Aaralyn Green

Student Teacher

Aaralyn is a student teacher at The Parish School. She graduated college in 2018, earning a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology degree.

Soon after, she began her journey in ABA ...

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Aaralyn Green

Aaralyn Green

Student Teacher

Aaralyn is a student teacher at The Parish School. She graduated college in 2018, earning a Bachelor's of Science in Psychology degree.

Soon after, she began her journey in ABA therapy, working with children on the spectrum as a Registered Behavior Technician. Being in that field for 3 years, she later decided to transition out into her current role.

From paraeducator to student teacher, being at The Parish School has been an amazing journey. Her co-workers are so welcoming, helpful, and encouraging. The children make coming here worth everything. She's always learning something new from them, such as finding out macaroni penguins actually exist! Who knew?

Outside of work, she is married and enjoys reading personal development books, watching rom-coms, journaling, running, adventure, cooking, playing board games, and being in nature. She really enjoy seeing the students thrive here at Parish!

Allie Lange

Early Childhood Paraeducator
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Allie Lange

Allie Lange

Early Childhood Paraeducator
Amanda Mayer

Amanda Mayer

Elementary Paraeducator
Amanda Medrano

Amanda Medrano

Administrative Coordinator

Amy Lerman, MS, CCC-SLP

Community Outreach, Speech-Language Pathologist

Amy is a speech-language pathologist and the Community Outreach and Social Thinking Specialist at The Parish School. She holds a BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the...

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Amy Lerman, MS, CCC-SLP

Amy Lerman, MS, CCC-SLP

Community Outreach, Speech-Language Pathologist

Amy is a speech-language pathologist and the Community Outreach and Social Thinking Specialist at The Parish School. She holds a BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Texas at Austin and a MA in Speech- Language Pathology from The George Washington University. Amy specializes in Social Thinking®, an intervention and assessment framework dedicated to tackling the complex social-emotional learning needs of individuals with social learning challenges, and recently participated in the Level 1A Clinical Training in San Jose, CA.

Amy came to The Parish School in 2006, when she started as a lead SLP in the Early Childhood classrooms. Before joining the Parish team, she spent seven years working for Plano ISD, and three years in private practice in San Antonio doing “push-in” speech therapy and social learning groups for children ages 4-9 years old. During this time, Amy was the recipient of grant monies toward the development of Core Language Kits for the three early childhood schools in Plano ISD, and towards supporting families with children enrolled in speech/language, occupational and behavioral therapy in San Antonio.

Of all the places she’s worked, Amy loves The Parish School the most. She values the supportive and collaborative staff who believe so deeply in Parish’s mission to serve its students. She also appreciates The Parish School administrators, who recognize individual strengths in employees and set up structures for them to grow through collaboration, continuing education and regular professional feedback exchanges.

Through her roles at The Parish School, Amy feels privileged to play a small part in the awesome task of raising children. When a child is struggling to succeed at home or in school, she feels honored to be included in developing the communication and programming necessary for that child to make gains and ultimately reach their full potential.

Amy is married to a lawyer-turned-pediatrician, Marshall Lerman, and is the mother of two dynamic girls, Lyla and Sunny. In her spare time, she enjoys practicing yoga, being outdoors, camping, and attending events in the community.

Amy was The Parish School’s “Therapist of the Year” in 2020.

Amy Rapp, MA, CCC-SLP

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Amy has been a speech-language pathologist in the early childhood program at The Parish School since 2014. She holds both a BA and a MA in Communication Disorders and Sciences from...

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Amy Rapp, MA, CCC-SLP

Amy Rapp, MA, CCC-SLP

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Amy has been a speech-language pathologist in the early childhood program at The Parish School since 2014. She holds both a BA and a MA in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Wichita State University. Amy is also a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), has her Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology and her Texas State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology License. She has several decades of experience in the public school setting serving pre-k through middle school students, including serving on a collaborative team in an inclusive public school.

From the beginning of her career, Amy has been inspired by the opportunity to provide a quality early childhood experience through functional, integrated communication intervention that supports students’ communication, social-cognitive and pre-academic skills.

Amy has always been interested in integrating speech-language therapy within the classroom curriculum and loves that Parish provides the opportunity to do this on a daily basis. About working at The Parish School, Amy says, “I really value and love the opportunity to work with an exceptional group of professionals, including paraeducators, SLPs, OTs, early childhood special education teachers and play therapists, to provide a collaborative team serving students with communication delays and learning differences. Through this collaboration, I am learning all the time.”

When she’s not working or learning, Amy enjoys reading, gardening, browsing antique and second-hand stores and visiting her children.

Amy was The Parish School’s “Teacher of the Year” in 2021.

Andy Williams

Andy Williams

Communications Manager
Angela Burris, LVN

Angela Burris, LVN

Health and Safety Coordinator
Annalyse Muller

Annalyse Muller

HR Manager

Anne Neal, MS, CCC-SLP

Head of Early Childhood

Anne is Head of the Early Childhood program at The Parish School. She earned her BAS in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from The University of North Texas and her MS in Com...

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Anne Neal, MS, CCC-SLP

Anne Neal, MS, CCC-SLP

Head of Early Childhood

Anne is Head of the Early Childhood program at The Parish School. She earned her BAS in Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology from The University of North Texas and her MS in Communication Disorders from The University of Texas at Dallas. Before beginning at Parish in 2022, she worked for TIRR-Memorial Hermann, Home Health agencies, and Pearland ISD as an SLP

Anne has extensive training and expertise in Autism, language and articulation disorders, cognition, social communication, stuttering, and assistive technology. Specialized in working with young children and differentiated instruction for diverse learners, Anne is passionate about best practices and nature-based education. Anne has a strong belief in providing education that is child-centered and working collaboratively with families to maximize their child’s success.

In her spare time, Anne enjoys traveling, reading, gardening, playing tennis, and spending time with her family.

Anne Powers, MA, CCC-SLP

Head of School

Passionate about helping children find their voices, Anne joined The Parish School in 2014. While earning a Bachelor of Arts in Drama, Anne became fascinated with phonetics and how...

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Anne Powers, MA, CCC-SLP

Anne Powers, MA, CCC-SLP

Head of School

Passionate about helping children find their voices, Anne joined The Parish School in 2014. While earning a Bachelor of Arts in Drama, Anne became fascinated with phonetics and how people use language to connect with one another. Believing that everyone has a story to share but not everyone is equipped with the tools to do so, Anne was inspired to earn a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. As a speech-language pathologist and certified clinician of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), Anne partnered with public and private schools, daycares and community centers in Pennsylvania and Texas to detect early signs of communication disorders and provide treatment for young children who had communication delays through evidence-based, culturally responsive speech and language therapy.

Anne’s educational philosophy can be summarized as follows: “All children have unique and special learning needs. I believe in educating the whole child, intentionally targeting and developing the cognitive, social-emotional, language and physical domains as well as artistic expression. Children begin to thrive and grow in meaningful ways when these connections are nurtured. When instruction is intentionally designed to be supportive yet challenging, students begin to build skills needed for a solid academic foundation, strong communication skills, and effective social competence. It is important to do that in a way that honors the child and builds the inner wealth and resilience needed to face life’s obstacles. As teachers we are poised to offer opportunities that empower children to discover their voice, to awaken to connection and shared experiences. I value equipping students with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in future learning environments. Children learn best through inquiry-based, multisensory experiences that ignite and encourage creative exploration across learning domains. The stronger the experience, the more engaged the child is, and the more powerful the learning becomes. It is also important to offer outdoor learning experiences through direct, hands-on engagement with nature as a component of whole child education. Nature sparks wonder in a child’s mind in a way an indoor classroom cannot. A teacher’s job is to prepare a child, not just for academic learning, but for life.”

 

Audrey VonBorstel, CCC-SLP

Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist

Audrey is an Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist at The Parish School. She has a BA in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Saint Louis University and a Master of Science i...

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Audrey VonBorstel, CCC-SLP

Audrey VonBorstel, CCC-SLP

Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist

Audrey is an Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist at The Parish School. She has a BA in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Saint Louis University and a Master of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Emerson College.  She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and has experience providing therapy for infants through adult age in school and clinical settings.

Prior to joining the Parish team in 2019, Audrey lived in St. Louis where she primarily worked in a public high school and with continuing learning students transitioning out of the school district. She was initially familiar with TPS from time spent working for Camp For All and was thrilled to join the Parish team. She has also worked as a Speech-Language Pathologist for Spring Branch ISD.

Audrey is married with two sweet little boys and two energetic dogs. She enjoys swimming, gardening, being outdoors, and reading (she will always appreciate a good book recommendation!). Audrey loves being able to use creative methods to support students and loves watching her students grow throughout their time at Parish!

Bailey Haidamous

Bailey Haidamous

Admissions Assistant

Beatriz Roman

Elementary Paraeducator

Beatriz is an Elementary Paraeducator at The Parish School. She holds a degree in Criminal Justice and is currently completing her BA in Elementary Education.

Before coming to T...

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Beatriz Roman

Beatriz Roman

Elementary Paraeducator

Beatriz is an Elementary Paraeducator at The Parish School. She holds a degree in Criminal Justice and is currently completing her BA in Elementary Education.

Before coming to The Parish School, she taught Spanish to early childhood and kindergarten children in numerous daycares around the Woodlands area.

In her free time, Beatriz enjoys kayaking, cooking, reading, and spending quality time with family.

Christina Gusewelle

Elementary Educator

Christina is an Elementary Educator at the Parish School. She has a BA in Chemistry from Texas A&M University and earned her teaching certificate from Texas Teachers.

