Fifth Grade & Innovation Lab (grades 3 through 5) – Nicole Thompson

With more than 20 years of elementary teaching experience, Nicole Thompson has helped students grow as confident, capable learners in both independent and public school settings. She will serve as an additional fifth grade teacher and will also lead grades 3–5 in Innovation Lab. Most recently, Nicole taught fifth grade English Language Arts and Social Studies, using student data to guide instruction and support growth. She has also mentored new teachers, led collaborative grade-level teams, and developed professional learning opportunities focused on student-led conferencing and effective classroom strategies. Nicole holds a Master’s in Elementary Education from the University of Florida.

Learning Specialist – Jessica Crafts

Jessica Crafts has dedicated more than 20 years to supporting students, teachers, and families across elementary and middle grades. As part of our Learning Specialists team, Jessica brings deep experience in differentiated instruction, intervention, instructional coaching, and exceptional student education. Most recently, she helped develop and grow a supplemental academic support program at Christ’s Church Academy, providing targeted support in mathematics and literacy. Jessica holds a Master of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education from Canisius University and is currently pursuing a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Florida Gulf Coast University.

Dance & PE – Emma Theus

Emma Theus will bring energy, creativity, and a lifelong love of dance to our Dance and PE program. A graduate of the University of Florida, Emma was a member of the Florida Dazzlers dance team and represented the university at athletic and community events. She has taught at Linda Dobbins Dance, where she trained students in ballet, jazz, contemporary, lyrical, hip-hop, and musical theatre. Emma also created and implemented a preschool dance program for children ages 2–4, helping young dancers build confidence, coordination, and a love of movement.