THE TEAM

head of school

Shakina Hinton

Head of School

Director of operations

Hyrjana Dibra

Director of Operations

operations

Stacy Chavez

Assistant Director of Operations

Natalie Claudio

Operations Associate

Nicole Mena

Operations Associate

deans

Dasmin Croft

Dean of ELA
dcroft@emblazeacademy.org

Michael McCray

Dean of Math

Peta Gaye Morrison

Dean of Science
pmorrison@emblazeacademy.org

Brittany Watson

Dean of School Culture

Toni Vails

Dean of School Culture

Counselors

Shauniece Turner

School Counselor
sturner@emblazeacademy.org

Caryn Rhodes

School Counselor
crhodes@emblazeacademy.org

coordinators & specialists

Eric Shellhase

ENL & Phonics Coordinator
eshellhase@emblazeacademy.org

Braden Waller

Intervention & Guided Reading Coordinator
bwaller@emblazeacademy.org

Kashean Alston

STEM Specialist
Kalston@emblazeacademy.org

5th grade team

Jaron Williams

5th Grade Math & ELA
jwilliams@emblazeacademy.org

Jhatia Clemons

7th Grade History

6th grade team

Autumn Letson

6th Grade ELA
aletson@emblazeacademy.org

Angelica Almanzar

6th Grade Math

Priscella Castillo

5th & 6th Grade Science

Kiara Simmons

6th Grade History

7th grade team

Oma Seepersaud

7th Grade Science
oseepersaud@emblazeacademy.org

Michael Sherman

7th Grade Math

Stephanie Ramirez

7th Grade ELA

Donald Hayes Jr.

7th Grade History

8th grade team

Viviana Budhu

8th Grade History
vbudhu@emblazeacademy.org

Tiffany Thomas

8th Grade ELA

Akeelah Blenman

8th Grade Science

Keon Martin

8th Grade Math

enrichment

D’Andre McPhatter

Enrichment Teacher

Simuel Stevenson

Enrichment

Regine Simmons

Enrichment
Rsimmons@emblazeacademy.org

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Shakina Hinton

Head of School

Shakina Hinton was born and raised in the Bronx. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Lehman College and is currently attending Relay Graduate school to obtain her Master’s Degree in Education. Ms. Hinton is and has always been extremely passionate about the education, growth, empowerment, and success of our youth. She has dedicated her life to working with children and young adults and has been doing so since the age of 16. What drives Ms. Hinton is seeing the smiles and bright faces of the children and young adults she meets. The areas we serve deserve love and light and Ms. Hinton feels she will bring just that! She is a friendly face, a warm heart, an energetic soul, and anything else our students need to thrive and succeed.

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Hyrjana Dibra

Director of Operations

Hyrjana Dibra serves as the Director of Operations at Emblaze Academy Charter School, where she brings a systems-driven mindset and a deep commitment to creating structured, supportive environments for students and staff alike. Originally from Albania, Hyrjana moved to the Bronx at 17 and launched her educational career a decade ago at Lehman College, where she earned a degree in Biology. During her time there, she co-founded and led the BxCHL pre-health program, a pre-med initiative dedicated to providing underrepresented college students with exposure to healthcare careers along with essential academic and social-emotional support.

Her path has taken her from education to policy; while working with the New York State Assembly, she gained valuable insights into the mission of charter schools and the unique challenges and opportunities within New York’s educational landscape. Guided by her passion for creating strong, impactful systems, Hyrjana transitioned into teaching science at various charter schools, where she worked to inspire and prepare students for science-related careers, often within schools facing significant resource constraints.

In 2018, Hyrjana joined Emblaze Academy as a 5th-grade science teacher. Here, she focused on establishing a science department that not only equipped students for rigorous high school science courses but also engaged them in meaningful, hands-on projects. Over the years, she expanded the curriculum and built a science program that was both challenging and deeply engaging.