Before...

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Christina Gusewelle

Christina Gusewelle

Elementary Educator

Christina is an Elementary Educator at the Parish School. She has a BA in Chemistry from Texas A&M University and earned her teaching certificate from Texas Teachers.

Before coming to Parish in 2021, Christina taught ESL Kindergarten in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD. She has also taught at The Village Private school, and Harmony school of science.

When she is not working Christina enjoys reading, cooking, traveling, running, and spending time with her husband and dogs.

Chuck Harris

Chuck Harris

Technology Coordinator
Cislyn Forde

Cislyn Forde

Elementary Paraeducator
Dani Andreasky

Dani Andreasky

Elementary Paraeducator

Daniela Jimenez

Elementary Paraeducator

Daniela is an Elementary Paraeducator at the Parish School; she is currently studying Anthropology at Lonestar College with plans to transfer to the University of Houston.

Prior...

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Daniela Jimenez

Daniela Jimenez

Elementary Paraeducator

Daniela is an Elementary Paraeducator at the Parish School; she is currently studying Anthropology at Lonestar College with plans to transfer to the University of Houston.

Prior to joining Parish in 2023, Daniela was a preschool teacher for 2 years.

Daniela is the middle child as she has an older brother and three younger siblings. She has a cat named Plum who she loves to cuddle and watch movies with. She loves to read, draw, and play video games. Daniela loves working with kids and hopes to do so for as long as she can.

Dawn V. Reinarz, MS, CCC-SLP

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Dawn is an early childhood speech-language pathologist and educator in the Dinosaurs class at The Parish School. Dawn attended Baylor University, where she earned both a BA in Comm...

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Dawn V. Reinarz, MS, CCC-SLP

Dawn V. Reinarz, MS, CCC-SLP

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Dawn is an early childhood speech-language pathologist and educator in the Dinosaurs class at The Parish School. Dawn attended Baylor University, where she earned both a BA in Communication Disorders and a MS in Speech Pathology and Audiology.

Dawn was hired by Robbin Parish, the founder of The Parish School, in 1993. She has worked a variety of roles in all three levels of early childhood during her 25 years with Parish, both as an SLP and in leadership positions. Outside of being an educator, Dawn has served as a consultant at UT’s Children’s Learning Institute and has given various lectures at the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA) and Baylor Medical Center, among others.

In addition to language development, Dawn specializes in Autism Spectrum Disorder, Social Thinking® and executive function in pre-school. Dawn is inspired by the progress she sees in her students and the words of appreciation she gets from parents, who continue to contact her long after their children have moved on from The Parish School. She says, “I know I’m making a difference in the children’s lives, as well as their family’s lives.”

In her spare time, Dawn enjoys pilates, reading, traveling and spending time with her family and her dogs.

Dawn was The Parish School’s “Teacher of the Year” in 2019.

Elsie Torres-Verdejo, MEd

Early Childhood Educator

Elsie is an early childhood educator at The Parish School. She began her nearly 20-year career at Parish as a paraeducator in 2000, before moving into her role as an educator. Elsi...

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Elsie Torres-Verdejo, MEd

Elsie Torres-Verdejo, MEd

Early Childhood Educator

Elsie is an early childhood educator at The Parish School. She began her nearly 20-year career at Parish as a paraeducator in 2000, before moving into her role as an educator. Elsie earned her BA in Psychology from SUNY College in New York and her MEd – Reading Specialist from The University of St. Thomas in Houston. She also has a Region IV Teaching Certification in Special Education EC-12.

Elsie loves the unique culture at The Parish School and draws inspiration from the special population of students she works with.

Elsie was The Parish School’s “Teacher of the Year” in 2012.

Georgia Craig

Elementary Paraeducator

Georgia has just graduated from SHSU with a degree in education. She has been working in a school environment for 4 years and will spend many more serving the children in her commu...

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Georgia Craig

Georgia Craig

Elementary Paraeducator

Georgia has just graduated from SHSU with a degree in education. She has been working in a school environment for 4 years and will spend many more serving the children in her community. Georgia is so excited to be a part of the mission here at The Parish School.

Gianna Cisneros

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Gianna is an Early Childhood Paraeducator at The Parish School. She holds a B.S. degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences with an emphasis in Speech-Language Pathology from...

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Gianna Cisneros

Gianna Cisneros

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Gianna is an Early Childhood Paraeducator at The Parish School. She holds a B.S. degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences with an emphasis in Speech-Language Pathology from The University of Texas at Austin. She has experience working with children who have communication delays and learning differences. She plans to obtain her master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology.

When Gianna is not working, she loves trying new restaurants with her fiancé, cooking different foods, and traveling. Her favorite things about The Parish School are the atmosphere and the incredible people!

Gracie Pitner

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Gracie is a Speech-Language Pathologist in the Early Childhood program at The Parish School. She earned her B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders at The University of Arkans...

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Gracie Pitner

Gracie Pitner

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Gracie is a Speech-Language Pathologist in the Early Childhood program at The Parish School. She earned her B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders at The University of Arkansas in 2018 and her M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology at UT Health San Antonio in 2020. She is a member of the American Speech- Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. Gracie has previous experience working in an outpatient private practice, outpatient neurorehabilitation clinic, and inpatient rehab facility. She has also worked five summers with Camp Acorn.

Gracie’s favorite thing about The Parish School is the welcoming and inclusive environment for not only the children but also the employees. In her spare time, Gracie enjoys reading, spending time with friends, and trying out new workout classes.

Hayley Boasman, M.Ed., CALP

Hayley Boasman, M.Ed., CALP

Head of Elementary

Heather Pasaoa

Elementary Coordinator

Heather is the Elementary Coordinator at The Parish School. Heather holds a B.A. in Human Development & Family Studies, with a Minor in Sociology from the University of Houston...

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Heather Pasaoa

Heather Pasaoa

Elementary Coordinator

Heather is the Elementary Coordinator at The Parish School. Heather holds a B.A. in Human Development & Family Studies, with a Minor in Sociology from the University of Houston-College of Education.

Heather has been a part of The Parish School Elementary team since 2018 and has worked most summers at Camp Acorn. Heather loves that Parish has provided her with a sense of community and growth with lifelong friendships/colleagues, and a network of amazing families that she has had the opportunity to meet and work with. Heather was honored as The Parish School Paraeducator of the Year in 2021-2022.

Prior to joining the Parish team, Heather worked in the Conroe ISD Special Education department as a Paraprofessional and as a Resource Educator and was named campus “Humanitarian of the Year”, in 2017-2018. Heather has years of experience and passion working with children (EC-6th; Special Education, General Education), teaching, in-class support in both school and daycare settings, child/family class programs, leadership, management and administration.

Heather is engaged to her wonderful fiancé, AJ, and is a dog mom to their spoiled fur baby, Marley. During her free time, Heather loves to travel, do anything crafty, watch concerts, sporting events, try new restaurants, cycle, yoga, sing, dance, hike, and spend time with family and friends.

Holly Wilbourn

Director of Advancement

With more than 25 years of advancement experience, Holly has led multiple annual funds, as well as capital and planned giving campaigns, alumni and volunteer relations and many spe...

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Holly Wilbourn

Holly Wilbourn

Director of Advancement
With more than 25 years of advancement experience, Holly has led multiple annual funds, as well as capital and planned giving campaigns, alumni and volunteer relations and many special events. For the past 14 years, she was Director of Institutional Advancement at Holy Comforter Episcopal School, an independent school for children ages pre-k through 8th grade in Tallahassee, FL. Her professional experience also includes 12 years as Director of Parent Programs and Annual Giving at Woodward Academy in Atlanta.
Holly is a native Houstonian and proud graduate of Episcopal High School, where she received a full scholarship and graduated fourth in her class. According to Holly, this experience "altered the course of my life." She went on to attend Sewanee: The University of the South in Tennessee, where part of her financial aid package was a work-study position in the alumni office.
“It was during this internship that I discovered my passion for development work,” said Holly. “It exposed me to the world of educational fundraising, and something just clicked. I was so grateful for my high school and college experience, and I had discovered a way to pay it forward. My career has been a way to say thank you to my parents, who demanded a better education for me.”
Holly truly has a heart for the work of independent school fundraising from the significant difference it made in her own life.
“Although I have worked on multiple capital and annual fund campaigns, nothing makes me happier than to receive a donation for tuition assistance/scholarship for deserving students,” said Holly. “I was that deserving student once and it has made all the difference.”
Married to her college sweetheart, David, the couple has two sons – Austin and Matthew. In her spare time, you will find Holly curled up with a good book (she averages about 3-4 books a week) or attending one of the many sporting games that involve her boys.

Janice Straker

Events & Volunteer Coordinator
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Janice Straker

Janice Straker

Events & Volunteer Coordinator
Jazmin Lagunas

Jazmin Lagunas

Early Childhood Paraeducator
Jeff Wallace

Jeff Wallace

Maintenance Supervisor

Jennifer Beleiff

Physical Education and Computer Lab Educator

Jennifer is the P.E. and Computer Lab Educator at The Parish School. She has a BS in Information System Technology from The University of Houston and earned her teaching certificat...

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Jennifer Beleiff

Jennifer Beleiff

Physical Education and Computer Lab Educator

Jennifer is the P.E. and Computer Lab Educator at The Parish School. She has a BS in Information System Technology from The University of Houston and earned her teaching certificate from Texas Teachers.  She is also certified in Physical Education and Special Education EC-12 and Generalist 4-8.  She is a proud member of the Texas Computer Education Association (TCEA) and the Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (TAHPERD).

