Meet The Administration

Executive Director of Operations
Sandy Howard
Mrs. Howard has spent over 25 years in education and public policy-having served on numerous SAC, PTO, and Booster organizations as well as having led the charge on multiple charter start-ups. Recognized for her expertise in education, she was appointed to the IRSC Board of Trustees in 2014 by then Governor Scott, where she served for over 7 years until stepping down as Chairman of the Board in 2022 to focus on the expansion of ICA. Mrs. Howard has obtained a bachelor's degree in Public Administration and is focused on completing her final courses to obtain her dual master's (Masters of Public Administration and a Licensed Law Master's in Education Law). As Founder and Executive Director, she mentors the administration and leadership to ensure the mission and vision of the school is strictly adhered to. She handles grants, fundraising, facilities, contract negotiations, enrollment, marketing, and oversees the future growth of the academy. She and her husband have six children between them, and both are native Floridians and avid outdoor enthusiasts who love hunting, fishing, & boating.

Dean of Students
Jessica Chancey
Jessica Chancey has been with ICA since we opened our doors in 2020. She is married with four children, one of which graduated from ICA in 2022 and another currently enrolled in 5th grade. She is an active wife and mother who has made a life in education. She has worked almost every non-instructional position in a school setting and has experience in private, public, and charter schools. With her amazing ability to multitask, her familiarity with our families from the 2.5 years managing the front office, and her relationships within our community, she is the perfect candidate for a Dean of Students. Mrs. Chancey has such a heart for children, the Ag community, and a strong foundation in education, she knew immediately upon considering her own children's enrollment, that ICA would also be the perfect home for her as well. Dean Chancey also volunteers with the Game Day club for 3rd-5th grade after school. We welcome Dean Chancey to the Administration team at ICA.
Administrative Support Staff

Accounts Payable & Receivable/HR Liaison
Kelly Green
Ms. Green serves ICA as our accounts payable & receivables representative & HR liaison. Additionally, she oversees the day-to-day facility needs until a Facilities Director can be brought on board. Ms. Green came to ICA upon our opening in 2020 and has a vast amount of experience in construction, accounts payable, and business management. She is technically sound and serves our academy well working with vendors, keeping records, and overseeing the master ICA administrative calendar. Ms. Green has two older sons as well as a middle school daughter in attendance at ICA and is very excited about the future of ICA.

Registrar/Data Specialist
Fran Levy
Mrs. Levy serves us as the data specialist/registrar, working under the guidance of the school principal for student count and state reporting, and alongside the Executive Director ensuring all seats are filled according to policy and managing the school registration system. Mrs. Levy has many years of office management and customer service experience, as well as a long-standing history of service dealing with the day-to-day school activities such as overseeing uniform sales, field trips, and general student services.
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Executive Assistant
Kacey Predix
Kacey Predix, who has been with ICA since its inception has moved to the position of Executive Assistant. Mrs. Predix, a married mother of three with two students at ICA and one coming up in the ranks, was the perfect choice for this role with her organizational skills and understanding of the Academy. She will assist with the scheduling and travel of the Executive Director and Board of Directors, as well as all tasks related to marketing, fundraising, expansion, enrollment, and facilities as we grow and expand the academy. The Executive Office is extremely busy with expansion projects and this position will assist with the seamless transition from one campus of 400 students to five campuses with over 3,000 students.

Attendance Clerk
Irma Garcia
Mrs. Garcia is a married mother of two and serves as the clinician and attendance clerk. As such, she will be serving all students with medicine, band-aids, ice, and general needs related to any and all illness/injury. Mrs. Garcia will be the primary point of contact for the notes from home regarding all attendance issues (absences/tardies/sign-outs) at the academy. She has been volunteering since we opened in 2020 with a Kindergarten student and preschooler, has served in multiple positions on our campus clubs and committees, and has been a substitute teacher! As her youngest begins Kindergarten this year, she is coming on board to be a part of our school family in a formal capacity, speaks fluent Spanish and English, and can be found with a smile and helping hand at all times.

