About Us
Faculty & Staff
Faculty members are carefully chosen from qualified teachers who are dedicated to academic excellence and the development of the whole child. In addition to prior experience, they are trained to implement Westminster’s program within its environment of small classes, consistent classroom management, and individual student attention. Teachers are selected on the basis of broad educational background and affinity with Westminster’s philosophy, plus training and ability in their particular subject area. All Westminster teachers have at least a Bachelor’s degree, with many also holding advanced degrees.
Westminster School is proud of its high-quality staff. In addition to professional credentials and experience, Westminster seeks individuals who are kind, loving, enthusiastic, dedicated, articulate and creative, and who can serve as outstanding personal role models for our students.
Leadership
Nancy Schuler
Head of School
Nancy SchulerHead of SchoolBS in Elementary Education from George Mason University, MEd in Independent School Leadership from George Mason University When she graduated from college with a degree in education, Mrs. Schuler was invited to teach at Westminster School by Mrs. Goll. She became the 3rd/4th grade history teacher and loved the six exciting years she spent with her students exploring the wonders of ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Greece. Her success as a teacher led to administrative responsibilities, and Mrs. Schuler served as the 3rd/4th grade team leader for a number of yearsWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?Westminster School is unique because of our classical approach to education, which fosters confident, articulate, and inquisitive young people, and because of our beautifully diverse community.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…In the Outer Banks, NC any time I can get there! My favorite time is spent with family around a big table just enjoying each other's company.
Kathryn Jacobson
Assistant Head of School, 8th Grade History Teacher
Kathryn JacobsonAssistant Head of School, 8th Grade History TeacherB.A. in Political Science and American History, Washington and Lee University, M.A. in Teaching of Secondary Social Studies, Columbia University Teachers CollegeWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?I am grateful to work at a school where the students are excited about learning and respect their teachers, and the parents work in partnership with the faculty, a support which enables us collectively to achieve what we do. I get to work alongside colleagues who are deeply invested in a shared mission to raise our students to the greatest heights as honorable and knowledgeable people through our classical curriculum. I am inspired daily by the dedication, creativity, and intelligence of the Westminster staff.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Reading a book with my cat curled up next to me!
Edna Renales
Chief Financial Officer
Edna RenalesChief Financial OfficerWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?What I value most about working as the CFO of the school is the opportunity to use my financial expertise to support the school’s mission and success. I value being a good steward of the school’s resources, maintaining financial stability, and helping leadership make sound decisions that ultimately benefit our students, faculty, and community. I also value being part of a mission-driven organization where the work I do has a meaningful impact beyond the financial statements.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At home or window shopping.
Charlotte Foster
Director of Curriculum and Publications, English Teacher, Upper School Team Leader, English Dept. Chair
Charlotte FosterDirector of Curriculum and Publications, English Teacher, Upper School Team Leader, English Dept. ChairBA in English, George Mason University, MA in Teaching of Writing and Literature, George Mason UniversityWhat inspires you to teach what you teach?I enjoy helping to make classic literature more accessible to the students and watching when they fall in love with the novels. They move on to high school so well prepared, and it's the most gratifying part of my job.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At my beach house in Rehoboth!
Jori Schreiner
Director of Admissions, Team Leader, Grades K-2nd
Jori SchreinerDirector of Admissions, Team Leader, Grades K-2ndBA in Psychology, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, MA in Elementary Education, St. Mary’s College of MarylandWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?For me, Westminster is a home away from home! I began my career as a teacher here, and have grown up here professionally. I appreciate the way Westminster supports, recognizes, and helps to develop the talents and strengths of each of its staff members, so that we may continue to learn and grow as individuals alongside our students.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Doing yoga, hiking, or exploring a new national park with my husband and young daughter!
