Meet the Team
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Mrs. Melissa Albanes
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Homeschool Grad • Homeschool MomAs a tech co-founder and consultant to some of the world’s leading tech brands, Melissa spent her career building the systems and frameworks that empower people—skills she now channels into creating an organized, enriching, and community-driven learning environment.
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Mrs. Lisa Urquhart, M.Ed
ACADEMIC DIRECTOR
Registered Australian TeacherMrs. U has a deep passion for nurturing young minds and brings heart, clarity, and a whole lot of enthusiasm to the classroom! She’s especially passionate about helping students embrace a growth mindset and believes that the power of “yet” is one of life’s most valuable lessons.
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Mrs. Stacie Conery
JUNIOR HIGH INSTRUCTOR
Homeschool Mom • Certified TeacherMs. Conery was born and raised in Wisconsin, Go Pack Go, but moved to Florida two years ago to soak up the sunshine! She enjoys spending time outdoors, reading, and going on adventures with her daughters. She has a passion for making learning fun and she aims to instill a lifelong love for learning in each of her students.
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Mrs. Andrea Horton
ELEMENTARY INSTRUCTOR
Homeschool Mom • 20 Years of Classroom ExperienceMrs. Horton enjoys helping children succeed academically while building meaningful friendships. She brings patience, insight, and a genuine love of learning to her work. She is an avid reader and has firsthand experience homeschooling her own children.
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Mrs. Dani Caruso
STEAM INSTRUCTOR
Prior Homeschool Mom • Former Private School TeacherMiss Dani believes learning should be loud and messy! As a local artist with a passion for creativity and curiosity, she brings learning to life. Whether students are building bridges or testing theories, Miss Dani is beside them, encouraging the joy of figuring things out.
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Mrs. Allison Dempsey, M.Ed
PROGRAM ASSISTANT
Certified TeacherMrs. Allison has a knack for mixing encouragement with creativity so students feel confident learning new things. Outdoorsy, full of good vibes, and nearly a decade of classroom experience (including in SJC schools), she helps students discover just how much they can do.
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Miss Joline Caruso
PROGRAM ASSISTANT
Former Homeschooler • UNF StudentA lover of animals and the arts, she brings curiosity and creativity into the co-op. Miss Joline enjoys encouraging kids to be confident in their interests and supporting them as they grow. She believes great work happens when passion leads the way!
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Mrs. Traci Hillsman, M.Ed
PROGRAM ASSISTANT
25+ Years of Classroom ExperienceMrs. Hillsman has taught in public schools, international classrooms, and most recently in therapeutic and special-needs settings. She is especially passionate about meeting learners where they are and helping each child feel supported, capable, and confident.