Our Team

Experienced educators

STM is owned and operated by the very teachers that work with our students everyday. We bring years of teaching and administrative experience to our school community, including master’s degrees and endorsements in areas such as reading, gifted education, school counseling and education administration.

We value collaboration, love spontaneity and are passionate about elevating your child’s education through hands-on engagement and an enthusiasm for learning. In our classrooms, children are researchers and teachers are their guides, with the ultimate goal of empowering our older students to become independent investigators. Our lessons are professionally planned to stretch the imagination, encouraging children to think creatively, solve problems and discover what they love.

  • Certified teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Angela Kral, Owner & Director

    I come from a family of educators—my dad was actually the principal of Plant High School for several years—and I like to say that education is in my blood. I was an educator in Hillsborough County for almost 20 years and have held elementary teaching positions in most grade levels, served as a math coach, and was assistant principal for five years. I have my master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and I am also a certified gifted teacher.

    Teaching is truly my passion. I love connecting with my students, and planning and executing creative lessons. That’s really my main hobby, but in my spare time, I also enjoy riding my Peloton, reading and I look forward to traveling again in the future.

  • Rey Enriquez, Administrator at South Tampa Microschool

    Rey Enriquez, Administrator

    My life has been dedicated to education: from gaining my undergraduate degree at the University of South Florida and Masters of Education in Leadership at the University of Tampa to 18 years as a classroom teacher and Science Coach to spending the past 3 years as an Assistant Principal.

    Inquiry-based learning has been a passion of mine throughout my 20+ years as an educator. As a parent of an STM student, I have seen firsthand the positive impact of an entire school following this model. I look forward to working alongside an amazing faculty, dynamic students and their families.

    In my spare time you will definitely find me outside hunting, fishing, exploring and traveling with my wife and 2 kids and our Bernedoodle, Comet.

  • School counselor at South Tampa Microschool

    Bailey Wojcik, School Counselor

    I graduated from the University of South Florida with a dual degree in Psychology and Mass Communications. I also hold my Master of Science degree in School Counseling.

    I strive to be a supportive, reliable adult in the educational system that students can count on no matter what they need. My goal is to build a strong relationship with each and every student, and I’m passionate about social and emotional learning, specifically in the areas of empathy, coping skills, and self-esteem building. I’m excited to continue building out our school counseling program and providing students with the tools they need to be successful in and out of. the classroom.

    When I’m not at STM, you can typically find me planning my next concert, cuddled up with a good novel (and my cat - he is never more than 10 feet away from me!) or thrift shopping. I will try my hand at anything crafty, especially if it gives me an excuse to use my Cricut!

  • gifted and resource teacher at south tampa microschool

    Diana Jones, Gifted & Resource Teacher

    Transformation has been a reoccurring theme I’ve embraced in my life for as long as I can remember, so needless to say I’m thrilled to continue to be a part of the STM community as I enter my 20th year of teaching.

    I grew up in the small town of Wilmington, Delaware, until attending college at the University of Tampa. While there, I earned a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction.

    The first 18 years of my career in Hillsborough County Public Schools provided invaluable lessons in professional and personal growth, however my teaching philosophy mirrors that of STM and I look forward to the opportunity where I can practice the holistic teaching approach I’ve always believed in.

    My husband and I have three children along with our four-year-old Havenese, Papa. In our free time, we love spending time outside and traveling any chance we get. My personal hobbies include gardening, cooking, audiobooks, home improvement projects and thrifting.

  • Danielle Enriquez, Middle School ELA Teacher

    coming soon!

  • Ethan Barbee, Middle School Math Teacher at Peninsular Prep

    Ethan Barbee, Middle School Math Teacher

    I graduated from Southeastern University in 2017 and have been teaching several different subjects in high school for the past 8 years. My favorite thing to teach is math and I love the moments when the process clicks for students! 