Kari Mock
Director of Campus Operations and Auxillary Programming
Kari MockDirector of Campus Operations and Auxillary ProgrammingAD in Occupational Sciences, Johnson and Wales University, BS in Occupational Sciences, Johnson and Wales UniversityWhat is your favorite Westminster tradition or event?The Eighth Grade Dinner is an important tradition for the graduating class. It allows the students to reminisce about their year with each other, their upper school instructors, and administrators while preparing for Graduation the following day. This is the final event that binds friendships and the class together.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Hiking, reading, putting puzzles together and crocheting
Kevin Crook
Director of Multimedia & Technology
Kevin CrookDirector of Multimedia & TechnologyBS in New Media Arts and Technology, Rochester Institute of TechnologyWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?I love that no two days are quite the same. Whether I’m capturing a school event, working on a production, or bringing a new creative idea to life, I get to see firsthand what makes the Westminster community so special.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…On the golf course, traveling, or relaxing with my cats.
Lauren Cowles
Development Project Coordinator
Lauren CowlesDevelopment Project CoordinatorBA in Communication Studies, Christopher Newport UniversityWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?What truly sets Westminster apart is our deep commitment to developing the whole person. We care deeply about academic excellence, but we also believe in cultivating students of strong character, confidence, and integrity—students who are prepared not only to succeed in the classroom, but to go out into the world and make a meaningful difference.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me going on an adventure with my husband, trying out a new recipe, watching reality TV, or snuggling with my cat, Cookie!
Sara Caltrider
Registrar, Human Resources Manager & Bookkeeper
Sara CaltriderRegistrar, Human Resources Manager & BookkeeperBA in Administration, Marymount UniversityWhat is your favorite Westminster tradition or event?I love seeing the children in the plays and music programs. It's heartwarming to see the bonds and camaraderie formed with one another. I just love to witness and watch their individual personalities shine and develop through the years!Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Cooking and enjoying time with my family and friends.
Erin Van Bevers
Executive Administrative Assistant & Assistant to the Head of School
Erin Van BeversExecutive Administrative Assistant & Assistant to the Head of SchoolBS in Communications, Castleton UniversityWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?Westminster helps students achieve academic success through a classical education that broadens their view of the world. By holding students to high standards, it prepares them to become responsible, well-rounded people of substance.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…With people I love and/or in the outdoors.
Tiffany Nguyen
Accountant
Tiffany NguyenAccountantWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?Working in a school has always been my dream. I feel a strong sense of belonging, inclusion, and contribution within the school environment. I am committed to continuous growth, feel inspired, and hope to contribute positively to the Westminster School community while continuing to learn, grow, and make a meaningful difference.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Outside of work, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, especially my little girl. I cherish the moments we share together.
Preschool
Elizabeth Fowler
Preschool Aide
Elizabeth FowlerPreschool AideVirginia Tech, B. S.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…
Nana Aba Guerra
Preschool Lead Teacher
Nana Aba GuerraPreschool Lead TeacherBA in Psychology, University of Virginia, MA in Early Childhood Education, University of VirginiaWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?I love being able to teach students while also being a part of a strong, loving, and diverse community at Westminster. I was able to be a student here myself, send my own children here for school, and now having had the opportunity to teach here has given me a deep appreciation for the community and culture of this school.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Singing, making art, traveling with family and friends. Other days you will find me watching and cheering on my kids as they play sports and perform.
Kristine Lee
Preschool Director, Builders Club Sponsor
Kristine LeePreschool Director, Builders Club SponsorAssociate’s Degree in Administration of Justice, Northern Virginia Community College, BA in Liberal Arts, Marymount UniversityWhat is your favorite Westminster tradition or event?I think my favorite event was the opening of the new field and playground plaza. Having been at the school since the idea of the field was a dream, seeing it come to fruition is quite special. I will always remember the faces on the children when they heard the news that the field was open and the ribbon was cut. The sight was priceless! The field of dreams certainly has exceeded my expectations!Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Reading a book, relaxing with my dogs, watching sports, or road tripping to Richmond and Durham to visit my girls.