School Resource Deputy
Victoria Pianelli
Deputy Pianelli is a Florida native who has been in Law Enforcement for 5 years. She has her Associates Degree in Criminal Justice and is continuing her education by working towards her Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration. Deputy Pianelli has received multiple accolades during her time as a Law Enforcement Officer and is very passionate about her role within the community. She is eager to begin her second school year with ICA and continue building relationships with students. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her two children, family, and friends.
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School Secretary
Nicole Vazquez
Nicole Vazquez comes to ICA with strong organizational skills and a background in the private sector, most recently in educational sales. Being married to a firefighter, Nicole has found a home for her son, currently in 2nd grade, at a school that respects her strong family values and promotes a deep regard and respect for our first responders. She is now managing our front office where she greets everyone with the utmost professionalism and a smile each day.

Student Life/Communications Liaison
Brooke Holcomb
Brooke Holcomb serves ICA as our new Student Life & Communications Liaison, where she manages internal and external communications, promotes campus activities and community events, manages our student dismissal system, and ensures all of the technological and communications needs of our faculty and staff are met. Mrs. Holcomb is married and a busy farm mom to countless animals at Wyco Ranch in western Fort Pierce, but also to one of our precious 1st graders at ICA She is actively engaged in our Ag Club and seeks to see the program expand as we grow our academy. She oversees our class mom program, and runs Coastal Hope, a non-profit organization that benefits the less fortunate in our community. Mrs. Holcomb will also serve as the parent Liaison for our Board. We welcome Mrs. Holcomb to the ICA family.
ESE Department

ESE Specialist
Danny Mullins
Mr. Mullins has a master's degree in Educational Leadership. He also has a business administration degree from the University of Central Florida. He has been in education for over 27 years and believes that every child can learn given the right tools for success. Mr. Mullins enjoys traveling, golfing and working out.

ESE Paraprofessional
Michelle O'Keefe
Mrs. O’Keefe is a retired teacher. She taught first grade for ten years and kindergarten for twenty two years. She is passionate about instilling a love
for learning. Mrs. O’Keefe is a native Floridian who loves to spend time at the beach, boating and fishing. She loves her family, friends and FSU.

Academic Interventionist
Erica Folsom
Ms.Folsom has served students of the preschool developmental age for over nine years with her Child Care Professional Certificate. Ms. Folsom is currently studying to receive her Bachelors in Special Education. She is passionate about creating an environment designed to help students flourish and succeed to their highest potential. As a native to Florida, Ms. Folsom enjoys going out mudding, camping, shooting, gardening, and reading in her spare time.
Kindergarten Team

Kindergarten Teacher
Rose Caraballo
Mrs. Caraballo is a certified teacher with 16 years of experience. She has great experience and knowledge in helping students on all levels achieve success in the classroom. Mrs. Caraballo conducts the kindergarten screening assessments in order to properly place incoming kindergarten students into the proper instructional level. Mrs. Caraballo is a key member of the ICA kindergarten team, bringing exciting ideas and activities to our students at ICA.

Kindergarten Teacher
Patricia Herrera
Mrs.Herrera is a certified teacher who is well-trained and experienced in classical education, whose area of expertise can be clearly seen as she implements the Riggs, Core Knowledge, and Singapore Math curricula in the classroom. Mrs.Herrera brings the highest quality of training and experience to the classroom and is focused on starting our Kindergarteners out right.

Kindergarten Teacher
Kaitlyn Lopez
Mrs. Lopez has experience working with children and is completing her teacher certification. Mrs. Lopez is organized and very passionate about teaching and building children foundational skills for their educational career. She believes in creating and fun and positive learning environment.

Kindergarten Teacher
Kirsten Pulvermacher
Ms. Pulvermacher has experience working with children and is on track to complete her teaching degree. Ms. Pulvermacher brings a passion and enthusiasm for learning into her classroom and loves to inspire all of her students. Ms. Pulvermacher works hard to ensure that all students receive the best education possible.
First Grade Team

First Grade Teacher
Nichole Rubel
Mrs. Rubel is a certified teacher with over 12 years of experience in teaching elementary level students and has taken on the role of “Teacher Trainer” this year. Mrs. Rubel conducts professional development sessions on Riggs, Amplify, and Singapore Math at the elementary level, and is currently mentoring teachers in grades K-2. Mrs. Rubel is a master teacher who has impeccable classroom management and instructional delivery.

First Grade Teacher
Merkenide Dias
Mrs. Dias is completing a degree in educational law and is currently finishing her teacher licensure exams with the state of Florida. Passionate about education, Mrs. Dias brings an enthusiastic approach to classroom teaching and has much to contribute to the area of history, reading, and writing by utilizing the knowledge and experience that she gained from being in the courtroom. Mrs. Dias is under the mentorship of Mrs. Rubel and is a valued member of the ICA faculty.