    My other teaching passion outside of math is sports. I’ve coached everything from football to basketball, volleyball to soccer, and even a little bit of track and field. It’s my personal belief that everyone likes sports they just might not know it yet! 

    When I’m not at school, I love going to the park with my two little ones, watching sports, and trying new restaurants with my wife! I’m excited to join this new community and foster student learning!

  • Ashton Connell, Middle School Social Studies & Elementary Art Teacher at Peninsular Prep

    Ashton Connell, Middle School Social Studies & Elementary Art Teacher

    "Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." I couldn't agree more with Yeats and am so excited to cultivate this ideal with STM students!

    I graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Anthropology and a Minor in French. I spent over ten years in the nonprofit sector, working both domestically and internationally. After a few years as a stay-at-home mom, I'm excited to pivot towards the classroom and combine my love of history, travel and art with my students. I'm a firm believer in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, and I'm always looking for ways to make learning fun and relevant. 

    When I'm not in the classroom, you can find me reading a book from my huge TBR stack, spending time with my family, or creating something fun in the kitchen. 

  • Amanda Fleischbein, Middle School Social Studies & Art Teacher at Peninsular Prep

    Amanda Fleischbein, Middle School Studies & Art Teacher

    With a passion for fostering creativity and critical thinking, Amanda brings over nine years of experience in middle school education. Holding a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art Education from the University of South Carolina and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of South Florida, Amanda is committed to empowering students through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.

    Having taught a range of subjects—including media arts, history, and art—Amanda believes that education should be dynamic and student-driven. With a focus on creating a well-rounded learning environment, she strives to develop students' creative potential while helping them make meaningful connections across disciplines.

    In addition to her classroom experience, Amanda has served as Assistant Head of School for two years, where she worked closely with staff and administration to enhance the educational experience for all students. Her work has been recognized by the Education Law Association, where she was published and presented at the Annual Conference in 2017.

    Amanda is dedicated to providing every student with the tools to succeed, inspiring them not only academically but also personally, through exploration, collaboration, and innovation.

  • Middle School Science Teacher

    Coming soon!

  • Carlie Smith, Middle School Science & Electives Teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Carlie Smith, Middle School Science & Electives Teacher

    As a young child, I found myself captivated by the wonders of nature. That early love for the outdoors sparked a lifelong passion, eventually leading me to earn a degree in Biology from the University of South Florida. While there, I worked on graduate-level field research studying mangrove ecosystems along Tampa Bay’s coastline.

    After graduation, my career took me into the world of environmental consulting, where I spent over 16 years working on seagrass restoration, coastal habitat protection, and wetland conservation throughout Florida. Whether restoring delicate ecosystems or helping protect gopher tortoises and wetlands in new construction projects, my work was always rooted in a deep respect for the environment.

    Throughout my career, I’ve remained committed to learning—completing continuing education courses, earning multiple environmental certifications from the University of Florida, and sharing my experience with young learners through short educational programs at science fairs.

    After becoming a mother to two curious girls, I began volunteering at their schools and creating after-school programs. I quickly fell in love with teaching and the joy of inspiring young minds. That passion led me to make a leap of faith and transition into a teaching role at South Tampa Microschool.

    My greatest hope is to spark a lifelong love of learning through curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking—empowering students to question ideas, seek knowledge, and explore new perspectives. I strive to help students understand the interconnectedness of all living things, whether in the classroom, in nature, or through different cultures and global perspectives.

    I believe learning is a continuous journey. By fostering a sense of environmental responsibility, my goal is to guide and empower students to not only pursue knowledge but to become thoughtful, caring stewards of the world around them.

  • elementary school teacher at south tampa microschool

    Telia King, 4th Grade Teacher

    "The important thing is never to stop questioning." - Albert Einstein

    I have over 20 year of teaching experience. My passion is math and science. As a child, I struggled with both subjects, only to discover it was because I was only being taught the subjects in a very traditional way and setting. I strive to provide alternative methods and hands-on experiences to build knowledge in the classroom every day. I have my Masters in Educational Leadership from the University of South Florida. Go Bulls!

