TBA

Ms. Josiaah Alexander

Mrs. Sandra Alexander

Is a dedicated mother of 6, who has been homeschooling for 12 years. Her children range from ages 4-20 yrs old and are all being home-schooled, except one who is now graduated and pursuing a degree in Micro-Biology. Not only does she have a passion for teaching but also has extensive experience teaching in school classroom settings, homeschool co-ops, and individual instruction. Mrs. Alexander holds a Bachelors degree in Science from Palm Beach Atlantic University and is a fluent Spanish Speaker, which is her native language.

Mrs. Cindy Avery

I started teaching while I was still in high school, as my classmates routinely came to me for homework help.  After college, I taught high school in American schools in Austria (1 year), and England (6 years). Because I'd gotten what currently passes for a liberal arts education with a reasonably strong grounding in a variety of subject areas, I taught English (literature and composition, all 4 high school levels), math (Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry), science (Physics and introductory chemistry), history (American and World), and a variety of electives, as needed by the schools to fill gaps in their schedule.  Since returning to the States and becoming a mother, I have worked as a tutor, both for the local Huntington Learning Centers while they were in business, and as a free-lance tutor.

Mr. Steve Bruhn

Mrs. Stephanie Castro

Mrs. Kerri Catalano

My family was blessed to find Salt when we moved to Jensen Beach in 2022, and I knew it was a special place the moment I stepped onto campus. I’m a wife and mom to four energetic boys.  We love spending time outdoors, staying active, and enjoying God’s creation. I’ve been teaching for 25 years, starting my career as an elementary school teacher in New York City. I later taught in a homeschool academy, where I was able to combine my passion for education with my heart for guiding students in a more personalized learning environment.

Mrs. Aleena Chavez

Hello! My name is Aleena Chavez and I’m happy to be a part of the wonderful administration team at Salt Hybrid Academy. I was homeschooled from Kindergarten-12th grade and then attended the University of Florida for my Bachelors in Science. I’m married to my husband, Gabriel and we have two daughters, Brooklyn and Adelina. I’ve worked the past five years at a publishing company for Nursing and Health Education, and I am excited to stay home with our girls and help support the great work God is doing in the homeschool community through Salt.

Mrs. Lisa Renee Clark

Hey everybody!

“My life is a story about Jesus!” You’ll hear me say that often, and that’s what I want everyone to see. 

I have six children and 25 years of homeschool experience. One of the greatest joys of my life is helping YOU discover the unique ways that God created you to excel in your life. 

In addition to many years of homeschool experience, I have served in churches as a director of children’s ministry, assistant in high school and young adults ministry, and executive board financial assistant. 

I enjoy studying the Word of God, learning foreign languages, and reading books about leadership. And when it comes to outdoor adventures, I’m your girl!

Mrs. Kristina Costello

Kristina is a professional vocalist, certified music educator, and passionate teacher who helps students of all ages grow their skills and love of music. She offers private lessons in voice, piano, guitar, and ukulele, customized to each student’s goals, learning style, and musical interests. Her lessons focus on healthy technique, musicianship, performance skills, and confidence-building, preparing learners for auditions, festivals, recitals, and college juries, or simply helping them enjoy making music.

Kristina teaches K–2 and high school music classes at Salt Hybrid Academy, bringing creativity, engagement, and fun to every lesson. She began teaching in 2018 while earning her BFA at Carnegie Mellon University and has since taught at conservatories, private studios, and online, building a thriving private practice.

A performer and educator, Kristina inspires students to discover their unique voice and express themselves authentically. She holds a Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the New England Conservatory, a BFA in Vocal Performance with Music Education certification from Carnegie Mellon University, and is certified PreK–12 in FL, NY, and PA.

Mrs. Bethany Cruikshank

I am a mom of four amazing, energetic kids aged 13, 8, 3, and 1. I was born and raised in Stuart, FL. My mom homeschooled me for elementary school, I dual enrolled at IRSC for high school, and majored in elementary education at FAU. I am a rockhound, nature enthusiast, and novice forager. I am passionate for Christ, the life and family He’s blessed me with, and the world He created for us. 

