Head of School, Amy Carroll
We are so pleased to have Amy Carroll as our Head of School here at Laurel. Amy has taken on administrative roles at Laurel as our Preschool Director and ACA Certified Camp Director. Amy continues to pursue her education to develop her skills as an educator and administrator. Amy has an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Early Childhood, a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development from Lesley College and has completed her coursework for her Masters Degree from Lesley University.
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education.”
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
We are so pleased to have Amy Carroll as our Head of School here at Laurel. Amy has taken on administrative roles at Laurel as our Preschool Director and ACA Certified Camp Director. Amy continues to pursue her education to develop her skills as an educator and administrator. Amy has an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Early Childhood, a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development from Lesley College and has completed her coursework for her Masters Degree from Lesley University.
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character - that is the goal of true education.”
- Martin Luther King, Jr.
Director of Operations & Admissions, Courtney Mills
Courtney oversees the day to day operations of the school, admissions, assists the head of school with planning, and serves as a liaison for faculty, parents and vendors. Courtney has a background in management and her philosophy is based on integrity and quality of service. Prior to Laurel, Courtney worked for many years managing the flagship Ann Taylor Stores in Harvard Square and Cambridge, MA. With experience in sales, planning and forecasting, Courtney provides a high level of organizational and management expertise. Courtney currently lives in Mashpee with her husband, daughter and step-daughter. Active members of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, Courtney’s family participates in such events as the Annual Mashpee Pow Wow and the volleyball league. When not working, Courtney enjoys spending her time on the Vineyard with her family.
Courtney oversees the day to day operations of the school, admissions, assists the head of school with planning, and serves as a liaison for faculty, parents and vendors. Courtney has a background in management and her philosophy is based on integrity and quality of service. Prior to Laurel, Courtney worked for many years managing the flagship Ann Taylor Stores in Harvard Square and Cambridge, MA. With experience in sales, planning and forecasting, Courtney provides a high level of organizational and management expertise. Courtney currently lives in Mashpee with her husband, daughter and step-daughter. Active members of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, Courtney’s family participates in such events as the Annual Mashpee Pow Wow and the volleyball league. When not working, Courtney enjoys spending her time on the Vineyard with her family.
"Courtney Mills (Director of Operations & Admissions) and Amy Carroll (Head of School) are the rocks that anchor the school to greatness, sincerity, and experiential education; they ensure the mission of the Laurel School and Laurel Day Camp is carried out in every tentacle of its operations. As a parent of two Laurel School students, I have learned so much from their approach to children simply by observing their interactions with students during drop off and pick up, at which they are ALWAYS present. How they fit all their responsibilities into a 24 hour day, all the while being 100% present for all students and us parents, I will never know. But the world - and especially the Cape Cod community - should know that I stand among many parents who believe that entrusting these two (and their incredible team of teachers!) with the care and education of our children was one of the best decisions I have made."
- Shayna Ferullo, Parent
- Shayna Ferullo, Parent
Director of Faculty and Student Services & Elementary Teacher, Karin Pearce-Small
Karin has been at The Laurel School since September 1987 and has worked in a variety of positions from classroom teacher to Summer Camp Director to Head of School. Over the years, she has taught kindergarten through third grade and has the capability to individualize her programs according to the needs of her students. Karin has a thoughtful approach, is flexible, and adapts her curriculum to include creative, hands-on work and projects. She is a positive and supportive team member working well with peers and families and is well respected by her students. She is artistic, athletic, professionally trained in dance and has her black belt in Poekoelan, an Indonesian martial art. She integrates her love of movement into her classroom schedule motivating the children physically as well as mentally. Karin graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and an Education Degree. She is certified by the Massachusetts Department of Education to teach preschool through grade three and holds a Director I Certification, an administration/management, state approved qualification.
Karin has been at The Laurel School since September 1987 and has worked in a variety of positions from classroom teacher to Summer Camp Director to Head of School. Over the years, she has taught kindergarten through third grade and has the capability to individualize her programs according to the needs of her students. Karin has a thoughtful approach, is flexible, and adapts her curriculum to include creative, hands-on work and projects. She is a positive and supportive team member working well with peers and families and is well respected by her students. She is artistic, athletic, professionally trained in dance and has her black belt in Poekoelan, an Indonesian martial art. She integrates her love of movement into her classroom schedule motivating the children physically as well as mentally. Karin graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and an Education Degree. She is certified by the Massachusetts Department of Education to teach preschool through grade three and holds a Director I Certification, an administration/management, state approved qualification.