Gracie Payne
Preschool Aide
Gracie PaynePreschool AideOutside of Westminster, you can usually find me…
Laura Reynolds
Preschool Lead Teacher, 3-Year-Olds
Laura ReynoldsPreschool Lead Teacher, 3-Year-OldsBS in Healthy and Safety, Human Development and Family Studies, Indiana UniversityWhat is your favorite Westminster tradition or event?My favorite tradition is Reading Buddy Day with the preschool and 2nd grade. The personal connections they make carry on through the year.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Running on a park trail or supporting the local farmers' market.
Betsy Romero
Preschool Lead Teacher
Betsy RomeroPreschool Lead TeacherWhat inspires you to teach what you teach?As a preschool teacher, I am inspired by the joy and curiosity young children bring to the classroom each day. I especially love seeing my four-year-old students become excited about learning and witnessing their amazement when they discover something new for the very first time. Those moments of curiosity, wonder, and growth are what make teaching so meaningful and rewarding to me.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Outside of school, I enjoy baking, trying new recipes, and spending time with my family while cheering them on at their soccer games.
Lower School
Madison Armitage
Language Arts & Social Studies Teacher
Madison ArmitageLanguage Arts & Social Studies TeacherWhat impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?My first priority is to develop the person before the student. If my students continue to be kind, polite, and diligent after they leave my classroom, I will be very proud of them.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At home, crafting something new!
Amy Bowab
Math & Science Teacher
Amy BowabMath & Science TeacherAD in Child Development, National Association for the Education of Young ChildrenWhat inspires you to teach what you teach?Working with the younger students makes me so happy! I love watching them come into themselves, gain confidence, and walk through the day with those big smiles on their faces. It’s the little moments in life that often make the biggest impact.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At home with my husband and dogs!
John Branum
2nd Grade Language Arts & Social Studies Teacher
John Branum2nd Grade Language Arts & Social Studies TeacherBA in History; minor in Political Science, James Madison University, MEd in Curriculum and Instruction, George Mason UniversityWhat is your favorite Westminster tradition or event?I love the way Westminster's many traditions and events help lay the foundation of strong character and global citizenship. I'm particularly drawn to the teamwork, commitment, creativity, and bravery it takes to put on a class play in front of the school community. The class plays are experiences the students will never forget!Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Outside of Westminster you can usually find me chauffeuring my teenage daughter to her many equestrian events. When I am not wearing my dad hat I can often be found shooting pool in a local pool hall, hitting golf balls at the range, or strumming one of my guitars.
Julie Farrell
Math & Science Teacher
Julie FarrellMath & Science TeacherB.S. in Psychology, University of South FloridaWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?I value teaching at Westminster School because of the strong sense of community. I truly appreciate being part of a school where admin, teachers, students, and families work together to create a positive environment.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Spending time with family and friends, enjoying good food, exploring new places, and making the most of my free time.
Willette Angelic Palmer
Language Arts & Social Studies Teacher
Willette Angelic PalmerLanguage Arts & Social Studies TeacherBFA in Creative Writing; minor in Communications, Florida State UniversityWhat impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I hope I get to see the moment a student can achieve something they could not do for themselves before. I hope I get to see them radiate with pride and confidence.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Miss Palmer has been curating an open mic program at Busboys and Poets for over ten years, offering instruction in Spoken Word and Poetics at Wilkes University for the last 5 years and writing several collections of poetry over a twenty-year performance career. In 2024 she was installed as Fairfax County’s Poet Laureate by ArtsFairfax, an honor she’ll hold until the year 2027.
Sylvie Peev
French Teacher, Language Dept. Chair
Sylvie PeevFrench Teacher, Language Dept. ChairAD in Business, Chambre de Commerce de Lyon, AD in Physical Education, Unite de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences et Techniques des Activités Physiques et SportivesWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?Westminster is unique because of the diversity of students and families coming together to create a wonderful community based on classical education.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Exercising, dancing, hiking, gardening, cooking and shopping for all of these!
