Faculty and Staff Directory

Audrey Anastasia, M.A., L.P.C. is excited to be part of The Joy School team because of the way TJS embraces learning differences and self-discovery. She comes from Houston ISD, where she taught first and second grade, as well as Creative Movement for kindergarten through fifth grade. Audrey also maintains her licensure as a professional counselor. She loves watching light bulbs go off in students’ eyes when they discover their own creativity and potential. In her free time, you may find her watching movies, playing Ruzzle, dancing or just hanging out with friends and family.

Degrees held:
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from Richard Stockton College of NJ
Master of Science in Dance/Movement Therapy from Goucher College

Amanda is entering her fourth year with The Joy School. After graduating from the University of Houston with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, she taught Physical Education for two years at Presbyterian School of Houston. Amanda went on to complete her master’s degree in Early Childhood Education while teaching at River Oaks Baptist School. She later served as an Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach at the University of Houston and Student-Athlete Academic Mentor at the University of Notre Dame. Before returning to Houston, Amanda lived in Atlanta, GA for six years teaching Physical Education and Health at The Westminster Schools. She is passionate about connecting with students and assisting them in becoming successful leaders who are culturally competent and respectful of individual differences. In her free time, Amanda enjoys spending time with her spouse, Sancho, and her children, Rayne and Ryan. She also loves going to the beach, crafting, and eating good food.

Degrees Held:

Bachelor of Science in Sociology from The University of Houston

Master of Science in Early Childhood Education from University of Houston - Clear Lake

Master of Science in Sports Management from The United States Sports Academy

William “Bill” Becker grew up in Houston, Texas. He attended Texas A&M University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Distribution from the Dwight Look College of Engineering. His experience includes three years as a teacher of 8th-grade Math and three years teaching Special Education Math to students in grades 6 through 12 in the YES Prep Public Schools system.

Outside of work, Bill enjoys gardening, hiking, traveling, and spending time with his husband, his large extended family, and his dogs and cat.

Bill is excited to teach at The Joy School because he believes in providing access to pertinent education and opportunities for students with learning differences.

Degree Held:

Bachelor of Science in Industrial Distribution with a Minor in Psychology from Texas A&M University

Lara Leigh Bergoon joined The Joy School staff in 2003 and taught math in 4th-6th grades. She became Principal in 2006 and was named Assistant Head of School in 2017. She graduated from Texas A&M University in 1989 with a Bachelor of Science in Curriculum and Instruction and began her teaching career in public schools. She discovered The Joy School while completing course work at the Neuhaus Education Center in an effort to help her son, who has dyslexia. Lara Leigh hopes her experiences as an educator and a parent of a child with learning differences help her to be a knowledgeable and compassionate guide for students and parents in their educational decision making. Lara Leigh and her husband, Dirk, have two grown children and enjoy cooking, entertaining at home, and tailgating at Aggie football games.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Education from Texas A&M University

Joann Black joined The Joy School in February of 2014. Prior to coming to TJS, Joann spent 15 years as a veterinary technician in internal medicine, critical care and oncology. When she is not at the School, she loves spending time with her son, family and friends and reading.

Tami Bond joined The Joy School as an Executive Assistant in May of 2015. She worked for Katy ISD for 15 years. Before working in Katy ISD, she lived in California and Georgia and stayed busy at home raising her four children. She has three grown sons and a daughter. Some of her favorite things are traveling, kayaking, trying new restaurants, being outdoors and just hanging out with her family.

Shara Bumgarner co-founded The Joy School in 1997 and has been our Head of School since 2002. Shara’s inspiration for starting The Joy School stemmed from witnessing bright students with learning differences and disabilities slip through the cracks in public school because of a lack of understanding of such students. Shara is committed to providing the most optimal, joyful environment for students and teachers with an emphasis on embracing individual differences. Starting The Joy School changed her life as an educator, and she hopes to have that same impact on each student, parent and teacher at the School. Outside of school, Shara focuses on her family, which includes her supportive husband and three daughters.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Specializing in Early Childhood Education and Psychology from University of Houston

Tammy Christou has been teaching primary grades at The Joy School since 2004. Tammy, a native Houstonian, earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Sam Houston State University in 1993. Throughout her career, she has taught first through third graders in Spring Branch ISD and here at The Joy School. Tammy loves working with such a fantastic lower school team and considers everyone at Joy to be family. Tammy is married to Mr. Christou, one of the School’s middle school science teachers. They have beautiful twin girls. Tammy and Mo feel blessed to have their daughters, family and friends. In her spare time (now, what is that?), Tammy enjoys outdoor activities, eating out, cooking and just hanging out with her husband and daughters.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Education from Sam Houston State University

Luis Contreras started at The Joy School as an IT Support Analyst during the Spring 2016 semester. He graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology. As a fresh graduate, Luis intends to increase efficiency and productivity within the technology sector of The Joy School. During his spare time Luis likes to travel and educate himself on the newest technologies.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from University of Houston

Jackie Crow earned her Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Public Policy from Vanderbilt University. Jackie went on to earn her Master of Arts degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Houston. Before arriving at TJS, she worked at another private school in Houston where she worked with children with language and learning differences, and then worked in private practice where she worked with children from toddlers up to fifth graders. At TJS, Jackie loves working with students in Language and Cognitive Development groups and helping students achieve success. Jackie enjoys spending time with her kids, reading, cooking, and traveling.