Preschool Education Coordinator, Tara Lynn Cole
Tara Lynn is thrilled to be the new Preschool Education Coordinator. She is delighted to be in charge of facilitating professional development, mentoring teachers, helping with the environment, other administrative tasks and duties. Tara is originally from Rhode Island and spent most of her childhood years growing up in New Hampshire. Tara holds an M.ED with a concentration in Integrated Arts from Plymouth State University and a BA in Education and Dance Performance Studies from Roger Williams University. Prior to relocating to Cape Cod Tara lived in New York City for six years and worked at the Blue School in lower Manhattan (owned and Founded by Blue Man Group). She worked in Pre Primary as a lead 2s and 3s teacher. She also had opportunities to organize and facilitate events in the lower school. Tara values working with children, creativity, and collaborating. She enjoys working with materials and setting up activities in an engaging environment that allows for open ended play and gives children the opportunity to explore and innovate. Tara is looking forward to working at the Laurel School! In her free time she enjoys dancing, yoga, cooking, swimming, skiing, and hiking. Tara loves spending time with her husband, Tyler and her Black Labrador, Nera who is a year old. Tara and her family are excited to begin Cape living!
Tara Lynn is thrilled to be the new Preschool Education Coordinator. She is delighted to be in charge of facilitating professional development, mentoring teachers, helping with the environment, other administrative tasks and duties. Tara is originally from Rhode Island and spent most of her childhood years growing up in New Hampshire. Tara holds an M.ED with a concentration in Integrated Arts from Plymouth State University and a BA in Education and Dance Performance Studies from Roger Williams University. Prior to relocating to Cape Cod Tara lived in New York City for six years and worked at the Blue School in lower Manhattan (owned and Founded by Blue Man Group). She worked in Pre Primary as a lead 2s and 3s teacher. She also had opportunities to organize and facilitate events in the lower school. Tara values working with children, creativity, and collaborating. She enjoys working with materials and setting up activities in an engaging environment that allows for open ended play and gives children the opportunity to explore and innovate. Tara is looking forward to working at the Laurel School! In her free time she enjoys dancing, yoga, cooking, swimming, skiing, and hiking. Tara loves spending time with her husband, Tyler and her Black Labrador, Nera who is a year old. Tara and her family are excited to begin Cape living!
Assistant Camp Director, Cody Pimental
Currently a Music Education and Choral Conducting major at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, his role as Assistant Camp Director supplements his education daily by the engaging and fast-paced environment that is Laurel Day Camp. A songwriter by trade, his career goal aside from teaching at the collegiate level is to be working as a songwriter for a major label. Cody has a steadfast and organized approach to helping run camp; and, has strong communicative skills to help further the efficiency of his work. A classically trained musician, he incorporates song and musical expression into his conversation at Laurel to help engage and interact with the children; motivating them to relax and have as much fun as he does. As a 13th Generation Cape Codder, Cody loves to be outside in the sun for the majority of his day. He is over the moon to have joined the Laurel Day Camp team and is eager for each season to return so he may get back to work and back to having fun.
Currently a Music Education and Choral Conducting major at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, his role as Assistant Camp Director supplements his education daily by the engaging and fast-paced environment that is Laurel Day Camp. A songwriter by trade, his career goal aside from teaching at the collegiate level is to be working as a songwriter for a major label. Cody has a steadfast and organized approach to helping run camp; and, has strong communicative skills to help further the efficiency of his work. A classically trained musician, he incorporates song and musical expression into his conversation at Laurel to help engage and interact with the children; motivating them to relax and have as much fun as he does. As a 13th Generation Cape Codder, Cody loves to be outside in the sun for the majority of his day. He is over the moon to have joined the Laurel Day Camp team and is eager for each season to return so he may get back to work and back to having fun.