Lucy Petillo
1st Grade Math/Science Teacher
Lucy Petillo1st Grade Math/Science TeacherJames Madison University, B.S.What impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?One impact I hope to have as a teacher is for every child I teach to leave with both a solid foundation in math and the confidence to know that they can do it! As a science teacher, my hope is to help each student discover the wonder of how fascinating our world truly is - and just how much left there is to discover, with the help of the scientific method. Ultimately, like any teacher, I hope to have a positive impact on my students - by showing them that I care, cheering them on as they grow, and setting them up for success.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Hiking in the woods, reading a book, or trying to learn a new piece on my harp.
Middle School
Christie Bernick
History and Classical Studies Teacher
Christie BernickHistory and Classical Studies TeacherOutside of Westminster, you can usually find me…
Taryn Ellmyer
Math Teacher
Taryn EllmyerMath TeacherBS in Elementary Education, Radford UniversityWhat impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I hope to inspire my students to see themselves as capable, confident mathematicians who are willing to take risks, persevere through challenges, and learn from their mistakes. I want to instill a love of math and make them aware that math is all around them in their everyday lives.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…In the Outer Banks with my family and my 4 Golden Retrievers or watching the Bengals play football.
Matthew Fisher
Grade Science Teacher, 5th-8th Grade STEAM Teacher
Matthew FisherGrade Science Teacher, 5th-8th Grade STEAM TeacherPrinceton University, B. A.What impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I hope that my students learn the value of hard work. I want them to understand that they can master any skill with enough focused effort.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Gardening in my yard.
Arianna Hertz
3rd/4th Grade Science, 3rd/4th Grade STEAM
Arianna Hertz3rd/4th Grade Science, 3rd/4th Grade STEAMIthaca College, B. A., George Washington University, M. A.What impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?As an educator, I hope to teach my students that life-long learning is not a chore but can be fun and stimulating. Everyone has a niche at which they can excel; we just have to discover it!Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…With my dog at the farmers market or cooking.
Esteli Isaias
Spanish Teacher
Esteli IsaiasSpanish TeacherWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?Westminster is unique because of the values and philosophy behind how we educate students to become citizens who promote justice, equality, and kindness. Westminster teaches more than an advanced classical curriculum. We value and take pride in our resilience and hard work; we believe excellence lies in the small details and in how we behave and drive change in our community, always leading with kindness and respect for diversity.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At my home with my family and my two dogs.
Madeleine Low
History and Classical Studies Teacher
Madeleine LowHistory and Classical Studies TeacherWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?As a Westminster graduate, it is especially meaningful to now be part of the school as a teacher. I experienced firsthand the impact Westminster can have on its students, and it is incredibly rewarding to now have the opportunity to help create that same experience for the next generation. I value that Westminster teaches students so much more than academics—it helps them develop character, confidence, responsibility, and the life skills they will carry with them long after they leave our school.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Reading in a new coffee shop each weekend, watching movies with my husband and our cats, and traveling whenever I can.
Alexa McKenrick
3rd/ 4th Grade English Teacher
Alexa McKenrick3rd/ 4th Grade English TeacherUniversity of Virginia, B. A., M. A. George Mason University, Graduate Certificate-Reading SpecialistWhat impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I hope my students develop a lifelong curiosity and passion for learning.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Knitting or dancing.
Laëtitia Mckernan
French Teacher
Laëtitia MckernanFrench TeacherWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?The rigorous classical curriculum offered at Westminster School and its mission of educating both the mind and the character of its students are extremely appealing to me as an educator. Additionally, working for an independent school where everyone, including teachers, students, administrators, and custodians, strives for excellence is highly inspiring and rewarding. I also value teaching small classes where each student is heard and gets the attention they deserve.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Spending time with my family at home or on FaceTime, walking and running, and visiting museums.-
Sylvie Peev
French Teacher, Language Dept. Chair
Sylvie PeevFrench Teacher, Language Dept. ChairAD in Business, Chambre de Commerce de Lyon, AD in Physical Education, Unite de Formation et de Recherche des Sciences et Techniques des Activités Physiques et SportivesWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?Westminster is unique because of the diversity of students and families coming together to create a wonderful community based on classical education.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Exercising, dancing, hiking, gardening, cooking and shopping for all of these! 