Degrees Held

Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Public Policy from Vanderbilt University

Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from University of Houston

Judy Dean joined The Joy School staff in 2011. Before coming to The Joy School, Judy worked for Spring Branch ISD for 23 years. She enjoys reading and spending time with her grandchildren.

Christine Dinh graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Sciences. She earned her master’s degree in Educational Psychology from the University of Houston. Christine started working at The Joy School in 2008. She has worked with upper elementary and middle school students in one-on-one and small group settings as an Academic Support teacher, and as a language arts and a self-contained classroom teacher for the third through fifth grade. In 2015, she became The Joy School's first Instructional Technologist. In this role, she has assisted teachers and students in integrating technology into their classrooms and taught classes on how to use different applications and devices. A native Houstonian (and now resident of Katy), Christine enjoys spending time with her family, taking her two boys out to parks and museums, arranging game nights with extended family, reading, and working on various arts and crafts.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Sciences from The University of Texas at Austin
Master of Education from University of Houston

Jeannie Do loves being part of The Joy School family as the art and music teacher! She graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. She went on to earn her Master of Education at Stephen F. Austin State University. Before coming to The Joy School in 2012, Jeannie taught at a preschool in Houston for six years. She enjoys relaxing with her family and friends, making arts and crafts, finding a great deal on shoes and dreaming of one day filling her passport with stamps from around the world!

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Houston
Master of Early Childhood Education from Stephen F. Austin State University

Jennifer Donovan was born and raised in Houston and attended The University of Texas at Austin, where she received a Bachelor of Science in Education with a specialization in Social Studies. Jennifer began her teaching career in Alief ISD as a first-grade teacher. She had the opportunity to work with students from pre-k through fourth grade as a Language Arts Specialist for five years. Jennifer feels fortunate to have the opportunity to work at The Joy School, where she has been teaching since 2012. She enjoys traveling, good food, and spending time with her family and friends.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Education from The University of Texas at Austin

Andrea Dorr is a native Houstonian and comes from a family of teachers and public servants. She received her Bachelor of Social Work from Southwest Texas State University, now known as Texas State. After serving in the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services as a child abuse investigator, she sought teaching certificates in special education, math and science. Andrea spent five years at her alma mater, Taylor High School, teaching in the special education department and coaching girls soccer. She helped lead her team to the district’s first 5A state championship in 2006. After moving to Houston, she taught middle school for five years, where she implemented a program for struggling students and served as a testing coordinator. Andrea found The Joy School in 2014 through a childhood friend who is now her colleague. She is thrilled to work with The Joy School students and faculty every day.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences from Texas State University

Summer Erskine grew up in Texas City, Texas with her two sisters and her parents. Summer’s passion throughout high school was cheer leading and swimming. Among her many leadership roles, she was the senior class president. She graduated in the top 10% of her class, overcoming her learning difficulties. She attended Texas A&M University and graduated with honors with a Bachelor of Science Education. Summer began teaching in a title-one school in Hearne, Texas. She went on to continue her education at Texas Tech University, earning her Master in Special Education. Since moving to Houston, she has had the opportunity to work with students from pre-k through fifth grade. While she was the Special Education Support Teacher, she was voted as the campus' Teacher of the Year. After nine years of teaching, her passion for students with learning differences has led to her journey at The Joy School in 2017. Summer has a passion for helping students find their love for learning, creating a fun and safe environment, guiding students to work through their struggles to reach their full potential and become life-long learners. Summer feels very fortunate to work at The Joy School and truly sees the JOY at this school. In her free time, she enjoys being with people she cares about, including family and friends. Three of those people are her nephews that she couldn't adore more. She also enjoys kickboxing and watching Aggie football.

Degrees held:

Bachelor of Science in Education from Texas A&M University

Masters of Education in Special Education from Texas Tech University

Mary Feak is our new school nurse. A native Houstonian, Mary grew up in the Galleria area. One of her closest childhood friends attended The Joy School! Mary attended St.Michael School and St.Agnes Academy prior to pursuing her Bachelor’s degree at Boston College. She graduated magna cum laude from BC in 2012 with a Bachelor’s in Nursing and a minor in Hispanic Studies.

