Head of School - Amy LaFranchise
We are so pleased to continue to have Amy LaFranchise 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 continue to have Amy LaFranchise 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 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 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 LaFranchise (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
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Camp Director - Laurel Day Camp &
Toddler - PreK Support Liaison - Laurel School - Dan Simson We are excited to continue to have Dan as The Laurel Day Camp as Director of the summer program. Dan hails from Framingham, MA and has spent his entire career working with children and young people, which is his passion. He spent 15 years as Assistant Director of a private residential summer camp in the Berkshires where he managed and led daily operations of the camp program and supervised the leadership team. One of his proudest accomplishments was the introduction and development of a Leadership Training program for over 80 teenage boys and girls which is still in use today. Dan went on to become Program Director at residential group homes servicing youth with social, emotional and behavioral needs in both Massachusetts and Rochester, NY. After spending 8 years in Rochester, Dan, his wife Gemma and their daughter Evie relocated back to Massachusetts choosing to call Cape Cod their home. |
Bookkeeper - Meghan Brown
Meghan was born and raised on Cape Cod. She earned a Bachelor's Degree from Suffolk University Majoring in Business with a Minor in Accounting. Meghan spent 13 years working in corporate accounting before leaving to work at The Laurel School and also be a freelance bookkeeper for a few other local small businesses. Meghan has three children ages 24, 15, and 7 and two grandbabies. When she is not working you can find her spending time with her family, friends, or at the beach!
Meghan was born and raised on Cape Cod. She earned a Bachelor's Degree from Suffolk University Majoring in Business with a Minor in Accounting. Meghan spent 13 years working in corporate accounting before leaving to work at The Laurel School and also be a freelance bookkeeper for a few other local small businesses. Meghan has three children ages 24, 15, and 7 and two grandbabies. When she is not working you can find her spending time with her family, friends, or at the beach!
Director of Elementary and 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 from University of Massachusetts Amherst and an Education Degree from Wheaton College. She is certified by the Massachusetts Department of Education to teach Kindergarten through Third Grade 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 from University of Massachusetts Amherst and an Education Degree from Wheaton College. She is certified by the Massachusetts Department of Education to teach Kindergarten through Third Grade and holds a Director I Certification, an administration/management, state approved qualification.
Elementary Teacher - Chelsey Hirst
Chelsey graduated from Bridgewater State University in 2011 and has been working at The Laurel School since 2013. 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 being with her daughters, husband, and two cats. She is thrilled that she is continuing to be a part of The Laurel School team and looks forward to contributing to the success of the students.
Chelsey graduated from Bridgewater State University in 2011 and has been working at The Laurel School since 2013. 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 being with her daughters, husband, and two cats. She is thrilled that she is continuing to be a part of The Laurel School team and looks forward to contributing to the success of the students.
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Elementary Teacher - Kenna Valli
Kenna graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education. She has wanted to be a teacher ever since first grade, where she had an amazing teacher at Wellfleet Elementary School. Kenna wants to instill and inspire that same love of learning in her students. As a camp counselor at Wellfleet Recreation, Kenna worked with children ages 5-14 for seven summers. In her free time, she enjoys reading, going to the beach, and spending time with her family and her dog. |
Elementary Teacher - Lianna Wissmann
Lianna is a graduate of Keene State College in New Hampshire, where she earned dual Bachelor’s Degrees in Elementary Education and Biology. She has been teaching at The Laurel School since September 2020. She is certified by the Massachusetts Department of Education to teach grades 1–6 and has taught first, third, and fifth grade, as well as elementary special education.
Lianna creates a positive learning environment where students feel supported and inspired. She loves bringing art and music into her classroom, making lessons both engaging and creative.
Outside of teaching, Lianna has been a lifeguard and competitive swimmer and now enjoys teaching swim lessons during the summer. A true beach lover, she enjoys spending time by the water and playing golf in her free time!
