Gina entered the field of education shortly after earning her MBA and has over 30 years of experience as a teacher and an administrator. She is looking forward to beginning her 10th year with Academy Prep as Head of School. She brings Academy Prep the diversity of school management, marketing, and expertise within the educational realm. She has been involved in schools in New Orleans, Tampa, and St. Petersburg. She has served on the Florida Commission for ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International who partners with SACS in accrediting Florida private schools) and brings much experience in the area of school accreditation. Although she has years of experience in both the areas of technology and initiating programs that foster differentiated learning, she has a passion to ensure that APSP has a commitment to professional development for its teachers and staff to ensure cultural responsiveness within its curriculum and school environment.
Born in Jacksonville, Brittany is a graduate of Edward Waters College, earning her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. She also graduated as senior class valedictorian. Brittany furthered her education at Southern New Hampshire University and earned her Master of Science in Higher Education Administration as well as a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology with a specialization in online education. Brittany is currently working on earning her doctorate in Philosophy of Education which she will complete in March of 2024. She has over 13 years teaching experience with the youngest grade being Pre-K. Brittany loves children and evolving and shaping young minds, always reminding students that education is the most powerful tool you can have that no one can ever take from you.
Ken Watson has served as Dean of Student Life at Academy Prep since 2019. He is a St. Petersburg native and holds a BS in Educational Studies from St. Petersburg College. His role focuses on overseeing behavior and discipline on campus as well as guiding the enrichment activity program. Most importantly, however, he works with all of our scholars on character development and learning the 'AP Way' so they find productive ways to work through challenging situations and build stronger relationships with their peers. Mr. Watson really enjoys working with our families to ensure our children have a wonderful experience here at Academy Prep.
Terika Walters, a native of Miami Florida, graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, and obtained her Master’s in Social Work from Florida State University. Terika has served children, youth, and families in many different capacities over the past 9 years. Prior to joining the Academy Prep family, Terika worked as a Preschool Teacher, College Reach Out Program Camp Counselor, School Counselor, and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Therapist. Terika also spent a week in St. Georges Grenada where she was instrumental in creating and implementing a curriculum on character development, and healthy relationships for adolescent mothers. Terika is motivated with a great zeal for children and youth, and always strives to ensure that she can provide emotional support, resources, and education to those that she encounters. Terika is excited to be a part of the Academy Prep family, and is looking forward to providing additional assistance to the students, faculty, and families served.
Lee has been with Academy Prep since 2015 where he served as the Assistant Head of School before taking on his current role of School Manager in 2018. Lee previously worked at Northside Christian School for 17 years where he served as MS Principal, Dean of Students, and Superintendent. Originally from West Virginia, Lee received his Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Marshall University and his Master's Degree in Administration from Central Michigan University. Lee was also a member of the United States Air Force where he retired after 26 years of service and has two grown children and one amazing grandson.
Anita Reece - Admissions and Scholarship Coordinator
Anita was born and raised in St. Petersburg. She has over 15 years in the corporate industry with a strong background in an administrative environment. She is the mother of two college students, and one of her children previously attended Academy Prep. Anita aspires to contribute to the success of Academy Prep as a whole and looks forward to inspiring our students to become future lifelong stars in the community.
Melinda (Mendy) Kirsch is originally from Mobile, Alabama but has lived in the Sunshine State for the last 21 years. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from the University of South Alabama. She went on to work in the Social Work field in the Florida Keys, specifically working with at-risk youth. After 17 years of being a stay-at-home mom and running her own social media business, she is now enjoying being a part of the Academy Prep family. She loves camping, hiking, kayaking and just spending time outdoors with her husband and two kids.
Terrika has been living in the St. Pete area since 2011 and considers herself a Florida native. She graduated from Northeast High School and is continuing her education at St. Petersburg College majoring in Middle School Education with a focus in ELA. Prior to joining the Academy Prep team, Terrika earned her full specialist certification as a licensed nail technician / esthetician. Terrika is the mother to one teenage son, loves animals, and if she had to pick one thing to eat for the rest of her life it would be peanut butter and banana sandwiches. Terrika is excited to be a part of the Academy Prep family as the Administrative Assistant, and enjoys helping our scholars continue to grow and succeed, and is always working to best serve our families.