    When I'm not teaching, I enjoy taking cycling and yoga classes. My spouse and I are theme park enthusiasts, and enjoy the local theme parks along with the international ones! I also love traveling and spending time with my family and friends. I have a very special bearded dragon, Squiggy, who is also a part of our classroom community. He is two years old and loves to listen and watch children learn daily!

  • Elementary teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Olivia Braunworth, 3rd & 4th Grade Teacher

    “When I grow up, I want to be a teacher.” This was always my dream since I was a little girl mostly because I had some extraordinary teachers, especially in elementary school, that really ignited this passion in me. I still think about those special teachers and the impact they had on me. I have always hoped I would be THAT teacher for my students, a teacher they fondly remember, long after elementary school. Forming connections with my students, helping them discover and build on their strengths, and creating life-long learners are some of the reasons why I love being a teacher.

    My passion became a reality when I graduated from the University of Tampa with my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education as well as my ESOL and reading endorsement. I then went back to UT to get my Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction. I was a teacher in Hillsborough County for 10 years, before I came to STM in 2023, and I have always been passionate about reading. There’s nothing better than helping my students build their love for reading.

    Other passions and hobbies of mine include going on adventures with my dog Luna, going to the beach with a good book, going to an Orange Theory class, or spending time with friends and family. I also love to travel, so I’m usually planning my next trip!

  • Jackie Ganci, 3rd and 4th Grade TeacherJackie Ganci, 2nd & 3rd Grade Teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Jackie Ganci, 3rd & 4th Grade Teacher

    From the time I was 8 years old, playing pretend school in my basement, I knew teaching was my calling! I have been an elementary teacher in Hillsborough County for the past 10 years. Originally from New Jersey (Go Mets!), I moved to Tampa in 2011 to attend the University of Tampa. There, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education along with an ESOL endorsement.

    Through my teaching experience, I have developed a deep passion for teaching math and science. I am committed to creating hands-on, engaging learning opportunities that capture my students' interests.  I enjoy integrating interactive, real-world lessons into these subjects to ignite curiosity and nurture a love for learning. One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is seeing my students genuinely excited about their learning! 

    I currently live in Westchase with my husband, Mike.  When I’m not teaching, you’ll likely find me exploring new restaurants, traveling, or spending quality time with friends and family. I also love to go to sporting events and have grown to be a Tampa Bay Lightning fan!

  • Sarah Price, 2nd Grade Teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Sarah Price, 2nd Grade Teacher

    Growing up, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher.  After graduating from St. Petersburg High School, I went to Furman University in South Carolina where I earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with concentrations in both Early Childhood and Special Education. After teaching for a few years in Naples, Florida, I spent a number of years home with my young children. When my children were all in school, I began working in our local Pinellas County public school as a Title 1 Interventionist, working with students from kindergarten through 5th grade. I spent nearly 15 years in that role and loved the relationships I was able to build through working with small groups of students and watching their excitement as they gained confidence in their reading and math skills. I am certified in Elementary Education and ESE, and I am endorsed in Reading, ESOL, and Civics. I am excited to share my love of learning at STM!

    When I'm not at school, I enjoy spending time with my husband, my 3 adult kids, and our sweet dog, Archie. My hobbies include reading (especially mysteries or historical fiction), kayaking, and watching movies with my family. I love documentaries and will watch one on just about any topic! I also enjoy traveling whenever I get the chance.

  • Elementary teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Jen D’Amico, K & 1st ELA Teacher

    Helping children learn has always been a passion of mine, from “playing school” with my sisters and brother in my youth, to babysitting and working with children at church and in preschools as a young adult. This inspired me to pursue a career in teaching. I believe education includes teaching the WHOLE child-not just academics, but developing their social and emotional intelligence as well. Developmentally appropriate, play-based learning where children have the opportunity to be creative, hands-on, and learn the social skills necessary to thrive in life is at the core of my philosophy.