Mary now comes to us from Texas Children’s Hospital, where she has spent six years as a staff nurse on a pediatric acute care floor. Following her first year at the hospital, Mary was awarded Rookie Nurse of the Year. During the subsequent years Mary served as a leader on her unit as both a preceptor and Charge Nurse. She also led the hospital-wide Quality Practice Council as part of the nursing shared governance structure.

Mary is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Nursing, on the Primary Care Pediatric Nurse Practitioner track at the University of Texas at Arlington. She lives near her childhood home with her husband, Dan, and their rescue Boxer, Sadie. She is very excited to be a part of The Joy School team!

BSN, RN, CPN

Tiffany Garcia has been a proud member of The Joy School Family since 2013! Working with kids in a Montessori setting as a teenager, Tiffany knew she wanted to be a teacher from the start. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Houston – Downtown. Tiffany’s first four years of teaching were spent in a public school setting, where she worked with struggling students with a wide range of learning differences. She is very passionate about learning and building relationships with her students. During her free time, she enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, reading, staying active and getting crafty. Tiffany and her husband Hugo are excited to welcome their son Liam into the world.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from University of Houston – Downtown

Sue Gebhardt joined The Joy School in 2006. Sue primarily works one-on-one with lower school students to provide reading remediation. Sue’s calling to work with children began at age 23 when she and her husband Greg became youth leaders for junior and senior high school kids. This ministry lasted 25 years and led to many more. Because of her passion and love for children, she has spent over 30 years working with kids. Sue home-schooled her two daughters from kindergarten through 12^th grade. She has four grandchildren, who are the light of her life. Sue’s passion for kids has grown even more through the privilege of teaching at TJS.

Rachel Gerke joined the TJS team in the fall of 2014. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Louisiana State University and Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from University of Houston. She loves being a Speech-Language Pathologist at The Joy School and cannot think of a more rewarding career. Rachel believes TJS is an extraordinary place for students to build confidence and social skills. In her free time Rachel enjoys spending time with her husband, Brad, and new little one, Greyson.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Louisiana State University
Master of Arts in Communications from University of Houston

Abbie, a Kansas City, Missouri native, has called Houston home for the past decade.

With a passion for empowering youth, she has dedicated most of her career to Amigos de las Americas, a nonprofit focused on international leadership development. There, Abbie’s journey began as a Program Manager in Ecuador and the Dominican Republic before shifting gears to lead the organization’s accounting and finance efforts as Controller.

Armed with an MBA from Rice University (Class of 2023), Abbie is as dynamic outside the office as she is in it. Whether she's spiking a volleyball on the beach, exploring trails with her dog Sammie, or whipping up something delicious in the kitchen, Abbie brings enthusiasm to everything she does.

Laura Gray attended the University of Houston Downtown where she earned a degree in Early Childhood Education. Before joining The Joy School, she taught students in Alief and has worked with children from 1st to 8th grade. Laura is passionate about helping students find success at school and within themselves. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Sara Grimm is a native Houstonian that has a love of learning and passion for education. Sara graduated from Texas A&M University in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and shortly after completed her certification to teach English as a Foreign Language, Early Childhood through 6^th grade, and Special Education K-12. After graduating, Sara took an opportunity to teach in an English school overseas. Returning to Houston, she taught special education in Houston ISD, working with students in grades Kindergarten through 5^th. With a growing passion to support students with unique, diverse needs and learning differences, her journey led her to join the team at the Joy School. Sara is grateful for the way The Joy School has contributed to her own growth as an educator and individual and believes in the way it can do the same for its students and families. Outside of school, Sara enjoys spending time with family and friends, spending time in nature, cooking, camping, and traveling

Maria Guevara joined The Joy School in June of 2021. Prior to coming to TJS, Maria’s background is in the Oil & Gas Industry with 25 years of experience in Human Resources with Benefits, Payroll and Compensation background. When she is not at the school, she loves to be with her three children, spending time with family, friends, BBQ, enjoys outdoor activities, cooking, great food, traveling, running, and exercising.

Justin Hancock has been teaching, mentoring and developing education programs for ten years. He has a passion for helping individuals achieve their dreams. Justin believes his mission goes beyond helping students achieve academic success and extends to promoting well-being, creative problem solving, and awareness of the self and others. He is proud to teach at The Joy School, because he believes students with learning differences deserve specific, tailored instruction that meets them where they are.

Degree Held

Bachelor of Science in Economics with a minor in Business from Texas A&M University

Amber Harris is a highly-qualified international teacher from Montgomery, Alabama, with ten years of experience. She has educated hundreds of students in Kuwait, the Dominican Republic, and Bahrain. She loves captivating her students with creative, hands-on, outside-of-the-box classroom experiences.