Elementary Teacher, Chelsey Hirst
Chelsey graduated from Bridgewater State University with a degree in English and will be using her passing MTEL exam scores along with several other educational credits toward earning her masters degree in education in the upcoming year. She has worked in public, residential and private schools with students of all ages and abilities. She shares with the Laurel staff a great passion for working with children and bringing unique learning approaches to their educational environments to assist in social and academic development. Born and raised on Cape Cod, Chelsey loves spending time outdoors enjoying the local scenery, hiking and playing soccer. She is thrilled to have joined the Laurel School team and looks forward to contributing to the success of the students.
Chelsey graduated from Bridgewater State University with a degree in English and will be using her passing MTEL exam scores along with several other educational credits toward earning her masters degree in education in the upcoming year. She has worked in public, residential and private schools with students of all ages and abilities. She shares with the Laurel staff a great passion for working with children and bringing unique learning approaches to their educational environments to assist in social and academic development. Born and raised on Cape Cod, Chelsey loves spending time outdoors enjoying the local scenery, hiking and playing soccer. She is thrilled to have joined the Laurel School team and looks forward to contributing to the success of the students.
Elementary Teacher, Tara Nevin
With over 29 years of experience in the field of early childhood and earning her Bachelor Degree, Tara Nevin joins Laurel this year as our Kindergarten/First Grade Teacher. Tara has taught throughout the Cape and most recently at Cape Cod Academy. Tara is a native resident of Brewster, married to her high school sweetheart and recently became a new Mom.
“I just became a new Mom to a beautiful little girl through adoption. This has been a great journey in my life and I feel that it has helped enhance my abilities as a teacher with patience and compassion. I look forward to getting to know everyone in The Laurel School community.”
With over 29 years of experience in the field of early childhood and earning her Bachelor Degree, Tara Nevin joins Laurel this year as our Kindergarten/First Grade Teacher. Tara has taught throughout the Cape and most recently at Cape Cod Academy. Tara is a native resident of Brewster, married to her high school sweetheart and recently became a new Mom.
“I just became a new Mom to a beautiful little girl through adoption. This has been a great journey in my life and I feel that it has helped enhance my abilities as a teacher with patience and compassion. I look forward to getting to know everyone in The Laurel School community.”
Toddler Teacher Julia Girouard
Julia is a graduate of Curry College with her bachelors degree in Early Care & Education: Child, Youth & Community as well as being certified by The Department of Education and Care. Julia started her teaching career working at a private preschool in Fairfield Connecticut. During her time as a head teacher she was able to gain first hand experience and knowledge in the classroom. Julia is a Cape Cod native who enjoys the outdoors, spending time with her friend and family, and taking part in her Recreational Women's Softball League. She is delighted to become a member of The Laurel School Community, and is looking forward to a successful school year!
Julia is a graduate of Curry College with her bachelors degree in Early Care & Education: Child, Youth & Community as well as being certified by The Department of Education and Care. Julia started her teaching career working at a private preschool in Fairfield Connecticut. During her time as a head teacher she was able to gain first hand experience and knowledge in the classroom. Julia is a Cape Cod native who enjoys the outdoors, spending time with her friend and family, and taking part in her Recreational Women's Softball League. She is delighted to become a member of The Laurel School Community, and is looking forward to a successful school year!
Toddler Teacher, Naomi Freethy
Naomi is thrilled to be joining The Laurel School this year as a Toddler Teacher. Currently working toward her Bachelor of Science degree in Child Studies at Post University, she is Infant/Toddler certified with The Department of Education and Care and previously worked as the Lead Toddler teacher at a nearby center in Brewster. Prior to working in the field of education, Naomi worked at Orleans Elementary School for 18 years finishing as the Cafeteria Manager. It was during this stretch of time, that Naomi found her love of children and found her desire to work more intimately with them. Naomi’s philosophy is to encourage children to explore and experiment with the world around them because all playing is learning. Naomi was born and raised on Cape Cod and is proud of her Wampanoag heritage. When not teaching, Naomi spends her time with her beautiful grandchildren Riley and Declan also students at The Laurel School, reading as often as possible, and listening to country music. She is overjoyed to be part of The Laurel School community and looks forward to meeting families, volunteering at Laurel School fundraisers, and providing a classroom full of excitement, learning, but more importantly fun for all her students.