First Grade Teacher
Taylor Dovey
Mrs. Dovey is currently completing her teaching degree at Indian River State College and is under the mentorship of Mrs. Rubel as a first-grade teacher. She taught at the elementary school level for the last two years and is bringing her experience into the classroom. Mrs. Dovey brings a passion and enthusiasm for learning into her classroom and is an inspiration to all of her students.

First Grade Teacher
Carlyn Hagler
After a long career in the mental health field, Mrs. Hagler entered the education field as a second career and has worked in Exceptional Education with students of various disabilities. Additionally, she is an expressive arts facilitator, and is looking forward to bringing that same expressive energy into our classroom!. Mrs. Hagler is married, has 4 grown children, 5 grandchildren with a 6th due in August, and a fur baby named Orrie. Mrs. Hagler loves painting, baking, thrifting, spending time with her family, and looking to bring her wealth of knowledge to ICA.
Second Grade Team

Second Grade Teacher
Loretta Humphrey
Ms. Humphrey is a certified teacher and has been teaching at the elementary level, specifically 2nd grade, for years. She has a vast knowledge of classroom management and teaching techniques that will enhance any lesson. She ensures that all of her students are getting a firm foundation before moving on to the next subject.

Second Grade Teacher
Mikayla Jones
Ms.Jones is a Fort Pierce native who enjoys the outdoors and spending time with her family, friends, and her dogs. She has worked with children for 6 years in St. Lucie County. She is passionate about teaching her students real world skills and helping them find their own creative inspirations. Ms.Jones has an Associates Degree and is continuing her education at Indian River State College studying a Bachelors of Science in elementary education.

Second Grade Teacher
Cassandra Waldron
Ms.Waldron has worked with children for over eight years and is currently working on her certification. She holds an associate degree in Anthropology and a minor in Political Science. Ms. Waldron is so excited to start this journey teaching second grade! She is passionate about inspiring children and pushing them to be their very best.
Third Grade Team

Third Grade Teacher
Gerard Heldman
Gerard Heldman is an elementary school teacher and a graduate of Felician University in Rutherford, New Jersey. He is a proud father and husband. Mr. Heldman views diversity as strength and has high expectations for all of his students. Mr. Heldman has an affinity for language and learning and strives to challenge his students to stay safe, be kind, and do their best.
Fourth Grade Team

Fourth Grade Teacher
Suzanne Brown
Mrs. Brown is an experienced educator who has been working with students in small groups and one on one with coursework and assessments for the past 12 years and is now teaching 4th grade for her second year. Mrs. Brown is extremely organized and passionate about teaching students the finer points of how to be academically successful. She is creative and is always striving to make sure that every student is successful.

Fourth Grade Teacher
Samantha Taglieri
Samantha Taglieri has been educating children in the area for 4 years and holds a bachelor’s degree in Child and Youth Studies from Florida Gulf Coast University. Ms. Taglieri is passionate about teaching young children and being part of laying a solid foundation for their educational success while providing positive experiences at school. She has been with ICA since the inaugural year and is excited to continue her journey with ICA as a 4th grade teacher!

Fourth & Fifth Grade Writing Coach
Karen Wilhelm
Mrs. Wilhelm attended Eastern Illinois, obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree and certification in Education. She has many years of experience ranging from classroom teaching, grades 3- 8 & at the college level. Mrs. Wilhelm is highly qualified in all core subjects & has taught ELA, specializing in writing structure, since 2005. She currently holds a K-6 certification in the state of Florida. Mrs. Wilhelm has spent the majority of her career in Nashville, TN, teaching 5th and 8th grades. Mrs. Wilhelm moved to FL from KY, in July 2022, and has made her home in Ft. Pierce. Mrs. Wilhelm stated at ICA in February 2023, serving as the 4th and 5th grade writing coach, and is excited to bring her vast knowledge & experience to the students of ICA.
Fifth Grade Team

Fifth Grade Teacher
Jaclyn Combs
Ms. Combs has been part of ICA for our inaugural year, and is continuing with us as a 5th grade teacher this year. Ms. Combs is passionate about helping students prepare for high school so that every student has the opportunity to reach their career goals. Ms. Combs has been teaching Singapore Math since last year and will continue to create and implement strong lesson plans in all subject areas as she continues her teacher education training.