Now as Director of Operations, Hyrjana applies her enthusiasm for systems-building and structured processes across all facets of the school’s operations. Her goal is to establish a well-organized, effective foundation for the organization, ensuring a healthy school environment that supports not only academic rigor but also the well-being of both students and staff. By building efficient systems and structured processes, she aims to create a school culture that promotes equitable opportunities, fosters a positive and safe atmosphere, and prioritizes both the academic and social-emotional development of the entire Emblaze community.

Ms. Dibra can be reached at hdibra@emblazeacademy.org

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Stacy Chavez

Operations Manager

Stacy Chavez was born in Ecuador but raised in The Bronx on the south side part. She graduated from Monroe College with a Criminal Justice Degree. Although she was able to obtain two degrees in Criminal Justice, she grew a passion within the education system. She began her now eight-year journey within the education system as an educational after-school tutor. Ms. Chavez’s experience from an educational tutor grew and she became an Arts and Crafts Coordinator, High School Lead teacher, High School after-school Coordinator, Elementary and Middle school site director, Data Specialist and middle school Assistant director. Although she enjoyed her time working in the after-school department, she is beyond excited to enter a new journey working in a Charter School. Ms. Chavez enjoys communication and the success of students. She looks forward to meeting new faces and growing a professional relationship with parents.

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Natalie Claudio

Office Manager

Ms. Claudio was born in New Jersey but spent most of her childhood in the Bronx. Four years ago, she moved her family back to
NYC. Though it has its challenges, she is proud of her large, blended family as each of her babies (6 children – from ages 7-18) bring life and love to each day. Ms Claudio has an Associates Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing Management.

Professionally, Ms. Claudio has worked for many years as an Administrative Assistant for non-profits, many corporate agencies and was a recreational therapist at multiple long term care communities. While in New Jersey, Ms. Claudio became an active volunteer with Parents Engaging Parents whose mission is to promote civic awareness & proactive community advocacy based on the interests of the parents and community leaders.

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Michael McCray

Director of Math

Michael McCray was born, and raised in the Soundview section of the South Bronx. As a child he loved playing sports, especially basketball, and he still enjoys playing sports as an adult. Mr. McCray was an excellent student in elementary, middle, and high school, but struggled with Math in high school due to its lack of relevance to what he thought his adult life would entail. After excelling in collegiate Math classes containing real-world applications and unexpectedly finding joy in a part-time tutoring job he procured, Mr. McCray became interested in teaching because he was confident in his ability to help youth attain favorable grades in Math by making the subject matter relevant to them. Mr. McCray is a current graduate student at Concordia College seeking a Master's Degree in Childhood General and Special Education. He has worked with youth in a multitude of capacities throughout the past ten years including teaching, tutoring, coaching, and advising. He taught Middle School Math for two years in Harlem, and effectively tutored countless Kindergarten through eighth grade students in ELA and Math. Mr. McCray coached youth sports in Dobbs Ferry, the South Bronx, and Harlem. Each experience provided him with an understanding of the unique advantages, and challenges of the students he assisted. As a student advisor at a middle school, Mr. McCray managed a caseload of thirty students residing in, and around the Hunts Point area of the South Bronx who needed assistance improving their attendance, academics, social skills, and family challenges. Mr. McCray has a passion for empowering youth through education, and is cognizant of the abundant vital factors outside of the classroom which impact learning inside the classroom. He believes exposure to new, and dissimilar things, places, people, and ideas are paramount to the success of our youth as they allow them to attain critical social skills that will aid them as they mature. Mr. McCray loves to travel, and acquire new information. He tries not to let his fears prevent him from improving his weaknesses, and creating lasting memories. That was never more evident than when he went skydiving a few years ago. It was the most unnerving, liberating, breathtaking, and astonishing experience of his life. He believes life is all about exposure to new experiences, and the most rewarding experiences are often on the opposite side of fear's door.

