About Our Teachers

Beverly Ann Mercado 

Brings over 13 years of experience in education, dedicating her career to supporting students with autism and developmental disabilities. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Special Education and Autism, along with a Graduate Certification in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA).

Throughout her career, Beverly has served as a classroom teacher, district coach, behavior specialist, and consultant with the STAR Program, providing guidance and training to educators, district personnel, and families. Her expertise in evidence-based practices and behavioral support has allowed her to make a meaningful impact both nationally and internationally, including in China, Puerto Rico, and across the United States.

As a principal, Beverly is passionate about fostering an inclusive, nurturing, and high-achieving school community. She empowers teachers, students, and families with the tools and support they need to thrive, grow, and reach their full potential.

 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.

 Saraeliza De Jesús Molina 

Is an experienced Intervention Support Teacher with five years in the educational field. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in School Psychology, providing her with the expertise to support students’ academic growth and emotional well-being.

Specializing in one-on-one student support, Saraeliza is dedicated to understanding each child’s unique learning needs and fostering their confidence, independence, and success. She collaborates closely with families to ensure a holistic approach to development, combining compassion, evidence-based strategies, and a genuine commitment to helping every student reach their full potential.

 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.

 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.

 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. 

 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.

 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.

 Danyaris Torrez 

 Is an aspiring early childhood education professional currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Management and Policies. She brings four years of experience working with children in both childcare and educational settings.

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

Passionate about fostering growth and development, Danyaris is committed to creating safe, inclusive, and engaging classroom environments where every child feels supported and empowered to thrive.

 Stephanie Albino 

A High School Diploma and a Life Insurance Certificate. 

Stephanie leverages her experience in Human Resources and administrative roles to create an organized, efficient, and supportive classroom environment. She uses her skills in communication and individualized guidance to connect with students, support their learning, and foster academic growth. 

In the classroom, Stephanie is dedicated to helping students develop independence, complete tasks successfully, and feel confident in their abilities. 

Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her children, going for walks, watching movies, and visiting the park as a family.

Jareliz Hernandez 

Has college credits in Social Work from Universidad Metropolitana, Recinto Cupey, and has completed 40 hours of Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) certification. She brings training in social-emotional support, behavioral strategies, and student care into her instructional approach.

She has four years of experience supporting Special Education students, including work as an Assistant for RCS. Her instructional focus is helping students learn, understand, and engage in the STAR program, while promoting increasing independence and confidence.

 Outside of work, she enjoys sports, dancing, the color pink, good food, and sharing laughter. 

 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.