Miss Harris completed her undergraduate degree 2011 in Childhood Education (PK-6) from Auburn University (Montgomery). War Eagle! 2018 she obtained her Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Walden University. Miss Harris is new to Texas and looks forward to getting to know her new surroundings, making new friends, and making a home here in Houston and at The Joy School.

Meredith Hibbetts went to The University of Texas at Austin, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology from the School of Communications. Meredith went on to earn her Master of Arts degree in Speech Pathology from the University of Houston in 2004. Meredith enjoyed teaching language arts at The Joy School for two years. However, she loves getting to work with a greater number of students in her speech and language development groups. She is very excited about helping students become successful communicators and more strategic learners. She enjoys spending time with her friends and family, reading and traveling.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Science in Speech & Language from The University of Texas at Austin
Master of Education in Speech & Language from University of Houston

Lauren Holcomb is entering her seventh school year of teaching and could not be more excited to be doing so at The Joy School! Lauren was born and raised in Austin, TX, where she lived until moving to Huntsville to attend Sam Houston State University. There she earned her degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in child development and participated in university theater productions and productions at the local community theater. Lauren still has a passion for theater and cannot wait to share that with her students. In her spare time, Lauren enjoys hiking and biking, trying new foods, and hanging out with her two adorable daughters, Guin and Maisie.

Lauren has dedicated her teaching career to equipping students with learning differences with the tools they need to feel confident and self-reliant both in the classroom and social situations. Her work bridging gaps for her students earned her state recognition on her teaching certificate in 2019. Lauren is overJOYed to join The Joy School family and cannot wait to get to know her wonderful students and their families.

Deirdre brings twenty years of experience in the creative field to The Joy School as a Photographer, Videographer and Graphic Designer. As the Visual Content Creator, she is thrilled to capture the everyday joy between students and their teachers for the school's Communications Team. Deirdre is inspired by award winning photojournalism, street photography and life changing documentaries. Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Deirdre married a homesick Texan with whom she has raised two wonderful children with. When not at work, Deirdre enjoys reading, exploring new places and spending time with her family.

Degree Held

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography and Video from The Kansas City Art Institute

Michele Kemper joined The Joy School in 2004, and there is no place she would rather teach. She cares greatly for kids and considers it a privilege to work in an environment where students have the opportunity to recognize their strengths, work through their struggles and reach their potential. She left home in Houston to make her passion for working with kids a career at Simpson University in Redding, California. Michele graduated with a liberal studies major and a minor in education and went on to earn California and Texas teaching credentials. When she returned to Texas, she learned of and fell in love with The Joy School. Michele appreciates the opportunity to work with children with dyslexia, and she pursues continuing education on dyslexia whenever she can. She is happily married to her husband and best friend, Josh, with whom she has two boys, Josiah and Micah. She loves spending time with family, playing with her boys and going on dates with her husband.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from Simpson University

Brianne Kethan comes from a large military family and has lived in Texas, Virginia, Oklahoma, Colorado and Nebraska. She graduated from Hastings College in Nebraska with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and K-12 Special Education. Before joining The Joy School, Brianne was a Special Education teacher in Blair, Nebraska for three years. Brianne loves getting to work with students who have unique learning styles. In her free time she enjoys traveling, walking her dog and spoiling her nieces and nephews.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Hastings College

Brady King joined The Joy School in 2002. Brady grew up in Houston and attended the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts. He went on to attend the University of Houston and the University of Texas at Austin, where he majored in theatrical design and production. Brady later received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Houston with a Texas Teacher Certification in secondary English and Theater Arts. After teaching middle school language arts and reading, he attended University of Houston Law Center, receiving his Juris Doctorate. Brady practiced litigation and disability law for several years, but then felt a yearning to return to the classroom. He returned to teaching, taking a position as a middle school language arts teacher in Alief ISD at their disciplinary alternative school. It was in this setting that he focused on teaching the writing process to an at-risk student population. He later taught high school English in the district's accelerated credits program known as S.O.A.R. Brady strives to teach students critical thinking and technology skills in language arts that are relevant to the modern world. He has successfully trained many students with learning differences to use assistive software programs as accommodations for those differences. Brady and Amy live in the Oak Forest area, serving as personal assistants to their black dog Frida. Brady enjoys reading, European travel, the Kerrville Folk Festival, playing guitar, wine collecting and cooking.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Arts in English from University of Houston
Juris Doctor in Law from University of Houston Law Center

Yale Kirkland was a former tutor student of Shara’s back in the day. He graduated from Blinn College in Bryan, Texas with an Associate of Arts in liberal arts in 2018. He served alongside fellow Joy School employees with the Houston Rodeo gatekeepers committee for three years. He was also part of the Rodeo’s judging committee for two years. He has played tennis with his coach since he was nine years old, and also worked for his coach for almost five years. He is happy to be a part of the Joy School team.

