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Faculty Directory

Name Position Phone Number
Head of School
 401.849.4646 x201
Pre-K
 401.849.4646 x114
Assistant Teacher; Extended Day
 401.849.4646
Grade Four
 401.849.4646 x134
Coordinator of Student Life; Science, Primary and Grades 6-8; Theatre, Grades 6-8
 401.849.4646 x221
CSS, OT; Yoga Instructor
 401.849.4646
Communications Manager
 401.849.4646
Grade Four
 401.849.4646 x131
Development Manager
 401.849.4646 x148
Spanish Grades 4-8
 401.849.4646 x225
Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB); History, Grades 6 & 7
 401.849.4646 x224
Senior Director of Enrollment and Advancement
 401.849.4646 x147
Preschool
 401.849.4646 x119
Advancement Associate; Ancillary Programming
 401.849.4646 x105
Property Manager
 401.849.4646
Mathematics, Grades 6-8; CSS Mathematics
 401.849.4646 x217
Assistant Teacher
 401.849.4646
Grade Three; Summer Programs Coordinator
 401.849.4646 X133
Spanish, Preschool - Grade 3; Assistant Teacher
 401.849.4646
Assistant Teacher; Theatre, K-8; Music, Preschool & Pre-K
 401.849.4646
Grade Two
 401.849.4646 x132
Director of the Center for Student Success
 401.849.4646 x113
English, 6-7
 401.849.4646 x216
Pre-K
 401.849.4646 x117
Athletic Director; Physical Education; Technology, Grades 2-8
 401.849.4646 x151
Assistant Teacher
 401.849.4646
School Nurse
 401.849.4646 x104
Grade Five; Curriculum Coordinator
 401.849.4646 x131
Assistant Head of Students and Faculty
 401.849.4646 x121
Physical Education; Assistant Teacher; Math, Grade 6
 401.849.4646
Assistant Teacher; Assistant Band Director
 401.849.4646
Student Wellness Coach
 401.849.4646 x205
CSS Literacy
 401.849.4646 x122
Assistant Teacher
 401.849.4646
Kindergarten
 401.849.4646 x124
English, 8; Library, Preschool - Grade 4
 401.849.4646 x216
Assistant Teacher
 401.849.4646 x117
Art, Kindergarten - Grade 8
 401.849.4646 x144
Resource/Student Services; SSAT Coordinator
 401.849.4646 x215
Kindergarten
 401.849.4646 x122
Front Desk; Office Manager; Administrative Assistant to Head of School
 401.849.4646 x103
Science K-5; History, Grade 8; Sustainability Educator
 401.849.4646 x126
Senior Director of Operations and Finance
 401.849.4646 x106
Assistant Teacher
 401.849.4646
Events Coordinator
 401.849.4646 x153
Music, K - Grade 8
 401.849.4646 x141
Grade One
 401.849.4646 x123

Paul Amadio

Head of School

  • Appointed in 2023
  • B.F.A. Roger Williams University
  • M.F.A. Wayne State University
  • 401.849.4646 X201
  • pamadio@pennfield.org

Paul joined The Pennfield School in 2023. With multiple headships and consulting experience at more than fifty independent schools, Paul brings a unique perspective on how schools can meet the needs of students in an ever-changing educational landscape.

A passionate advocate for student-centered learning, Paul has been at the forefront of designing programs that promote inclusivity, social-emotional growth, and sustainability. An international presenter on global citizenship and innovation in education, he helped shape experiential, project-based initiatives that preserve academic rigor while equipping students with the skills and capacities required for the future. His leadership emphasizes belonging, creativity, and responsibility, with a strong belief that schools must prepare students to engage in service and to care for the planet through sustainable practices.

Paul grew up in Central Massachusetts and is a graduate of Roger Williams University. His career in education began in New England, and he is “wicked” excited to be back in the region he considers home. Paul became a professional actor right out of high school, and early in his career, he even spent a summer working as an actor at Astor’s Beechwood Mansion in Newport.

Diana Ackerman

Pre-K

Diana has over 14 years experience as a preschool teacher. After assisting in preschool and pre-k, and being a lead teacher in preschool, she is thrilled to be lead teacher in one of the pre-k classrooms. Upon her arrival at Pennfield she was excited to learn that yoga class was a part of the Primary curriculum as she is certified in children’s yoga and enjoys practicing yoga outside of school as well.

In her leisure time Diana enjoys the outdoors, whether it’s spending time with friends and family at the beach, dining Al fresco at a local restaurant, or walking with her husband and Goldendoodle, Wally. She also enjoys exploring both the Norman Bird Sanctuary and the Aquidneck Land Trust trails and is a member of both organizations. Travel is another interest, and Diana is especially fond of New England trips. As a result she can often be found reading Yankee Magazine and discussing or recommending towns to visit and restaurants to try.

