Meet the Faculty & Staff of Educational Pathways Academy

Molly Arthur

Founder & Head of School

Molly Arthur is the Founder and Head of School of Educational Pathways Academy. Mrs. Arthur holds a degree in Specific Learning Disabilities from the University of South Florida. She has over 30 years of teaching and administrative experience in various areas of special and mainstream education in both private and public schools. Mrs. Arthurs’s vast teaching experience has exposed her to the significant struggle with reading, writing, and spelling that affects approximately twenty percent of students. These students struggle despite having high intelligence, motivation, and a quality education. This ignited a passion in her to seek additional knowledge and training in learning disabilities and in the field of Dyslexia. In order to serve the needs of these students, Mrs. Arthur started a private tutoring company in 2015 called Educational Pathways, Inc.

A year later, Mrs. Arthur led a team to develop a school that provides a comprehensive program with proven methods for students with language-based learning differences. On August 16, 2017, Mrs. Arthur founded that school in Naples, Florida called Educational Pathways Academy. In 2022, Mrs. Arthur’s school expanded with the opening of a second campus in Estero, Florida.

Kristy DeRienzo

Principal & Reading Specialist | Doris Frey Campus

Kristy DeRienzo brings many years of experience and knowledge to her position as Educational Pathways Academy’s Principal and Reading Specialist. She has earned a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and a dual Master's Degree in Reading and Special Education. Additionally, she holds a Reading Specialist Certification and has extensive training in the Orton-Gillingham approach to reading and spelling. Mrs. DeRienzo is certified as a Structured Literacy Dyslexia Interventionist through the Center for Effective Reading Instruction (an affiliate of the International Dyslexia Association) and is a Certified Orton Gillingham Educator through the Institute for Multisensory Education (IMSE).

Her over twenty years of experience include teaching at a school dedicated to students with dyslexia in New York, Elementary Education teacher, High School Reading and Special Education teacher, and Private Reading Tutor. As Principal, Mrs. DeRienzo leads the Doris Frey Campus in our mission to serve EPA’s students, families, and educators with excellence. She provides support for teachers in all subjects with the implementation of researched-based practices and professional development. Mrs. DeRienzo places great importance on facilitating strong relationships with our partners in education, the parents & families of our students.

AMANDA DAVISON

Principal | North Campus

Amanda Davison began her teaching career in 1997. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Olivet Nazarene University and achieved a Master’s of Education in Exceptional Student Education and a Graduate Certificate in Dyslexia Education, emphasizing Orton-Gillingham methodology, from Southeastern University. Mrs. Davison holds her State of Florida Professional Teaching Certificate in Exceptional Student Education, Language Arts, Elementary Education, and Physical Education. Additionally, she holds her Association of Christian Schools International Professional Certification in Education. She is trained in the Institute of Multisensory Education Orton Gillingham Comprehensive approach to reading, Nanci Bell Visualizing and Verbalizing Language Comprehension and Thinking, Thinking Maps, and Write from the Beginning and Beyond.

As Principal of EPA’s North Campus, Mrs. Davison leads with the belief that all students are celebrated as God-created masterpieces, capable of great learning. She supports teachers with effective, research-based teaching strategies, professional development, and encouragement. Mrs. Davison believes that EPA’s faculty and staff are truly a team and an example of the Body of Christ as we partner with parents and students to provide an innovative program to strengthen theacademic, social, emotional, and spiritual learning in students.

Joshua Wead

Vice Principal & Dean of Students | North Campus

Joshua Wead brings 17 years of experience in education and youth ministry. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Christian Leadership, has extensive experience working with children with diverse learning differences, and is dedicated to fostering a safe, nurturing environment where students can thrive. Committed to partnering closely with families, he strives to support each student’s personal growth through compassionate guidance and a collaborative approach rooted in respect and understanding.