Fifth Grade Teacher
Ashley Pruden
Ashley Pruden is an experienced teacher and has a passion for bringing out the best in her students. Mrs. Pruden brings high-quality instruction and an eye for detail into her classroom. She is excited about teaching 5th grade this year, and watching her students perform with excellence!
Middle School Team

Middle School ELA
Rachel Sabaliauskas
“Miss S” as the kids like to refer to her, is gentle and truly enjoying getting to know the students better. She plans to have a long career at ICA as she transitions from the world of finance, where she earned a bachelor’s degree, and back to working with children. She is currently enjoying getting kids to read with inflection, write and speak using correct grammar and become fluent in reading comprehension. She has great classroom management skills, and we look forward to seeing our children flourish under her guidance.

Middle School History
Jeffery Russell
Jeffrey Russell recently relocated to Florida and has a vast amount of experience in both Math and History. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of Massachusetts and has a professional teaching certification in Social Science.
Mr. Russell served in the US Navy and has worked in the field of both private and public education in various roles. As a photographer in the Navy, his passion for History grew while documenting History being created in real time. He enjoys the challenge of teaching and getting kids to creatively think to understand how and why Historical events influenced the past as well as our future.

Middle School Math
Mary Brough
Ms.Brough graduated from Indiana University with a degree in accounting. For several years she worked as a computer programmer. Her next career move was to raise four children. When they went to high school, she worked as a teacher at a small classical school in Orange, California, where I taught algebra, geometry, logic, and Latin for seven years. Ms.Brough loves math, because it is useful, reliable, and beautiful.

Middle School Science
Rebekah McFarland
Mrs. McFarland was born and raised in Fort Pierce. She has a Master of Accounting degree but went back to school to pursue a career in education after teaching adult education classes for ten years. She has a professional teaching certification in elementary education, middle grades math, and middle grades science. When she is not teaching, she loves to spend time with her husband and three kids. She loves camping, horses, and go-kart racing.

Middle School Research
Samantha Jackson
Samantha Jackson has been teaching in St.Lucie County for 15 years. She has experience at the secondary level teaching career and technology. She is passionate about teaching research this year and creating a positive learning environment that supports the core subjects. She and her family are lifelong residents of St. Lucie County and look forward to growing with the ICA family.
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Middle School Math Interventionist
Sergio Arias-Gutierrez
Sergio Arias-Gutierrez brings a high level of expertise in math to ICA. Mr. Arias-Gutierrez has more than 20 years of experience in the discipline of finite mathematics, linear algebra, trigonometry, geometry, statistics, and calculus. His goal is to foster an environment that is welcoming, safe, and conducive to the learning experience, while promoting the intellectual exploration of mathematics and statistics through the insightful exchange of meaningful concepts and theories. He calls this environment "The Marketplace of Ideas," and while he is firm, he is fair and engaging with students and faculty, which is the key to success at ICA!
Resource Team

Art Teacher
Breanna Jordan
Breanna Jordan has been teaching art for 3 years at an art studio in Vero Beach, and has happily joined the ICA faculty this year. Ms. Jordan specializes in pottery,canvas painting, and glass fusion. Ms. Jordan brings excitement to the classroom and is looking forward to her students producing great works of art this year!

Physical Education Teacher
Trisha Thomas
Trisha Thomas has joined ICA this year as the Physical Education Coach. Coach Thomas brings high energy, fun activities to the ICA students, and is working in conjunction with the fitness class to teach students how to enjoy being physically active and how to perform physical activities with a high level of skill and energy.

Fitness Teacher
Georgine Guettler
Georgine Guettler is a native of Florida, and a graduate from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s of Science in Exercise and Sport Sciences. She has taught five years of Physical Education, two years of Health and this year she will be teaching Fitness. She is one of 14 children and enjoys being part of a large family. Ms. Guettler loves animals: especially dogs. She has two dogs, she enjoys being artistic and creative.

Music Teacher
Bryan Mays
Mr. Bryan Chauncey Mays is a composer, arranger, author, educator, and professional musician. Mr. Mays graduated from Morehead State University with a Bachelors of Music Education and a Masters Degree in Education and Performance. Mr. Mays has nearly 40 years of teaching experience and performing experience. Mr. Mays has taught in many states and has performed in and with many professional shows and entertainers including The Lion King, Pippin, and more.
Apply Today
We will be growing in the 2023-2024 school year! If you are interested in working with us, send your resume to operations@icacharter.org