Laurie Kosley has enjoyed working at The Joy School since 2013. After graduating from The University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor’s degree in special education, she taught for two years. Laurie went on to complete her master’s degree in social work. She taught fifth grade for two years, then worked at Texas Children’s Hospital providing group therapy and school services to students. She has three children and has been married to her loving husband for more than two decades. Laurie has had many wonderful experiences working in the field of education, and she enjoys the privilege of teaching Joy School children.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Science in Education from The University of Texas at Austin
Master of Social Science in Social Work from University of Houston

Katie Kushner graduated from Millsaps College with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Wanting to know more about child development, she went on to earn a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology from Louisiana State University. Katie taught 7th grade English Language Arts for three years at Yes Prep Southwest before joining the Middle School Language Arts team at TJS in 2019. In her opinion, the best part of teaching is watching the kids’ curiosity and confidence come alive through small, everyday moments of success. In her free time, Katie enjoys spending time outdoors, hanging out with friends and family, and eating her way through the Houston food scene. Her family includes her husband, Hunt, their son, Christopher, and cat, Joon.

Degrees Held

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Millsaps College

Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from Louisiana State University

Kate Lilly came to The Joy School in 2006. She is a native Houstonian, the youngest of three sisters (actually, the WAY youngest – her sisters are 10 and 15 years older), and the proud aunt of three nieces and two nephews. Kate holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Communication Disorders from Baylor University, as well as a master’s degree in early childhood curriculum and Instruction from the University of Houston. After graduating from Baylor, Kate started her career as the Speech Pathologist at Jacinto City Elementary. She began teaching their PPCD unit in her second year and continued for 14 years. When one of her best friends, Stacy Anderson, told her that she would still come to work at TJS every day even if she won the lottery, Kate moved to The Joy School. It was definitely one of the best decisions she’s made in her life. She loves The Joy School and its people with a capital “L”. In her spare time, Kate loves to travel, dote on her pup, Ezra, eat out at local restaurants, cook, educate and encourage people with diabetes, and spend time with family and friends.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Science in Education from Baylor University
Master of Education from University of Houston

Sancho Lyttle enters her second year of teaching Physical Education at The Joy School. After graduating from the University of Houston with a bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology, she went on to play professional basketball in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) for 15 years. Combining the WNBA and European play, she won six domestic leagues and four Euroleague titles with four teams in three countries. She had the honor of representing the country of Spain in Olympic play after being granted Spanish nationality. With the Spanish basketball team she won four medals. In 2020, she had the honor of being inducted into the University of Houston Hall of Fame. Sancho stives to connect with students, while also helping them cultivate a love for sports. She enjoys teaching alongside her spouse, Amanda, and spending time with their children, Rayne and Ryan. She also loves being outdoors, watching movies, and sharpening her brain by completing brain games.

Degrees Held:

Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from The University of Houston

Kathy Matlage joined The Joy School in 2003 after teaching in Alief ISD, Houston ISD, and a private Montessori school. Kathy is a native Houstonian and graduated from Spring Branch High School. She received both her B.S. and Master's in Mathematics Education from the University of Houston. She enjoys macro photography, being out in nature, spending time with her husband, their 2 dogs, 3 cats, and 8 chickens. Currently she is learning a new sport – pickleball. Her favorite part of teaching at The Joy School is working one-on-one with the students and helping them discover the joy of math.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from University of Houston
Master of Education in Math Education from University of Houston

Sara Matthews grew up in Springfield, Virginia. She attended Baylor University in Waco, Texas and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. Sara moved to Houston in 1997 and began teaching first grade in Alief ISD. She completed her master’s in special education and certification as an Educational Diagnostician at the University of Houston in 2012. She taught in the same school for seven years before making the jump to The Joy School in 2004. Sara loves working with children and helping them to succeed in their individual way. Sara spends her free time volunteering at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, traveling, spending time with friends and spoiling her nephew and nieces.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Science in Education from Baylor University
Master of Education in Special Education from University of Houston

Farah Mithani received her M.A. in Special Education: Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities, LD, and ID from George Washington University; and her double major, B.A. in English, and B.S. in Biology (and pre-med), from Houston Baptist University. Farah has taught in Maryland, Washington D.C., and Atlanta, and loves working here in Houston at The Joy School. In her teaching she uses art to develop an “out-of-the-box” thinking mindset for STEM subjects.

Farah developed her passion for art in elementary school and further developed her skills in high school and university. She is an experimental artist that infuses her passion of science with her passion for art.

Melissa Mosbrucker grew up in Eagan, Minnesota, and earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Winona State University, which was the first teacher training school west of the Mississippi River!