Prior to joining the Parish team in 2010, Jennifer was a student teacher for Spring Branch ISD.

Jennifer is married with two amazing young daughters who keep her very busy! When she’s not working, Jennifer loves spending time with her family, trying new restaurants, going to concerts and learning anything technology-related.  She loves her job, especially the teachers and students who make The Parish School so amazing!

Jennifer Dunn-Khan

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Jennifer is a preschool Paraeducator at the Parish School. She has previously worked with children who have learning, social, and emotional differences.

Jennifer's son attended ...

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Jennifer Dunn-Khan

Jennifer Dunn-Khan

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Jennifer is a preschool Paraeducator at the Parish School. She has previously worked with children who have learning, social, and emotional differences.

Jennifer's son attended The Carruth Center at The Parish school. She loves to spend her free time with her family and friends. She enjoys biking, playing and watching baseball, traveling, and playing with her dog.

Jessica Buitrago

Jessica Buitrago

Elementary Educator

Jill Wood, MLIS

Director of Adventure Play, Librarian

Jill Wood is the founding director of Adventure Play at The Parish School and school librarian since 2008. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art and a Master of Library a...

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Jill Wood, MLIS

Jill Wood, MLIS

Director of Adventure Play, Librarian

Jill Wood is the founding director of Adventure Play at The Parish School and school librarian since 2008. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art and a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Texas at Austin. She serves on the advisory board at LiiNK Center for Healthy Play at TCU, and on the International Play Association US school recess committee. 

The children of Adventure Play have taught her that play is one of the most powerful and joyful avenues to health and wellbeing, and she speaks Internationally about the importance of holding time and space for it.  

Outside of Parish she provides training in playwork, the profession used on adventure playgrounds, as regional consultant for UK-based Pop-Up Adventure Play. Locally, she founded Bayou City Play, a collaborative of artists, librarians, and therapists in 2013 to promote child-directed play through partnerships with schools, libraries, hospitals, and parks in the Houston-metro area. 

She is mom to an amazing 10-year-old human (who is really the authority on play in her household), a cat named Francis, and two guinea pigs named Taffy and Oreo.

Joanna Rissmiller

Joanna Rissmiller

Advancement Associate

Jordan Boyce, M.Ed., LDT, CALT

Reading Specialist

Jordan is the reading specialist at The Parish School. She holds a master’s degree in Special Education from Texas Christian University. She is also a Certified Academic Language...

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Jordan Boyce, M.Ed., LDT, CALT

Jordan Boyce, M.Ed., LDT, CALT

Reading Specialist

Jordan is the reading specialist at The Parish School. She holds a master’s degree in Special Education from Texas Christian University. She is also a Certified Academic Language Therapist (CALT) and Licensed Dyslexia Therapist (LDT). Since 2009, she has worked with students of various needs from providing intervention to students with significant cognitive delays, to providing academic language therapy to students with dyslexia and language delays. Additionally, Jordan has run her own private practice providing individual academic language therapy to elementary and middle school students and providing parent support. She is a member of ALTA (Academic Language Therapy Association) and IDA (International Dyslexia Association). Jordan is a Parish boomeranger, who worked as an elementary teacher at TPS from 2010-2015. She is so happy to be back!

When she isn’t working, Jordan enjoys spending time with her husband and three young sons, going to Galveston, and seeing friends and family. Jordan loves teaching children to read, and seeing them build confidence with and gain enjoyment for reading is her greatest passion.

Josie Gardner

Social-Emotional Support Specialist

Supervised by Heather Tillbury, LCSW-S, RPT-S

Josie is a Social Emotional Support Specialist at The Parish School. Josie is a licensed social worker, who earned her bachelor’s...

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Josie Gardner

Josie Gardner

Social-Emotional Support Specialist

Supervised by Heather Tillbury, LCSW-S, RPT-S

Josie is a Social Emotional Support Specialist at The Parish School. Josie is a licensed social worker, who earned her bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) from Colorado State University and master’s degree in social work (MSW) from The University of Houston.

Prior to being at The Parish School, Josie has experience working in childcare and afterschool care programs. As a person with unique learning differences, she is passionate about helping children have the level of care and support in school that she did not have. Josie believes in extending patience and support to children as they learn and explore the world around them. She is excited to work with like-minded individuals and be a part of a strong school family.

In Josie’s free time, she enjoys being outside and playing with her friends’ dogs (sadly she does not have her own pet… yet). She also enjoys exploring Houston and trying all the amazing foods that do not have in Colorado!

Judy Colston

Elementary Educator

Judy is an Elementary Educator at The Parish School. She earned her B.A. in Elementary and Special Education from the University of West Florida in Pensacola, before becoming a tra...

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Judy Colston

Judy Colston

Elementary Educator

Judy is an Elementary Educator at The Parish School. She earned her B.A. in Elementary and Special Education from the University of West Florida in Pensacola, before becoming a transplanted Texan with her husband. She and her husband have raised three children, and she is now the proud “Gigi” to four amazing grandchildren.

Judy has a long history as an educator before joining the Parish team. She began her career as a Resource Teacher in Cy-Fair ISD. She moved on to teach for many years at Holy Spirit Episcopal School, filling various positions in her years there - such as, providing Alphabetic Phonics therapy for individuals and groups, language development for ESL students, as well as enrichment for GT small groups. She also was a Pre-K-Bridge teacher for her last four years at Holy Spirit. Judy then worked again in Cy-Fair ISD, and spent 6 years as the teacher of a first grade general education class. Most recently she completed 11 years as a HISD Special Education teacher, in an elementary self-contained class for students with autism. She has retired from the Texas public school education system, but she feels blessed that she is able to continue doing what she loves, in such an ideal setting as The Parish School.

Judy loves opportunities for get-togethers with friends and family, and especially gets re-energized by being around her grandchildren. She enjoys spending free time at the family’s home on Lake Limestone. She also loves to get away for visits to the Texas hill country, or to the beaches she enjoyed as a native Floridian. When she seeks out an actual leisure activity, it’s most likely going to be something creative, such as drawing, painting or crafts

Kacey Smith, , MS, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist, Social Learning Lead Clinician

Kacey Smith is a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist through the Texas State Board of Examiners and American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). Kacey re...

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Kacey Smith, , MS, CCC-SLP

Kacey Smith, , MS, CCC-SLP

Speech Language Pathologist, Social Learning Lead Clinician

Kacey Smith is a licensed and certified speech-language pathologist through the Texas State Board of Examiners and American Speech-Language and Hearing Association (ASHA). Kacey received her undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and earned a master’s degree in communication sciences and disorders from Texas Woman’s University.

Kacey’s experiences include working in a public school, at a private therapy practice, and at a pediatric outpatient clinic for one of the top children’s hospitals in the nation. She has treated and evaluated children who have speech and sound disorders, speech delays, receptive and expressive language delays and disorders, autism, neurological impairments, cleft palate, hearing impairments, stuttering, and motor speech disorders. At The Carruth Center, Kacey specializes in Social Thinking®, an intervention and assessment framework dedicated to tackling the complex social-emotional learning needs of individuals with social learning challenges. She is passionate about using language to promote independent pragmatic problem solving in the pediatric population.

Kacey lives in Houston with her husband and two daughters. She loves spending time outside with her family and getting to watch her daughters learn to navigate their social world.

Kai Vance

Kai Vance

Elementary Paraeducator

Kalia Johnston

Elementary Paraeducator

Kalia Johnston is an elementary paraeducator at The Parish School. She holds an Associate’s Degree in General Studies from San Jac Central in Pasadena Tx. She has experience in e...

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Kalia Johnston

Kalia Johnston

Elementary Paraeducator

Kalia Johnston is an elementary paraeducator at The Parish School. She holds an Associate’s Degree in General Studies from San Jac Central in Pasadena Tx. She has experience in early childhood. In her spare time, she loves hanging out with her husband and her son.

Karen Priputen, CPA

Accounting/Payroll Coordinator

Karen is the Accounting/Payroll Coordinator at The Parish School. She holds a BS in Accounting from the University of Maryland and is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in T...

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Karen Priputen, CPA

Karen Priputen, CPA

Accounting/Payroll Coordinator

Karen is the Accounting/Payroll Coordinator at The Parish School. She holds a BS in Accounting from the University of Maryland and is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in Texas. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants (TSCPA).

Prior to joining The Parish School, Karen had extensive experience in public accounting and corporate financing reporting.

Karen is married with two children and one grandchild. When she's not working, she enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, biking, and being outdoors

Kate Williams MS, CCC-SLP

Early Childhood Resource Specialist

Kate is the Early Childhood Resource Specialist at The Parish School. She earned a BA in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Baylor University and an MS in in Speech Patholog...

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Kate Williams MS, CCC-SLP

Kate Williams MS, CCC-SLP

Early Childhood Resource Specialist

Kate is the Early Childhood Resource Specialist at The Parish School. She earned a BA in Communication Sciences and Disorders from Baylor University and an MS in in Speech Pathology from Texas Woman’s University. She is a member of the American Speech-Language and Hearing Association and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. Kate joined the Parish School in 2022. She has experience working in an outpatient setting with children and adolescents with a variety of speech, language, and neurological differences.

Kate’s favorite part of The Parish School is the feeling of belonging that students, parents and staff feel immediately upon stepping onto our campus. She enjoys spending time with her family and their dogs. In her spare time, you can find Kate needlepointing, gardening, and volunteering at the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo.

