
Kathleen Flanagan
Grade 2 Teacher
Kathleen Flanagan
Miss Kathleen Flanagan has had the privilege of teaching at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School since 1999. A native of Long Island, New York and an alumnus of Clearwater Central Catholic High School, Miss Flanagan graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. Prior to arriving at Our Lady of Lourdes, she was a Title I resource teacher in Pinellas County Schools and a Faith Formation catechist at Saint Patrick Church in Largo. Miss Flanagan taught third grade at Our Lady of Lourdes for 23 years before making the move to second grade in 2022.
A recipient of the Monsignor William Dubois Award in 2017, Miss Flanagan has a passion for sharing her faith with her students, especially in the study of Reconciliation and the Holy Eucharist. She has been a resident of Dunedin and a parishioner of Our Lady of Lourdes since 2007. Outside the classroom, Miss Flanagan enjoys spending time with her family, spoiling her cat, and exploring the beautiful community of Dunedin.
Contact: kflanagan@myoll.com
Lori Haake
Grade 3
Teacher
Lori Haake
Lori Haake comes to Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School with over 25 years of teaching experience. She has taught a wide range of grade levels, from first through fifth grades, allowing her to understand and address the varying needs of her students. Mrs. Haake has firm roots in Catholic Education. She was the lead first-grade teacher at her own alma mater, Our Lady of Mt. Carmel School in Herrin, Illinois. Following her move to Palm Harbor in 2019 with her husband and three sons, Mrs. Haake taught first grade at Athenian Academy Charter School in Dunedin. She has endorsements in Social Sciences and Reading/Language Arts. Mrs. Haake believes in creating a positive and motivational learning environment. She values the importance of working closely with parents to ensure the best possible social and academic success of her students.
Mrs. Haake is excited to return to a Catholic school setting where she feels most at home.
Contact: lhaake@myoll.com
Patricia Belcher
Grades 3 -5
Teacher Assistant
Patricia Belcher
Contact: pbelcher@myoll.com
Mrs. Belcher is a native to Florida, graduating from Hollins High School. As a military wife for over 20 years, she has traveled to many exciting places.
Mrs. Belcher has been involved with many roles throughout her active life, including Director of Religious Education, Pre-School teacher, Teacher’s assistant, and retail owner of Once Upon A Child. She now works part-time and is enjoying her new role as Instructional Assistant for 3rd ,4th, & 5th grades.
Melody Park
Grades 4-5
ELA Teacher
Performing Arts Co-Director
Melody Park
Contact: mpark@myoll.com
Melody Park moved to Dunedin over 10 years ago, in part to be a parishioner at Our Lady of Lourdes Church. She has two sons that graduated from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School.
Melody received her bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of South Florida and worked for Baycare Hospitals for six years before attending SPC and earning her teaching certificate to make a career change. Her teaching career began in Pinellas County Public Schools, however, for the past four years she has been teaching at OLL. She has taught grades 2-5 throughout her time as an educator. Melody also has a passion for the Arts and has been a co-director of the school musicals for the past three years.
Melody is passionate about creating a classroom environment where students feel loved, respected, and know that mistakes are part of the learning process. She wants to inspire joy in the learning process to encourage students to be lifelong learners, not just for academic pursuits, but to live their faith out loud.
Jenifer Kunnen
Grades 4-5
Math & Science Teacher
Jenifer Kunnen
Mrs. Kunnen, a seasoned educator with 37 years of experience, has dedicated her career to teaching third, fourth, and fifth graders, with a particular passion for math and science. Holding a master’s degree in Instructional Technology from the University of South Florida, she skillfully incorporates technology into her daily curriculum, making learning both engaging and modern. Mrs. Kunnen is renowned for creating an exciting and dynamic classroom environment that brings learning to life and fosters a sense of happiness and team spirit among her students. Her commitment to a kind and positive classroom culture has led to consistently high math scores on standardized tests. Additionally, she integrates the Catholic faith into all subjects, maintaining very positive relationships with students, staff, and parents, and contributing to a holistic educational experience.