Naomi is thrilled to be joining The Laurel School this year as a Toddler Teacher. Currently working toward her Bachelor of Science degree in Child Studies at Post University, she is Infant/Toddler certified with The Department of Education and Care and previously worked as the Lead Toddler teacher at a nearby center in Brewster. Prior to working in the field of education, Naomi worked at Orleans Elementary School for 18 years finishing as the Cafeteria Manager. It was during this stretch of time, that Naomi found her love of children and found her desire to work more intimately with them. Naomi’s philosophy is to encourage children to explore and experiment with the world around them because all playing is learning. Naomi was born and raised on Cape Cod and is proud of her Wampanoag heritage. When not teaching, Naomi spends her time with her beautiful grandchildren Riley and Declan also students at The Laurel School, reading as often as possible, and listening to country music. She is overjoyed to be part of The Laurel School community and looks forward to meeting families, volunteering at Laurel School fundraisers, and providing a classroom full of excitement, learning, but more importantly fun for all her students.
Preschool Teacher, Lynn Clemence
Lynn joined The Laurel School in 2002 coming with public and private kindergarten and preschool experiences. She has a BA in Fine Arts with a dance concentration, an elementary education credential and credits towards a Master Program. We admire her creativity, flexibility, strong work ethic, and playful approach to work. Over the years, Lynn has developed an exciting thematic curriculum stressing math science, and language arts. Children are encouraged to explore and acquire key concepts preparing our students for future learning. Included in her day to day responsibilities, Lynn teaches creative movement and dance, choreographs dance and song routines, and creates costumes for our performances. Lynn goes above and beyond every day and we value her dedication to our children and school.
Lynn joined The Laurel School in 2002 coming with public and private kindergarten and preschool experiences. She has a BA in Fine Arts with a dance concentration, an elementary education credential and credits towards a Master Program. We admire her creativity, flexibility, strong work ethic, and playful approach to work. Over the years, Lynn has developed an exciting thematic curriculum stressing math science, and language arts. Children are encouraged to explore and acquire key concepts preparing our students for future learning. Included in her day to day responsibilities, Lynn teaches creative movement and dance, choreographs dance and song routines, and creates costumes for our performances. Lynn goes above and beyond every day and we value her dedication to our children and school.
Preschool Teacher, Nancy Walsh
has been teaching preschool for over 15 years. She was one of the JK teachers at the Laurel School last year and previously teaching for Head Start for 15 years. She believes that if a child is having fun, they are learning. Nancy holds a BS in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Suffolk University in Boston. She also has a certificate in Early Childhood Education with a preschool concentration from Cape Cod Community College. In 2013, she received The Massachusetts Exceptional Teacher award from Early Education and Care. Nancy is Lead Teacher and Director II certified through the Massachusetts department of Early Education and Care. During her spare time, Nancy enjoys volunteering for Massachusetts Special Olympics as a volunteer coach. She has been volunteering with them since 1997. In 2010 she had a "once in a lifetime" opportunity as she represented the state of Massachusetts at the Special Olympics National Games in Nebraska as an assistant basketball coach. She helped coach the team to a medal. During the summer, Nancy works with our campers as a counselor. She believes that once a person gains self esteem there is no limit on what they can learn.
has been teaching preschool for over 15 years. She was one of the JK teachers at the Laurel School last year and previously teaching for Head Start for 15 years. She believes that if a child is having fun, they are learning. Nancy holds a BS in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from Suffolk University in Boston. She also has a certificate in Early Childhood Education with a preschool concentration from Cape Cod Community College. In 2013, she received The Massachusetts Exceptional Teacher award from Early Education and Care. Nancy is Lead Teacher and Director II certified through the Massachusetts department of Early Education and Care. During her spare time, Nancy enjoys volunteering for Massachusetts Special Olympics as a volunteer coach. She has been volunteering with them since 1997. In 2010 she had a "once in a lifetime" opportunity as she represented the state of Massachusetts at the Special Olympics National Games in Nebraska as an assistant basketball coach. She helped coach the team to a medal. During the summer, Nancy works with our campers as a counselor. She believes that once a person gains self esteem there is no limit on what they can learn.