Kathleen McLane

Elementary Educator

Kathleen McLane is a Lower Elementary Educator at The Parish School.  She has a master's degree in nursing and practiced as a pediatric nurse practitioner prior to earning her tea...

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Kathleen McLane

Kathleen McLane

Elementary Educator

Kathleen McLane is a Lower Elementary Educator at The Parish School.  She has a master's degree in nursing and practiced as a pediatric nurse practitioner prior to earning her teaching certificate from Region 4.  She is certified in Early Childhood EC-6 and in Special Education EC-12.  She is a member of the International Dyslexia Association and a member of the Houston International Dyslexia Association's Publishing Committee.  Prior to joining the Parish Team, she was a Primary teacher at The Briarwood School.

Kathleen has been married for over 30 years and has three children.  She has a grown daughter, a son and a younger daughter in college.  She enjoys reading, sewing, and doing yoga in her free time.  She loves teaching and is very excited to work with such an amazing staff at The Parish School.

Kayleigh Popkowski

Elementary Educator

Kayleigh is an Upper Elementary teacher at The Parish School. She has a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Special Education. She is certified in Special Education EC-12 and Cor...

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Kayleigh Popkowski

Kayleigh Popkowski

Elementary Educator

Kayleigh is an Upper Elementary teacher at The Parish School. She has a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Special Education. She is certified in Special Education EC-12 and Core Subjects EC-6. Kayleigh is also a licensed Educational Diagnostician.

Prior to joining The Parish team in 2022, Kayleigh was a Special Education Teacher for YES Prep Public Schools.

When she is not working, Kayleigh teaches indoor cycling fitness classes, spends time with her family, tries new restaurants, and spends time outdoors. She is so excited for the new school year and to meet all her students. She feels right at home here at The Parish School!

 

 

Krissy Christofakis, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT

Art Therapist, Art Educator

Krissy is an Art Therapist and Educator at The Parish School. She has a MA in Clinical Art Therapy and Counseling and is both a Registered Art Therapist and a Licensed Creative Art...

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Krissy Christofakis, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT

Krissy Christofakis, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT

Art Therapist, Art Educator

Krissy is an Art Therapist and Educator at The Parish School. She has a MA in Clinical Art Therapy and Counseling and is both a Registered Art Therapist and a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist.

Krissy recently moved to Houston from New York to work at The Parish School. She has experience with children, adults with intellectual disabilities, geriatrics and behavioral health, in addition to having practiced art therapy internationally.

Krissy is passionate about facilitating growth and learning through the arts both at The Parish School and in the greater community. She is the founder of Grounded Gem, an art therapy-inspired subscription service that offers a variety of fun recreational directives for supplementing and reinforcing art therapy sessions. She also collaborates with the Exceptional Artists Foundation, an organization that empowers artists with disabilities by creating awareness about their talents and expression through the arts. Krissy has also participated in a soon-to-be-released documentary about a man’s self-discovery and healing through art.

In her free time, Krissy enjoys traveling and learning about different cultures, hiking, walking and bicycling.

Kyle Evans

Elementary Paraeducator

Kyle is an Elementary Paraeducator for the Upper Classrooms at The Parish School. He holds an Associate Degree from Lone Star College for Teaching and Learning, and is transferring...

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Kyle Evans

Kyle Evans

Elementary Paraeducator

Kyle is an Elementary Paraeducator for the Upper Classrooms at The Parish School. He holds an Associate Degree from Lone Star College for Teaching and Learning, and is transferring to the University of Houston in 2023 to complete his Education Degree.

Prior to joining The Parish School in 2023, Kyle worked as a Computer Science and Music Teacher for the former Trent InternationalE School in Sugar Land from 2013 to 2019.

Kyle is married and celebrated 10 years of marriage in June 2023.  In his spare time, Kyle has a passion for music, unwinding playing games, and traveling. Kyle believes that everyone can unlock their learning potential and through that discover the world around them. Developing passions helps expand and grow the learning process.

Laura Causey, MAT

Curriculum Specialist

The Curriculum Specialist at The Parish School, Laura earned both her BS in Elementary Education and MA in Teaching from Louisiana State University.

Before coming to The Parish ...

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Laura Causey, MAT

Laura Causey, MAT

Curriculum Specialist

The Curriculum Specialist at The Parish School, Laura earned both her BS in Elementary Education and MA in Teaching from Louisiana State University.

Before coming to The Parish School in 2017, Laura was a 3rd grade teacher in Spring Branch ISD and at an inner-city Houston charter school, where she taught general studies, math and science.

Laura’s favorite part about teaching is opening a child’s world to the many possibilities available to them. She hopes to instill in her students a lifelong love of learning outside of the classroom. She is particularly inspired by seeing the “lightbulb” moments in her students’ eyes when they learn something new or accomplish a goal.

Laura is a native Houstonian who enjoys spending time with family and friends. She is an avid LSU football fan, but married a Longhorn, so she’s often wearing burnt orange on the weekends. She and her husband like to travel to football games and enjoy new restaurants.

Laura Garcia

Elementary Paraeducator

Laura is an Elementary Paraeducator at The Parish School. She graduated with honors from Texas A&M University- Kingsville with a B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders an...

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Laura Garcia

Laura Garcia

Elementary Paraeducator

Laura is an Elementary Paraeducator at The Parish School. She graduated with honors from Texas A&M University- Kingsville with a B.S. in Communication Sciences and Disorders and is currently working to get her teaching certification in EC-6th.

Prior to working at Parish, Laura spent time working as an Assistant Speech Language Pathologist in the San Antonio, Texas area, serving low-income children. She has also worked as a Toddler Teacher for a private school in Brownsville, Texas.

Laura has a 6-year-old daughter that she absolutely loves and two giant fur babies. In her free time, she enjoys going to the beach, going on nature walks, and taking weekend road trips. She is excited to be part of the Parish team and can’t wait to meet all the Parish families.

 

Laura Kelley

Elementary Educator

Laura is a Lead Teachers for the Primary Level.  She has a BA in History and Elementary Education and a MS in Special Education.  She holds certification in Elementary Education ...

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Laura Kelley

Laura Kelley

Elementary Educator

Laura is a Lead Teachers for the Primary Level.  She has a BA in History and Elementary Education and a MS in Special Education.  She holds certification in Elementary Education K-6, Special Education PK-12 and English Language Learners PK-12.  Additionally, Laura is certified in the Wilson Reading Program.

Prior to joining the Parish School, Laura had taught Kindergarten to Sixth Grade, both in the general and special education setting; she even had the opportunity to teach while living in the Netherlands.

Laura has 14-year-old twins- a boy and a girl- who love to travel and explore with their mom.  She has a 9-year-old giant dog, Murphy Downey (golden/husky) and adopted Mildred Sarah (husky/shepard/cattle dog) this summer.

Laura loves to read, swim, bike and explore old and new places. She is excited to join the Parish School and looks forward to getting to know the students, parents and faculty that make up the incredible Parish community!

Lily Huval

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Lily is new this year to the early childhood program at The Parish School. She holds both a BS in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Louisiana State University and a MS in C...

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Lily Huval

Lily Huval

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Lily is new this year to the early childhood program at The Parish School. She holds both a BS in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Louisiana State University and a MS in Communication Disorders and Sciences from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans. Lily is also a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), has her Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology and her Texas State Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology License. She has several years of experience in various settings, from the public school system to outpatient hospital setting. Lily has always held a special place in her heart for early childhood speech and language intervention.

Lily has always been interested in integrating speech-language therapy within the child’s everyday life and what they love to do and loves that Parish provides the opportunity to do this on a daily basis. About working at The Parish School, Lily says, “From the moment I entered the campus, I could feel happiness and love radiating from all the amazing professionals here. I also love the opportunity to collaborate with the staff including paraeducators, SLPs, OTs, early childhood special education teachers and play therapists, to provide a team approach to serving students with communication delays and learning differences. Through this collaboration, I am constantly learning.”

When she’s not working or learning, Lily enjoys being outdoors, trying new restaurants, and doing Pilates!

Lily Yoder, LPC, RPT

Director of Student & Family Services

Lily is the Director of Student and Family Services at The Parish School. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who earned her BA in Psychology fro...

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Lily Yoder, LPC, RPT

Lily Yoder, LPC, RPT

Director of Student & Family Services

Lily is the Director of Student and Family Services at The Parish School. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who earned her BA in Psychology from Baylor University and her MA in Psychology from Houston Baptist University.

Lily has over 15 years of experience providing counseling and play therapy to children and families in a variety of settings. She has significant experience with young children, ADHD, Autism and anxiety disorders, and is a member of the Sam Houston Chapter of the Association for Play Therapy and the national Association for Play Therapy.

Lily loves working at The Parish School because she gets to see children flourish in a community of people who are as passionate and creative about helping children as she is. She is inspired by the innocence and awe of children and motivated by her desire to help them find a voice,  provide them with a space for healing, and help cultivate relationships in their lives that help them feel seen, heard, safe, and empowered.

When she’s not at Parish, Lily enjoys spending time with family and friends, perusing and pinning ideas on Pinterest and relaxing anywhere with a water view.

Lisa Smith

Nature Studies Educator

Lisa has been the Nature Studies Educator at The Parish School since 2018. She earned her BS in Mathematics from Stephen F. Austin State University and her MS in Instructional ...

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Lisa Smith

Lisa Smith

Nature Studies Educator

Lisa has been the Nature Studies Educator at The Parish School since 2018. She earned her BS in Mathematics from Stephen F. Austin State University and her MS in Instructional Systems Technology from the University of North Texas. Lisa has 20 years of experience teaching children ages 2 through pre-kindergarten, including 10 years at HISD. Lisa’s mother was a teacher for over 40 years, so she says teaching is in her genes.