Contact: jkunnen@myoll.com
Katie Sellers
Grades 5-8
Advanced Math Teacher
Katie Sellers
Katie Sellers is a dedicated educator with a passion for helping students live up to their full potential. Raised locally, Katie attended Our Lady of Lourdes as a student for nine years and then went on to Clearwater Central Catholic High School. Called to be a teacher like many in her family, she decided to study at the University of Florida where she earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Elementary Education. After graduation, Katie felt drawn to teach in the same nurturing Catholic environment in which she was raised. Her teaching career began in 2001 at St. Mary Magdalen School in Altamonte Springs, where she taught fourth grade. In 2003, after marrying and moving back to Dunedin, she returned to her alma mater, OLL, and taught computer technology as well as 5th grade for four years. After several years in the classroom Katie decided to take a break from education to become a stay-at-home mom. She and her husband welcomed three beautiful daughters and Katie stayed home with them for ten years. During her time away from the classroom, Katie remained actively involved at Our Lady of Lourdes, volunteering as a room mom and serving as a member, and then president, of the School Advisory Council for six years. In 2017, when her youngest daughter was old enough to start school, Katie returned to the classroom in her current role as a part-time advanced math teacher. Katie is also co-chair of the Fall Festival, the school’s largest fundraiser. She describes Our Lady of Lourdes as her home and feels passionately about making it the best school it can be!
Contact: ksellers@myoll.com
Andy Delgado
Middle School
Language Arts Teacher
Andy Delgado
My name is Andy Delgado, and I am honored to be part of the dedicated team of educators here. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, both of which I earned from Florida Gulf Coast University. These qualifications have equipped me with a strong foundation in special education practices and leadership principles, enabling me to better serve my students and contribute to the overall growth and success of our school community.
Over the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of teaching in various educational settings, including 5 years at De LaSalle Academy in Fort Myers, where I taught special education to children with learning challenges. During my time there, I gained invaluable experience working with students who have unique learning needs, ensuring they receive the individualized support necessary to thrive academically and personally.
I have a personal connection to Our Lady of Lourdes, having attended the school myself from 2004 to 2006. This firsthand experience as a student allows me to understand and appreciate the unique perspective of our students, and I am committed to creating a supportive and enriching learning environment for my students. Following my time at Our Lady of Lourdes, I graduated from Clearwater Central Catholic in 2010. This comprehensive educational journey has provided me with a well-rounded perspective on education and instilled in me a passion for lifelong learning.
As a member of the teaching staff at Our Lady of Lourdes, I am dedicated to nurturing the intellectual, emotional, and spiritual growth of our students. I believe in the transformative power of education and am excited to collaborate with students, parents, and fellow educators to create an exceptional learning experience. During my spare time I enjoy playing video games, attending theme parks, and spending time with my wife and son, AJ.
Contact: adelgado@myoll.com
Erin Spence
Middle School
Math & Science Teacher
Erin Spence
Contact: espence@myoll.com
Erin Spence lives in Clearwater with her husband, Matt, and their three sons. She has been dedicated to teaching since 2007 and is thrilled to be a part of Our Lady of Lourdes. Faith is the cornerstone of her life and she couldn’t imagine teaching anywhere but a Catholic school. Mrs. Spence finds joy in making meaningful connections between math/science and faith, inspiring her students to see the world through a unique and integrated perspective. Mrs. Spence graduated from Florida State University with an undergraduate degree in Exceptional Student Education and a Master’s degree in Learning Disabilities and Behavior Disorders. Her career has been spent enriching the minds of middle and high school students in math and science. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Spence and her family enjoy a variety of activities, including reading, golfing, kayaking, and visiting theme parks.
Pam Kohler
Middle School
Religion & Social Studies
Teacher
Pam Kohler
Mrs. Kohler is a veteran teacher who came to us from Guardian Angels Catholic School, where she has been the Middle School Social Studies teacher for many years. She has a Bachelor in Organizational Studies and Environmental Policy, with a Social Science Certification for grades 6-23. She came with many accolades from her peers and students alike! Mrs. Kohler is known for being a team player and doing whatever it takes to get the job done and inspire a love for learning in her students.
Contact: pkohler@myoll.com
Beatriz Johnson
Middle School
Teacher Assistant
Beatriz Johnson
Contact: bjohnson@myoll.com
Mrs. Johnson is currently serving as an instructional assistant for middle school teachers. Her career began as a court reporter and Spanish interpreter, roles in which she honed her skills in communication and attention to detail. Her experience in the legal and linguistic realms has contributed to her approach in her current role supporting teachers and aids in creating an engaging learning environment for students. This new chapter in her life blends her passion for education with her commitment to family and community.
Lisa Suarez
Music Teacher,
Performing Arts,
Choir Director
Lisa Suarez
Mrs. Suarez is an alumnus of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School and Clearwater Central Catholic HS. She is a native Floridian and was raised in Dunedin, where she still resides with her husband and their two children, who also attended OLL.