Preschool Teacher, Amanda Griswold
Amanda has an Associates Degree in Early Childhood from Cape Cod Community College and is a certified Lead Teacher and Director II from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. Amanda taught preschool for Head Start for over six years but took time off to spend with her family. Recently, Amanda had been a private Nanny but was eager to return to the classroom. She believes in tailoring curriculum to accommodate children’s interests and level of learning. Amanda currently resides in Harwich with her two beautiful daughters.
Amanda has an Associates Degree in Early Childhood from Cape Cod Community College and is a certified Lead Teacher and Director II from the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care. Amanda taught preschool for Head Start for over six years but took time off to spend with her family. Recently, Amanda had been a private Nanny but was eager to return to the classroom. She believes in tailoring curriculum to accommodate children’s interests and level of learning. Amanda currently resides in Harwich with her two beautiful daughters.
Preschool Teacher, Anita Rodriguez
Anita has been involved in Early Childhood Education since volunteering as a parent when her two children were young. Anita also served on a parent/hiring committee for the same agency. Shortly thereafter, Anita began taking classes and is currently finishing her Associates Degree in Early Childhood; she is Lead Teacher and Director 1 Certified by the Department of Early Education and Care. Anita is the youngest of 11 children, living on Cape Cod for most of her life with her family.
Anita has been involved in Early Childhood Education since volunteering as a parent when her two children were young. Anita also served on a parent/hiring committee for the same agency. Shortly thereafter, Anita began taking classes and is currently finishing her Associates Degree in Early Childhood; she is Lead Teacher and Director 1 Certified by the Department of Early Education and Care. Anita is the youngest of 11 children, living on Cape Cod for most of her life with her family.
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Preschool Teacher, Taisha Barboza
Ms. Taisha Barboza has been working with infants to elementary-aged children for over 17 years on Cape Cod. Ms. Taisha has a teacher certification for infants through school-aged children by the Department of Early Education and Care. Ms. Taisha enjoys time with her both of her sons Jozay and Trayven, her husband Tarin and their dog Snoopy! They enjoy their time going to the beach, hiking, watching movies and playing games! We are so excited to have Ms. Taisha as part of the Laurel School Family! |
Art Teacher, Alex Roberts
Alex is an art lover, practicing artist, mother, teacher, nature devotee, and enthusiast for all things silly. She holds a BS in Art Education with a ceramics concentration and is working toward her Master's Degree. Alex has over 14 years of professional art teaching experience. Her previous experience includes art teaching at Wellfleet Elementary School, Cape Cod Museum of Art and is the owner and instructor at, Dot to Dot Art Workshop. Alex’s passion is to design inspiring environments to make art, develop creative thinking, spark wonder, curiosity and imagination. She is always finding new ways to bring out the creative spirit in children, getting to know their skills, learning styles, way of thinking, and what makes them giggle. Alex knows first hand the empowerment the art experience can have on a child to help them find their voice and celebrate their individuality. She is endlessly inspired by the creativity, joy, and imagination of children. Alex is thrilled to be a part of the Laurel School family and mission.
Alex is an art lover, practicing artist, mother, teacher, nature devotee, and enthusiast for all things silly. She holds a BS in Art Education with a ceramics concentration and is working toward her Master's Degree. Alex has over 14 years of professional art teaching experience. Her previous experience includes art teaching at Wellfleet Elementary School, Cape Cod Museum of Art and is the owner and instructor at, Dot to Dot Art Workshop. Alex’s passion is to design inspiring environments to make art, develop creative thinking, spark wonder, curiosity and imagination. She is always finding new ways to bring out the creative spirit in children, getting to know their skills, learning styles, way of thinking, and what makes them giggle. Alex knows first hand the empowerment the art experience can have on a child to help them find their voice and celebrate their individuality. She is endlessly inspired by the creativity, joy, and imagination of children. Alex is thrilled to be a part of the Laurel School family and mission.
Health, Wellness and Fitness Instructor, Ralph Murphy
Ralph Murphy has been an Early Childhood Educator for 23 years. A graduate of Dean College, Mr. Ralph has worked in preschools on Cape Cod and in Florida. During his time in Florida, Mr. Ralph received an Early Childhood Education Academic Achievement Award. He is a certified Infant/Toddler and Preschool Teacher through the Department of Early Education and Care in Massachusetts. We are so excited to have Mr. Ralph as a part of our team. Mr. Ralph is “looking forward to implementing daily curriculum that will spark imagination, build self-esteem and foster self-discovery.”