Ms. Karly Dunckley

Mr. Chip Falcone

My name is Charles "Chip" Falcone and I am happily married to Aimee Falcone who volunteers at the school. Our two sons Joey and Nathanael also attend the school. We have lived in Florida for 17 years. I am an ordained minister who has served at Hobe Sound Presbyterian church from 2006-2015. Currently, I am a deacon at Covenant Fellowship Church in Stuart, Florida. I am very glad to teach geography this fall, as I was a substitute teacher for Aimee Falcone at Salt Hybrid School for 2022-2023. Please contact me if you have any questions!

Ms. Bobbi Frantzen

Mrs. Alison Gasior

Hi everyone! My name is Alison. I’m married to my incredible husband, Mike, and we have two amazing kids, Paige (8) and MJ (5), who keep life fun and full of adventure. My husband and I met in college, where we both earned degrees in Marine Transportation and received our U.S. Coast Guard Third Mate licenses. After college, I spent several years working aboard containerships before moving from New Jersey to Florida. Once in Florida, I worked at a continuing education school for merchant mariners before eventually becoming a stay-at-home mom. Our family began our homeschooling journey three years ago, and it has been such a wonderful experience. It has given us the flexibility to spend more time together, explore our interests, and learn in ways that fit our family. My husband is a tanker captain, so having the opportunity to learn and grow together during his time home has been especially meaningful. This is our third year at SALT, and I’ve had the joy of teaching PE for the past two years. I’m thrilled to begin this new chapter teaching kindergarten! I love the excitement, curiosity, and joy that young children bring to learning, and I can't wait to help make this a fun, memorable year for my students.

Mrs. Krista Gaudio

Mrs. Leigh Ann Gilcher

Hi there! I have been married for 19 years to my wonderful husband, BJ, and we have been blessed with three children. They are all currently Salt students. Lucas is in 10th grade, Abby is in 6th, and Isaiah is in 3rd. We share our home with three small dogs of large personality, as well as an old kitty of surprisingly less personality. When he was around four years old, I realized that my oldest child just didn’t “fit into the box,” and I was not going to make him! Homeschooling was the best way for us to tailor his education to his exact intellectual needs. I fell in love with homeschooling and as our family grew, so did my number of students! A Florida native, I grew up in the Daytona Beach area but have lived in Martin County since 2005. I have a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Stetson University and a master’s degree in Human Services from Capella University. Before having children, I worked in the Dependency system doing case management, quality management, and supervising the Independent Living Program, all on the Treasure Coast. I am passionate about raising my children with a God-centered view of the world, and I look forward to partnering with you on your homeschool journey this year.

Favorite Bible Verse:

“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not grow faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

Ms. Debbie Gonzales

Hello. My name is Debbie Gonzales. I've been part of the Salt Hybrid Academy family since 2012. I started out as the Help Desk support, and along the way I also spent years tutoring students from elementary through middle school in art, math, and history. I introduced the Waldorf-Inspired Curriculum, which is now a cornerstone of our elementary program.

For the past three years, I've managed the Step Up Scholarship program, helping families navigate funding options. Since June 2024, I've served the school virtually as Help Desk/Registrar, continuing to handle enrollment, registration, and tech support with the same dedication I've brought since day one.

Ms. Christina Goudeau

Hello SALT families! I am a lover of Christ, wife, mother of four, and a local artist. I have been been creative all of my life, having dabbled in calligraphy, drawing, crafting, sculpting, crochet, embroidery, sewing, photography, graphic design, macrame, and many other mediums. I eventually found my home: painting.

As a youth, I yearned for an education, which led me to join the US Navy. During my eight years of active duty, I served the cryptologic community in the areas of computer network maintenance, troubleshooting, and computer network defense. I earned an AA of Computer Science and BS of Human Services / Minor in Management, then moved on to information assurance engineering in the civilian sector. Eventually, I left my engineering career to become a stay-at-home mom. It was then I felt called to unearth my buried talents and use them to glorify Christ through artistic expression and design. So began my career as an artist! I then earned a Master of Business Administration to compliment my new venture.

I have 10 years of experience as an instructor, having taken on several roles teaching art, math, computer science, and coding. My experiences with students young to old range from classroom settings to leading the Prophetic Art Ministry at my home church.

While I still often try other mediums, my primary mediums are watercolor, acrylic, and charcoal. I also enjoy face and body painting!

It is my joy and honor to serve your family, leading your children into the beautiful world of art. I can only hope to inspire them as much as they inspire me!