Lianna is a graduate of Keene State College in New Hampshire, where she earned dual Bachelor’s Degrees in Elementary Education and Biology. She has been teaching at The Laurel School since September 2020. She is certified by the Massachusetts Department of Education to teach grades 1–6 and has taught first, third, and fifth grade, as well as elementary special education.
Lianna creates a positive learning environment where students feel supported and inspired. She loves bringing art and music into her classroom, making lessons both engaging and creative.
Outside of teaching, Lianna has been a lifeguard and competitive swimmer and now enjoys teaching swim lessons during the summer. A true beach lover, she enjoys spending time by the water and playing golf in her free time!
Elementary Teacher - Lauren Hedin
Lauren is a North Carolina native but has called Cape Cod home for the last 11 years. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina Wilmington where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Lauren has worked with children for over 25 years- starting with babysitting and has taught preschool and was a Director of an Elementary before and after school program. Lauren has been a part of the Laurel School family since 2019 and has been teaching first grade ever since! Children are truly her passion and she couldn’t imagine doing anything else in life but teaching! When she isn’t teaching, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family (especially her two nieces), being outdoors, and going to the beach. Lauren currently lives in West Dennis with her two adorable cats.
Lauren is a North Carolina native but has called Cape Cod home for the last 11 years. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina Wilmington where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Lauren has worked with children for over 25 years- starting with babysitting and has taught preschool and was a Director of an Elementary before and after school program. Lauren has been a part of the Laurel School family since 2019 and has been teaching first grade ever since! Children are truly her passion and she couldn’t imagine doing anything else in life but teaching! When she isn’t teaching, Lauren enjoys spending time with her family (especially her two nieces), being outdoors, and going to the beach. Lauren currently lives in West Dennis with her two adorable cats.
Elementary Teacher - Abby Corning
Abby graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Many of her own elementary school teachers inspired her to follow in their footsteps, with the goal of creating a warm and safe learning environment for her students. Abby has worked at Laurel Day Camp for two summers, where she enjoyed working with children and supporting their growth through fun and engaging activities. In her free time, she enjoys trying new sports like tennis and golf, taking her dog for walks, going to the beach, reading, and spending time with her friends and family.
Abby graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Many of her own elementary school teachers inspired her to follow in their footsteps, with the goal of creating a warm and safe learning environment for her students. Abby has worked at Laurel Day Camp for two summers, where she enjoyed working with children and supporting their growth through fun and engaging activities. In her free time, she enjoys trying new sports like tennis and golf, taking her dog for walks, going to the beach, reading, and spending time with her friends and family.
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Pre-Kindergarten Teacher - Julia D'Amato
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 continue to be a member of The Laurel School Community, and is looking forward to a successful school year! |
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Pre-Kindergarten Teacher - Joy Pye
Joy graduated from Salve Regina University with a degree in education and music. She grew up on the Cape but moved to Hawai'i in 2021, where she was the music teacher at 'Aikahi Elementary school. Having returned to the East Coast, Joy teaches at Pleasant Bay Community Boating and is working towards receiving her masters in Educational Foundations from the University of Hawai'i at Manoa. In her spare time, you can find her playing music by the beach or walking her beagle, Charlie. She loves traveling and hopes to foster curiosity and a love for the arts in her classroom. |
Preschool Teacher - Haley Hullen
Haley was born and raised on the cape, and nannied before becoming a teacher. She is a mother of two young girls and has been a teacher and camp counselor at The Laurel School and Laurel Day Camp since 2019. Haley received her teaching certification from Cape Cod Community College and the Department of Early Education and Care. She has taught toddler through preschool-aged students. Haley fell in love with Laurel when she was a student intern completing her teacher certification program. In her time off, she enjoys spending time with her family and walking in many of Cape Cod's beautiful conservation areas!
Haley was born and raised on the cape, and nannied before becoming a teacher. She is a mother of two young girls and has been a teacher and camp counselor at The Laurel School and Laurel Day Camp since 2019. Haley received her teaching certification from Cape Cod Community College and the Department of Early Education and Care. She has taught toddler through preschool-aged students. Haley fell in love with Laurel when she was a student intern completing her teacher certification program. In her time off, she enjoys spending time with her family and walking in many of Cape Cod's beautiful conservation areas!