Melissa is entering her 15^th year of teaching, her 7^th year of teaching at The Joy School, and her 2^nd year on the TJS Middle School team. Her time at TJS has included being a long-term sub, a 1^st grade teacher, an academic math support specialist for 4^th and 5^th grades, and a Language and Cognitive Development teacher in tandem with our SLPs.

Melissa’s favorite place is Minnesota, and in her free time loves going for walks, fishing, being in or on the water, spending time with family and friends, and eating ice cream.

Degree: Bachelor of Science in Education from Winona State University

Lori Motal taught third grade in public school for five years, during which she worked with many students with a wide range of learning differences. She is thrilled to be at TJS helping students be successful learners in a smaller setting. Outside school, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Scott, their children, Aubrey and Colson, and their dog, Gabby. Serving others is Lori’s passion. She serves on the board of Sole Loved, a nonprofit that provides shoes for disadvantages students and families around the Houston area. While teaching was her goal in high school, she chose to go the corporate route and earned a business degree at Belmont University in Nashville in 2001. Lori worked for many years in retail management and insurance sales before her husband encouraged her to pursue becoming a teacher. She earned her teaching certification through ACT Houston in 2008. She loves watching her students grow and learn each day! Lori is also passionate about gardening and loves getting her students engaged in nature and gardening.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Belmont University

Kate comes to us from New Orleans with a background in special education and building positive school culture. She was most recently the Site Director at a therapeutic day program for students who need more intensive clinical and social support. Kate has a Master's in Public School Building Leadership from Teacher's College at Columbia University. She is passionate about working together to create an encouraging school environment that amplifies student strengths, interests, and goals. In her spare time, she enjoys biking and getting to know Houston's amazing food scene with her family and friends.

Alexandra (Ally) Myers is excited to return to The Joy School for her second year as a teachers’ assistant! She attended TJS as a student for two years in middle school where she learned the strategies that helped her continue a successful academic life. Ally continued her education journey at the University of Mary-Hardin Baylor where she graduated with a double major in psychology and art. After graduation, she worked as a Lead Teacher in an Early Childhood Education program for two years before finding her way back to The Joy School. Ally could not be happier to have returned to her alma mater to work!

Degrees held

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Bachelor of Arts in Art

Lynn Negrin is a member of The Joy School’s lower school team. She joined The Joy School in 2000 and feels fortunate to work in such a wonderful learning environment. Lynn grew up in Houston and attended The High School for Performing and Visual Arts. She graduated from Texas State University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. She began her school career as an interpreter for the deaf. This experience convinced her to apply for HISD's Alternative Education Program in Special Education. After completing her training, she worked in HISD as a Special Education Resource Room teacher for 10 years. Lynn learned about The Joy School from a former HISD parent whose child was attending TJS. The Joy School was looking for teachers and the parent encouraged Lynn to apply. She will always be grateful to this parent. Lynn has been married for three decades to her husband, Rob, with whom she has one son, Zac. She shares her home with two cats, Mahalo and Samson. Lynn enjoys traveling, exercising, reading and spending time with her family and friends.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art from Southwest Texas State

Alli Newton has been with The Joy School since 2016. She earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Houston. Before coming to TJS, she worked in a public elementary school with students from preschool-age to fifth grade. She loves being a part of The Joy School team in enriching the lives of students. In her spare time Alli enjoys gardening, crafting, and spending time with her husband, Tony, and little ones, Andi and Isaac..

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders from University of Houston
Master of Arts in Communication Disorders from University of Houston

Reneé Nichols is a native Houstonian and received her undergraduate degree from The University of Houston. After working in the corporate environment for 11 years, she had the opportunity to reevaluate her career and decided to work toward her childhood dream of becoming a teacher. Reneé has her certification in both Early Childhood and Special Education and enjoys opportunities to expand her knowledge in both areas. She began working at The Joy School in 2005 and has taught both language arts and math. She became a part of the Academic Support Math team in 2015.

Renee feels fortunate to be able to work with such amazing children and believes that given the right tools and guidance, every child can find JOY in learning! Renee’s hobbies include reading, going to the movies, and spending time with friends and her family which includes: her husband, Jason, two children, Sarah Mae and Jack, their dog Stevie, and Ginger the Wonder Kitty.