Mrs. Crystal Greene

Hi there! My name is Crystal Greene and I am married to my wonderful husband, Ben. We have two boys, Brett and Bennett, and they both attend SALT.
I have been a believer in Christ since I was 10 years old, and my relationship with Christ has deepened greatly over the last 10 years or so. Our family is very involved with Family Church North Stuart, where I am a lead teacher for K-2 every Sunday as well as hosting Tree House and helping with various events.

Our family moved to Florida in 2019, and have loved every minute of it. It has certainly been an adjustment, but we have found great community through our Church and through SALT.

I have homeschooled my boys for a total of 3 years now, and we absolutely love it! I have my degree in Communications, but have always been drawn to teaching, especially Science. It was my favorite subject when I was in school. I loved how hands on the science lessons could be, and I hope to incorporate hands on teaching as much as possible through our lessons, as well see God’s handiwork in every single aspect of your life and the world around us. All kids learn differently, so over time, I hope to learn how each of your children work and help them as best as I possibly can. I look forward to teaching your children, and will care for them as if they were my own!

Mrs. Christie Harned

Hello homeschool families, please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Christie Martin, and I have been homeschooling for 25 years. I have 7 amazing children and 5 of them have been homeschool graduates with 2 currently in Salt. I consider it a true blessing to be able to educate my own children, one which I never take for granted.

I began teaching Co-ops around 17 years ago. I originally started by teaching the foundations program with Classical Conversations. This introduced me to the classical method of teaching/learning. I immediately fell in love with this style of learning and began implementing it in my home. Since then, I have taught Co-ops in my home, taught the Challenge A program with Classical Conversations, and I am currently the Director and a teacher for Salt Homeschool Connection.

I strongly believe in Co-ops for homeschoolers. They have truly strengthened my children's academic abilities, as well as given them the motivation to push beyond themselves. It allows for an environment of open discussions, which results in children learning from one another. This, in my opinion, is a valuable tool in allowing our children to think for themselves and ask questions when they are unsure.

I am not only thankful but humbled to have been given this vision for Salt. I pray for the wisdom and strength needed to see this vision come into full fruition. I thank my Lord and Savior for all He has done so far, and all that is to come to our homeschooling community. This is why I give God all the glory of Salt. I am only His instrument, here to be used in any way the Lord has for me, but God is the true conductor. With the Lord as our guide, I am assured that Salt will be blessed and be a blessing to others for years to come.

Miss Erica Hirschkorn

Mrs. Jennifer Johnson

Hello!  My name is Jennifer Johnson, and I am so pleased to be working with the wonderful staff, teachers, families, and children of Salt Hybrid Academy!  In my “previous life,” I was a Public School Teacher, certified in Exceptional Student Education and Elementary School Education.  Once I had children, I loved being at home with them, and my husband and I felt homeschooling would be the right choice for our family.  It was!  My son is in his third year at Hillsdale College in Hillsdale, Michigan - my daughter is beginning her career as a professional ballet dancer with Ballet San Antonio.  I am “healing” from my empty nest syndrome with the Salt Community.  I am absolutely passionate about the love of teaching reading and math, chess, gardening, free-market economics, and the brilliance of America’s Constitution and system of government.  It is my calling to share the love of these with the children of Salt!

Mr. Russ LeBlanc

Russ LeBlanc was a Health and Physical Education teacher in Baltimore County, MD for 23 years at both the high school and middle school level. He taught in the Sports Science Magnet Academy and was also the Dept Chair of a Maryland Demonstration School Physical Education program. He has a passion for teaching and coaching and has coached over 40 varsity teams. He currently works for The Fellowship of Christian Athletes as the Director of Lacrosse for the Treasure Coast. He and his wife of 29 yrs have 6 children and 1 grandchild.

Pastor Josh Luecht

Pastor Josh has been on staff with Calvary Chapel since 2007. He holds a M.A. in Biblical Leadership from Calvary Chapel University. He is also a musician and reading enthusiast.  In his spare time he enjoys watching hockey and baseball, Star Wars, and hanging out with his wife. He has been married to Mary since 2012.

Mr. Ashton Martelli

My name is Ashton Martelli and it is such a joy to be a teacher at Salt Hybrid Academy. My whole life is unto the Lord and I wish to be able to share that with each and every person I meet! I am heavily involved in my church and other biblical leadership roles, as most of my time is spent with the "body", as well as boating, watching/playing football, and fishing. I am a Salt Hybrid Academy Graduate as well as Class Valedictorian. Currently, I am not enrolled in any college, yet I hope to go to Jesus School, a ministry school founded by the church Jesus Image in Orlando, in the next few years. The Lord has given me such a passion to know his heart and to serve his young ones, and I am so privileged to have this opportunity.