    I received my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Florida State University, and I hold a teaching certificate in the state of Florida, with an ELL and Reading Endorsement additionally. I have taught for over 20 years; one in first grade, and the rest in Kindergarten. I’ve been married to my husband Tony for 29 years. We have 3 sons and a wonderful daughter-in-law (who also teaches kindergarten). You will usually find me spending time with them on the weekends, and I LOVE Seminoles football-one of the many reasons FALL is my favorite season. I love decorating, especially for the holidays! Reading with a nice cup of hot tea or taking walks is my idea of relaxing. I enjoy binge-watching Netflix and hanging out with our family and friends for Game Night. My favorite place to travel is the mountains, although I love quick getaways to the beach or historic places too!

  • Elementary school teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    April Knopf, K & 1st Math & Science Teacher

    At a young age, I discovered my passion for education. From playing school with my dolls to babysitting the neighborhood kids to working in a gym nursery in high school, I knew teaching was what I was meant to do.

    I graduated from the University of Florida, Go Gators, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Advertising and a minor in Elementary Education. My husband’s military career at the time relocated us to Savannah where I decided to pursue my dream of teaching. I taught 1st and 4th grades while obtaining a Master’s Degree in Special Education. I shifted my focus towards ESE and taught in an inclusive setting for K-5th grades. A few years later, we moved to New Orleans where I worked for Special Olympics Louisiana before returning back to my hometown of Tampa. For 7 years, I was a stay at home mom (aka Uber driver, homeroom parent, boo boo fixer, cheerleader, etc) to my two beautiful children, Kendall and Austin. I have been teaching at STM since 2022.

    Outside of working with this amazing school and team, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, Gator and Lightning games, exercising, and cooking with an occasional nap squeezed in.

  • Elementary teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Britt Bennett, Kindergarten Teacher

    There is nothing in the Universe that I enjoy more than sparking imagination in little minds, helping students establish a love for life-long learning, encouraging self-love and acceptance, motivating them, and watching as they discover the “ah-ha” moments each and every day. For over 20 years I have had the amazing opportunity to work with children as a classroom teacher, tutor, mentor and storyteller. Born and raised in Chicago, I’m proud to say I am a “Chicagoan” and still call it home, even though I’ve lived in Tampa since 2008. I attended Purdue University in Indiana, just two hours and a few dozen cornfields away from my home, and received my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a certification to teach grades pre-K through fifth grade.

    A wise man in a red sweater once said- “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning.” My two children remind me every day the importance of play, as well as our mischievous tabby cat, Ewan McGregor. At home you might find us cranking up the music and having our very own dance party. I love a good game night with family, attending my kiddo’s sports activities, volunteering with JDRF as an outreach mentor, yoga, travel, coffee, animals, and I am a HUGE lover of reading (picture books are my jam) which is how my Books with Miss B story time channel for little humans came to be. In Chicago when it snows you have two choices: shovel or make snow angels. I’m the snow angel type, even as a big human.

  • April Busby, Transitional K Teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    April Busby, Transitional Kindergarten Teacher

    I have always loved working with children! There is just something magical about it. My main focus is creating an environment that allows them to experiment and learn about the world around them. I want to open them up to new ways of thinking and innovative problem solving. I have two amazing girls that have both taught me different ways to approach teaching and life. I want everyone to feel included and an important part of our class. My hope would be they leave my classroom with confidence, friendships and excitement!

  • Lead Preschool teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Migdalia Marrero, PreK Teacher

    I am excited to be part of this wonderful school again this year. I have been a preschool teacher for nearly 20 years. My teaching experience began at the J.C.C. My passion for teaching was reawakened when I was given the opportunity to run a pod in 2019 for kindergarteners. Along with teaching, I also tutor young children and teach Spanish. My passion is creating a stimulated child-centered environment which promotes each students' developmental areas. I love to provide an environment in which students’ curiosity can flourish. I believe engaging the child with nature daily as it allows them to make effective connections to their environment.