Mr. Ralph resides in Hyannis, MA with his beautiful puppy Nellie.
Ralph Murphy has been an Early Childhood Educator for 23 years. A graduate of Dean College, Mr. Ralph has worked in preschools on Cape Cod and in Florida. During his time in Florida, Mr. Ralph received an Early Childhood Education Academic Achievement Award. He is a certified Infant/Toddler and Preschool Teacher through the Department of Early Education and Care in Massachusetts. We are so excited to have Mr. Ralph as a part of our team. Mr. Ralph is “looking forward to implementing daily curriculum that will spark imagination, build self-esteem and foster self-discovery.”
Mr. Ralph resides in Hyannis, MA with his beautiful puppy Nellie.
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Music Teacher, Paige Neal
Paige is a classically trained vocalist and has been singing since she was eight years of age. Her varied musical background includes opera, musical theatre, band, choir and pop vocals. She has worked as a substitute preschool teacher since 2008 and has been with the Laurel School since 2015. Paige strives to give children confidence in her music classes and apply to their everyday life. She teaches private vocal lessons and musical theatre at The Academy Of Performing Arts in Orleans. She enjoys fishing, hiking, and trips to her family’s log home in Maine. The loves of her life are her husband Ruben and her dog Mr. Bear. |
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Music Teacher, Lary Chaplan
Lary joined The Laurel School in 2015. He has preformed on violin in Los Angeles, New York City and Cape Cod since 1958, starting lessons in 1954. He has been a violin and general music teacher since 1967, and taught in 22 Elementary schools in the New Bedford public school system for 14 years, as well as being the first general music teacher at the Lighthouse Charter School. For the past 29 years, Lary has preformed with the Cape Cod Symphony , the Cape Cod Klezmer Band and in a number of rock and jazz bands working concurrently. |
Support Staff - STEAM, French Club and Afterschool Teacher, Chloe Romano
After joining the Laurel team this summer as a camp counselor, Chloe is overjoyed to start her first academic year at our school. Chloe graduated from McGill University where she obtained a Bachelor of Elementary Education, grades K-6. Throughout her university experience, she has student taught in multiple schools, and has attended professional development workshops throughout Quebec. Since graduating, Chloe has taught in public schools in Montreal and Pittsburgh and has worked in a number of schools in Cape Cod. She also has experience as a paraprofessional educator, working one on one with special needs students in the town of Barnstable. Coming from a French Canadian background, Chloe is overjoyed to have the opportunity to share her language and culture with her students, as the new French club teacher.
After joining the Laurel team this summer as a camp counselor, Chloe is overjoyed to start her first academic year at our school. Chloe graduated from McGill University where she obtained a Bachelor of Elementary Education, grades K-6. Throughout her university experience, she has student taught in multiple schools, and has attended professional development workshops throughout Quebec. Since graduating, Chloe has taught in public schools in Montreal and Pittsburgh and has worked in a number of schools in Cape Cod. She also has experience as a paraprofessional educator, working one on one with special needs students in the town of Barnstable. Coming from a French Canadian background, Chloe is overjoyed to have the opportunity to share her language and culture with her students, as the new French club teacher.
Drama Teacher Dianne Wadsworth
Dianne has been with The Laurel School from the beginning and has been teaching our elementary students geography and drama. Dianne continues to demonstrate these great qualities and we are fortunate to have her on our team. We share her with the Brewster's branch of the Animal Rescue League where she was awarded the 2008 Heroes Among Us award. She performs as a local actress, singer, and dancer but loves comedy the best. In her spare time she helps with Meals on Wheels, too. A quote from a co-teacher of Dianne’s from 1989 describes Dianne best, “Dianne is a teacher par excellence. She shares warmth, humor, and a bright smile every day. Dianne is enthusiastic and cheerful, comes prepared, and treats every child as a unique and special gift.