The Grace of God be upon you all!

Mr. Nelson Massad

Mrs. Elaina Melendez

My name is Elaina Melendez and it is such a joy to be teaching at Salt Hybrid Academy. I strive to glorify God in all that I do and be who He calls me to be. I have been blessed with a wonderful husband and two amazing children. As a family, we love to cook, be out in nature, ride mountain bikes, and travel. 

I am a Siena College graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing. Some of you may know me from the birth community as a DONA International Birth Doula and La Leche League Leader. I love to work with families and be of service to others. A common theme that bridge my experience as a birth worker and homeschool mom, is that I truly believe in nurturing our children in the early years. Cultivating a love for learning is a lifetime experience and it starts in the home. 

Mrs. Milady Monzon

Mrs. Julie Norus

My name is Julie Norus and I am a homeschool mom of four children aged twelve to twenty-four (plus a daughter-in-law). Our family began homeschooling after we moved to Port Saint Lucie from Ohio. In previous years I had consistently prayed that the Lord would open the door and make it clear if we were ever to homeschool. However, with our children enrolled in an outstanding Christian school in Dayton, Ohio, I doubted it would ever be a reality. Yet God’s ways are not our ways, and He opened wide the homeschool door when He moved us to Port Saint Lucie in 2012 to serve in ministry at The Lighthouse Chapel. It was then that we felt led to start homeschooling.

There were many blessings and challenges (and quite a few tears!) as we adjusted to a new home, a new ministry, and a new method of schooling; but God so faithfully led us in the way we should go. He provided mentors, opportunities, Olivet Private School, dual enrollment, and extensive resources including SALT. This contributed to encouragement and success along our way. God continues to provide and we continue to seek Him and trust Him for His perfect will concerning our future and homeschooling.

I have enjoyed teaching SALT classes which have given me the opportunity to pursue my love of teaching. However, my passion for teaching began many years ago when I was a little girl who wanted to be a teacher when she grew up. I graduated from Toccoa Falls College with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education in 1990. I then taught middle school language arts until God so greatly blessed me with the desire of my heart to be a full-time mom at home. As our children grew, I volunteered weekly at their schools, became a substitute teacher there, and taught a kindergarten and fourth-grade co-op for the Dayton Christian School System’s homeschool program. 

I truly consider it a blessing and a privilege to partner with you as we homeschool our children. It is my desire and intent to uphold a Biblical worldview and honor Christ in every subject that is pursued. I look forward to cooperating with you on this homeschool journey.

Mrs. Paula Nothstine

Hello SALT parents and students! My name is Paula Nothstine. I’ve been married to my husband, Lance, for nearly 28 years. We were married in the middle of a blizzard in South Bend, IN (Notre Dame). God blessed us with 2 sons and the younger one, Tyler, graduated from SALT in 2025. He is now thriving as an electrician and is very involved in his church.

My teaching journey began after graduating from Bethel University in Indiana with a degree in English. I felt that God had called me to the foreign mission field and teaching English was an easy way to get into closed countries. I taught ESL (English as a Second Language) to foreign college students at Indiana University and then I spent 5 years in Asia, teaching college students who were majoring in English, while sharing my faith with them whenever possible. We returned to the US, our boys were born, and I transitioned to working from home as an executive resumé writer.

God has always been at the center of our decisions, including our move to Florida in 2016 and the transition to homeschooling, which began when our boys were in 5th and 2nd grades. There were challenges, of course, with me working from home full-time. SALT enabled us to effectively homeschool through Tyler’s high school years.

I love the classics – the Great Books – and historical fiction. My other loves are classical music, beachcombing for shells, and baseball (Chicago Cubs!).

Mrs. Michelle Paugh

Ms. Natalia Peschiera Picasso

Hello! My name is Natalia Peschiera Picasso, and I am delighted to be teaching the Waldorf-inspired lesson in Grade 5 at Salt Hybrid Academy.

I was born in Peru and attended a Waldorf school as a child, that was an experience that deeply shaped me and inspired my lifelong commitment to education. My journey has taken me across the world, from Peru to England where I studied Waldorf Education and now to Florida, where I live with my wonderful husband and son. For over a decade, I have worked with children in artistic, educational, and therapeutic settings, drawing on my background as a Waldorf Teacher.

