About Our Teachers

Beverly Ann Mercado with over 13 years of experience in education, I have dedicated my career to supporting individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.  I hold both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Special Education and Autism, as well as a Graduate Certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). 

I have served as a classroom teacher, district coach, and behavior specialist, bringing a wealth of knowledge in evidence-based practices and behavioral support. For the past four years, I have worked as a consultant with the STAR Program, providing guidance and training to educators, district personnel, and caregivers.

My work has extended internationally, supporting professionals and families in China, Puerto Rico, and across the United States. I am passionate about empowering teachers and caregivers with the tools they need to foster meaningful learning, independence, and growth for every student.

Iris Padilla with over 30 years of dedicated service in the field of education, Iris Padilla brings a wealth of experience, passion, and heart to her role as Regional Director. Her deep commitment to nurturing both educators and young learners is evident in everything she does.

Iris holds two bachelor's degrees—one in Psychology and another in Early Childhood Management—as well as two master's degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education. Her diverse academic background reflects her belief in the power of lifelong learning and her unwavering dedication to student success across all abilities.

In addition to her leadership role, Iris is a certified CDA Trainer and serves as a Professional Development Specialist (PDS), where she observes, evaluates, and mentors aspiring early childhood educators pursuing their Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Through her mentorship, she cultivates the next generation of teachers with the same care and excellence that have defined her own career.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Iris Padilla was honored in the U.S. House of Representatives during Hispanic Heritage Month on September 28, 2022. The official title of the recognition entered into the Congressional Record was “Honoring Iris Padilla for Hispanic Heritage Month”, presented by Congressman Darren Soto of Florida. Originally from Venezuela, Iris was celebrated for her lifelong dedication to education and community service. She is the founder of Kids Academy Learning Center and co-owner of three additional facilities in Haines City and Eagle Lake, serving over 500 families.

Beyond her work in education, Iris offers free notary services and is an active member of the Kiwanis Club, the Northeast Polk Chamber of Commerce, and the Latin Business Expo. Congressman Soto praised her as a servant leader who uplifts her community and promotes Hispanic culture and entrepreneurship.

A respected leader, mentor, and advocate, Iris Padilla embodies the values of passion, excellence, and service. Her vision continues to inspire positive growth across every classroom and community she touches.

 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.

Originally from Puerto Rico, I have over 7 years of experience supporting children with autism in school settings. My work focuses on implementing personalized educational strategies that foster learning, communication, and independence for each student.

As a mother in a family with children on the autism spectrum, I deeply understand the unique challenges and needs of our community. This personal connection drives me to work with empathy, commitment, and dedication.

My mission is to create an inclusive environment where every child feels valued, safe, and motivated to reach their fullest potential.

Diane Agosto holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Science with a major in Criminology. Although this is her first experience as a teacher, she has quickly demonstrated a deep passion for working with her students. 

Diane brings unwavering commitment, dedication, and enthusiasm to the classroom, creating a positive and supportive learning environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to succeed.

Taihiri Romero is a seasoned special education teacher with over 30 years of dedicated experience in the field. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Special Education and has spent her career working closely with students diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome, and various learning disabilities. 

Taihiri is known for her compassionate approach, individualized teaching strategies, and unwavering commitment to helping every child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Her deep expertise and lifelong passion for special education make her an invaluable resource to students, families, and colleagues alike.

I am Yanelys Colmenarez, a kindergarten teacher. I hold a degree in Education and

Counseling from Venezuela and am currently studying Christian Counseling at

Logos University in Florida.

I am passionate about guiding children through their first academic steps, creating

a safe, inclusive, and motivating environment. I am passionate about supporting

children in their first academic steps, fostering their curiosity, creativity, and love of

learning. My approach is based on creating a safe, inclusive environment where

every child feels valued and motivated to develop their abilities to the fullest.

 Myraida Medina is a dedicated early childhood educator with over seven years of teaching experience. 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.

Myraida brings a strong foundation of knowledge and care to every classroom she enters. She is especially passionate about working with students in special education, demonstrating patience, creativity, and a deep commitment to helping each child reach their full potential. Her love for teaching and advocacy for inclusion make her a valued asset in any educational setting.

Sherlieanne I. Olivera Irizarry lives in Davenport, Florida, and has over nine years of experience working with blind children. I have a background in Early Childhood Education and have completed the 45 hours required by the DCF. 

I consider myself a committed, responsible, and empathetic person, qualities I consider essential for supporting students with special needs. My calling is to contribute to a more accessible, inclusive, and humane education for all children.

My name is María del Carmen Del Valle, affectionately nicknamed Mary. I specialized in the field of beauty for 35 years. I love serving and therefore worked at the Regional Hospital of Caguas in Puerto Rico. 

For 3 years in oncology working with children, I was a ministering therapist. I am also a children's Bible studies teacher. I enjoy teaching, learning, and above all, the enthusiasm of working in a school for special children. I am a ministering chaplain and I work in everything related to ministerial therapy.

Danyaris Torrez is a college student pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Management and Policies. She has 4 years of experience working with children in both childcare and educational settings.

She has completed 55 DCF training hours, including a 10-hour course in Special Needs Appropriate Practices. Also holds certifications in Infant and Toddler CPR and Choking Prevention. Currently, expanding her skills through courses in ABA therapy to better support children with diverse needs.

Danyaris is very passionate about creating safe, inclusive, and engaging environments where children can grow and thrive.

 Ronald Roundtree was born and raised in Mississippi. I’ve served in education in some capacity for 24 plus years. I graduated with a bachelor of science degree (BS) in physical education K-12 from Jackson State University. After graduating, I went directly into teacher PE for which I taught for 19 years.  

I then went to the University of Mississippi to gain a masters of arts (MA) degree in educational leadership.  After which, I went into administration and served 5 years as an assistant principal.  

I moved to Florida in 2021 where I taught middle school PE, served as dean of students and high school assistant principal. 

Last but not least, I enjoy favorite hobbies of fishing and I working out to help me relax after a long day.

ronald.roundtree_kal@outlook.com