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Dasmin Croft

Director of ELA dcroft@emblazeacademy.org

Introducing Dasmin Croft, the dedicated Director of the English Language Arts (ELA) Department at Emblaze. Ms.Croft embarked on her educational journey as a Teaching Assistant in a charter school, where the pressing need for change and the necessity for compassionate educators became evident. This realization propelled her into higher education, culminating in three degrees – one in Child Psychology and two in Education. With a career spanning 14 years, Ms.Croft has worked in many capacities as an educator from Early Childhood to Middle School education, ultimately assuming the leadership role as the ELA Department Director. Firm in the belief that every student, regardless of their socioeconomic status, deserves a qualitative educational experience, Ms.Croft is dedicated to fostering a love for learning and ensuring that educators understand the profound importance of caring for their students. Beyond her educational pursuits, Ms.Croft is a connoisseur of interior design and organization, finding joy in creating harmonious spaces. When not immersed in educational leadership, she can be found in the bleachers, enthusiastically attending her son's basketball games. It's in these moments that Ms.Croft cherishes watching her son chase his dreams on the court.One interesting fact about Ms.Croft is her great depth of knowledge across all subject areas. In a noteworthy twist, she even majored in mathematics for a short time as part of a dual program in education. This diverse background not only enriches her leadership but also showcases her dedication to a well-rounded education for every student at Emblaze! Should you ever need to contact Ms.Croft, she can be reached at dcroft@emblazeacademy.org.

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Michael McCray

Director of Math

Michael McCray was born, and raised in the Soundview section of the South Bronx. As a child he loved playing sports, especially basketball, and he still enjoys playing sports as an adult. Mr. McCray was an excellent student in elementary, middle, and high school, but struggled with Math in high school due to its lack of relevance to what he thought his adult life would entail. After excelling in collegiate Math classes containing real-world applications and unexpectedly finding joy in a part-time tutoring job he procured, Mr. McCray became interested in teaching because he was confident in his ability to help youth attain favorable grades in Math by making the subject matter relevant to them. Mr. McCray is a current graduate student at Concordia College seeking a Master's Degree in Childhood General and Special Education. He has worked with youth in a multitude of capacities throughout the past ten years including teaching, tutoring, coaching, and advising. He taught Middle School Math for two years in Harlem, and effectively tutored countless Kindergarten through eighth grade students in ELA and Math. Mr. McCray coached youth sports in Dobbs Ferry, the South Bronx, and Harlem. Each experience provided him with an understanding of the unique advantages, and challenges of the students he assisted. As a student advisor at a middle school, Mr. McCray managed a caseload of thirty students residing in, and around the Hunts Point area of the South Bronx who needed assistance improving their attendance, academics, social skills, and family challenges. Mr. McCray has a passion for empowering youth through education, and is cognizant of the abundant vital factors outside of the classroom which impact learning inside the classroom. He believes exposure to new, and dissimilar things, places, people, and ideas are paramount to the success of our youth as they allow them to attain critical social skills that will aid them as they mature. Mr. McCray loves to travel, and acquire new information. He tries not to let his fears prevent him from improving his weaknesses, and creating lasting memories. That was never more evident than when he went skydiving a few years ago. It was the most unnerving, liberating, breathtaking, and astonishing experience of his life. He believes life is all about exposure to new experiences, and the most rewarding experiences are often on the opposite side of fear's door.

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Peta Gaye Morrison

8th Grade Science pmorrison@emblazeacademy.org

Petagaye Morrison was born on the beautiful island of Jamaica. She came to the United States at the age of 15 years old with little to zero purpose in continuing her education. As time progressed, she knew that her purpose lies within the Education Department. She is the second person in her family to graduate from a high school and the first person to graduate from a College or University with both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree. Due to her up-bringing, she believes that the ultimate requirements that all children need to succeed in life are someone who cares for them and the belief that their life matters too — As that was what she desired during her youth. She currently walks in two directing roles with the sole purpose in becoming the appointed leader of the Education Department of any State. In addition, she aims to pursue her Doctor of Education degree in the year 2024.

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Brittany Watson

Dean of School Culture

Brittany Watson was born and raised in the Bronx, and has been a valued member of Emblaze Academy since 2019. She initially served as an English Language Arts (ELA) 5th grade teacher and instructional coach, but after many years of inspiring students in the classroom and fostering a love for reading and writing, she transitioned into the role of Dean of School Culture.