Kate Ryan
Math Teacher
Kate RyanMath TeacherOutside of Westminster, you can usually find me…
Samantha Smith
English & Language Arts Teacher, Team Leader
Samantha SmithEnglish & Language Arts Teacher, Team LeaderBS in Justice Studies (minor in Music Industry), James Madison UniversityWhat inspires you to teach what you teach?The classic novels that I have the privilege to teach challenge the students to appreciate elevated writing, descriptive language, and expert storytelling. The class discussions surrounding the books we read are rewarding, inspiring me to teach.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At spin class biking away or singing in my car.
Upper School
Robert Cecil
Science Teacher, Science Department Chair
Robert CecilScience Teacher, Science Department ChairDoctor of Education 2023, Liberty University, BS in Biology, George Mason University, MS in Curriculum and Instruction, Western Governors UniversityWhat impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?Science gives students an opportunity to practice thinking critically, asking questions, solving problems, and changing their understanding when new evidence becomes available. These habits of flexible thinking can serve them throughout their lives, regardless of the careers they ultimately choose. I want my students to become people who are curious rather than closed-minded, resilient, and confident enough to approach unfamiliar problems with an open mind. I believe those qualities will contribute not only to their long-term success, but also to their happiness, because a person who can adapt, continue learning, and find value in new experiences is better prepared to navigate the challenges and changes that life will invariably bring.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…With my kids hiking a mountain, grappling on the mats, or eating in the kitchen.-
Matthew Fisher
Grade Science Teacher, 5th-8th Grade STEAM Teacher
Matthew FisherGrade Science Teacher, 5th-8th Grade STEAM TeacherPrinceton University, B. A.What impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I hope that my students learn the value of hard work. I want them to understand that they can master any skill with enough focused effort.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Gardening in my yard. -
Charlotte Foster
Director of Curriculum and Publications, English Teacher, Upper School Team Leader, English Dept. Chair
Charlotte FosterDirector of Curriculum and Publications, English Teacher, Upper School Team Leader, English Dept. ChairBA in English, George Mason University, MA in Teaching of Writing and Literature, George Mason UniversityWhat inspires you to teach what you teach?I enjoy helping to make classic literature more accessible to the students and watching when they fall in love with the novels. They move on to high school so well prepared, and it's the most gratifying part of my job.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At my beach house in Rehoboth! 
Gregory Glazier
7th Grade English Teacher and Director of Curriculum and Assessment
Gregory Glazier7th Grade English Teacher and Director of Curriculum and AssessmentCollege of William and Mary, B. A. Marymount University, M. A.What impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I hope my students experience the healing power of storytelling. I hope my students realize how radical it is to sit quietly and read a book. I hope my students understand that when we work through challenging ideas as a class, we actively create a world organized around thoughtfulness, empathy, and wonder.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At the local library.-
Esteli Isaias
Spanish Teacher
Esteli IsaiasSpanish TeacherWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?Westminster is unique because of the values and philosophy behind how we educate students to become citizens who promote justice, equality, and kindness. Westminster teaches more than an advanced classical curriculum. We value and take pride in our resilience and hard work; we believe excellence lies in the small details and in how we behave and drive change in our community, always leading with kindness and respect for diversity.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At my home with my family and my two dogs. -
Kathryn Jacobson
Assistant Head of School, 8th Grade History Teacher
Kathryn JacobsonAssistant Head of School, 8th Grade History TeacherB.A. in Political Science and American History, Washington and Lee University, M.A. in Teaching of Secondary Social Studies, Columbia University Teachers CollegeWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?I am grateful to work at a school where the students are excited about learning and respect their teachers, and the parents work in partnership with the faculty, a support which enables us collectively to achieve what we do. I get to work alongside colleagues who are deeply invested in a shared mission to raise our students to the greatest heights as honorable and knowledgeable people through our classical curriculum. I am inspired daily by the dedication, creativity, and intelligence of the Westminster staff.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Reading a book with my cat curled up next to me! -
Laëtitia Mckernan
French Teacher
Laëtitia MckernanFrench TeacherWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?The rigorous classical curriculum offered at Westminster School and its mission of educating both the mind and the character of its students are extremely appealing to me as an educator. Additionally, working for an independent school where everyone, including teachers, students, administrators, and custodians, strives for excellence is highly inspiring and rewarding. I also value teaching small classes where each student is heard and gets the attention they deserve.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Spending time with my family at home or on FaceTime, walking and running, and visiting museums. 
