Faculty Directory

Holly Young

Kindergarten Teacher

BA Elementary Education – University of Rhode Island

MA Masters of Arts in Teaching – Sacred Heart University, concentration in reading


When asked why she chose to teach at CLA, Mrs. Young said, “Giving students the gift of a Christian education gives them the core values and beliefs that they need to become wonderful members of the Christian community and society, especially given the ever-changing worldviews that we see today. I have chosen to teach at Christian Life Academy so that I could continue doing what I love – helping to mold young minds within academics and Christian faith.” 


Favorite Scripture:  “When I am afraid, I will trust in You.” Psalm 56:3

 

Carina Stefanko

Kindergarten Paraprofessional

When asked why she has chosen to work at CLA, Mrs. Stefanko said, “Being a lifelong member of First Assembly of God, I was here when our former Pastor dedicated CLA as a “Lighthouse to the Community.” I was always inspired by his vision to reach families for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. I was humbled to be asked join this wonderful mission in 2002. 

In our world today, who is going to speak the Gospel Truths into the lives of our most precious? Christian educators who are the hands and feet of Jesus on this Earth, that’s who!”


Favorite Scripture: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28

 

 

Stephanie Annunziato

BA Early Childhood Education, Nyack College


When asked why she chose to teach at CLA, Mrs. Annunziato said, After graduating, I knew I wanted to teach in a Christian school so I would have the freedom to teach about God’s love for us. Christian education can help students become confident in their identity, bear the image of God, and develop a strong understanding of how biblical truth influences all area of their lives. 

I want to help prepare children for their future, reach their goals in life, and instill Christian values in each one. It is a joy to teach children about the world God created, how our faith is woven into each area of learning, and how to find purpose and meaning through God’s Will for our life.” 


Favorite Scripture:  “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11

Kathryn C. Mucherino

Second Grade Teacher

B.S. Religion and Ministry, Liberty University


When asked why she chose to teach at CLA, Mrs. Mucherino said, “God is the perfect Creator. His perfection, organization, and thoughtfulness can be witnessed within all areas of Creation. A Christian education ultimately, provides students an opportunity to study God. God is present in their math, science, music, and art classes. He is present within every area of education because He Himself is the Great Teacher. A Christian education provides a deeper and more personal understanding of who God says He is. I have chosen to teach at Christian Life Academy because I believe in the values expressed through this Christian-based education. Children now more than ever are being pulled further into the world, and thankfully there are schools like CLA who desire to build up children to face the world and fight for the gospel rather than run from it. The tools students are learning here prepare them for work in the Kingdom.”


Favorite Scripture:  “Hearing this, Jesus said to Jairus, “Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed.” Luke 8:50

Miss Isabella Andrade

Third Grade, Elementary Team lead

Early Childhood Education & Bible Studies, Lancaster Bible College

B.S.  in Music Education, Western Connecticut State University


When asked why she has chosen to teach at CLA, Miss Andrade said, “I love the environment at CLA, from the first moment I walked in to apply to work for the summer camp. I have made some of my greatest friendships there. It truly is a Christ-centered school. You can feel everyone’s heart and their love for the students and families, but especially their love for Christ shines through in every moment.”


Favorite Scripture:  “But those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.” Isaiah 40:31

Jessica de Mello

4th Grade

Mary Duncan

Fourth Grade Teacher

B.A. Elementary Education, University of Valley Forge


When asked why she has chosen to teach at CLA, Mrs. Duncan said, “After I graduated, I knew I wanted to teach in a Christian school because I wanted to the freedom to teach a Christian worldview.  I strongly support a Christian education because apart from God there is no wisdom. Now more then ever, it important to lay down a foundation of Biblical truths for our students to build on.”


Favorite Scripture: “Yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior.  The Sovereign Lord is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.” Habakkuk 3:18-19