With a passion for both academic excellence and student development, Ms. Watson brings a deep understanding of curriculum and classroom dynamics to her leadership role. In addition to her background in ELA, she is committed to promoting a positive school culture, supporting faculty, and ensuring the success of every student.

Ms. Watson holds a Bachelor's Degree in English with a minor in professional communications from Lehman College and a Master's in Middle School English Language Arts from Relay Graduate School of Education. She continues to be an advocate for literacy and lifelong learning in her new capacity as dean. She is also heavily committed to promoting excellence, equity, and community within the school.

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Toni Vails

Assistant Dean of School Culture

Tony Vails is an educator, coach, and human service professional. In his current role as the Assistant Dean of Student Culture he has been committed to increasing student retention support, building collaboration between members of the school community, and creating safe, inclusive, and equitable learning environments for students. Previously, Tony served as a Case Manager, working with young people who are system involved. He fostered workshops and trainings to help with life skills, provided counseling, and encouraged learning to some of New York City’s most vulnerable youth. Tony is especially passionate about working with marginalized populations and finding creating solutions to address issues that impact the life trajectories of his students, colleagues, and community members. His ability to think outside the box, has led him to be successful in engaging with students and families, meeting deliverables, and improving outcomes.

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Shauniece Turner

Director of School Culture

sturner@emblazeacademy.org

Shauniece Turner, a passionate and dedicated professional with a heart for making a positive impact. Born and raised in Harlem and the Bronx, Shauniece brings a unique perspective to her work. Shauniece holds a bachelor's degree in human development & Family Studies from The Pennsylvania State University, and she furthered her education by earning a master's degree in social work from Hunter College. With a solid foundation in social services and child welfare, Shauniece has spent 4 ½ years making a difference in the lives of others. Driven by her aspiration to work in a school setting, Shauniece now serves as the Director of School Culture at Emblaze Academy. Her primary goal is to be a support system for students, providing the guidance and care that she wished she had growing up. Shauniece lives by the mantra, "Life is tough, but so are you." This quote serves as a constant reminder to persevere and find the light at the end of every challenge. She strongly believes in the importance of self-care, recognizing that one must fill their own cup before pouring into others. Outside of her professional endeavors, Shauniece is a self-proclaimed foodie, always on the lookout for new restaurant experiences. She enjoys exploring restaurants and trying different cuisines. When it comes to entertainment, Shauniece has a penchant for suspense and horror movies, even if she watches them alone. In the spirit of lightheartedness, here's a fun fact: Shauniece cannot swim! So, while she may not be the one to save you from drowning, she's always ready to lend a helping hand in other ways. Shauniece Turner is a remarkable individual, dedicated to making a difference and bringing positivity to the lives of those around her.

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Caryn Rhodes

School Counselor crhodes@emblazeacademy.org

Caryn Rhodes is a NYS Certified School Counselor and educator. She was born in Charlotte, NC and raised in Brooklyn, NY. Caryn was raised by her mother, father, two older brothers, and big sister. Growing up she learned the importance of perseverance and curiosity as it related to education. Caryn’s desire to teach children comes from observing her patient mother, who spent countless nights with her doing homework, and her teachers who helped her along the way. Her philosophy of education can be summarized with the following quote: "Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think." Caryn places a high value on teaching students that every choice has a consequence (be it positive or negative !). She also bases her interactions with students on one of the most important lessons she has learned in her own personal development: at all times, we have the power to be who we want to be and live the life we genuinely want to live. Caryn's hobbies include: spiritual development activities such as reading, coloring, going into nature, taking courses, dancing, and working out. Caryn completed her Bachelor of Science Degree in Religious Education at Oakwood University- a Historically Black University located in Huntsville, AL. She currently holds a Master of Education Degree in School Counseling from Southern Arkansas University. She also received training in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University. Caryn Rhodes can be reach via email @ crhodes@emblazeacademy.org.