    When I’m not working, I enjoy the company of family and friends. I enjoy going for bike rides, nature walks, cooking, and traveling.

  • Preschool teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Anna Gursky, PreK Teacher

    I come from a family of six children (I am number four) and love it! My sister and I taught my younger brother to read at the youngest of age at our “school” that is very similar to STM. I spent my teenage years babysitting and volunteering in the church nursery as much as possible. I always loved being around young children.

    I grew up in England, gained my A Levels and went to College to be a Legal Executive.

    Prior to joining the STM team in 2022, I was a stay at home Mum for ten years while we navigated the military life and moved from England to Tampa. I spent a lot of time volunteering and set up a Private Organization to help pregnant military spouses. Most of all, I loved being with my children.

    Outside of school, I love spending time with my two amazing boys. I enjoy working out, the beach, Lightning games, and spending time with friends.

  • Preschool teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Hana Williams, PreK Teacher

    My heart has always been passionate about teaching little humans ever since I can remember. I started volunteering at 15 years old. I went to Learey Technical College and received my Associates in Early Childhood Education.

    I pursued early childhood education for the personal reward and happiness that it brings to me as I watch my students grow into little adults.

    I tutored younger elementary students and nannied for years. I was also a lead teacher at Amy Gail Buchman Preschool for 8 years before coming to STM in 2022. I love art, especially charcoal drawings, pastels and painting.

    In my spare time, I love to spend time with my husband and family. We love to have cookouts, travel, and host game nights. I also love mudding in my ATV and Jeep.

  • Rebecca Sharman, PreK Teacher at South Tampa Microschool

    Rebecca Sharman, PreK Teacher

    Coming soon!

  • Jessy Julianna, Electives Teacher at Peninsular Prep & South Tampa Microschool

    Jessy Julianna, Electives Teacher

    "Todas las personas grandes han sido niños antes. (Pero pocas lo recuerdan)"  -El Principito

    Born and raised in Puerto Rico, I come from a long line of women that have a passion for education and working with children and families. It has been an honor over the past 17 years to hold the baton. I graduated from the University of South Florida with a BA in Theatre-Performance and have been in numerous professional productions locally whether it is onstage or behind the scenes. My most important role is being the proud mother of two wonderful children, Noel and Esperanza, who inspire me daily.

    Yoga and wellness are also a big part of my life and I have my 200hr Yoga Teacher Certification and I love sharing the practice with students and adults. 

    I believe in the transformative power of arts education and I strive to create an inclusive, dynamic, collaborative  classroom where students feel empowered to express themselves, take risks, and grow as individuals. I look forward to creating with your student, and sharing the beautiful language of Español with them! 

    When I am not working you can find me cooking and eating (because I LOVE food), working out, acting, and spending time with my loved ones!  

  • Carrie Meadows, ELA Tutor at South Tampa Microschool

    Carrie Meadows, ELA Tutor

    With an undergraduate degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s degree in Reading Education, Carrie Meadows brings over 17 years of experience in teaching reading and writing across elementary, middle, and high school levels. As a former Reading Coach for Hillsborough County, Carrie worked alongside educators to enhance their instructional strategies, helping students achieve greater reading success.

    Carrie is not only a seasoned educator but also a dedicated parent at South Tampa Micro School. As a parent, she deeply values the school’s mission, its personalized approach to education, and the supportive environment it fosters for all students. Carrie is passionate about working with students to strengthen their reading and writing skills, providing individualized instruction that meets each child’s unique needs. She is excited to offer tutoring services at South Tampa Micro School, where she combines her professional expertise with a personal understanding of the school’s commitment to nurturing every child’s potential.

  • Emily Cusmano, Building Manager & Family Involvement Coordinater

    Coming soon!