Prior to joining EPA, Mr. Wead served as both a residential life supervisor and Dean of Students at an international Christian boarding school with students from around the world. In this role, he provided direct oversight of student life, discipline, and conflict resolution for a diverse, multilingual student population. He supervised residential and dining staff and managed the day-to-day operations of a 24/7 campus community. As the senior administrative presence during evenings and weekends, he was responsible for ensuring student safety, staff coordination, and the smooth functioning of campus life outside the academic day. This immersive leadership experience equipped him with the operational, relational, and managerial skills that now inform his work supporting EPA’s students and faculty with excellence and care.

As a father of an EPA student, Mr. Wead is deeply invested in the school’s mission and is committed to fostering a caring and encouraging environment where students, faculty, and staff can reach beyond their potential and thrive.

Candace Johnson

Director of Advancement | Doris Frey Campus & North Campus

Candace Johnson began her nonprofit fundraising career in 2003 at an independent school in Los Angeles, CA, where she spent 13 years managing fundraising and volunteer programs. After relocating to Naples, FL, in 2018, she continued working in fundraising for educational and arts organizations while also volunteering and serving on boards, deepening her commitment to the community she now calls home.

Mrs. Johnson received her bachelor’s degree from Cal State Long Beach, a fundraising management certification from UCLA, and most recently became an Eagle, receiving her Master’s Degree in Public Administration from FGCU. Mrs. Johnson is passionate about the mission of EPA, and is dedicated to building a culture of philanthropy that will impact our students now and into the future.

Jessica WEad

Director of Marketing| Doris Frey Campus & North Campus

Jessica Wead holds a bachelor’s degree in Intercultural Studies and brings broad experience in digital, content, and brand marketing, including social media, website design, graphic design, and photography. She began her career at an international boarding school, receiving hands-on training in SEO, branding, and community engagement.

She later managed marketing for a presidential historian and political commentator, supporting book launches, overseeing digital platforms, and collaborating with publishers. Jessica also led retail marketing for a family-owned business, adding practical insight to her versatile skill set.

As both a parent and team member at EPA, Jessica is deeply passionate about connecting families with the school’s resources. She is committed to raising awareness about learning differences and fostering a strong, informed school community. Through her work, Jessica strives to build meaningful connections between the school, families, and the broader community.

Beth Howe

Office Manager & Accounts Coordinator | North Campus

As Educational Pathways Academy’s North Campus Office Manager, Beth Howe’s smiling face is the first thing you will see when you enter the school! Mrs. Howe manages EPA’s North front office and is well-versed in the many responsibilities of the position.  She has worked as the Office Manager of Family Ministries at a local church for 2 years, and prior to that, was the Office Manager at a local private school for seven years. Mrs. Howe attended Ball State University, where she studied Business and holds Administrator’s Credentials from National Institute of Child Care Management. She loves serving not only the students of EPA, but their families as well!

Kelly Grimm

Director of Admissions | Doris Frey Campus & North Campus

Office Manager | Doris Frey Campus

Kelly Grimm is passionate about the well-being of EPA’s students, focused on supporting children and families through advocacy, resource access, and care. With a background in education administration, emergency medical services, and community outreach, Kelly brings a compassionate perspective to our students and families. Kelly holds a B.A. in Psychology from Florida International University and is pursuing her Master’s Degree through the University of Central Florida. Kelly is also a parent of a student with dyslexia and understands navigating the educational system and advocating for students.

sarah Messenger

Business & Technology Manager| Doris Frey Campus & North Campus

Sarah Messenger serves EPA as Business & Information Technology Manager for both the Doris Frey Campus & North Campus. She was born and raised here in southwest Florida, and holds a Bachelor Degree in Political Science from the University of Central Florida. She has a wide variety of abilities in many fields, allowing her to provide assistance to the staff, students and families at EPA in multiple ways.