Kerri Antonevich

Assistant Teacher; Extended Day

Meredith Botelho

Grade Four

  • Appointed in 2015
  • B.A. University of Rhode Island
  • M.A.T. University of Rhode Island
  • 401.849.4646 x134
  • mbotelho@pennfield.org

Meredith joined The Pennfield School in 2015, becoming our fourth-grade teacher. Prior to her tenure here, she held the position of Education Director at the Newport Boys and Girls Club. Meredith has a passion for nurturing students to reach their fullest potential while addressing their social-emotional needs. She strives to challenge her students academically through engaging hands-on learning experiences, and she constantly seeks for ways to seamlessly integrate technology to enhance her lessons, particularly through the use of Google Classroom.

In 2022, Meredith accepted an additional role as the coordinator of our Buddy Program. In this capacity, she collaborates with fellow faculty and staff to craft engaging monthly experiences for students across all grades to enjoy together. Meredith is also the very proud mother of two children who attend Pennfield.

Outside the classroom, Meredith enjoys spending quality time with her family and loves relaxing on the beach.

Mathew Bottone

Coordinator of Student Life; Science, Primary and Grades 6-8; Theatre, Grades 6-8

Mathew has continuously taught Upper School science since beginning at Pennfield in 1997. In addition, he has served as Yearbook Editor (20 years), Upper School Play Director (10 years), Technology Coordinator (6 years), Upper School Head (2 years), and most recently as Student Life Coordinator since 2006. His 27 years of teaching Middle School science expanded when he also started instructing Primary Students – Pennfield’s “Bookend Science Experience.” He enjoys having 8th grade students he taught a decade earlier in preschool.

Before teaching, he worked as a professional actor in Colorado, San Francisco, Newport, Providence, and Boston. His broad experience includes children’s theatre, Astor’s Beechwood, Perishable Theatre, commercials, and film. However, inspired by a trio of stellar educators from his own junior high and high school experience, Mr. B. knew he was destined to teach science. So along with his MFA he minored in EPO Biology.

His daughter Sabine, and son Sebastian both attended Pennfield. With his wife, Sharon Rust, as Pennfield’s social worker, Mathew’s entire family has shared in the Panther experience.

Andrea Breyer

CSS, OT; Yoga Instructor

Diane Campagna

Communications Manager

Diane’s journey with The Pennfield School began in 2004 when she first joined as a parent, bringing three children into the Pennfield family over the years. Like many parents, her involvement snowballed, from volunteer to Board member to  substitute teacher. With a wealth of experience in the realm of social media marketing dating back to 2009, Diane’s enthusiasm soared when the opportunity to become the school’s Communications Manager emerged. Even though she now calls Georgia home, Diane is grateful that she can still promote Pennfield through the magic of technology.

Diane is also a seasoned dance instructor, theatre director, and choreographer, amassing a remarkable 25+ years in these creative fields and providing her the opportunity to share her love for the arts in several Pennfield productions.

In her leisure time, Diane enjoys baking, traveling, and soaking up cherished family moments.

Kaylee DelDebbio

Grade Four

  • Appointed 2025
  • BA, Roger Williams University
  • 401.849.4646 x131
  • kdeldebbio@pennfield.org

Lizz de Villegas

Development Manager

Lizz has made a significant impact on education since 2014, when her sons joined Etna Elementary School in Northern California. She served as a teaching assistant with the Scott Valley Unified School District and was PTO President for five years, raising money for school initiatives and spearheading a campaign to replace carcinogenic shredded tires on playgrounds with eco-friendly wood chips—because, of course, safety and sustainability go hand in hand!

With a degree in Art History from Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Lizz began her career in Lifestyle Public Relations and Event Management for major investment banks, including overseeing the grand opening of the Museum of Modern Art in New York. In 2004, she and her husband moved to India for five and a half years, where they welcomed their first son and gained valuable insights into the transformative power of education.

Since returning to Newport in 2022, Lizz has been actively engaged with the Star Kids Organization. Her eldest son is a junior at Portsmouth Abbey and she has a son in 8th grade at Pennfield. Outside of work, Lizz enjoys sunrise beach walks with her dogs, hitting the gym, playing MahJong with friends, and cheering on her sons at their games.

Peter Dorrien Traisci

Spanish Grades 4-8

Peter began teaching Spanish to middle school students at Pennfield in the fall of 2010. His first child was born in 2011 and two more arrived soon after. Two of his children can be found happily walking the halls as Pennfield students. His oldest child, a Pennfield alum, is now at St. George’s. Peter teaches Spanish to grades 4-8 and is proud to bring his extensive travel experience into the classroom. Having lived in countries such as Argentina and Spain, he places great emphasis on learning Spanish as a means to create new and meaningful connections with others.

