Meet the Team

Mrs. Melissa Albanes

DIRECTOR
Homeschool Grad • Homeschool Mom
As 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.
Mrs. Lisa Urquhart, M.Ed

ELEMENTARY LEAD TEACHER
Registered Australian Teacher
Mrs. 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.
Mrs. Lesley Reese

JUNIOR HIGH LEAD TEACHER
Homeschool Mom • Certified Teacher
With her southern charm, background teaching in SJC schools, and love for finding creative ways to make learning come alive, Mrs. Lesley specializes in educating the whole child through high-interest activities and meaningful experiences that spark curiosity.
Mrs. Dani Caruso

STEAM TEACHER
Prior Homeschool Mom • Former Private School Teacher
Miss 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.
Miss Elora Harris

TEACHING ASSISTANT
Homeschool Grad • English Major
Miss Elora brings a thoughtful balance of logic, kindness, and creativity to the co-op. With a musical spirit and a straightforward style, she’s known for jumping in wherever she’s needed and supporting both students and staff with a calm, can-do attitude.
Mrs. Allison Dempsey, M.Ed

TEACHING ASSISTANT
Certified Teacher
Mrs. 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.
Mrs. Hannah Clifford, M.Ed

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT & MATH MODERATOR
Certified Teacher
Our baby-wearing, positive-energy-bringing Jane of all Trades does the back office magic that helps keep the train on the tracks. A certified teacher, Mrs. Clifford also steps into the classroom as needed and, in particular, helps students with math.