About Our Teachers

Kathirya Ortiz

 is a passionate and experienced educational leader with over 10 years of experience in early childhood and elementary education. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a specialization in Physical Education, blending academic instruction with the importance of physical development and wellness.

Kathirya also holds the DCF Staff Credential Transcript and the Director’s Credential in Childcare Management, equipping her with the skills and qualifications needed to lead with confidence and care. As a dedicated principal, she is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where every child can thrive academically, socially, and physically.

 Ivonne  Laguer 

 Originally from Puerto Rico, Ivonne brings over seven years of experience supporting children with autism in school settings. She holds RBT (Registered Behavior Technician) certification and specializes in developing and implementing individualized educational strategies that promote learning, communication, and independence for each student.

Her personal experience as a mother of children on the autism spectrum gives her a deep understanding of the unique challenges students and families face, allowing her to approach her work with empathy, insight, and dedication.

Ivonne is committed to creating an inclusive, supportive classroom where every child feels valued, safe, and empowered to reach their fullest potential

 Diane Agosto 

Holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science with a major in Criminology and brings experience as a special education educator.

As an Academic Specialist, Diane provides strategic support to teachers, students, and families, ensuring the delivery of effective academic guidance and resources. She is dedicated to fostering inclusive, engaging, and high-achieving learning environments where every student can thrive.

Renowned for her collaborative approach, strong leadership, and commitment to student success, Diane strives to make a meaningful and lasting impact on both individual learners and the broader school community.

 María del Carmen Del Valle

Known as Mary, brings extensive experience in service and care to her role as Classroom Operations Assistant. With 35 years of professional experience in the beauty industry and years of dedicated service at the Regional Hospital of Caguas in Puerto Rico, Mary has cultivated a strong foundation in supporting others with professionalism and compassion.

She has served as a ministering therapist in pediatric oncology and teaches children’s Bible studies. Passionate about education and supporting children with special needs, Mary applies her expertise, ministerial training, and dedication to foster a safe, nurturing, and encouraging classroom environment.

 Karina Cancel 

Is the PreK Teacher for 3–5-year-old students. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, a Child Development Associate credential, and has completed 45 hours of DCF training along with complementary courses. 

With over six years of experience working with young children, including those in Special Education, Karina is passionate about creating a safe, loving, and engaging classroom where children feel valued and supported. She encourages learning through play, exploration, and positive relationships, helping each child grow socially, emotionally, and academically. 

Karina especially enjoys crafting with her students, using hands-on activities to spark creativity and joyful learning.

 Taihiri Romero

Is a dedicated Pre-K special education teacher with over 30 years of experience in early childhood education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education and has extensive experience supporting young learners with autism, Down syndrome, and a variety of learning disabilities.

Known for her compassionate approach and individualized teaching strategies, Taihiri fosters a nurturing and engaging classroom where each child can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Her deep expertise and lifelong commitment to early childhood special education make her an invaluable resource to students, families, and colleagues alike.

 Limarie Rodriguez

She has completed college credits toward a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Universidad Ana G. Méndez in Ponce, Puerto Rico. 

Limarie brings over five years of experience working with children through summer camps and youth programs, along with leadership experience as a former Walt Disney World supervisor. 

In the classroom, she is dedicated to supporting students with special needs by promoting inclusive practices, positive integration, and a nurturing learning environment that encourages growth and participation for all students.

 Yanelys Colmenarez 

She is a passionate kindergarten teacher with a bachelor's degree in Education and Counseling and over 5 years of experience. She is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in Christian Counseling Psychology.

She loves guiding young children in their first academic steps, fostering their curiosity, creativity, and love of learning. Yanelys creates a safe, inclusive, and stimulating classroom environment where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to grow both academically and personally. Her dedication and warmth help children develop confidence, independence, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.

 Myraida Medina 

 Is an experienced early childhood educator with over seven years in the field. She holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in Pre-K, a VPK Staff Credential, 45 hours of DCF training, and 40 hours of RBT training.

Throughout her career, Myraida has demonstrated expertise in supporting students in special education, bringing patience, creativity, and a deep commitment to fostering each child’s growth and development. Her knowledge, professionalism, and dedication to inclusive education make her a highly valued member of any classroom and educational team.

 Stephanie Colon 

Holds a Teacher Assistant Education Certificate and CPR certification, and brings over seven years of experience working with young children.

 Stephanie is passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging classroom where children feel supported and encouraged. She focuses on fostering academic, social, and emotional growth through hands-on learning, exploration, and positive relationships. 

Stephanie is dedicated to helping each child build foundational skills, develop confidence, and discover a love for learning.

 Shayanne  Davidson

Is a dedicated early childhood educator with over 20 years of experience. She holds 40 hours of Registered Behavior Teaching training, as well as training as a Pediatric Medical Assistant and in Nutrition.

Shayanne brings a strong foundation of knowledge, care, and professionalism to every classroom. She is passionate about supporting early childhood education and is currently pursuing her RBT certification to further enhance her work with young learners. 

Outside the classroom, she enjoys worship music, dancing, teaching Zumba and spending meaningful time with her family. 

  Elmy  Rodríguez  

Completed her Dental Assistant studies at Huertas College in Caguas, Puerto Rico, and brings more than six years of experience working with children, adults, and individuals in Special Education through dental care and hygiene education.

 In the classroom, her focus is on fostering a supportive learning environment built on student safety, encouragement, and appropriate guidance, while promoting student growth and increasing independence. 

Outside of work, she enjoys running, spending time with her son, and relaxing with movies on Sundays.

 Yailin Avila

She holds a university degree in Microbiology Technology and brings experience as a Polytechnic Professor of Health. Her passion for science and nutrition has guided her work with children with autism, where she applies evidence-based strategies and individualized support to foster learning and development.

 In the classroom, Yailin focuses on creating engaging, hands-on lessons that encourage exploration, critical thinking, and social-emotional growth. She also incorporates educational resources and structured activities to support skill-building and independence. 

Outside of work, she enjoys discovering new environments with family and friends, learning new skills, and sharing positive experiences with those around her.