Lisa loves being outdoors with children and watching them discover the wonders of nature. Outside of Parish, Lisa is a trainer for Project WILD, an organization that teaches children how to think about wildlife, and Project Learning Tree, an award-winning environmental education program.

Lisa has always enjoyed being outdoors, and grew up camping, hiking and fishing. She is inspired to help children explore the outdoors and develop a love for its beauty while teaching them to preserve its wonders.

Lizzie Pikul

Eearly Childhood Paraeducator
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Lizzie Pikul

Lizzie Pikul

Eearly Childhood Paraeducator

Lucy Rivera

Elementary Educator

Lucy Rivera is an elementary teacher at the Parish School. She has a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Houston. Prior to joining the Parish team, she was a pa...

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Lucy Rivera

Lucy Rivera

Elementary Educator

Lucy Rivera is an elementary teacher at the Parish School. She has a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Houston. Prior to joining the Parish team, she was a paraeducator for Fort Bend ISD. Lucy has two boys who keep her busy with afterschool sports and weekend games. On her free time, she enjoys outdoor walks, shop, do projects, travel, try new restaurants, and be with friends and family.

Madeline Fielding

Early Childhood Coordinator

Maddie is the Early Childhood Coordinator at The Parish School. She has a BS in Communication Sciences & Disorders- Speech & Language Pathology from The University or Texas...

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Madeline Fielding

Madeline Fielding

Early Childhood Coordinator

Maddie is the Early Childhood Coordinator at The Parish School. She has a BS in Communication Sciences & Disorders- Speech & Language Pathology from The University or Texas at Austin. Maddie holds her National Administrator’s Credential through the National Institute of Child Care Management.

Maddie joined the Parish team in 2018 as a substitute and has loved the growth opportunities Parish has provided as well as the lifelong friendships she has made. Her favorite part of Parish is the incredible students and families that she is lucky enough to work with every day.

Maddie is married and has two adorable fur babies- Bug the dog, and Bean the cat. When Maddie is not working, she loves trying new Houston restaurants, cooking, traveling, reading, and taking naps!

Maddie was The Parish School’s “Paraeducator of the Year” in 2020.

Maria Mier

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Maria is the Early Childhood Paraeducator at The Parish School. She is currently a college student pursuing a bachelor of science in Speech Therapy and a minor in Special Education...

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Maria Mier

Maria Mier

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Maria is the Early Childhood Paraeducator at The Parish School. She is currently a college student pursuing a bachelor of science in Speech Therapy and a minor in Special Education at The University of Houston. Maria loves spending time with her dog at parks. When she is not working, Maria is very busy studying, trying new coffee shops, spending time with her family, and learning anything education and speech related. She is very excited to work at The Parish School and being with her class.

Maritza Medrano

Maritza Medrano

Paraeducator
Mary Williams

Mary Williams

Business Office Coordinator

Maureen Giglio, MS, CCC-SLP

Camp Acorn Manager, Admissions Specialist

Maureen is the Camp Acorn Manager and Admissions Specialist at the Parish School. She has earned a BA in Communicative Disorders from Saint Mary’s at Notre Dame and her MS in Spe...

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Maureen Giglio, MS, CCC-SLP

Maureen Giglio, MS, CCC-SLP

Camp Acorn Manager, Admissions Specialist

Maureen is the Camp Acorn Manager and Admissions Specialist at the Parish School. She has earned a BA in Communicative Disorders from Saint Mary’s at Notre Dame and her MS in Speech-Language Pathology from Texas Tech University’s Health Sciences Center. Prior to this position, Maureen worked as the lead speech-language pathologist in the Early Childhood program specializing in Social Thinking concepts, as well as Conscious Discipline. Maureen also worked within a deaf education program and is qualified in both American Sign Language and Signing Exact English.

Maureen has always had a passion for working with children and helping them find their voice. She loves that The Parish School is a collaborative work environment focused on providing students with tools to better their communication, confidence, and overall joy for learning.

Maureen is married with three amazing children who have lots of energy! When she’s not working, Maureen enjoys spending time with her family, reading books, and trying new recipes. The Parish School holds a special place in her heart and she’s excited to continue helping students thrive!

Meadow Scanio

Early Childhood Paraeducator
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Meadow Scanio

Meadow Scanio

Early Childhood Paraeducator
Megan Apaez Morales

Megan Apaez Morales

Playworker

Melissa King

Elementary Paraeducator

Melissa King is an Elementary Paraeducator who brings a wealth of experience to her role. Originally hailing from New York, she made the journey to Texas twenty years ago to pursue...

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Melissa King

Melissa King

Elementary Paraeducator

Melissa King is an Elementary Paraeducator who brings a wealth of experience to her role. Originally hailing from New York, she made the journey to Texas twenty years ago to pursue her college education. Today, she is a proud wife and mother of two daughters and a son. Melissa's passion for teaching and her dedication to working with children shine through in all that she does.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Melissa has a diverse range of interests that add vibrancy to her life. She finds immense joy in dancing and immersing herself in the world of music. In her leisure moments, she delights in watching mystery movies . Additionally, she's an avid reader of articles centered around home improvement, always seeking inspiration for enhancing her surroundings.

Creativity is at the heart of Melissa's hobbies. She takes pleasure in crafting, designing items for her home or serve as thoughtful gifts for loved ones. For her, the act of creating and using her imagination is a cherished form of self-expression.

Meredith Krimmel, MS, CCC-SLP

Director of Special Projects/Assistant to the Head of School, Unbabbled Podcast Host

Meredith is a certified speech-language pathologist and the Director of Special Projects/Assistant to the Head of School at The Parish School. She earned her BS in Communication S...

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Meredith Krimmel, MS, CCC-SLP

Meredith Krimmel, MS, CCC-SLP

Director of Special Projects/Assistant to the Head of School, Unbabbled Podcast Host

Meredith is a certified speech-language pathologist and the Director of Special Projects/Assistant to the Head of School at The Parish School. She earned her BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Texas in 2006, and her MS in Communication Disorders from Texas State University in 2008.

Meredith came to The Parish School in 2006 and has worked as a SLP for the Early Childhood and Elementary classes, as well as for The Carruth Center, the school’s onsite pediatric therapy clinic. She also led groups for the school’s Social Learning program and attends Camp Social Superheroes every summer.

Among the many hats she wears at The Parish School, Meredith is also the co-host of The Parish School’s podcast, Unbabbled, which strives to help parents, caregivers, educators and therapists navigate the world of communication delays and learning differences.

Prior to joining the Parish staff, Meredith worked in a clinical setting providing therapy to children with a variety of speech and language needs, including articulation disorders, language delays, tongue thrusts and fluency disorders.

Meredith has two children who love The Parish School and attend Camp Acorn every summer. Meredith wants to help families find the best educational environment for their child and is inspired by providing kids with the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

When she’s not working, Meredith enjoys being outdoors and spending time with family and friends.

Mimi Branham, MA, CCC-SLP

Carruth Clinic Director

Mimi comes to us with more than 22 years of experience as a speech-language pathologist. She has worked in a variety of settings, including as owner of a private practice, SLP in p...

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Mimi Branham, MA, CCC-SLP

Mimi Branham, MA, CCC-SLP

Carruth Clinic Director

Mimi comes to us with more than 22 years of experience as a speech-language pathologist. She has worked in a variety of settings, including as owner of a private practice, SLP in public education and over the past five years, as clinical supervisor and director of a private therapy clinic.

Mimi's clinical expertise has focused on early language disorders, feeding disorders and apraxia of speech. She enjoys mentoring staff and clinical problem solving, and values strong collaboration among all team members.

She earned both her master's and undergraduate degrees in Communication Disorders from the University of Houston.

Mireya “Miri” Tusing, MS, CCC-SLP

Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist

Mireya “Miri” Tusing is a speech-language pathologist in the elementary program at The Parish School. She holds a BS in Intercultural Communications from Texas A&M and an M...

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Mireya “Miri” Tusing, MS, CCC-SLP

Mireya “Miri” Tusing, MS, CCC-SLP

Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist

Mireya “Miri” Tusing is a speech-language pathologist in the elementary program at The Parish School. She holds a BS in Intercultural Communications from Texas A&M and an MA in Communication Disorders from the University of Houston. Miri specializes in language disorders and autism.

Before joining the Parish team in 2018, Miri had over 15 years of experience as an SLP in a variety of roles, including in the public school system and in private practice as the owner of a therapy clinic in Pearland.

Outside of Parish, Miri volunteers her time with the One Eleuthera Foundation, where she offers speech and language services and evaluations to the students and teachers on the island of Eleuthera in the Bahamas. She is also the founder of a non-profit organization called The Christina Project, which raises funds for various causes such as Autism Speaks and the Special Olympics.

Her favorite thing about working at The Parish School is her ability to create meaningful connections with her students. About her role at Parish, she says, “I am inspired to do what I do because of the honor I feel that I am able to be a part of a child’s progress. Nothing makes me more excited than when I see a child accomplish something that was once difficult for them.”

When she’s not working, Miri enjoys jogging, soccer, being outdoors, viewing artwork and spending time with her husband and three incredible children.

Nancy Mosley

Nancy Mosley

Administrative Manager

Natalie Cuyler

Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist

Natalie is an elementary speech-language pathologist at The Parish School. She has a BA in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the Universi...