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Salvador has been living in the United States for almost 10 years and in Florida since late 2019. He comes with a background of several years of apartment maintenance experience and most recently fitness equipment repairs. Salvador enjoys outdoor activities like going to the beach, parks, and being outside in nature. He also enjoys basketball, making art projects, and pro wrestling. Salvador is very excited about joining the Academy Prep family is looks forward to impacting the lives of our scholars in a positive way.
Trenton Hughes hails from Virginia Beach, VA where he was able to display his faith and character through education and athletics. He attended the University of Maryland, College Park on a full four year scholarship. There he was able to obtain his Bachelor’s Degree in Human development and Family Sciences. Trenton eventually obtained one of his biggest goals as he reached the NFL as an undrafted free agent defensive back with the Miami Dolphins. After his experience in the NFL, he continued his passion in impacting youth through education, coaching, and mentorship. For the past ten years, Trenton Hughes has served the youth in different capacities. He was with the Baltimore County and City Public school districts for 7 years. The last 3 years he had the privilege of being a Youth Director at Set The Captives Free Outreach Center in Baltimore, MD. Trenton is excited to be in the classroom in Lower School Math and grow with the amazing scholars, parents and staff at Academy Prep!
Originally from the state of Michigan, Ed graduated from Spring Arbor University in 2001 with a degree in Education. Ed has been a teacher in the state of Florida for 20 years, serving 18 years in Hillsborough County, and 2 years in Pinellas County. Edward has two daughters, his youngest is a third grader and his oldest is attending PCCA at Gibbs High School. In his free time, Ed enjoys running and playing sports, especially baseball. On the weekends you can find him also enjoying recreational hobbies like cornhole, which he plays competitively. Ed is very excited to join the Academy Prep family as the Lower School English Teacher!
Mrs. Becca Brown comes to us originally from Russia, where she was adopted at age 7. She is married to her husband Alex and has one son (Marcus). She has lived in the St. Petersburg area since 1999. Becca attended USF, majoring in secondary science and did her student teaching in the St. Petersburg area public schools. Her past experience as a Commercial Diver allowed her to pursue her love for science and the outdoors. Becca is hoping that her own love for gardening, fishing, animals, scuba diving, and family will be clearly evident in the classroom and not only peak her student's interest in the outdoors, but to engage and embrace it in their own lives as well.
Originally from the state of Illinois, Quinn graduated from the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana, where he earned a degree in English. Quinn previously taught lower school English and is now thrilled to continue being a part of the Academy Prep family as the new Upper School English Teacher.
Antez Brinson - Upper School Social Studies Teacher
Antez is a native of St. Petersburg, Florida. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Geography from Florida A&M University. Antez has 13 years of classroom experience in public and charter schools and has also served as an instructor with the Pinellas County Job Corps program. He has not only served as a head football coach at the high school level, but he has also been involved in a local non-profit which is designed to assist high school student athletes obtain admission into college. Antez is looking forward to connecting with students and parents in an effort to further maintain the "AP Way."
Nerline "Nellie" Nerlien - Upper School Mathematics Teacher
Born and raised in southwest Florida, Nerline graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Emory University. Ms. Nerlien educated students through many avenues, including teen outreach programs, private math tutoring, and traditional teaching. Her favorite aspect of being an educator is watching her pupils evolve to become confident and competent in their personal academic struggles. Her mission to be a mentor and cheerleader for students reminds her of the influence that she and her students can make to cause a positive change in our communities.
Originally from Ohio, Zack is the son of two teachers so delving into education has always been close to his heart. He loves the idea of making an impact at a small school like Academy Prep. Zack graduated from Eckerd College with a BA in Environmental Studies and Political Science, where he also served as a College Ambassador, peer mentor, and captain of the rugby team. Zack is in his fifth year at Academy Prep where he teaches Upper School Science, helping scholars grow in confidence and teaching them about the importance of the natural world. Zack also loves serving Academy Prep scholars as coach and assisting with the coordination of the extra-curricular athletic program.