Amy Arnold

High School History & Middle School Social Studies & Science | North Campus

Amy Arnold brings more than 30 years of teaching experience from Collier County Public Schools and EPA. Throughout her career, she has taught a broad spectrum of subjects, including Language Arts, Math, Reading, Science, and Social Studies. With many years of experience in exceptional student education, Mrs. Arnold is adept at addressing diverse learning needs. Amy graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and received her Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Concordia College.  She holds Florida State Certification in Elementary Education (K-6) and Varying Exceptionalities (K-12), along with a Gifted Endorsement. Her extensive expertise and commitment to educational excellence make her an invaluable asset. Empowering Students to achieve their personal best is Amy’s passion.

Mirta Cerna

Lower School Language Arts, Science, & Social Studies Teacher | North Campus

Mirta Cerna grew up in the very community where she now proudly teaches and calls home. She began her education at Florida Gulf Coast University, where she earned her Florida State Teacher Certification in K–6 Education, Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K–12, along with an ESOL endorsement. Mirta launched her teaching career in the Lee County School District, working in a third-grade inclusion classroom before moving to Dallas, Texas in 2021. There, she spent several years teaching in a specialized non-verbal autism unit, where she built a strong foundation in supporting students with diverse learning needs. 

After three years in Dallas, she recently returned to her hometown, bringing valuable experience from a larger school district. Now in her sixth year as an educator, Mrs. Cerna is excited to be back in the community that shaped her and is deeply committed to making a lasting impact on her students’ lives at EPA.

Erin Fredrickson

Culinary Arts Teacher, Lunch Coordinator, & Academic Support | North Campus

Erin Fredrickson has long been committed to serving children and families in her community, whether through being a foster parent, volunteering in children's ministry at her church, or guest teaching in Lee County Public Schools. She joined EPA North Campus in 2023 as a General Aide and building substitute, later stepping into the role of Upper School Language Arts instructor in 2024. Now in her third year at EPA, Erin is excited to help launch the school’s first Culinary Arts program, where she brings over six years of hands-on experience from managing and working in her husband’s family-owned French bakery café in Boulder, Colorado. She also serves as Lunch Coordinator and continues to support students academically across multiple areas.                                                  

Erin holds a Science degree in Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork and recently celebrated 25 years as an AMTA alumnus. Her passion for health, hospitality, and nurturing whole-person wellness informs her work in and out of the classroom. Her deep love for the Lord, heart for serving others, and commitment to TBRI (Trust-Based Relational Intervention) strategies shine through in everything she does to support the students and staff at EPA, especially those experiencing life difficulties.

Ally Griffith

Lower School Mathematics Instructor | North Campus

Ally Griffith graduated with her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, Minnesota, achieving a double major in Mathematics Education and Biblical Theology. She then moved to Florida and earned her state teaching certification from the Florida Department of Education in Mathematics (6-12). With over 12 years of experience working with children, she has developed a deep understanding of how to engage and inspire young learners. Miss Griffith has also tutored students with language-based disabilities in math. She is dedicated to fostering a love for mathematics and aims to create a classroom environment where students feel valued and encouraged to learn from mistakes, think critically, and develop the confidence to solve problems both in and out of the classroom. Miss Griffith loves bringing her passion for teaching and math into her role at EPA.

MaTT HARPLE

Physical Education, Health, & STEM Teacher | North Campus

Matt Harple graduated from Kent State University with his Bachelor’s Degree in Education in 2015. He is an Ohio native who joined the EPA Team after God called him to move to Florida in 2023 with his family to join in planting a new church in Lee County. Mr. Harple has nine years of teaching experience, with four years as an ESE Intervention Specialist. He holds Florida Professional Teacher certifications in both Exceptional Student Education K-12 and Physical Education K-12.

Mr. Harple’s passion for spreading the love of God was evident in his previous teaching years when he established a first-time after-school youth ministry, bringing fellowship and hope through the word of God to his High School students. Mr. Harple looks forward to continuing to share the Love of Christ while meeting the individual needs of the amazing students of EPA.