Linnea Shapter
History Teacher, Grades 6 - 7, Latin Teacher, Grades 7-8
Linnea ShapterHistory Teacher, Grades 6 - 7, Latin Teacher, Grades 7-8B.A. in History (minors in English and Geography), University of California, Los Angeles, M.A. in Medieval History, King's College LondonWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?I believe one of the most valuable aspects of Westminster School is the diversity of our community. We have students of so many different backgrounds, religions, and philosophies, offering their unique perspectives to classroom discussions and overall Westminster life. I feel so fortunate that I get to share my two passions, history and Latin, with this beautiful group of children everyday.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Running through the streets of D.C., writing, exploring music in different languages, and spending time with my friends and family.
Alexa Uhrmacher
Math Teacher, Grades 6-8, Math Department Chair, MathCounts Sponsor
Alexa UhrmacherMath Teacher, Grades 6-8, Math Department Chair, MathCounts SponsorBA in Education and Math from UNC Chapel Hill, MA in Teaching Mathematics from Providence CollegeWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?One thing that makes Westminster School unique is that even though we have subject-specific teachers who are passionate about their fields, every teacher's first priority is to encourage the child's humanity and character development. As much as I love math and am thrilled to foster an appreciation for Algebra and Geometry in my students, I am even more invested in helping students become kind, respectful, tolerant, and independent through having intentional conversations, holding high standards, and introducing them to excellent events and opportunities.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me playing sports with my three-year-old, reading, or cooking.
Specials
NaKyung Ahn
Art Teacher
NaKyung AhnArt TeacherBFA/MAT in Fine Art and Art Education, Corcoran School of the Arts and DesignWhat impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I hope my students see art as a journey of self-discovery and growth, not just a way to make something beautiful. Through creativity, mistakes, and challenges, I want them to build confidence, take risks, and develop their own unique voice. Most of all, I hope they find joy in growing, not only as artists, but as individuals.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Enjoying time in nature with my family, with a nice cup of coffee in hand!
Brice Bach
Orchestra Director
Brice BachOrchestra DirectorWhat impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I want to help develop not just great musicians, but also great people. Music is an amazing tool for teaching teamwork, humility, and resilience. The students who thrive in the orchestra very often thrive in the classroom and beyond, because the skills needed to learn an instrument translate into every aspect of a young person's life.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Outside of Westminster you can find me coaching local high school and college marching bands, color guards, and dance teams. When not teaching, I spend my time taking dance classes, and working on my chess game.
Samuel Barrett
Librarian
Samuel BarrettLibrarianWhat impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I hope to encourage students to love reading and become curious about the world in which they live. I also hope to teach them to think critically and carefully so that they can use those skills throughout their lives.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Going on walks, listening to music, playing board games, and reading.
Jordan Beasley
P.E. Teacher / Coach
Jordan BeasleyP.E. Teacher / CoachWhat is your favorite Westminster tradition or event?Sports Day is my favorite Westminster tradition because it brings our entire school community together for a day filled with fun, teamwork, and school spirit. I love seeing students step out of their comfort zones, encourage one another, and create memories that they will carry for the rest of their lives.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Cheering on my favorite sport teams or enjoying the outdoors.