Lisa continued to pursue her love of music, theater and dance at the University of South Florida where she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree, with concentration on vocal and choral performance. Lisa directs our school and parish children’s choir, as well as our school’s Show Choir which has performed at venues such as Disney World and the Catholic Foundation Gala. Lisa strives to keep her Catholic faith the focus of her everyday music lessons, inspiring her students to share their God-given talents with others.
Lisa is also the Co-chair of our annual Fall Festival with her life-long friend and colleague, Katie Sellers. OLL holds a very special place in her heart and is a place she truly calls home.
Contact: mrssuarez@myoll.com
Mary Donner
Art
Teacher
Mary Donner
Mary Donner has been a parishioner at Our Lady of Lourdes since 2002 when she and her family moved here from Boston. She began her stint with OLL education as a volunteer for Faith Formation, then as an aide. She has held the Art teacher position since 2009. Born and raised in the Midwest, she received an AA in Printmaking and Photography from Stephens College, Columbia Missouri. Mrs. Donner then went on to attend the University of Iowa where she received her BFA in Art and Art History. Mrs. Donner integrates creativity not just in the art room, but loves collaborating with teachers to infuse art into all subjects. Mrs. Donner loves to create an environment in the art room that encourages imagination for all ages. She lives in Dunedin with her husband Mick and son Harrison. Mick plays bass and guitar in the Life Teen band at OLL. Their son, Arthur is a 2009 graduate of OLL , and UF & USF graduate. Arthur and his wife, Kai, and their daughter, Rosemary, live in St. Petersburg Florida.
Contact: mdonner@myoll.com
Jennifer Nelson
Spanish
Teacher
Jennifer Nelson
Ms. Nelson is originally from Quito, Ecuador. As a native speaker, she understands the importance of teaching a second language and inspiring students to speak Spanish. Ms. Nelson studied at La Católica in Quito, Ecuador and graduated from the University of Florida. She translated for the Spanish community in Pinellas County in 2007. She is familiar with the Catholic school system as she is a graduate of SCS and CCC. With a passion to give back to the community and inspire youth, Ms. Nelson has found a home at OLL. Ms. Nelson will continue to grow the Spanish program and aims to create enjoyable Spanish classes for VPK to 8th grade. Ms. Nelson currently serves on the Legacy Committee for OLL.
Contact: jnelson@myoll.com
Aaron Hannon
P.E. Teacher Gr 4-8
Athletic Director
Aaron Hannon
Aaron Hannon, a Tampa Bay native, is entering his first full year at Our Lady of Lourdes. After earning his graduate degree in Sport and Entertainment Management from the University of South Florida, Aaron quickly realized his true passion is mentoring young men and women through team sports. This led him to become the Assistant Director of Hard2Guard Basketball Academy in Clearwater, FL.
During his tenure at Hard2Guard, Mr. Hannon developed a comprehensive understanding of running an athletics program based on Christian values, such as: teamwork, accountability, integrity, and respect. He has committed to these values not only at Our Lady of Lourdes but also at Clearwater Central Catholic, where he serves as the Junior Varsity Boys Basketball Coach.
Mr. Hannon displays a great passion for helping students of all ages understand how involvement in athletics can better prepare them for their future endeavors and is dedicated to providing a supportive and values-driven environment that encourages personal growth and development.
Contact: ahannon@myoll.com
Jeanine Newcomb
Resource
Teacher
Jeanine Newcomb
Jeanine Newcomb holds a bachelor’s degree in Fine Art and a master’s degree in Special Education, combining her passions for creative expression and cognitive development. Over the past 25 years she has dedicated her career to teaching and administration within the diocese of St. Petersburg. Ms. Newcomb’s expertise in special education enables her to adeptly address the diverse needs of her students, ensuring that each child receives personalized attention and support. Her fine art background enriches her teaching approach, allowing her to integrate creative techniques that inspire and motivate her students.
From developing the first special needs program at St. Petersburg Catholic High School to being responsible for academics as the Dean for Learning and Achievement at Clearwater Central Catholic, Ms. Newcomb understands the rigor of Catholic education and the importance of foundational skills in setting students up for success. For the past 7 years she has been focusing on middle school age students and working collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, and outside agencies to support divergent learners in academic success while exploring the latest in brain science and learning strategies.
Ms. Newcomb’s desire for every student to reach their potential is rooted in her Catholic faith, which she feels deeply grateful to share with her students and colleagues. She is an avid runner competing in 5K through ultra-marathon events across her running career. She is also a competent painter who has been recognized in local art exhibits. With energy, enthusiasm, and empathy, Ms. Newcomb’s goal is for her OLL students is to feel heard and respected for their individual differences and to know they are supported and loved.
Contact: jnewcomb@myoll.com