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Natalie Cuyler

Natalie Cuyler

Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist

Natalie is an elementary speech-language pathologist at The Parish School. She has a BA in Psychology and a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Houston. She is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA). Natalie has previous experience as a speech-language pathologist at the elementary level at Pasadena ISD and Houston ISD. She has worked at Camp Acorn at The Parish School for two summers. 

Natalie believes that children learn best when they are supported emotionally and given the opportunity to express themselves. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, running, hiking, and camping.

Natasha Sullivan

Natasha Sullivan

Elementary Educator
Noah Price

Noah Price

Playworker

Quincy Reid

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Quincy is new to the Early Childhood program at the Parish School this year. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Oklahoma. Quincy is excited to le...

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Quincy Reid

Quincy Reid

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Quincy is new to the Early Childhood program at the Parish School this year. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Oklahoma. Quincy is excited to learn and grow alongside her students every day. In her free time, she enjoys going to concerts, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

Rachel Zandy, MS, CCC-SLP

Early Childhood Speech Language Pathologist

Rachel is an Early Childhood Speech Language Pathologist at The Parish School. She has a BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders from The University of Tulsa and earned her Ma...

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Rachel Zandy, MS, CCC-SLP

Rachel Zandy, MS, CCC-SLP

Early Childhood Speech Language Pathologist
Rachel is an Early Childhood Speech Language Pathologist at The Parish School. She has a BS in Communication Sciences and Disorders from The University of Tulsa and earned her Master's degree from The University of Texas at Austin. As part of her graduate studies, she earned a Multicultural Certificate in Speech-Language Pathology. Additionally, she completed a Master’s Portfolio in Disability Studies, which benefits her in her work with children that have various communication and learning needs. Rachel is a member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) and holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence in Speech-Language Pathology. Prior to joining the Parish team, Rachel worked as an elementary school speech-language pathologist for Clear Creek Independent School District and worked at an interdisciplinary private clinic, where she led a social skills summer camp and provided caregivers with training on early language facilitation strategies. Rachel is excited to work as part of a collaborative team at The Parish School to provide students with the tools they need to grow and thrive. When she’s not working, Rachel enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and exploring new places.

Renee Attaway-Storer, MS, CCC-SLP

Social Learning Consultant, Director of Camp Social Superheroes and Camp Connect
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Renee Attaway-Storer, MS, CCC-SLP

Renee Attaway-Storer, MS, CCC-SLP

Social Learning Consultant, Director of Camp Social Superheroes and Camp Connect

Rona Hizar

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Rona is an Early Childhood Paraeducator at The Parish School. She has had the opportunity to work with children in public and private schools for many years.

In her free time, R...

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Rona Hizar

Rona Hizar

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Rona is an Early Childhood Paraeducator at The Parish School. She has had the opportunity to work with children in public and private schools for many years.

In her free time, Rona enjoys spending time with her grandson and going fishing with her husband.

Sarah Martin, M.Ed., LPC

Director of Admissions

Sarah is the Director of Admissions at the Parish School. She received her BA in psychology from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas in 2006 and in 2010, she received a ...

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Sarah Martin, M.Ed., LPC

Sarah Martin, M.Ed., LPC

Director of Admissions

Sarah is the Director of Admissions at the Parish School. She received her BA in psychology from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas in 2006 and in 2010, she received a Master of Education in counseling at The University of St. Thomas. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who also provides psychotherapy services to children and adolescents in addition to parent coaching. Sarah has worked in previous years at The Parish School in various roles in the Admissions Department and Student & Family Services. When not at The Parish School, she has worked in the private practice setting administering therapy to children through play.

Sarah is passionate about being witness to children processing their world through play. She is enthusiastic about counseling families to finding the best school, service, and treatment to meet their children’s needs, so they can thrive academically and emotionally.

A fourth-generation Houstonian, Sarah is married with two children and a poodle-mix who loves to make trouble! She loves to travel, read books, watch movies and especially spend time with family.  She is so excited to be back at The Parish School – a place that feels like home away from home!

Stephanie Landis, MS, CCC-SLP

Elementary Lead Speech-Language Pathologist, Unbabbled Podcast Host

Stephanie is a speech-language pathologist and resource specialist for The Parish School’s early childhood class levels. She earned a BA in Psychology from Butler University in I...

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Stephanie Landis, MS, CCC-SLP

Stephanie Landis, MS, CCC-SLP

Elementary Lead Speech-Language Pathologist, Unbabbled Podcast Host

Stephanie is a speech-language pathologist and resource specialist for The Parish School’s early childhood class levels. She earned a BA in Psychology from Butler University in Indianapolis in 2004 and a MS in Speech-Language and Hearing Sciences from Purdue University in 2008. She is also a member of the Texas Speech-Language-Hearing Association (TSHA) and the Houston Association of Communication Disorders (HACD).

Since joining The Parish School in 2008, Stephanie has worked as a SLP for the Early Childhood, Primary and Elementary classes, as well as for The Carruth Center, the school’s onsite pediatric therapy clinic.

In addition to her role as a SLP, Stephanie is also the co-host of The Parish School’s podcast, Unbabbled, which strives to help parents, caregivers, educators and therapists navigate the world of communication delays and learning differences. She is also a contributor to The Parish School blogs and has written articles on subjects like Tips for Supporting Engagement and Learning Through Play and insight into why children with language and learning difficulties may struggle with math.

Her favorite thing about working at The Parish School is collaborating with multiple professionals, working closely with families and exploring new professional outlets.

Outside of Parish, Stephanie likes to spend time exploring the outdoors and playing with her husband and children. She also enjoys reading and cooking.

Susan Honey

Occupational Therapist/COTA

Susan earned an Associate of Occupational Therapy degree from HCC Coleman University in 2017 and holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Houston. She is curr...

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Susan Honey

Susan Honey

Occupational Therapist/COTA

Susan earned an Associate of Occupational Therapy degree from HCC Coleman University in 2017 and holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Houston. She is currently pursuing her Master's degree in Occupational Therapy.

Throughout her professional career, Susan has dedicated herself to providing valuable support to parents and educators in maximizing children's success. Her specialized training and extensive experience in sensory integration and developmental areas, including sensory processing, motor development, behavioral skills, and group therapy, have equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver effective therapeutic and successful interventions. Susan's work as an occupational therapist assistant has provided information on various topics, including sensory processing, fine-motor development, handwriting development, and life-skills group activities at clinics and schools.

Additionally, she holds continuing education certificates in DIR Floortime, Sensory Integration, Behavioral Intervention, and Handwriting Without Tears. Susan's vast experience has enabled her to guide and inspire children, caregivers, and educators across various settings, including homes, daycares, preschools, and different school systems (public, private, specialized, and cyber). Her unwavering dedication to the growth and development of her patients is driven by her love for what she does.

Susan takes pride in her work and is passionate about helping children reach their full potential. She is a native of Houston and currently resides there with her husband and two cats. Susan enjoys traveling, live music, the arts, and spending time with loved ones during her free time.

Terri Garth

Director of Arts & Sciences, Drama Educator

Terri is the Arts and Sciences Coordinator and Drama Educator at The Parish School. Terri has more than 32 years of experience and is the director of Integrated Arts and Sciences. ...

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Terri Garth

Terri Garth

Director of Arts & Sciences, Drama Educator

Terri is the Arts and Sciences Coordinator and Drama Educator at The Parish School. Terri has more than 32 years of experience and is the director of Integrated Arts and Sciences. Terri’s experience extends far beyond the classroom walls to performance spaces, stages, and even the great outdoors.

Terri’s work as an educator began at The Parish School, where she was instrumental in the development of the school’s theater program, and later its Integrated Arts and Sciences department, which includes art and music classes and therapy, digital learning, a library with makerspace, theater, P.E., and nature studies.

In addition to the big impact Terri makes in the academic lives of students, Terri co-founded the Margaret Noecker Nature Center in 2012. Utilizing The Parish School’s 17-acre campus, the Nature Center is an integrated, nature-based learning environment that facilitates children’s intellectual, social and emotional development through direct engagement with the natural world. The Nature Center has completed both Phase I, Little Acorn Park, a certified outdoor learning classroom for children ages 2-6 and Phase II, Oak Creek Exploration Zone, and recently renovated our Butterfly Garden.  Currently, the Nature Center is working on renovating on our Community Garden.

Terri has been Teacher of the Year and was awarded a teaching grant to travel to Germany and France to study fairy tales. As a former Parish parent herself, she has chaired both the Parish gala and luncheon.

The Parish School would not be where it is today without Terri’s guidance, experience and passion.

Terry Clough, CPA

Director of Finance & Operations

Terry began his professional career in 1990 and has accumulated more than 25 years of progressive accounting experience, mostly in the healthcare and education industries. In healt...

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Terry Clough, CPA

Terry Clough, CPA

Director of Finance & Operations

Terry began his professional career in 1990 and has accumulated more than 25 years of progressive accounting experience, mostly in the healthcare and education industries. In healthcare, he has held various positions in a health maintenance organization (HMO), long-term and short-term acute care, as well as in specialty hospitals (surgical and rehabilitation). Prior to coming to The Parish School, Terry was an AVP Finance with Victory Healthcare, an organization with surgical hospitals in Houston, San Antonio, Dallas-Ft Worth and Beaumont areas. He has also held positions in education with Arlington ISD and KIPP Academy. At KIPP Academy, he was instrumental in guiding the accounting operations during their growth expansion from 8 to 19 schools.