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Eric Shellhase

6th Grade ELA & School Phonics eshellhase@emblazeacademy.org

Mr. Shellhase completed a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature at Temple University, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he and his family are originally from. At Temple, he studied abroad for a semester in Tokyo, Japan, where he developed a taste for sushi and ramen, as well as a love for languages! During his senior year at Temple, he volunteered at a literacy center in Philly, where he discovered a life-long passion for education. After moving to NYC, he completed a Master of Arts in English Education at Teachers College, Columbia University. He has been teaching for 16 years. This is Mr. Shellhase’s 3rd year at Emblaze, where his primary role is English as a New Language Manager. He teaches ESL classes where students develop their communication skills to effectively listen, speak, read, and write in English. Last year, he helped begin a new Phonics program, where students learn the patterns of English spelling to read and write with greater accuracy. He is also a co-teacher, assisting Ms. Watson with her 5th Grade English Language Arts class. When teaching the English language, he believes in a communicative approach. Grammar is important, but clarity in speaking and writing is essential for all academic pursuits. In his free time he likes to travel, make art, and listen to audiobooks with his wife. He can be reached at eshellhase@emblazeacademy.org.

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Braden Waller

ELA SETSS bwaller@emblazeacademy.org

Braden Waller has been teaching at Emblaze since the 20/21 school year! After receiving his Bachelors in Secondary Education - English at Arizona State University in 2016, he moved to Utah to teach small group Reading & Writing. In 2018, he moved to Beijing, China to teach English for The Walt Disney Company, before moving to New York in 2020 to work at Emblaze! Literature and reading is his passion, in and out of the classroom, and is honored to be able the first official Librarian at Emblaze Academy. He can be reached at bwaller@emblazeacademy.org

Kashen Alston

Kashean Alston

STEM Specialist
Kalston@emblazeacademy.org

Kashean Alston received his Bachelor’s Degree in business administration from College of St. Joseph. Mr. Alston is a S.T.E.M Specialist for Emblaze Academy Charter School. Mr. Alston currently teach mathematics and science for the 5th and 6th grade. Mr. Alston role is responsible for working with middle school students in assisting with STEM-related curriculum initiatives, programs, and projects. Mr. Alston believe students construct knowledge through experiences, and his role is to facilitate a learning environment where students can gain rich experiences. Mr. Alston is a Brooklyn native. After graduating from college Mr. Alston received an opportunity to play professional basketball in Gorizia, Italy. Mr. Alston currently help run an organization called “MOGUL Foundation”, which stands for “men of good understanding leadership”. Mr. Alston hobbies are exercising, playing and watching sports, bowling, watching podcast and documentary, traveling, going out to eat, and reading. Mr. Alston enjoys inspiring and guiding the younger generation towards a right path.

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Jaron Williams

7th Grade Enrichment jwilliams@emblazeacademy.org

Jaron Williams currently serves as an enrichment teacher at Emblaze Academy Charter School. He joined the Emblaze family in 2022, and has enjoyed the opportunity to explore healthy lifestyle habits and the importance of physical education. Mr. Williams fosters a learning environment that is stimulating, challenging and relatable to his students. Mr. Williams earned a Bachelor of Science degree in exercise science from York College/CUNY. He was also a successful student athlete; Mr. Williams participated in collegiate basketball and track & field, accomplishing All-Star status in both sports. He was also a part of the 2014-2015 CUNY Basketball Championship winning team. Before joining Emblaze, Mr. Williams began his journey in education teaching for the Newburgh Enlarged City School District. He also served as a fitness specialist for Harlem Children’s Zone. In his free time, Mr. Williams enjoys exercise, traveling and spending time with his family.

Jhatia Clemons

Jhatia Clemons

6th Grade Literature

With over 8 years of experience in education, I have taught a diverse range of grades from first to fifth. My expertise spans subjects including English Language Arts, Math, Science, and History. Additionally, I've led specialties such as Physical Education, Yoga, and directed the school's musical elective for two years. I also co-founded and directed the school chorus, nurturing a passion for music among students. Beyond the classroom, I enjoy reading, exploring new cuisines, traveling, watching movies, and spending quality time with my family, friends, and my dog Zola.

