Faculty and Staff

Julia is in her third year at Ohana and has experience teaching Pre-K through 3rd grade. She is passionate about helping students grow academically and socially in a supportive environment. Outside the classroom, she enjoys family time with her husband and two daughters.

Brittany has taught 2nd grade at Ohana for nine years and is a reading specialist with a master’s from the University of Florida. She is passionate about helping students discover the joy of reading and building confidence. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading books, traveling, taking long walks, and preparing to welcome her first child.

Kristen holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Auburn University and an elementary/early childhood certification from Southern Methodist University. In her sixth year at Ohana, she is passionate about meeting each student where they are and building confidence as they learn and grow. Outside the classroom, she enjoys travel and family life with her four children.

Kate has 26 years of experience in education as a classroom teacher and literacy coach for grades K–5. She is passionate about helping every child learn in their own unique way and fostering creativity, focus, and a love of learning. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, caring for animals, and exploring anything aquatic.

Missy teaches 5th and 6th grade and serves as Ohana’s Technology Coordinator. She holds dual BFAs in Graphic Design and Photography from Miami University in Ohio and a master’s in Elementary Education. Passionate about metacognition, she enjoys helping students understand how they learn best and supporting teachers in meeting the individual needs of their students. Outside of school, Missy enjoys beach sunsets, long walks with her dog, and cheering on her two children—a Gator at UF and a law student at Belmont University.

Alex holds a bachelor’s in Biology and a master’s in Marine Science, with research experience in shark ecology and conservation. They are passionate about helping students explore their interests in science and world languages through hands-on learning. Outside the classroom, Alex enjoys travel, hiking, scuba diving, reading, gardening, art, and sharing life with their pets Nyx and Kal.

Beverly has over 20 years of experience and is known for her love of Southern Gothic literature and clever puns. She is passionate about creating a classroom where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to find their voice. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her children and doting on her grandchildren.

Hannah is passionate about helping students build confidence in math, develop critical thinking skills, and enjoy learning. A Walton County native and Covenant College graduate, she played collegiate volleyball and grew up surrounded by education. This is her first year teaching, and she looks forward to partnering with families to support every student’s growth.

Brian has been part of the Ohana community since 2013, teaching H.O.P.E., electives, and team sports while coordinating student activities and games. He holds a degree in Kinesiology and Sports Management from Troy University and loves sharing his passion for the outdoors with students. Outside the classroom, he enjoys family life with his wife Kristen, traveling, and spending time near the beach.

Els studied Modern and Medieval Languages at the University of Cambridge and holds an MA in Law from the University of Law, London. She has taught languages from elementary to undergraduate levels and enjoys sharing her passion for culture and learning with students. Outside the classroom, she loves hiking, baking, beach days, and engaging with the Officer Spouse community at Tyndall AB.

Amber brings nearly 20 years of teaching experience to Ohana, along with a BA from William & Mary, an MFA from Queens University, and is a PhD candidate at Faulkner University. She is passionate about literature, travel, and gaming, and inspires students to explore and enjoy learning. Outside the classroom, she shares her life with her niece, two dogs, six cats, and a squirrel named Hopscotch.the learning process

Cole is a people person and an introvert—a perfect combination for an English teacher. A lifelong creative, Cole loves writing, storytelling, and exploring all forms of art. Their diverse experiences, from molecular biology to history, shape a holistic classroom where students connect learning to life. Outside of school, Cole enjoys foxes, speaks a little Korean, and treasures time with family and two younger brothers.

Lyndsay earned her undergraduate and master’s degrees from Auburn University at Montgomery and has spent the past five years teaching advanced math and coaching MathCounts and basketball. She is passionate about helping students and families thrive in a supportive learning environment. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, photography, graphic design, math, and coaching youth basketball.

Beth holds degrees in Business Administration and Studio Art and is in her second year teaching at Ohana. She creates a space where students can explore and grow both artistically and personally. Outside the classroom, she leads a nonprofit supporting neurodiverse individuals and enjoys life with her husband and three children who attend Ohana.

Dan brings experience from the music industry, including co-founding Grammy-winning Dualtone Records, to his role at Ohana, where he oversees the service projects, student travel, Student Council, and National Honor Society. He is passionate about helping students think critically, apply learning to real-world challenges, and grow into confident, creative leaders. Outside the classroom, he enjoys sharing his expertise in music, business, and innovation to inspire students.

Jim has been a professional musician since 1983 and has spent the past 15 years teaching music to students of all ages. He is passionate about helping students develop music literacy, teamwork, and confidence through hands-on practice and performance. Outside the classroom, he enjoys spending time outdoors, helping others, and finding practical ways to repair rather than discard items.

Josh Fox has been teaching music at Ohana for the past four years, and both of his daughters are proud Ohana students. His love for drums began at an early age, and he studied jazz at Eastern Illinois University and Columbia University. Josh has toured professionally with Steel Magnolia, Buddy Guy, and John Oates, and currently performs locally with Sunshine Ranglers and the Cosmic Rascals. He is passionate about helping students discover and develop their musical talents, build confidence, and express their creativity.

Michelle brings 28 years of experience in education, having taught Pre-K through 12, worked in teacher training, and served in school administration. She spent 17 years in Alabama as a teacher, administrator, and coach before joining Ohana for her second year, where she supports students, families, and staff. Michelle is passionate about helping students grow into the people they are meant to be. Outside of school, she enjoys family life with her husband Mike, their three sons, and her new daughter-in-law, Hannah.