Terry is a native of the Iowa and Wisconsin areas and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Accounting from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. He is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the State of Wisconsin. Outside of work, Terry enjoys spending time with his family, which includes two children and five grandchildren, and traveling, reading, biking and doing home projects.

Tina Molina

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Tina is an Early Childhood Paraeducator at The Parish School. She has been part of The Parish School family since 2005. She enjoys the ability to go into all the different classroo...

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Tina Molina

Tina Molina

Early Childhood Paraeducator

Tina is an Early Childhood Paraeducator at The Parish School. She has been part of The Parish School family since 2005. She enjoys the ability to go into all the different classrooms daily and see all the children. She credits The Parish School for all the experiences she has had teaching children learn and grow. Tina feels blessed to able to call The Parish School her home away from home.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending quality time with her family and grandson. She also enjoys time with her fur baby, Marley.

Tony White

Tony White

Elementary Educator

Virginia Ivers

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Virginia is a speech-language pathologist in the early childhood program at The Parish School. 

She has a Bachelor of Science in Child Studies from Vanderbilt University and ea...

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Virginia Ivers

Virginia Ivers

Early Childhood Speech-Language Pathologist

Virginia is a speech-language pathologist in the early childhood program at The Parish School. 

She has a Bachelor of Science in Child Studies from Vanderbilt University and earned her Early Childhood – 6th Generalist teaching certification from Houston Baptist University. After completing a Master of Arts in Communication Sciences and Disorders at the University of Houston, Virginia joined The Parish School team in 2020. She is a proud member of the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), a Hanen certified speech-language pathologist, and a graduate of Rice University’s “Classroom Storytelling” program. 

Virginia has a decade of experience as an early childhood educator. She believes early intervention provides the foundation for young learner’s future success. She is especially passionate about integrating speech-language therapy with the best practices for early literacy development and social-emotional learning. Virginia’s favorite things about working at The Parish School are the opportunity to partner with families and other professionals and the ability to focus on educating and empowering the whole child.   

 When she’s not working, Virginia enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and volunteering at the Houston rodeo. 

Wendy Garza, MEd

Elementary Educator

Wendy Garza, MEd, is a bilingual special education teacher at The Parish School in Houston. She received her Master’s in education from the University of Texas – Arlington with...

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Wendy Garza, MEd

Wendy Garza, MEd

Elementary Educator

Wendy Garza, MEd, is a bilingual special education teacher at The Parish School in Houston. She received her Master’s in education from the University of Texas – Arlington with a focus on best practices and strategies for teaching early literacy to children with autism and developmental delays. Wendy has experience working in public school as an elementary general education and resource room teacher and as a middle school history and economics teacher at a South Korea boarding school.

Wes Hamner

Wes Hamner

Adventure Play Manager

Whitney Morelli

Music Therapist, Music Educator

Whitney Morelli is the music therapist and music educator at The Parish School. She works with students of all levels in the classroom setting, as well as individual students in a ...

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Whitney Morelli

Whitney Morelli

Music Therapist, Music Educator

Whitney Morelli is the music therapist and music educator at The Parish School. She works with students of all levels in the classroom setting, as well as individual students in a short-term therapy setting. Whitney holds a bachelor’s degree in music from Virginia Commonwealth University and a master’s degree in music therapy from Illinois State University. She is a board-certified music therapist and has additional certification in Neurologic Music Therapy.

Whitney worked at The Parish School as a seasonal music therapist in 2019. Prior to joining the team full time in 2022, she worked as a clinician in both inpatient and outpatient settings, serving patients across the lifespan with a variety of cognitive, motor, and speech-language needs. Whitney is from Virginia and currently lives with her partner and three pets, which bring her immense amounts of joy and laughter. She is passionate about increasing access to music therapy treatment across the region via education and advocacy at the state and national levels.

Jorge

Alumni Student: 2008-2014

Jorge first came to The Parish School at age 4 after receiving an unspecified pervasive developmental disorder diagnosis. His speech and comprehension were very limited.

From the beginning, his parents recognized that everyone at Parish was so supportive and made Jorge feel at home.

“We are especially grateful to his speech therapists and teachers—Jorge always felt safe with them, and we could sense that they truly loved him,” said parents Jorge and Lore.

With the help of Parish’s teaching staff, Jorge learned to speak fluently. In addition, the Social Learning approach worked wonders for Jorge and his whole family. He enjoyed going to Adventure Play at Camp Acorn, where kids used their imagination to create and explore. He still loves building, especially with Legos. In fact, when Jorge grows up, he says he wants to be an engineer like his dad!

Jorge transitioned to a new school after many great years at The Parish School. He is now 12 and in his third year at a traditional private school, where he is succeeding and excelling. “We will be always grateful he had the opportunity to go to The Parish School!”

Dylan

Alumni Student:  2009-2012

Dylan was diagnosed with an expressive language disorder and oral motor function disorder when he was 2 years old. He saw a speech therapist twice a week without much success, so his parents decided to enroll him in The Parish School.

“We felt like Parish staff knew what we as parents were going through and we finally found the support system we needed,” said Dylan’s mother, Jennifer.

After more than three years at the Parish School, Dylan enrolled in St. Francis Episcopal School, where he has excelled in academics, earned awards in drama, joined the choir and is active in cub scouts.

Where Dylan has truly found his passion is in gymnastics. While at Parish, he was identified as needing additional occupational therapy supports. Jennifer decided to enroll him in gymnastics to build his self-esteem and core muscles. Since then, he joined a competitive team, working his way through skill levels and competing in trampoline and tumbling. This past summer, Dylan was crowned National Champion on the trampoline for boys ages 9/10 at the USAG Stars & Stripes Junior Olympics in Tulsa, OK.

“The Parish School was a safe and loving environment for Dylan,” said Jennifer. “I know that Dylan would not be where he is today if it were not for The Parish School.”

Sidhu

Alumni Student: 2006-2009

Sidhu was diagnosed with a rare seizure disorder at 10 months old. As he grew older, he dealt not only with life threatening seizures; he also developed severe speech delays. Private therapy wasn’t enough. At the age of three, Sidhu started his journey at The Parish School in its award-winning preschool program. After one month, his parents saw a tremendous change in Sidhu’s ability to communicate.

His parents credit the teachers for giving him the personalized instruction he required to help change his speech and motor skills all while building his confidence, not always an easy task. His discovered a love for art, drama and music while at The Parish School as well. After three years of intense support and guidance, Sidhu was ready to join a mainstream school system.

Now, seven years later, he is in sixth grade at Beckendorff Junior High in Katy, Texas. He is a straight “A” student, two-time runner up in the spelling bee competition, member of the Katy ISD gifted and talented program and recipient of the President of United States education award for academic excellence. Sidhu holds a third degree Taekwondo black belt, participates in the school choir and plays trumpet in the school band.

Jocelyn

Alumni Student: 2011-2017

When Jocelyn was born, she met all of her initial milestones. However, by age 3, signs of a delay began to appear.

“We began to notice that Jocelyn was not speaking and, when she did, no one could understand her,” said mother Joelle.

After a rough year at a traditional preschool, The Parish School was recommended. Fast forward six years later, and Jocelyn is a self-confident, happy, expressive child, who loves The Parish School, where she can “perform, act, sing, dance, learn (math is my favorite) and make friends.”

“Thank you, Parish School, for finding the keys that unlocked Jocelyn's untold song and unlimited scale,” said Joelle.

Harrison

Alumni Student: 2006-2009

At 18 months, Hudson was not speaking at all, not even saying mom or dad. While his parents, Laurie and Alfredo, were told to “give him time” and “boys are often delayed,” Laurie knew she needed to act early and persisted with having Hudson evaluated. After a series of tests, the family was referred to a speech therapist.

A friend recommended The Parish School, and the couple enrolled Hudson soon after his second birthday. He loved going to school each day, especially music and art. Eventually, Hudson was talking up a storm.

“Most importantly, the school took my husband and me under its wings,” said Laurie. “We were scared and felt helpless. We attended parent education classes, met with his teachers and his speech therapist. We were given the tools we needed to be one of the many advocates in Hudson’s life.”

After 3 years at The Parish School, Hudson transitioned to a traditional school setting, while continuing to attend speech therapy, occupational therapy and Social Learning groups at The Parish School and The Carruth Center.

Hudson has since gone on to prove he has a talent for being on-stage. He is actively involved in musicals, ballet and even participated in his school’s ComedySportz® Improv. He attends Houston Christian High School, where he joined theater, dance and Model UN. He has also taken Spanish throughout school and will begin AP Spanish this fall. Laurie says, “his accent is excellent!”

The Gutierrez family has continued to remain highly involved with The Parish School. Laurie is an active member of the Parish board of trustees, and the family hosted former Head of School, Nancy Bewley’s retirement party in their home last year. Additionally, Hudson has spent his past five summers volunteering in classes at The Parish School’s summer program – Camp Acorn.

“I really like working with the kids at camp,” said Hudson. “It feels nice to provide the help here because I went through the same thing when I was a kid.”

“The Parish School and The Carruth Center have had an instrumental impact on the success that Hudson is experiencing,” adds Laurie. “We are indebted to the school for giving Hudson and us the skills needed to enable Hudson to be successful in life.”

Gracen

Alumni Student:  2003-2005

Gracen Fisk attended The Parish School’s early childhood program for two years before transitioning to a traditional school setting in 2005. Early on, it was evident that Gracen had a talent for being on stage and thrived when it came to participating in The Parish School’s drama and music classes. She later went on to graduate from Houston Christian High School, where she became active in the theater arts program.