Born in Heidelberg, Germany and raised in St. Petersburg, FL, Nasja has always had a passion for music and its intricacies. Her love for music goes beyond the classroom as she is also a working musician and writer for many artists in the Tampa Bay music circuit. Nasja is elated to serve Academy Prep’s scholars and provide the highest quality music education in order to show them culture beyond their understanding. Her motto is “music is a language that transcends all cultures” aand her curriculum embeds the importance of merging cultures and customaries through the knowledge of music.
Taye'lor Trotter - Physical Education Teacher & Athletic Director
Taye'lor was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida, and is an Academy Prep alumnus, graduating in 2007. She attended Lakewood High School and continued on to study Community Leadership and Educational Studies at Flagler College. Tayelor recently returned home after spending seven years in Miami public school and charter schools. and is excited to return to her Academy Prep family as the Physical Education teacher. Tayelor is looking forward to making a positive difference in the lives of our scholars and serving as a tangible example of what it means to be "The Greatest!" In her free time, Tayelor loves spending time with family, swimming, reading, journaling, and staying healthy through calisthenics. Welcome back to Academy Prep Ms. Trotter!
Mr. Belzer was born in Bogota, Colombia to an American father and British mother. As a tri-citizen, Mr. Belzer grew up with a strong sense of global consciousness. Before coming to the United States at seven years old, Mr. Belzer grew up on a farm without running water or electricity. Upon arrival in the United States, Mr. Belzer and his family spent a few years in Idaho before moving to Oregon where Mr. Belzer spent his formative years. Mr. Belzer received his undergraduate degree from Portland State University in Spanish and International Studies with a focus on Latin America before moving to New Mexico where he received his masters degree in Hispanic Literature from the University of New Mexico. Mr. Belzer has eight years of experience in education, predominantly at the middle school level, and continues to be driven by his strong sense of internationalism. In 2019 Mr. Belzer was a Fund for Teachers grant recipient which he used to travel to train teachers in under-resourced schools in Bangalore, India. In addition to working in India Mr. Belzer has volunteered as a teacher in Uganda, Kenya, Argentina, and Ecuador, as well as traveling with his students to Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, and Panama. Most recently Mr. Belzer is returning from sailing and teaching on a Norwegian vessel in the North Sea and hopes to inspire his students by sharing his profound love for travel, culture, and language as the Spanish teacher at Academy Prep.
Born and raised in Saint Petersburg, Zoe graduated from Eckerd College with a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Arts with aa primary concentration in Visual Arts and a secondary concentration in Poetry and Theater. She has a myriad of experience teaching including teaching in schools for two years and teaching private music lessons in violin, voice, guitar, piano, and ukulele for seven years. She is a bit of a renaissance woman, having a passion for and experience in many disciplines including art, education, music, sustainability, and non-profit. Zoe loves to explore many art mediums in her free time including painting, drawing, jewelry making, collage, printing, sculpture, and embroidery and is excited to expand scholars’ knowledge of and excitement for new mediums. Having an interdisciplinary mindset, she is also excited to encourage interplay of mediums and collaboration of art projects with other disciplines like creative writing, music, and science. Zoe strongly believes that everyone is creative and everyone can gain something from practicing art and this welcoming attitude shines through every day in her art classroom. She is excited about utilizing her unique education, background, and experiences to bring added value to scholars in the art room and beyond.
Born and raised in St. Petersburg, Jake graduated from Shorecrest Prep before heading off to New Orleans, where he completed his BS in Psychology from Tulane University. While at Tulane, Jake was a committed volunteer with the Tulane Community Tutor Program, which centers on providing academic assistance to at-risk young people from the city's wards. Jake began his tenure with Academy Prep as an AmeriCorps Teaching Fellow, and is excited to be returning for his fifth year at Academy Prep, working to ensure that each student has their academic needs met.
Teresa Riggs - Academic Interventionist & Full Time Substitute
Teresa Riggs has earned an Associate of Arts in Human Services from St. Petersburg College, Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, Master of Arts in Education (with special studied in Family and Community Services) from Ashford University. In 2011, she became a member of the Golden Key International Honor Society. Mrs. Riggs has served children for well over thirty years in various schools throughout Pinellas County. She has served as a paraprofessional, classroom teacher, mentor, private tutor, and as Children's Advocate in the Pinellas County Court System. Mrs. Riggs teaches Sunday School at her church, and also serves as a volunteer with various faith based community programs for children. She is the proud mother of four adult children, and the super proud grandmother of two grandsons.