I hold a B.A. in Education and an A.S. in Psychology, and I am currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Healing Education and Art Therapy at Antioch University New England. My work is firmly rooted in my Christian faith, and I believe in the healing power of Christ to guide, inspire, and restore.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy arts and crafts, camping with my family, cuddling my three cats and attending Waldorf teaching conferences across the U.S. I also volunteer with “Emergency Pedagogy Without Borders USA,” a team of teachers that provide pedagogical and emotional support to children and communities experiencing trauma often caused by natural disasters. 

I am excited to begin this journey at Salt! My prayer is to work through the power of Christ to nurture a love for learning, foster curiosity and help each student grow academically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Ms. Hannah Puckett

Ms. Rachel Ross

Mrs. Paige Saunders

Hi, I'm Ms. Paige!

I'm originally from Upstate NY but moved to Jupiter, FL in August of 2019 (can you say HOT!?) with my husband Michael and my daughter Oakley. We now reside in Stuart, FL with our three dogs, Shelby, Zeppelin, and Cash. I love cooking, baking, reading, crocheting, pretty much anything crafty, and going to the beach. 

In 2021, it was put on my heart to stay home and homeschool Oakley. We've now been homeschooling for 5 years and she attends Salt.

I've worked with children all my life from having 35+ cousins (I started to lose count around here), siblings, nieces and nephews, being a camp counselor and nanny, being the geography and art teacher on the ship The Clearwater, to becoming a mother. 

At Salt, you'll see me teaching Bible and Cooking and substitute teaching where needed.

I'm excited to continue teaching at Salt and assisting you and your children in your homeschool journey!

Mr. Tyler Schmeer

Mrs. Stephanie Stumbaugh

My name is Stephanie Stumbaugh, and I have the honor of serving as an administrator at Salt Hybrid Academy. I’m passionate about supporting homeschooling families and helping create a learning environment where both students and parents feel encouraged, equipped, and empowered.

All three of my children have memories deeply rooted in Salt, and two of them have proudly graduated from the academy. My husband Curtis—who I’ve been married to for over 22 years—and I have loved being part of this amazing community.

With a heart for organization, community, and Christ-centered education, I work closely with our families, teachers, and leadership team to ensure that Salt continues to be a place where students grow in both knowledge and character. It’s a joy to walk alongside our Salt families on this incredible homeschool journey!

Ms. Ana Tirado

Mrs. Raegan Witt

Ms. Paige Workman

Mrs. Tracy Workman

I have always been a student of the arts: visual arts, music, and performing arts. The study of and especially the creation of artistic works is a big part of what makes me who I am. After high school I spent a number of years as a portrait photographer, working primarily with small children and high school seniors. It was fun, but I missed working in other media, so in 2004 I decided to share my love of art by teaching a small art class for home-schooled children. There were 5 children in the class aged from 8 to 14 and I taught the class for one school year. It was this experience that caused me to fall in love with teaching art. It was amazing to see my students grow in ability, self-confidence, and their love of art.

After teaching these 5 students I decided to go back to college and become an art teacher. On August 8, 2009, I graduated from the University of Florida with highest honors, a Bachelors's degree in art education, and a minor in art history. For three and a half years I was the art teacher at Imagine Schools - Nau Campus in Port St. Lucie FL, teaching approx. 650 K-8 students each year. Over the years. I have also been active in leading small groups of children/adults in Summer art camps, musical productions, theater/video productions, and puppetry. Now, I am excited to be teaching at the SALT homeschool co-op for the 12th year. I am also a big believer in the power of story.  Storytelling finds it's way into pretty much all of my classes.  My award-winning drama and film program is currently in it's 10th year! In this class I get to work with a talented bunch of teens to create our own story together!  I have been having a lot of fun putting my knowledge to work and making a difference in the lives of my students just as my art teachers made a difference in mine.

It is my belief that education in the arts is an essential element of a balanced general education and that it will help children to better understand the world around them, foster creativity, encourage self-expression, build artistic skill, promote appreciation for various cultures, and other ways of thinking, and engage children in critical thinking.

Check out my current student art gallery on Artsonia:
http://www.artsonia.com/schools/school.asp?id=148416
Also check out my art class web page at:
http://tracyworkman.wixsite.com/artclass2

Mrs. Lisa Worley