AleKsandra Hila

Literacy Teacher| North Campus

Aleksandra Hila earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Ramapo College of New Jersey and her Master’s in Special Education from Montclair State University.  Her 14 years of teaching experience include teaching for the Educational Service Commission of New Jersey to provide intervention services for students with learning differences, Elementary & Title 1 Teacher at a private Christian school, as well as Teacher of Exceptional Students Education in Lee County Public Schools.  She is a Florida State Certified Teacher in K-6 education and ESE (Exceptional Student Education ) K-12.  Mrs. Hila has extensive training in Phonological Awareness, Comprehensive Orton-Gillingham, and Morphology through The Institute of Multisensory Education (IMSE). 

Hana Kim

Director of Creative Arts & Art Instructor | North Campus

Hana Kim holds a Master of Graphic Design degree and a Post-Baccalaureate in Design from the Nova Scotia College of Art & Design in Halifax, Nova Scotia, as well as a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature.

Mrs. Kim's extensive experience in the arts spans various roles, including teaching art at the elementary and middle school levels at Naples Adventist Christian School. She has also worked as an Art Director at Livingwater Church in Berkeley, CA, Senior Graphic Arts Designer & Art Director at SUM Bible College in California, and as a Graphic Designer & College Instructor at the University of the Nations in Kailua-Kona, HI.

Deeply committed to her faith, Mrs. Kim is dedicated to sharing her love for the Lord with her students. At EPA’s North Campus, she plays a pivotal role in helping students discover and develop their God-given talents in the creative arts, fostering an environment where creativity and faith flourish together.

JOSHUA Kim

High School Science & Performing Arts | North Campus

Joshua Kim began his higher education at the University of Florida, studying Engineering before transitioning to Theater Arts and earning a Bachelor’s Degree. Following his time with Disney World Entertainment, Mr. Kim pursued a calling to ministry, studying at Reformed Theological Seminary. With 19 years of experience as a youth pastor, college pastor, and lead pastor, he brings his diverse background to the classroom, delivering engaging, hands-on lessons that seamlessly integrate biblical principles.

Roseline Torres

Upper School Language Arts Teacher | North Campus

Roseline Torres was born and raised in Naples and left to attend Florida Atlantic University, where she earned a Bachelor’s in English. She remained on the East Coast for eight years, where she subbed in the Palm Beach County School District, tutored students, and taught for Broward County Public Schools before she fatefully returned to Naples. She holds a Florida Educator Certification in English (Grades 6-12) with a Reading Endorsement and ESOL Certification (K-12). 

Roseline spent five years working in CCPS under the alternative schools umbrella and valued her time helping students improve both behaviorally and academically while imparting spiritual wisdom and biblical principals. Roseline joins EPA with a joyful heart along with her son who is eager to learn, grow, and create new friendships

Shelby Wandrey

Director of the Art Career Education Studies Program (ACES) & Enrichment Outreach Program, and Art Instructor | North Campus

Shelby Wandrey has been a commissioned portrait artist since the age of 14 and has an extensive background in the arts. She attended the Alabama School of Fine Arts, where she graduated with the Outstanding Visual Arts Senior Award. She continued her education at the Kansas City Art Institute and completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Art History with a minor in Mandarin. In 2025, she continued her education in jewelry fabrication abroad in Rome, Italy. 

With over five years of teaching experience, Mrs. Wandrey previously managed her own art business in California, offering private lessons, after-school programs, homeschool classes, and community events for both children and adults. She is dedicated to helping young people understand their intrinsic worth in Christ and showing them how that impacts the value of their work. Mrs. Wandrey leads students by helping them to discover their artistic talents, guiding them in monetizing their skills, and sharing their creative gifts with the world.