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Preschool Teacher - Vibeke Guterman
Vibeke joined Laurel School in February of 2025 when she moved to the Cape. She has degrees from Boston University in Biology and Psychology. Vibeke obtained her Masters in Early Childhood Education from Kean University upon discovering her passion for teaching when her two children were in preschool. She comes to Laurel with over 20 years of teaching children from preschool through 3rd grade. Vibeke has spent the past 6 years as a director of Early Childhood programs in New Jersey but is excited to return to her true love of teaching preschoolers. Vibeke is exploring her new home on Cape Cod and can be found at the beach, reading or cooking when not at school. |
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Preschool Teacher - Izzie Smalkais
Izzie graduated from The University of the Arts in Philadelphia with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Dance. After years of working with children, she found her passion in early childhood education. With a certificate from The Department of Early Education & Care she is in her second year teaching and first year at The Laurel School. During summers she works for the Cape Cod Institute doing tech production and data analysis. Auditing classes in the mental health field helps bring a Total Human Development approach to her preschool teaching curriculum. Izzie enjoys long walks with her dog, going to the beach and exploring the nature Cape Cod has to offer. She looks forward to being a part of The Laurel School family this year! |
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Preschool Teacher - Allyson Patrikis
Allyson graduated from Merrimack College in 2022 with a bachelor's degree in Human Development with a minor in education. Allyson is a passionate early childhood educator who loves working with children ages 2-5. She places a strong focus on supporting the social and emotional well-being of her students, creating a nurturing environment where each child can flourish as an individual. Allyson finds joy in learning through her students and helping them grow with confidence and compassion. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time outdoors with friends, going to the beach, swimming, gardening, and crafting. |
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Toddler Teacher - Brooklyn Eitelbach
Brooklyn is certified by The Department of Early Education and Care to teach infants through school aged children. Brooklyn has previous experience working with children as a lead toddler and preschool teacher and has experience working with children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Brooklyn joined the Laurel School in 2023! She is a local Cape Codder and in her free time enjoys the outer beach, and spending time with her family and friends! Brooklyn is looking forward to another great school year! |
Isabel Tesson - Toddler Teacher
Isabel joined The Laurel School Family in 2023. This is her third year working at the Laurel School and started as a camp counselor in 2022. She has experience working as lead teacher in a Preschool classroom and is excited to join the Toddlers for a second year. Isabel is a Cape Cod native who in her free time, enjoys creatively writing, crafting, going on walks, and spending time with her many pets!
Isabel joined The Laurel School Family in 2023. This is her third year working at the Laurel School and started as a camp counselor in 2022. She has experience working as lead teacher in a Preschool classroom and is excited to join the Toddlers for a second year. Isabel is a Cape Cod native who in her free time, enjoys creatively writing, crafting, going on walks, and spending time with her many pets!
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Toddler Teacher - Nicole Anthony
A true Cape Codder, Nicole was born, raised and currently lives in Brewster. She attended Stonybrook Elementary School, and went on to Cape Cod Tech and Cape Cod Community College to earn her associate degree in Early Childhood Education. While at Cape Cod Tech she had the opportunity to be a student teacher at The Laurel School. She has her Lead Teacher certification for Infant, Toddler and Preschool. She also holds Director 1 and 2 certificates as well as CPR/ First Aid. Nicole is passionate about her work, she enjoys photography, boating and exploring New Hampshire. She is so excited to join the Laurel School family this school year! |
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Toddler Teacher - Yasmin DaSilva
Yasmin is currently a sophomore at Cape Cod Community College, majoring in Early Childhood Education. Yasmin is bilingual, speaking fluent Portuguese as she spent part of her childhood in Brazil before returning to Cape Cod in 2015, which she now proudly calls home! Yasmin is new to the field of teaching for just over a year, previously working as a floating teacher for toddler/ preschool-aged students. She is excited to bring joy, positivity, and support to the toddler classroom at The Laurel School! Yasmin enjoys playing tennis and taking her dog Sandy to the beach at sunset! |
Office Assistant and Elementary Afterschool Teacher - Jillian Hemeon
Jill has been with Laurel since the Summer of 2021 as a camp counselor. She is so excited to continue to be our Elementary Afterschool Teacher and office assistant. She grew up on Cape Cod and loves being close to the beach and so many beautiful nature trails where she can explore diverse wildlife and scenery. Jill has previous experience as an ABA therapist for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, interning at Harwich Elementary School while in high school, and volunteering for the Best Buddies program and special olympics. She enjoys nature, reading, crafting and growing plants in her spare time and is so excited to continue to be part of The Laurel family!