Laura Manke - Director of Graduate Support & Head of Humanities
Originally from Illinois, Laura moved to Florida to attend the University of Tampa and to escape the cold winters. Laura’s journey with Academy Prep started in 2012 with an internship on the Tampa campus and ultimately led her to St. Petersburg campus. In 2015, Laura became the 5th and 6th grade Social Studies Teacher. After 5 years in Lower School, and obtaining her Master's of Education from USF St. Pete in 2019, Laura followed her passion for writing and reading and moved up to the 7th and 8th grade ELA position. This experience and education prepared Laura to take on the role of Lead Humanities Teacher, beginning in 2022. Through her many years at AP, Laura has always loved keeping in touch with graduates and watching them grow. Laura is ecstatic to become the Director of Graduate Support, where she will continue to connect with and assist the graduates she once taught at Academy Prep!
Lacey Nash Miller - Executive Director of Advancement
Lacey Nash Miller is thrilled to be a member of the Academy Prep family and to promote the mission of Academy Prep through philanthropy. As a third-generation St. Petersburg native, Lacey is inspired and motivated by our hard-working students, dedicated faculty and staff, and generous and committed board. Prior to joining Academy Prep, Lacey was the Director of the Annual Fund and Alumni Programs at Shorecrest Preparatory School. She holds a B.S. in Mass Media Communications from Florida State University.
Jennifer is a Pinellas County native who has been working in the Tampa Bay Area nonprofit sector for over 25 years. Her career in nonprofits began the same year Academy Prep was founded and she is honored to now serve the AP family of students, faculty, donors and volunteers as Development Manager. Jennifer is inspired by Academy Prep's commitment to offering quality education in a stable, supportive environment to young scholars in our community. She holds a BA in Humanities from USF Tampa.
Ben Herring was born and raised in Michigan. He attended Warren Wilson College in Swannanoa, NC where he studied Small Business Management. Ben has an extensive background in volunteer management and community radio fundraising. Ben is also an avid record collector and radio DJ. When he's not working you can find him outside spending time in the garden with his family, as well as running, biking, and paddle boarding. Ben is very excited to join the Academy Prep family and get involved with the amazing enrichment program.
Madelyn will be returning as an Americorps Teaching Fellow for the 2023-2024 school year. She is excited to continue sharing her passion in reading through interventions and an intensive reading class. After earning a bachelor's degree in Psychology from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2022, she moved to Tampa from New Orleans and is excited to continuing exposing our scholars to Louisiana foods and culture. In her free time Madelyn loves spending time with her family and touring the Disney parks in Orlando. As a relational individual, she is enthusiastic about continuing to build connections with our scholars.
Andrew recently relocated to St. Pete from his hometown of Stirling, Scotland, and is excited to be taking steps toward a permanent move to the United States. He graduated from Abertay University in Dundee with a BA in Sport and Management and is currently working on an MSc in Education Studies at Strathclyde University in Glasgow. Andrew is no stranger to American culture, having worked as a cabin counselor, mentor, division head, and most recently, Assistant Athletic Director at a summer camp in New Hampshire since 2015. He's also held a number of volunteer posts, including several years as the Captain of his local Boys' Brigade Organization. His most recent teaching position was as a Sports Coordinator at a Scottish Inclusion Support School, which focuses on meeting the needs of the most disadvantaged young people. Andrew enjoys soccer, tennis, and Formula One racing, and is looking forward to learning more about traditional American sports by cheering for Tampa Bay teams.
Imani is a dynamic born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, who has recently relocated to the vibrant city of St. Petersburg, FL, her new home. With an unwavering passion for creative learning, Imani has found her calling in the field of education dedicated to nurturing young minds. Imani's talents extend far beyond the classroom. With an extensive background in performing arts specializing in music, poetry, dance, theatre and art she brings a unique blend of creativity and artistry to her educational endeavors. In addition to her educational pursuits, Imani is a best-selling author, sharing her unique insights and stories with her community. She also curates events in the Tampa Bay area, adding vibrancy and cultural richness to the local scene. Imani’s story is one of passion, creativity, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around her. Whether through education, the arts, or community engagement, she continues to leave a lasting impact on her new home in St. Petersburg, FL.