MYRIAM WEAD

Literacy Lab Instructor | North Campus

With a wealth of experience in education, language, and leadership, Myriam Wead is passionate about helping students with learning differences build literacy skills and confidence. She has taught elementary education in France, tutored students at all levels, and specializes in supporting students to develop fluency and mastery of reading. Her personalized approach is tailored to each student’s unique learning style, ensuring they gain the foundational skills necessary for long-term success.

Before joining our school, Mrs. Wead served as executive director in support of her husband’s work as a New York Times bestselling author and motivational speaker. While accompanying him internationally, she occasionally joined him on stage encouraging people to reach their full God-given potential. Together, they also engaged in humanitarian efforts and contributed to the community of an international boarding school.

Fluent in French and experienced as a translator and tutor, she brings a global perspective and educational expertise to every student she serves.

Nancy Batelli

Literacy Lab | Doris Frey Campus

Nancy Batelli serves EPA as the Literacy Lab Instructor for Lower & Upper School. Mrs. Batelli holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology with dual specialization in Industrial Organization and Clinical Counseling from Moravian College. Her past experience includes Director of Human Resources for many large corporations, managing her current family business, and over 25 years of substitute teaching for local private schools in grades PreK-8. Mrs. Batelli’s wide skill set allows her to serve the students, families, and faculty of EPA in many ways.

Sabrina Lagace

Lower School Language Arts, Social Studies & Science | Doris Frey Campus

Sabrina Lagace holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Clayton State University in Morrow, Georgia and studied Elementary Education at Florida Southwestern State College. Mrs. Lagace possesses a Florida Professional Teaching Certificates in Elementary Education K-6 and ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages).

Mrs. Lagace has over 12 years experience in the field of education. She is a dedicated and responsive educator with proven skills in classroom management, behavior modification and individualized support. Prior to staying home with her two children and homeschooling, Mrs. Lagace taught Elementary grades (K & 1st) at Collier County Public Schools for 5 years.  Additionally, she has 5 years of experience teaching as a virtual school teacher. She is also trained in Lindamood-Bell’s Visualizing and Verbalizing program and Handwriting Without Tears. 

She is excited to be a part of the EPA Team where she can use her skills to boost educational success and inspire love of learning in our students! 

Jenny merino

Lower School Reading & Mathematics|Doris Frey Campus

Jenny Merino earned her B.A. in Elementary Education from Florida Gulf Coast University and holds a Florida Teacher’s Certification in K-6 Education and Exceptional Student Education (ESE), along with an Exceptional Student Education Endorsement. She is trained in Touch Math and has extensive training in Phonological Awareness, Comprehensive Orton-Gillingham, and Morphology through The Institute of Multisensory Education (IMSE), having additionally earned the IMSE Orton-Gillingham Fidelity Certification. With 16 years of teaching experience in both private and public schools, including mainstream and ESE positions, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. As a parent of two children with learning differences, she also brings personal understanding and passion to our mission.

Lisa Panzarella

Mathematics | Doris Frey Campus

Lisa Panzarella has 16 years of experience in private, Christian school education. Mrs. Panzarella earned a Bachelor's Degree in Primary Education from State College of Florida. She holds her Florida Professional Educator's Certificate. Additionally, Mrs. Panzarella is trained in Touch Math and Lindamood-Bell’s On Cloud Nine, Visualizing & Verbalizing for Math Program. Mrs. Panzarella is thrilled to be part of the EPA team of educators, using her gifts & talents to positively impact the students of EPA. Her heart's desire is to help each child see that they truly are God's masterpiece!

Cary TronnieR

Enrichment Arts Specialist | Doris Frey Campus

Cary Tronnier studied at the Columbus College of Art and Design and brings 21 years of teaching experience to EPA. Her deep passion for art and education empowers her to nurture the unique creative talents of each student, helping them build self-confidence and unlock their inner creativity. A resident of Naples since 1972 and a proud mother of three, Ms. Tronnier is a valued member of the EPA community and is dedicated to fostering a love of art in all her students.