Jill has been with Laurel since the Summer of 2021 as a camp counselor. She is so excited to continue to be our Elementary Afterschool Teacher and office assistant. She grew up on Cape Cod and loves being close to the beach and so many beautiful nature trails where she can explore diverse wildlife and scenery. Jill has previous experience as an ABA therapist for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, interning at Harwich Elementary School while in high school, and volunteering for the Best Buddies program and special olympics. She enjoys nature, reading, crafting and growing plants in her spare time and is so excited to continue to be part of The Laurel family!
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Art Teacher - Brooke Kelley
Brooke is a recent graduate of University of Massachusetts Amherst. She has a bachelor's degree in Art Education. Brooke believes that the classroom is a place where all students, no matter their abilities, should have an equitable opportunity to showcase their creativity and thrive in an environment where they feel comfortable enough to take both creative and academic risks. Her main goal in the classroom is to create a therapeutic space where her students are able to expand their thinking without the fear of failure. This past year she completed her student teaching at Ware Junior Senior High School where she taught 2D art as well as ceramics. For the past 2 summers Brooke has worked at a summer camp in Concord MA as an arts and crafts coordinator for children ages 4 through 15. Before working at a summer camp she was an activities assistant for children and adults with cognitive and physical disabilities. In her free time Brooke enjoys watercolor painting and also doing any outdoors activities. She is very excited to continue to teach at The Laurel School! |
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Art Teacher - Caitlin Dailey
Caitlin truly loves working with children and seeing their creative decision making skills at work. She has taught art for the past 19 years and has been the art teacher at Orleans Elementary School since 2011. Caitlin received her BFA in sculpture from Alfred University and then earned her Masters in Art Education through the Museum School and Tufts University. Through her years of teaching, Caitlin has realized how important it is to find ways to genuinely foster and support creativity in children. Recently, she switched her teaching style from the traditional teacher led instruction to a choice based curriculum called "Teaching for Artistic Behavior, T.A.B.". The philosophy aims to get students to think like artists by valuing their choices in the artistic process. In this environment the students are self directed artists, experimenting and working in many different artistic mediums. Within this process the kids are developing wonderful skills like problem solving, taking risks and collaborating. Since switching she has noticed so many wonderful effects it has had on the children. There has been a real boost in student confidence, genuine interest in art and self-expression. Caitlin is excited to work with the Laurel School Artists this year! She can’t wait to see all of the amazing projects the students come up with! |
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Music & Drama Teacher, Paige Neal
Paige Neal is a classically trained vocalist with a diverse musical background. She has been singing and acting since the age of eight and has performed in numerous productions across Cape Cod. In addition to her performance experience, Paige has taught musical theatre, private voice, and private beginner piano lessons. Paige has been working with children since 2008 and has been singing her way through the halls of The Laurel School since 2015. She also works at the Cape Cod Theatre Company/Harwich Junior Theatre (CCTC/HJT). Paige is passionate about helping students build confidence through music and drama—skills they can carry into all areas of life. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time in Maine, gardening, and exploring the great outdoors. |
Spanish Teacher - Senora Maribel Rosel
Maribel graduated in Law and Sociology in Spain, where she was born and began her professional journey in the commercial department of a local TV station. After moving to the United States, she discovered her passion for teaching and has since become a dedicated Spanish teacher at The Laurel School. She loves working with children and finds joy in making language learning engaging and accessible.