Peter spent much of his younger years as a professional musician and still releases music and performs today. He is proud to have led Pennfield students on five international experiences to Spanish speaking countries and looks forward to more adventures in the future!

In his free time, he enjoys writing and recording music, travel and spending time with his children.

Mattie Edwards-Kemp

Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB); History, Grades 6 & 7

  • Appointed in 1995
  • B.S. University of Tennessee
  • B.S. Salve Regina University
  • M.Ed. Rhode Island College
  • 401.849.4646 x224
  • mkemp@pennfield.org

Mattie Edwards Kemp started her professional career at Pennfield during the 1994-1995 academic year. Mattie’s son, who is a graduate of Pennfield, entered Kindergarten the same year. She earned undergraduate degrees from the University of Tennessee and Salve Regina University and received a M.Ed. in educational leadership from Rhode Island College. After ten years teaching second grade, Ms. Edwards Kemp joined the Upper School, where she has held multiple positions. Mattie  has served as the Curriculum Coordinator, Head of Upper School, Assistant Head of School, Associate Head of School, and was the founding chair of the Technology Committee, while continuing to teach World Cultures. This year, is excited to be teaching World History as well. Mattie also serves as Pennfield’s first Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB), a subject about which she is passionate and which allows many opportunities to interact with parents and the greater community.

Mattie has served as an adjunct professor at Salve Regina University and Roger Williams University. She served on the Board of Trustees for the Martin Luther King Community Center for ten years and is the current vice-chair of the Bristol Middle Passage Ceremonies and Port Marker Project. This provides an opportunity for Mattie to continue her work of seeking equity and justice by honoring the African captives and the Indigenous Nations who were instrumental in building colonial America and those who were often victims of human trafficking in early America. Mattie also enjoys container gardening, researching new topics, and watching documentaries or anything on PBS.

Kristin Emory

Senior Director of Enrollment and Advancement

  • Appointed in 2011
  • B.A. University of Colorado
  • M.A.T. University of San Francisco
  • 401.849.4646 x147
  • kemory@pennfield.org

Kristin started teaching in San Francisco at The Katherine Delmar Burke School.  She began as an assistant teacher and after finishing her graduate degree became a lead teacher and worked there for 8 years. In 2005 Kristin moved to Rhode Island to raise her family. She substitute taught at The Pennfield School, which led to the Director of Admission job. A few years later she also became the Head of External Affairs, heading up the admission, events, marketing, and advancement offices.  All three of Kristin’s boys attended Pennfield.

Kristin is an avid sailor.  Her first real summer job was teaching sailing to young children, which she did through most of her college summers. Post college, Kristin worked for an environmental newspaper written by underserved students from the Boston public schools. After one year she realized she wanted to head out west, so she moved to California and ran the membership department at the Bay Area Discovery Museum in Sausalito for a short stint before finding her way into a traditional classroom.  

Sarah Evans

Preschool

  • Appointed 2022
  • B.A. Salve Regina University
  • RI Certification in Early Childhood Education
  • 401.849.4646 x119
  • sevans@pennfield.org

Sarah grew up in New Jersey. She attended Salve Regina University where she studied education. After graduation, she stayed in Rhode Island and began teaching preschool, a career that has lasted over 16 years. 

Sarah has two daughters, and they are all proud Pennfield Panthers. As the oldest began preschool at Pennfield, Sarah found herself here as well, first as a substitute teacher, then as teaching assistant, and as a lead teacher in Pre-k last year. Although she loves Pre-k, she is thrilled to be the lead teacher in one of the preschool classrooms. Sarah’s biggest joys are her family and teaching young children. She feels extremely fortunate to enjoy both of these things daily working at Pennfield.

On her days off, Sarah is often found spending quality time with her family and her Pennfield friends. She loves heading off to the beach, not just during summer vacations but in the winter as well. Sarah also enjoys traveling and finding new places to explore on the weekends with her husband and daughters.

Nicole Fagan

Advancement Associate; Ancillary Programming

Jeff Faria

Property Manager

  • Appointed 2024
  • 401.849.4646
  • jfaria@pennfield.org

Alex Fernandez

Mathematics, Grades 6-8; CSS Mathematics

As a Pennfield alumni, Alex was excited to begin working at Pennfield as a substitute teacher before becoming full time faculty in 2014. He is a dedicated educator with experience at a wide range of grade levels, having taught students as young as kindergarten to as old as middle school. While his passion, and primary focus, has been on mathematics education, Alex has had the privilege to teach in other content areas during his time at Pennfield. He has taught sections of English, World Cultures, Technology, and Ancient Civilizations.