Born and raised in Seoul, South Korea, Ben moved to Tampa as a seventh grader. Growing up,
Ben developed a passion for music when he started playing piano at a young age. During his time at H.B.
Plant High School in Tampa, he committed most of his time to developing his knowledge and skills in
percussion instruments. After graduating from Plant, Ben attended the University of South Florida to
earn his Bachelor of Science majoring in Health Sciences and minoring in Psychology. During his
undergrad, Ben spent a lot of his time teaching various percussion ensembles around the Tampa Bay
area along with continuing his growth as a performer. After graduating USF, he dedicated his time to
educating the youth through his love for music. Starting as an Americorps teaching fellow this year, Ben
is excited to ignite our students’ passions throughout the school year. In his free time, Ben enjoys late
night tennis and spending time with his friends and family.
Terri earned her accounting degree from the University of South Florida. Terri is also licensed by the Internal Revenue Service as an Enrolled Agent and has been the president and owner of Balanced Accounting and Tax for since 2009. Additionally, she worked 10 plus years as a staff accountant for Dwight Darby and Co. and Ennis CPA Associates, PA. Her private industry experience has been in the non-profit area where she has held the position of CFO for both the Tampa Bay Builders Association and The Cambridge School, a pre K3 through 12th grade Christian school. Terri and her husband Ron have five children and four grandchildren. Terri is honored to help Academy Prep fulfill its vision by helping our students reach their fullest potential.
Chris originally hails from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Millersville University with a BA in Music Business and Technology. Before he started working in schools, Chris worked for Apple in New York City as a Certified Technician and Trainer for almost ten years. He has previously worked as a Technology Specialist for independent schools on the Upper East Side in NYC, and in Potomac MD, just outside of Washington D.C. Chris relocated to Tampa with his family over the summer of 2020, and he’s thrilled to be a part of the Academy Prep team.
Hector, originally from Spain, relocated to Virginia Beach, Virginia, at the age of 10 and later moved to Tampa, Florida. With a remarkable tenure of over 10 years in the IT field, he is currently pursuing his B.S. in Cyber Security and Network Security from Norwich University. Previously, Hector held the esteemed positions of IT manager and Software Developer at a financial blog company situated in Saint Petersburg, Florida. His enthusiasm knows no bounds as he eagerly anticipates joining the Academy Prep team, ready to contribute his expertise and passion to the organization.
Roxane graduated in 2011 from Florida State University with a B.S. in Political Science and in 2015 from the University of South Florida with a Master of Public Administration. She has spent many years working with at risk youth in Polk and Hillsborough County as a life skills coach and substance abuse prevention counselor. After earning her master’s degree, Roxane transitioned to finance as a revenue analyst at DACCO Behavioral Health, Inc. Her passion for working with at risk youth lead her to Academy Prep Centers for Education where as a member of the development team she is able to help contribute to enriching the lives of youth in the community.
Sarah McDonald - Marketing and Communications Specialist
Sarah comes to Academy Prep after a long career as a professional photographer, designer, and business owner. Sarah holds a degree in Journalism, with an emphasis in Advertising and Public relations from the University of Wisconsin and has also holds a degree in Digital Photography. Originally from Wisconsin, Sarah is the daughter and wife of educators, and as a former adjunct professor herself, she strongly believes that the success of our society depends on the quality of education our youngest generation receives. Sarah served Academy Prep Center of St. Petersburg for 6 years, and now as a member of the Foundation team, she serves all Academy Prep campuses spreading the word about our mission in our communities. Sarah continues to lead the Student Leadership Council at Academy Prep Center of St. Petersburg, inspiring and motivating growth and positive change in the lives of our scholars.
Originally from New Jersey, Andrea earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics and Statistics with a concentration in Data Analytics from Florida Southern College. Passionate about the transformative potential of data, Andrea is excited to be able to use her skills to enact positive change. In her free time, she enjoys geocaching, reading, and enthusiastically following baseball, finding joy in not just the game, but in the shared passion that brings people together.