Maribel believes that learning another language not only opens doors to new cultures but also helps students grow in confidence, adaptability, and compassion. She is passionate about creating a classroom environment where students develop their Spanish skills while also learning to appreciate and respect different perspectives.
Maribel graduated in Law and Sociology in Spain, where she was born and began her professional journey in the commercial department of a local TV station. After moving to the United States, she discovered her passion for teaching and has since become a dedicated Spanish teacher at The Laurel School. She loves working with children and finds joy in making language learning engaging and accessible.
Maribel believes that learning another language not only opens doors to new cultures but also helps students grow in confidence, adaptability, and compassion. She is passionate about creating a classroom environment where students develop their Spanish skills while also learning to appreciate and respect different perspectives.
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Yoga & Wellness Teacher - Erin Li
Born in Ohio and raised in Colorado Erin spent summers working and vacationing on the Cape with her grandparents who own a home in East Dennis. Erin graduated from The University of Northern Colorado with Bachelors degrees in Psychology and Elementary Education. She also holds a Masters degree in Literacy and Language. Erin has 13 years experience teaching preschool through grade 5. She spent 7 years teaching at International schools in China, and had her daughter Mackenzie. Erin then became a certified Yoga Instructor and earned additional certifications in Personal Training, Exercise Therapy and Exercise Nutrition. When Erin isn’t teaching Yoga and Wellness at The Laurel School she teaches adult yoga and fitness classes and works remotely with a company who creates workplace personality assessments. She also enjoys beach combing, walking her 15 year old dog Mona and exploring Cape Cod. |
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Fitness Teacher - Benjamin Sierra
Ben is from Longmeadow, MA and fell in love with the Cape while spending summers vacationing at his family’s home in Orleans. Ben received his Bachelor of Arts from Westfield State University and is a Certified Personal Trainer through the International Sports Science Association. For four years Ben worked as a Lead Teacher at MyGym Children’s Fitness Center where he helped children work on coordination, motor skills, gymnastics, and socialization. Ben enjoys being able to provide a safe, fun, and productive environment for children to improve and grow as individuals through physical activity. In his free time Ben loves going to the beach, spending time with family and friends and martial arts training. |
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Social Emotional Specialist - Jen Thomas
Jen and her family moved to Cape Cod full time five years ago, after spending summers here for almost twenty. This summer, Jen and her husband moved their family from Truro to Yarmouth Port. Prior to living here year round, she and her family lived in New York City for twenty years where she worked as a Creative Director and designer in the fashion industry. She was also very active at a macro level in school boards and progressive education as a parent in Brooklyn. She is a mom of 3 children ranging from 21 years to 8 years old. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from The Ohio State University, a Masters of Fine Art from Savannah College of Art and Design, and a Masters of Social Work, Clinical from Boston University. Jen has previously facilitated courses and workshops for children and young adults at the Wexner Center for the Arts in Columbus, OH and at Pratt University in NYC. Jen has been very active in the outer cape community promoting and fundraising for more art in education and for increased wellness policies and practices in schools and youth sports. Jen is passionate about holistic and non-traditional approaches to education, nurturing children's potential, and supporting their whole person development. Jen loves to cook and play tennis, she also loves to paint, and she loves traveling with her children. |
Substitute Teacher - Kris Goulet
Kris has been a part of The Laurel School Family for over ten years. She has been a support teacher in Toddler through Elementary classes. She has also helped in many fundraising events over the years.
Kris grew up on the Cape and graduated from Barnstable High School and has a Bachelor’s degree from Mount Saint Mary College in Hooksett, NH. She taught at Main Dunstable Elementary School in Nashua, NH for 37 years in the Third Grade. Kris raised her three daughters in Nashua, NH but since retired from teaching and moved back to the Cape to spend time with her granddaughters and family.
Kris enjoys knitting, reading, taking walks on the beach, spending time on the Vineyard and being with family and friends.
Kris has been a part of The Laurel School Family for over ten years. She has been a support teacher in Toddler through Elementary classes. She has also helped in many fundraising events over the years.