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Autumn Letson

8th Grade ELA aletson@emblazeacademy.org

Ms. Letson is a passionate and dedicated educator with four years of experience in Secondary Education ELA. Their commitment to fostering an engaging and inclusive learning environment is evident in their teaching philosophy. They strive to empower students to not only grasp the subject matter but also to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Their educational journey includes majoring in Secondary Education, which has equipped them with a deep understanding of English Language Arts. Ms. Letson graduated from The University of Alabama They are known for their innovative ways to promote student engagement, which has positively impacted students and peers alike. Ms. Letson is committed to her students and providing them with the skills and strategies needed to be successful in ELA. Outside the classroom, Ms. Letson enjoys reading, talking to her family, and making people laugh, finding inspiration and creativity that often influences their teaching approach. Ms. Letson aletson@emblazeacademy.org

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Angelica Almanzar

5th/ 6th Grade Math

My name is Angelica Almanzar I was born and raised in a small town in the Dominican Republic. As a child my favorite game was to pretend to be a teacher. I used to tutor many of my friends as well as my family members. At first I wasn't sure If I wanted to become a teacher because I was a shy girl growing up. I became interested in teaching because I wanted to contribute to my community in a meaningful way. I can encourage children to dream. I can inspire kids to think beyond their comfort zones and challenges them to reach their fullest potential.

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Kiara Simmons

6th Grade History Teacher
Ksimmons@emblazeacademy.org

Kiara Simmons has been teaching at Emblaze since the 22/23 school year! Since graduating with Honors from Monroe University, Kiara continues to grow her passion for Education and Teaching while working with Emblaze scholars in small groups and within the Special Education department. She strives to share her love for reading with her students in all she does. Before working at Emblaze, Kiara worked in various school settings as a Teaching Assistant working with students with special needs. She loves spending time with friends, family, and her dog, Terror. She can be reached via E-mail at Ksimmons@emblazeacademy.org

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Oma Seepersaud

5th/6th Grade Science
oseepersaud@emblazeacademy.org

Hello everyone, my name is Ms. Seepersaud and I am currently the 5th and 6th grade Science teacher. I have a master's degree in education. I always wanted to be a teacher and I am so glad I was able to pursue in those dreams. I enjoy teaching younger scholars and giving them the best education out there! My approach to learning and education is having an educational approach that aims to customize learning for each student's strengths, needs, skills, and interests. Each student gets a learning plan that's based on what they know and how they learn best. Some things I enjoy doing are spending time with my family and going on vacations. If you ever need to contact, my email is oseepersaud@emblazeacademy.org

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Michael Sherman

7th Grade Math

Stephanie Ramirez

Stephanie Ramirez

ELA

Hi My name is Ms.Ramirez and I teach ELA.

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Viviana Budhu

5th/6th Grade History

vbudhu@emblazeacademy.org

Viviana Budhu graduated from the College of Mount Saint Vincent with a BA in Psychology and from Mercy College with a MS in Childhood Education (Grades 1-6). Ms. Budhu has been at Emblaze Academy for four years thus far and has previously taught Universal Pre-K before her journey at Emblaze. Ms. Budhu is currently Emblaze's 5th and 6th Grade History teacher. She is extremely passionate about differentiation and creating curriculums to target students as an individual rather than as a whole. On her time off, Ms. Budhu enjoys traveling and spending time with her loved ones. Her contact information is vbudhu@emblazeacademy.org

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Simuel Stevenson

5th/6th Grade Enrichment

I’m a fun person with a great personality very hard working

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Regine Simmons

7th Grade Science Rsimmons@emblazeacademy.org

Regine Simmons is currently the 8th grade History and Guided Reading teacher at Emblaze Academy. Her approach to teaching would be describe as engaging, interactive, and student centered. Ms. Simmons passion for teaching can be described as unwavering enthusiasm and love for helping students learn and grow academically and socially. It's like burning fire that fuels their dedication and commitment to education. Ms. Simmons favorite color is pink, and she loves R and B music. On her free time, she likes to hang out with her two kids, Kevin and DeShawn, she also likes to hang out with her friends and family, watch TV and sleep. Ms. Simmons loves working at Emblaze Academy and her dedication never goes unnoticed. Email: Rsimmons@emblazeacademy.org Number: 7189082087