Rachelle Bernadel
P.E. Teacher / Coach
Rachelle BernadelP.E. Teacher / CoachWhat impact do you hope to have on your students as their teacher?I hope to be a reminder to students that movement is medicine and when life feels big, walk it out!Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Walking, hiking, reading, or spending quality time with friends and family.
Yvette Hannaway
Drama Director
Yvette HannawayDrama DirectorWhat inspires you to teach what you teach?The lifelong applications of the skills and abilities learned while participating in a theatrical production, the boost in self-confidence that naturally results from the experience of performing in front of a live audience, and the enhanced appreciation of the arts and humanities that come together in the learning and practice of a stage production are just a few of the many things that have inspired me to teach Drama at Westminster.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Looking for a fun discovery at an antique store or yard sale or enjoying some R&R at my house with my family.
Susan Klein
Resource Teacher, Resource Dept. Chair
Susan KleinResource Teacher, Resource Dept. ChairWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?Westminster is such a special place -- all one needs do is walk through the halls and engage with our students to know that our school is beautifully unique. We teach the children how their presence in the world impacts those around them. Our students typically have amazing situational awareness! They pay attention and genuinely care about the well-being of others, because they are taught that kindness in action is an important part of being a good citizen and a good person.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…...somewhere outside -- walking or riding my bike on one of many glorious trails we have in Northern Virginia OR sitting on the patio or by the fire, reading a book. Historical fiction is my favorite.
Scott Krevit
Resource Teacher
Scott KrevitResource TeacherWhat inspires you to teach what you teach?When Covid-19 hit in 2020, I was in my basement with my kindergarten son at the time watching virtual learning. I knew I could teach him more than what he was learning. It was during that time that I knew I wanted to be a teacher.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…At my children's baseball games and sporting events. I also enjoy going on our boat during the summer.
Matthew Locke
Music Teacher, Choral Director, Specials Team Leader, Arts Department Chair
Matthew LockeMusic Teacher, Choral Director, Specials Team Leader, Arts Department ChairBachelor of Music (BM) in Music Education, Nazareth College of RochesterWhat is one thing that makes Westminster School unique?One thing that makes Westminster School unique is that every student, in all grades, participates in the performing arts. As a music teacher who has been surrounded by music since childhood, I've seen firsthand how impactful this experience can be. Over the years, we watch students grow in confidence as they take the stage in a variety of ways, whether acting, singing, or dancing in a play, giving a speech, or performing a solo. Those moments of courage on stage often carry over into the classroom and beyond, helping students find their voices in everything they do!Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Spending time with friends and family, searching for the best chai latte, supporting local bookstores and rooting for the Buffalo Bills!
Kristin Sawyer
Resource Teacher
Kristin SawyerResource TeacherBA in Integrative Studies, Specializing in Elementary Education PK-Grade 6, George Mason University, MEd in Curriculum and Instruction with a Concentration in Elementary Education, George Mason UniversityWhat do you value most about working at Westminster?What I value most about working at Westminster is being part of my students’ lives and watching them grow as learners and as people. I especially love helping them grow as readers, build confidence, discover a love for books, and find their voice. Knowing I have played a part in their growth and getting to celebrate their successes with them is what makes Westminster so meaningful to me.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…Outside of Westminster, you can find me spending time with my family, reading, and enjoying cozy days at home with my pets and my new baby boy.
Gary Sockwell
Physical Education Teacher
Gary SockwellPhysical Education TeacherWhat is your favorite Westminster tradition or event?Sports Day is so much fun because it brings the entire school together for a mix of competition, teamwork, excitement, and a break from the usual everyday school routine.Outside of Westminster, you can usually find me…You can find me working in the community and coaching in the DMV.
Maintenance
Jamie Aguilar
Groundskeeper & Maintenance Assistant
Ivan Candanoza
Custodial Supervisor & Maintenance Assistant
Candanoza, Jr.
Maintenance Assistant
Pavel Dasek
Head of Maintenance
Leticia Perez
Custodian
Bus Drivers
Dudley Davidson
Bus Driver
Michael Kinnaly
Bus Driver
Rhonda Williams
Bus Driver