Kris grew up on the Cape and graduated from Barnstable High School and has a Bachelor’s degree from Mount Saint Mary College in Hooksett, NH. She taught at Main Dunstable Elementary School in Nashua, NH for 37 years in the Third Grade. Kris raised her three daughters in Nashua, NH but since retired from teaching and moved back to the Cape to spend time with her granddaughters and family.
Kris enjoys knitting, reading, taking walks on the beach, spending time on the Vineyard and being with family and friends.
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Substitute Teacher - Debbie O’Leary
Debbie has enjoyed her role as a substitute teacher, a position she is happy to continue! Debbie, her husband and daughter moved to Brewster in 2023. They raised their 3 daughters in Hanover, MA, vacationing on the Cape for over 20 years. Debbie holds a Bachelors and Masters degrees in Early Childhood Education from Lesley College and Tufts University. She has taught Preschool, Kindergarten and First grade over the years. Debbie enjoys reading, the beach, walks and biking the rail trail, as well as the ponds on paddleboard or kayak. |
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Substitute Teacher - Rose Bertucci
New to the substitute list this year is Rose Bertucci. Rose retired in 2018 after 34 years of service as a Spanish teacher and administrator in the Natick Public school system. Rose holds a bachelor's degree in Spanish from the University of Massachusetts, Boston and a masters degree in administration from Suffolk University. After a few years of retirement, Rose is now looking forward to returning to the workforce and working with students. In her spare time, Rose enjoys golfing, biking, and spending time with her family and friends. |
"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
Sarah Piebes, Board of Trustees President
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.
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Sarah Smith, Board Member
Sarah grew up in Eastham and has been a Cape Cod resident nearly her entire life. She graduated from Nauset Regional High School and earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Springfield College. Sarah has a nineteen-year career as a municipal employee. While working for a local municipality, she served as the President of the United Steelworkers Clerical & Technical Union and negotiated many successful contracts and helped resolve other conflicts. Sarah also keeps busy with her side gig with Pure Haven, helping people live a more toxin free life. Sarah loves giving back to the town where she grew up and has been integral in planning and executing Eastham Windmill Weekend for the past four years. Sarah lives in Brewster with her dog Cooper. For hobbies, Sarah enjoys traveling, gardening, cooking and baking! |
Joan Greene - Board Member
Joan is a native of New Jersey, but moved to New England when her husband, Richard, was transferred, by Merrill Lynch, to the Boston office. They moved to the Cape 40 years ago, and permanently retired there a few years ago. Joan was a special needs teacher and worked for twelve years in the Sudbury School System. She originated a special program for children who needed additional help in reading and math. The children were gradually mainstreamed into regular classrooms with the help of a team of physical therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, an art teacher and a gym teacher. She is a graduate of Cedar Crest College in Pennsylvania and Curry College where she earned a Masters in Education. Prior to becoming a teacher, she worked for several years for McGraw Hill Publishing in New York City as an Executive Secretary.
Joan was trustee at Cedar Crest College for several years, and a trustee at Boston College in the Irish Studies Department. Joan is currently a trustee of the Eldredge Public Library in Chatham, and an active volunteer with WE CAN as a head of the speakers committee for their annual W3 event. She sings in the choir of St. Christopher's Church and works in their Gift Shop and Food Pantry.
Joan and her husband Dick have four children and eleven grandchildren. She also belongs to six book groups.
Joan is a native of New Jersey, but moved to New England when her husband, Richard, was transferred, by Merrill Lynch, to the Boston office. They moved to the Cape 40 years ago, and permanently retired there a few years ago. Joan was a special needs teacher and worked for twelve years in the Sudbury School System. She originated a special program for children who needed additional help in reading and math. The children were gradually mainstreamed into regular classrooms with the help of a team of physical therapists, speech therapists, occupational therapists, an art teacher and a gym teacher. She is a graduate of Cedar Crest College in Pennsylvania and Curry College where she earned a Masters in Education. Prior to becoming a teacher, she worked for several years for McGraw Hill Publishing in New York City as an Executive Secretary.