Dianne has been with The Laurel School from the beginning and has been teaching our elementary students geography and drama. Dianne continues to demonstrate these great qualities and we are fortunate to have her on our team. We share her with the Brewster's branch of the Animal Rescue League where she was awarded the 2008 Heroes Among Us award. She performs as a local actress, singer, and dancer but loves comedy the best. In her spare time she helps with Meals on Wheels, too. A quote from a co-teacher of Dianne’s from 1989 describes Dianne best, “Dianne is a teacher par excellence. She shares warmth, humor, and a bright smile every day. Dianne is enthusiastic and cheerful, comes prepared, and treats every child as a unique and special gift.
Support Staff - Mike Thulander
Mike joined the Laurel team over the summer as a camp counselor at the Laurel Day Camp and is excited to be at the Laurel School during the school year! He is also looking forward to leading the school’s hiking and bird watching clubs this year. Mike holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Vermont and is currently working on a masters degree in elementary education. He recently moved back to his hometown of Brewster with his wife Alex, after spending several years living in Park City, Utah. They enjoy biking, birding, traveling and spending time with family as well as their cat Spooky.
Mike joined the Laurel team over the summer as a camp counselor at the Laurel Day Camp and is excited to be at the Laurel School during the school year! He is also looking forward to leading the school’s hiking and bird watching clubs this year. Mike holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Vermont and is currently working on a masters degree in elementary education. He recently moved back to his hometown of Brewster with his wife Alex, after spending several years living in Park City, Utah. They enjoy biking, birding, traveling and spending time with family as well as their cat Spooky.
"The Laurel is a small school with a BIG heart. We chose The Laurel School for our son because of its small class sizes, caring staff and engaging curriculum. The school works as a community to encourage responsibility, sensitivity and resourcefulness in all students."
Our Board of Trustees
Cindy A. Nuzzolo, Board of Trustess President
Cindy A. Nuzzolo is an attorney and partner of the law firm of Carter DeYoung in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Cindy joined the firm in 2004 after working with high net worth clients at a large investment company and she is a former Series 7 Licensed Investment Advisor. Her practice focuses on trust and estate planning and administration, trust and estate litigation, wealth preservation, and business planning and litigation. Cindy earned her LLM in Taxation at Boston University Law School, she holds degrees of Juris Doctor and Master of Intellectual Property from Franklin Pierce Law, now known as University of New Hampshire Law School, and she attended Northeastern University as an undergraduate where she earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Criminal Justice
Cindy A. Nuzzolo is an attorney and partner of the law firm of Carter DeYoung in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Cindy joined the firm in 2004 after working with high net worth clients at a large investment company and she is a former Series 7 Licensed Investment Advisor. Her practice focuses on trust and estate planning and administration, trust and estate litigation, wealth preservation, and business planning and litigation. Cindy earned her LLM in Taxation at Boston University Law School, she holds degrees of Juris Doctor and Master of Intellectual Property from Franklin Pierce Law, now known as University of New Hampshire Law School, and she attended Northeastern University as an undergraduate where she earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Criminal Justice
Melanie Miller, Board of Trustees Vice President
A graduate of Rowan University and former Admissions Director and Learning Specialist, Melanie Miller has dedicated her professional life to empowering students who face learning differences at the Greenwood School in Vermont before moving to Cape Cod. For 17 years Melanie’s independent school accomplishments include enrollment growth, marketing, fundraising, alumni relations, events planning, program redesign, teaching, and helping students believe in themselves and realize their potential. Melanie has presented regionally and internationally on the topics of marketing, speech and language, social skills, and the relationship between entrepreneurship and learning differences. Melanie’s son, Trent, attends The Laurel School. Melanie enjoys skiing, the beach, and time with her family, which includes her husband, Stewart, and Yellow Labrador, Chief.
A graduate of Rowan University and former Admissions Director and Learning Specialist, Melanie Miller has dedicated her professional life to empowering students who face learning differences at the Greenwood School in Vermont before moving to Cape Cod. For 17 years Melanie’s independent school accomplishments include enrollment growth, marketing, fundraising, alumni relations, events planning, program redesign, teaching, and helping students believe in themselves and realize their potential. Melanie has presented regionally and internationally on the topics of marketing, speech and language, social skills, and the relationship between entrepreneurship and learning differences. Melanie’s son, Trent, attends The Laurel School. Melanie enjoys skiing, the beach, and time with her family, which includes her husband, Stewart, and Yellow Labrador, Chief.