Under the direction of Parish’s Director of Integrated Arts & Sciences, Terri Garth, Gracen and Brandon Newell (Parish student 2005–2009) returned to Parish to perform in the 2018 Upper & Lower Elementary Musical, which celebrated the school’s 35th birthday and the past 25 years of annual musicals. The duo practiced with Parish students for weeks during the spring semester to later make their debut to a packed house of friends and families. Their performance of “Together Wherever We Go” brought a roaring applause. According to Gracen’s mom, Jill, this time spent in The Parish School’s musical was a valuable experience.

Gracen now attends Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, majoring in theater with an emphasis in acting and directing. She is excelling in school, has made the Dean’s list, and has many friends. Crediting Parish for instilling a love of the arts in her, Gracen decided to return once more to teach the drama class for The Parish School’s 2019 summer program, Camp Acorn.

Fast forward to today, and Gracen recently announced that she’s accepted a role as a cast member in Disney’s College Program. We’re so excited to see what more is to come from her!

David

Alumni Student: 2010-2016

When he first arrived at The Parish School nearing his 6th birthday, David had a hard time forming sentences of more than three words. With a seemingly endless list of learning and social differences, parents Jennifer and Chris were afraid David would forever have a hard time fitting in amongst the “normal” crowd.

In the six years that David spent at Parish, he gained the communication, social and academic skills needed to succeed in school. After aging out of Parish’s program, David has gone on to attend a public middle school. The transition was tough at first due to an increased workload and responsibilities, but his parents are happy to report that after a few weeks of settling into
a routine, David managed to exceed their expectations in his new environment. In fact, shortly after arriving at his new school, their special education liaison recommended to remove David’s in-class support, deeming it unnecessary – he didn’t require any additional help to keep up in his classes. David is now making all A’s and excelling in a public middle school.

Where he truly blossomed, though, was in Adventure Play, the afterschool program at The Parish School where children create their own playground using nothing but their imagination and scrap materials. It was at AP that David found a place he truly loved and was able to make lasting friendships.

For his 12th birthday, Jennifer and Chris offered to take David to dinner, bowling, a movie…wherever he felt like going to celebrate. David respectfully listened to their suggestions but had already made up his mind – he wanted to go back to Adventure Play. Jill Wood, Director of Adventure Play, was delighted to accommodate David’s request.

“He couldn’t stop smiling on the ride home, beaming over how he got to lead the younger students on a walk through the tall grass before making himself at home again on the various structures that he’d seen assembled over the years,” said Chris. “Most of all though, he was happy to be reunited with Jill. ‘I just love her,’ he told us.”

David continues to attend Parish functions when he can, including this year’s Adventure Play 10-year anniversary celebration, Flight’s going away party and the annual Spring Fling. Additionally, he is volunteering as a Junior Playworker with the Adventure Play summer camp, where he helps other kids to expand the space he’s grown to appreciate so much.

Dan

Alumni Student: 1990-1996

Nearing his 3rd birthday, Dan arrived at The Parish School with the same attitude he carried into any new experience – optimism and a big smile. Dan had some physical and learning disabilities from complications he sustained when he was born three months premature, and later contracting Group B strep meningitis while still an infant. As fate would have it, Dan’s grandmother was one of Parish School founder, Robbin Parish’s earliest supports, and knew exactly where to find the best help for Dan.

Recalling his time at The Parish School, Dan remembers that he especially enjoyed writing in his “Good News Book.” Many of his entries were tied to his love of sports. He decided at an early age that he wanted to be a sports announcer. The Parish School set him on the road to developing his writing and speaking skills with confidence. Additionally, he became avid reader. These were the building blocks he needed to reach his future goals.

After graduating from boarding high school and passing the New York State Regents Exam, Dan was determined to go to college. He first attended St. Edwards University in Austin. When his girlfriend mentioned how strong the radio and journalism departments were at nearby Texas State University, Dan decided to transfer. In 2014, Dan graduated with a degree in Mass  Communications and later married his beautiful girlfriend, Amber.

Today, Amber and Dan live in Houston where Dan works at his family’s commercial real estate company. He is also a contributor for FanSided, a growing sports website, where he writes  articles about what’s going on in the world of Houston sports. Continuing his dream, Dan is currently working to launch his own sports website.

The Parish School was the right place at the right time for Dan. He has always been appreciative of the many people who helped him along the way. When visiting the “new” campus recently, he and his family were amazed at the growth of the school.

Cameron D.

Alumni Student: 1998-2003

Cameron first came to The Parish School at age 2 after receiving a diagnosis of pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS) — one of the four autism spectrum disorders. He could only utter a handful of words, most of which were hard for others to comprehend. The neurologists who diagnosed Cameron recommended several schools that could help him with his language deficiencies, one of which was The Parish School.

“We looked at all the recommended schools and were immediately drawn to Parish,” said Wendy, Cameron’s stepmom. “We could see it was such a loving environment and was focused on innovative methods for helping children overcome their language and learning differences.”

Through The Parish School’s education, training and care, Cameron gained fluency of speech and discovered his super power — his memory. Not only did The Parish School allow Cameron to gain communication skills, but it also provided him an invaluable sense of self-esteem and confidence, which continue to serve him well. Thanks to early intensive language and learning intervention, Cameron was able to transfer to a mainstream private elementary school in second grade.

Cameron, now 22, is a proud senior at Texas Tech University studying communications, who drives and holds part-time jobs.

Cameron

Alumni Student: 2006-2008

From an early age, Cameron struggled to communicate, leaving his family and himself with feelings of frustration. During an evaluation, a specialist recommended The Parish School. From the moment they stepped foot on campus, Cameron’s family knew it was a special place.

“Thanks to the generosity of many, our family received financial assistance to attend,” said Rosie, Cameron’s mother. “Otherwise, we never could have afforded the life-changing education and therapies that The Parish School offers. The school not only helped Cameron, but changed our entire family.”

To this day, Cameron maintains that Parish is his favorite school because of the encouragement, understanding and care that was provided to him by everyone – from the teachers to the staff. Parish also awakened his love of the arts and outdoors that continues to this day.

Today, Cameron is a junior in Katy ISD. He pursues his passion for music by playing tuba in the marching band and learning the trombone for the jazz band. He recently went hiking and survived in his own tent in the Cascade Mountains near Seattle. Cameron also recently achieved the rank of Eagle Scout, completing a service project to make toiletry and school supply bags for homeless teenagers. He also has a passion for filmmaking and was accepted into the film program at the Miller Career Center in Katy ISD. Cameron plans to pursue a career in the film industry in the future.

“The Parish School has planted seeds with Cameron that changed the course of his life…and for this, our entire family is eternally grateful.”

Adam

Alumni Student: 2015-2019

As a young child, Adam had great difficulty communicating and interacting with others. With the help of teachers and classmates at The Parish School, he was able to significantly improve his communication skills and sociability.

Since transitioning from Parish, Adam has come a long way. He earned a degree in economics and political science from the University of Chicago, and dual graduate degrees in law and public affairs from the University of Texas-Austin. Currently, Adam works as a law clerk for a federal judge in El Paso and looks forward to what the future holds.

“It was a joy to visit The Parish School’s new campus several years ago and observe what a difference the school continues to make in children’s lives, as well as see quite a few of my teachers - like Nancy Mosley and Terri Garth,” said Adam. “They are still doing a wonderful job helping kids! I am convinced that The Parish School helps create bright futures.”

Brady

Alumni Student: 2015-2019

Brady’s young life has been filled with obstacles. With multiple medical diagnoses under his belt and enough hours of therapy to deserve a certification, a very bumpy and seemingly hopeless path led his family to The Parish School.

“It wasn’t easy finding a school that could provide Brady with the specialized education and instruction that he needs,” said mother, Rachel. “As a student at The Parish School, Brady received individualized classroom education as well as various therapies onsite.“

When Brady began attending The Parish School at 8 years old, he had few reading or writing skills. Since his first school year at Parish, Brady has achieved tremendous academic and social growth. He has found a love for drama and music through the classes offered at The Parish School. Brady has gained so much confidence and has made some wonderful friends.

“We feel so fortunate to have had our son in a school that appreciated his differences and highlighted his strengths. Our lives have been forever changed because of The Parish School!”

Gracen

Alumni Student: 1991-1995

Gracen Fisk attended The Parish School’s early childhood program for two years before transitioning to a traditional school setting in 2005. Early on, it was evident that Gracen had a talent for being on stage and thrived when it came to participating in The Parish School’s drama and music classes. She later went on to graduate from Houston Christian High School, where she became active in the theater arts program.

Under the direction of Parish’s Director of Integrated Arts & Sciences, Terri Garth, Gracen and Brandon Newell (Parish student 2005–2009) returned to Parish to perform in the 2018 Upper & Lower Elementary Musical, which celebrated the school’s 35th birthday and the past 25 years of annual musicals. The duo practiced with Parish students for weeks during the spring semester to later make their debut to a packed house of friends and families. Their performance of “Together Wherever We Go” brought a roaring applause. According to Gracen’s mom, Jill, this time spent in The Parish School’s musical was a valuable experience.

Gracen now attends Samford University in Birmingham, Alabama, majoring in theater with an emphasis in acting and directing. She is excelling in school, has made the Dean’s list, and has many friends. Crediting Parish for instilling a love of the arts in her, Gracen decided to return once more to teach the drama class for The Parish School’s 2019 summer program, Camp Acorn.

Fast forward to today, and Gracen recently announced that she’s accepted a role as a cast member in Disney’s College Program. We’re so excited to see what more is to come from her!