Degrees Held

Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences from University of Houston – Downtown

Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Sam Houston State University

Christine Pratt attended Texas A&M University, where she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing. After graduation, Christine joined the corporate world as a marketing assistant. Before and throughout college, Christine mentored, tutored and worked with children. Although she enjoyed marketing, she soon realized she wanted to pursue a career in education. She obtained her teaching certificate and taught Lower school at TJS for six years. In 2014, she became The Joy School’s first Director of Programs. Christine began working closely with the admissions team as she saw that there was a significant amount of overlap between the regular school year admissions process and the summer school admissions process that she was running. She has been part of the admissions team at TJS for the past six years, and soon became The Joy School’s first Assistant Director of Admissions. Currently Christine is the Director of Admissions at The Joy School. Christine enjoys watching students grow, discover and succeed. She likes spending time with family and friends, playing with her dogs, Tinkerbell and Coco, traveling, cooking and crossfitting.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration & Marketing from Texas A&M University

Heather Louzon grew up on Grosse Ile, Michigan, an island in the Detroit River. She received her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Grand Valley State University on the west side of the state. Immediately, she moved to Houston to be alongside her two sisters, who also are also educators. Heather has taught for three years as an Upper Elementary (grades 4-6) Montessori teacher within HISD. Heather is very passionate about social and emotional learning, as well as working to serve the whole child. When she is not in the classroom you can find her enjoying all the food Houston has to offer with the people she loves. She is thrilled to be joining the Joy School team!

Education:

Grand Valley State University

Bachelor’s in Mathematics with an Emphasis in Education

Laura Rodriguez, M. Ed., is the Transition Coordinator and has been with The Joy School since 2000. She moved to Houston in 1998 from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She graduated from The University of Iowa in 1998 with a Bachelor of Arts in Education and the University of St. Thomas in 2005 with a master’s degree in Education, specializing in exceptionalities.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Arts in Education from University of Iowa
Master of Education from University of St. Thomas

Deborah Santantonio joined The Joy School in 2005 and serves as Director of Development. She graduated from the University of Houston specializing in business and finance in 1987. As a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) since 1998, Deborah attends various AFP educational seminars, and has spoken as a panelist at one of these events. She has also taken courses for fundraising professionals taught at Rice University. Deborah received her IAP-L certification (International Certification in Advancement) from Independent School Management. She is the Communication Chair for the Houston Area Independent School Advancement organization, and served as a panelist at their conference. Her son spent three years in math tutoring at The Joy School. TJS has a special place in her family’s heart for all the wonderful work teachers and staff did with her son. When the opportunity came to join The Joy School family, she felt honored to be part of such a special school. Deborah enjoys cycling, hiking, reading, cooking and being with her family.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Business Management from University of Houston

Hillary Shelton is excited to once again be apart of The Joy School team because of the way the school embraces students and teachers’ whole self. Hillary taught middle school Language Arts at The Joy School from August 2013 to May 2019. Then, she took some time away from the classroom full-time to grow her family and tutor part-time. Hillary is thrilled to be back at TJS and job-share 5th grade Language Arts with Mrs. Donovan. Teaching kiddos with learning differences fills Hillary's professional “bucket" and keeps her abreast to the best teaching practices for students who need a bit more support in the classroom. Outside of school, she spends her time with her husband, three children, and two dogs. Family is everything to Hillary!

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Journalism from Abilene Christian University

Dee Anne Simonton is a native Houstonian. She attended the University of Houston, completing her degree in Interior Design and Architecture in 2005. Dee Anne has enjoyed working at The Joy School since 1998, and now serves as Database Administrator. Dee Anne lives with her husband, Doug, and their two sons, Trevor and Brandon and enjoys cooking, reading, ceramics, knitting and playing the piano.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design from University of Houston

Sandy Sorensen graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. She taught first grade in Spring Branch ISD for six years, and then spent the next seven years in the same district teaching kindergarten through fifth grade. From 2001-2008 she taught kindergarten through fifth grade, and from 2006-2008 she specialized in small group intervention in math for kindergarten through fifth grade students. It was a victory for Sandy to teach children who were struggling academically, because she helped them discover strategies to enable them to learn more efficiently and to increase their self-confidence. In the fall of 2008, there was an opportunity for Sandy to join the staff at The Joy School teaching middle school language arts. It has been an incredible experience for Sandy, and she looks forward to many more years of helping children who attend The Joy School.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Education from University of Houston

Laura joined The Joy School family as a Language Arts teacher in 2002. Her favorite part of being in the classroom was the privilege and challenge of getting to know and figure out the individual strengths and needs of her students. She discovered “figuring kids out” was the heart and soul of The Joy School Admission process, which at that time was being run by Shara, TJS Founder and Head of School. Together, Laura and Shara built an Admission Office dedicated to offering hope to families watching their children drown in traditional school settings while trying to navigate the confusing world of testing, diagnoses, and special schools. Laura served in the Admissions Office as Admissions Director and then Educational Consultant for more than a decade. She is currently serving as Joy’s Staff Writer allowing her the unique opportunity to combine her passions for writing, education, learning disabilities, and The Joy School to continue offering hope and help to the Houston Learning Disability Community.

Degrees Held

BS in Education from University of Houston with specializations in English and Reading.

Currently pursuing a master's degree in counseling from Westminster Theological Seminary.