Sarah Piebes, Board of Trustees Treasurer
Sarah became involved with the Laurel School community in 2017 when her daughter, Lily started preschool. She graduated from Cape Cod Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Psychology and then spent several years managing a day program for adults with intellectual challenges in South Yarmouth. She has served as secretary for Lower Cape Babe Ruth baseball as well as Chairperson for the Board of Trustees for a condo association. In 2014, she left her management position to become a stay-at- home mom. In her free time, Sarah enjoys crafting, reading, and boating. She resides in Harwich with her husband Brandon, daughter Lily, and Pit-Bull mix Penny.
Sarah became involved with the Laurel School community in 2017 when her daughter, Lily started preschool. She graduated from Cape Cod Community College with an Associate’s Degree in Psychology and then spent several years managing a day program for adults with intellectual challenges in South Yarmouth. She has served as secretary for Lower Cape Babe Ruth baseball as well as Chairperson for the Board of Trustees for a condo association. In 2014, she left her management position to become a stay-at- home mom. In her free time, Sarah enjoys crafting, reading, and boating. She resides in Harwich with her husband Brandon, daughter Lily, and Pit-Bull mix Penny.
Rev. Canon Charles H. Morris, Board of Trustees Secretary
The Rev. Canon Charles H. Morris has been a priest in the Episcopal Church for 46 years. He has served parishes in New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. Those parishes often included parish day schools in which he also served as Headmaster and taught in the classroom. He continues to be active in retirement at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Orleans where he works with the Sunday School children and as a supply priest at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Fairhaven.
The Rev. Canon Charles H. Morris has been a priest in the Episcopal Church for 46 years. He has served parishes in New York, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. Those parishes often included parish day schools in which he also served as Headmaster and taught in the classroom. He continues to be active in retirement at the Church of the Holy Spirit in Orleans where he works with the Sunday School children and as a supply priest at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Fairhaven.
Jay Goodwin, Board Member
Jay Goodwin joined the Laurel School Community as a parent in 2005, He joined the board in 2010 and now serves as the School’s Treasurer. Jay Graduated from Cape Cod Academy, earned his BS from Jacksonville University, completed graduate studies in Automotive Management and is now the President and CEO of Hyannis Honda. When not working he enjoys spending his time on the water with his wife Gina and two children Cassidy and Corey.
Jay Goodwin joined the Laurel School Community as a parent in 2005, He joined the board in 2010 and now serves as the School’s Treasurer. Jay Graduated from Cape Cod Academy, earned his BS from Jacksonville University, completed graduate studies in Automotive Management and is now the President and CEO of Hyannis Honda. When not working he enjoys spending his time on the water with his wife Gina and two children Cassidy and Corey.
Martha Duffy, Board Member
Martha Duffy has enjoyed an illustrious 47 year career in education, 30 as a head of school, and 17 as a teacher in both elementary and high schools. Martha served as the Head of School at Miami Country Day School (K-6), in Miami FL. Then, as Head of the Out of Door Academy (K-12) in Sarasota FL, Martha made her mark with the construction of a new high school. Her most recent post was as a principal in the Lawrence public schools. Martha holds a BA from D’Youville College, as well as her M Ed and an EDS in Counseling and Education. Martha enjoys travel, reading and music. In 2010, she retired to Harwich on the Cape, and now has plenty of time to work on her golf and tennis games.
Martha Duffy has enjoyed an illustrious 47 year career in education, 30 as a head of school, and 17 as a teacher in both elementary and high schools. Martha served as the Head of School at Miami Country Day School (K-6), in Miami FL. Then, as Head of the Out of Door Academy (K-12) in Sarasota FL, Martha made her mark with the construction of a new high school. Her most recent post was as a principal in the Lawrence public schools. Martha holds a BA from D’Youville College, as well as her M Ed and an EDS in Counseling and Education. Martha enjoys travel, reading and music. In 2010, she retired to Harwich on the Cape, and now has plenty of time to work on her golf and tennis games.
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