Joan was trustee at Cedar Crest College for several years, and a trustee at Boston College in the Irish Studies Department. Joan is currently a trustee of the Eldredge Public Library in Chatham, and an active volunteer with WE CAN as a head of the speakers committee for their annual W3 event. She sings in the choir of St. Christopher's Church and works in their Gift Shop and Food Pantry.
Joan and her husband Dick have four children and eleven grandchildren. She also belongs to six book groups.
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Adam Sloane - Board Member
Adam Sloane is an associate attorney with the Cape Cod firm Carter DeYoung, joining the firm in July 2020, when he moved to Plymouth, MA. Adam graduated cum laude from Berklee College of Music, where he studied piano performance and music business. After a couple years of playing gigs in and around the New York area to live out his rock star dreams, Adam decided to go to law school to learn entertainment law. Adam quickly found that entertainment law was less interesting than he had imagined, but that he excelled at trial advocacy and litigation, so he focused his studies on those areas. Adam graduated from St. John’s University School of Law in 2010, where he was a member of the Frank S. Polestino Trial Advocacy Institute, and received the CALI Award for outstanding performance in trial advocacy. While at St. John’s University Adam worked for the Hon. Michael Stallman in the New York Supreme Court Civil Part where he conducted research, drafted decisions and memoranda, and gained invaluable experience in the practice of civil litigation. Adam then moved his attentions to criminal law, working for the Honorable Lewis Bart Stone in the New York Supreme Court Criminal Part, where he learned the inner workings of the criminal court system, conducted research, wrote memoranda and decisions, and assisted the Judge in conducting multiple criminal trials. Immediately after law school, Adam found himself with an opportunity to be a consultant for specialty food manufacturers with the consulting firm Compass Rose, and to be involved with a start-up brand of potato chips called Fat Boyz chips. After spending several years in the business realm as a consultant and entrepreneur, Adam decided the best use of his talents and skills were in the courtroom, and since 2016 he has successfully represented a multitude of people in their family law, criminal, and civil litigation matters. Adam has been active in every community in which he has lived. While in New York, Adam volunteered at the Salvation Army, teaching piano and music lessons to disadvantaged children. In Boston and here on Cape Cod Adam was active in the Big Brothers Big Sisters of America Program. Adam will also soon be serving the community as a Bar Advocate Attorney for indigent criminal defendants, and has served as the Lawyer-of-the-Day helping people in need with their family law issues. |
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Eryn Montgomery - Board Member
Eryn first became a part of The Laurel School community when her daughter was a preschool student and then later when she re-joined as an elementary student. The Laurel School will forever hold a special place in her family’s heart having provided a loving and enriching school experience. Eryn holds a masters degree in education from the University of Maine and a bachelor of arts in sociology from Merrimack College. Eryn previously worked in higher education at the University of Maine, Mount Wachusett Community College and Hampshire College, before returning to the Cape and joining forces with her father at The Montgomery Financial Group where she now provides small business services to local business owners. Eryn lives in Brewster with her wife, Amy, two children, Eli and Willow, and three rescue dogs. She loves camping, the beach, and collecting sea glass. |
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Reagan Wilda - Board Member
Reagan was born and raised in Harwich on Cape Cod. She attended college in Western Massachusetts where she also worked in the aquaculture industry and was introduced to sustainable farming. Even though Reagan obtained an associates degree in Liberal Arts, and a Certificate in Early Childhood Education, because of her interest and background in sustainable farming, she continued to work in aquaculture through the years. Currently, Reagan and her husband own a Fish Hatchery in West Barnstable where they raise trout and produce an all natural soil conditioner for lawns and gardens that is produced from our fish byproduct. She has a 19 year old step daughter who attends UMass Dartmouth and 11 year old identical twin daughters who attended The Laurel School in 2022 for their fifth grade year. In Reagan's spare time, she loves playing tennis, going camping and spending as much time on the beach as possible any time of year. |
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