Mark Stites serves as Director of Technology and started with The Joy School in the summer of 2005. He graduated from the University of Houston with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. He has eight years of corporate work experience, including four years as a technical trainer for the top five banks in the country and four years as a systems engineer managing his company’s computer network. Mark spends his free time with his wife and their four children.

Degree Held
Bachelor of Science in Psychology from University of Houston

Julia Troche is a native Texan, born and raised in Houston, Texas. She has always enjoyed working with children, as she began her career teaching at an Early Childhood Center while attending The University of Houston. Julia graduated in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Teaching and Learning and is certified to teach Early Childhood Education through the sixth grade. Her passion for education led her to continue in her career in Alief ISD for the next six years, where she taught first grade and was proudly named teacher of the year. While teaching in Alief, Julia was the general education inclusion teacher, which allowed her to work with students of varying learning differences and abilities. This experience has allowed her to differentiate instruction to better meet the needs of all her students while keeping them engaged in learning. She couldn’t be happier to be a part of The JOY School and is excited to build relationships with her students.

When Julia isn’t teaching, she enjoys spending time with her husband and his two kids, Cruz and Tre. They love to play outside, ride bikes, and read new stories. Julia also enjoys reading, hiking, and traveling in her free time.

Rachel Williams became The Joy School's first Dean of Faculty in 2013 after working at the School as a classroom teacher. She grew up in Spring Branch and graduated from the University of Houston with a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, specializing in English and Reading. Rachel began her career in Alief ISD as a first grade teacher. During her time in Alief, she was fortunate enough to be trained as a Reading Recovery teacher responsible for intensive, individualized intervention with struggling readers. In December of 2011, she completed her Master of Science in Educational Leadership. She feels incredibly blessed to work with the teachers, parents and students at The Joy School. Rachel believes that building trusting relationships is the key to teaching and learning. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, Rick, and their two children, Rylie and Rafe, as well as reading, shopping and getting together with friends.

Degrees Held
Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from University of Houston
Master of Science in Educational Management from University of Houston – Clear Lake

2023 will be Nicole's first year at The Joy School, and she is blessed to be part of this fantastic and unique community. Nicole comes from public schools in Fort Bend ISD and Lamar Consolidated ISD, with 17 years of teaching experience in first, second, and third grade. She has spent each year working with struggling students with various learning differences.

Nicole was born in Singapore and lived in Japan, Saudi Arabia, the United States, and the United Arab Emirates, and also in the states of California, Texas, Michigan, Louisiana, and Florida. Places she has traveled to include France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Austria, Korea, Philippines, Amsterdam, Mexico, New York, the Bahamas, Hong Kong, Jamaica, England, Arizona, and Nevada. Living and learning about such unique cultures and differences deeply benefit her in her interaction with the diverse students in our schools today.

Nicole spends time with her husband, three children, and two dogs outside of school. She loves to travel, cook, read, and play the piano.

She believes children are unique and special in their ways and that we need to accommodate their differences and learning styles. The elementary years of a child are the most critical years of their life. These years shape and develop a young child's personality and mind. Nicole loves to teach because she loves to learn. Each day at school is a new day of learning and new experiences. Her goal is to develop lifelong learners and help every one of her students feel loved and successful.

Nicole is overwhelmed with JOY to be teaching at The Joy School this year!

Degrees held:

Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Houston-Victoria

Tracei Riedel Wilson joined The Joy School staff in 2018 as the Director of First Impressions. She has 20 years in Healthcare administration working for M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Greater Houston AHEC and Silverado Hospice. Tracei and her husband, Tony, have two kids, Hallie and Carson, and enjoy baseball, beaches and good food with family and friends.

Degrees Held:
Bachelors of Science in Speech Communications and Business Administration from College of the Ozarks
Masters of Science in Healthcare Administration from Texas Woman’s University

Rob has been an educator for the past 20 years in public, magnet, and independent schools. He began teaching Theatre Design at the High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Houston before becoming the Chair of the Theatre Department. Following his time at HSPVA, Rob moved to Friendswood High School where he taught Project Lead the Way Engineering and Chaired the Career and Technology Education Department. While at Friendswood, he became an Assistant Principal, serving a large group of students in their journey toward graduation. He entered the admissions world as the Director of Admissions at Annunciation Orthodox School. Currently Rob is the Director of Enrollment Management at The Joy School.

Rob is the proud father of Robert, Maryn, and Ava and grateful husband to Meredith.

Positions Held:
President

Houston Area Independent Schools Admission Directors

Admissions Leadership Council Co-Chair

The Enrollment Management Association

Master of Education - University of St. Thomas

• Bachelor of the Arts in Interior Design from The Art Institute of Houston

• Bachelor of Science in Consumer Science and Merchandising, Human Development from The University of Houston