A lifelong Aquidneck Islander, Alex enjoys spending time in, on or near the water, especially in the company of his two daughters. Other interests include reading, learning new things, and spending time with friends and family.

Kate Filloramo

Assistant Teacher

Kate first came thru Pennfield’s door as a substitute teacher in 2018 marking her return to teaching after taking time to raise her four children. Throughout that year, Kate saw how special and unique the Pennfield community was and taught several weeks of cooking classes over that summer. Kate and family spent several years abroad and upon returning to Rhode Island, Kate co-taught second grade at an independent school in Providence and finally made her way back to Pennfield where she has had multiple roles as a substitute, classroom support in the fifth grade, and third grade teacher.

In the years that Kate was home raising her children, she spent many of them traveling about the world with her family and pursuing several creative passions. She is a Master Gardner and published food writer, marrying her love for cooking and collaborating with other creative individuals.

Outside of the classroom, you can find Kate enjoying quiet moments with a book and a good cup of coffee, spending time with her family or at the hockey rink, cheering on her kids as well as playing on a local women’s league.

Danielle Frawley

Grade Three; Summer Programs Coordinator

Danielle began her tenure at The Pennfield School in September of 2018. During her time here, she has mainly taught 3rd grade; although did enjoy the challenge of teaching a 2nd/3rd grade combination class for one year. As one who embraces the ever-changing world of education, Danielle has recently completed the first section of the Orton-Gillingham Classroom Educator Coursework. She is excited to be able to apply this new knowledge. Danielle enjoys finding new ways to introduce academic skills to her students, across all subject areas.

Danielle is a transplanted Rhode Islander, having been raised in New York. She lives in Bristol with her husband, three children, and their dog. Danielle feels lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the country and work at a school as special as Pennfield.

Marta Garcia Tasich

Spanish, Preschool - Grade 3; Assistant Teacher

  • Appointed 2025
  • BS, CUNEF University
  • 401.849.4646
  • mtasich@pennfield.org

Alexis Gibbs

Assistant Teacher; Theatre, K-8; Music, Preschool & Pre-K

This is Alexis’ third year at Pennfield! She moved from Tucson, Arizona where she taught drama to children ages 4-11 in a youth theatre program. Alexis’ love for theatre began as a child; she participated in programs such as, Summer on Stage, with the Arizona Theatre Company and a Summer Conservatory with The American Musical and Dramatic Academy. These experiences strengthened her love for being on stage, and she graduated from Northern Arizona University with a Theatre degree (emphasis in Performance). Alexis also minored in Women and Gender Studies. With this knowledge she is committed to making all spaces she enters a welcoming, inclusive, and kind place for everyone. She cannot wait to bring out the confidence of our Pennfield students and introduce them to the wonderful world of theatre.

Alexis loves watching scary movies in her free time and it is a dream of hers is to someday bring a haunted house experience to New England. to the East Coast.

Briana Grelinski

Grade Two

  • Appointed 2025
  • BS, SUNY College Oneonta
  • MS, SUNY College at Oneonta
  • 401-849-4646 x132
  • bgrelinski@pennfield.org

Briana (she/her) began teaching in 2016 and has loved every moment of her journey in education. She taught kindergarten in Florida for five years before moving to Rhode Island, where she taught second grade in Central Falls for three years. Briana has always known she wanted to be a teacher and feels fortunate to live her dream each day by helping young learners grow, explore, and succeed in the classroom.

Originally from New York, Briana moved to Florida to begin her teaching career and embraced the opportunity to grow professionally in a new environment. In 2021, she relocated to Rhode Island to be closer to her family and to once again experience the beauty of all four seasons.

In her free time, Briana enjoys being at home with her two cats, taking peaceful evening walks, and keeping her space tidy. She finds joy in simple routines and a calm, cozy atmosphere.

Veronica Hardy

Director of the Center for Student Success

  • Appointed 2021
  • B.A. University of New Hampshire
  • M.A.T. Rhode Island College
  • 401.849.4646 x113
  • vhardy@pennfield.org

Veronica came to Pennfield with vast experience teaching and learning alongside children. She is passionate about supporting a variety of learners, especially those who are neurodivergent. Veronica recently completed her Associate-Level of training in Orton-Gillingham and is working towards certification. At the University of New Hampshire she earned her B.A. in child development and family studies, with a minor in special education. She was the Grade 2 classroom teacher for 3 years before becoming the Director of the Center for Student Success.

Veronica attended La Salle Academy in high school and then received a scholarship to play Division 1 Women’s Soccer at the University of New Hampshire. She was on the America East All-Rookie Team, America East Academic Honor Roll, and won the America East Championship with her team in 2014. Veronica shares her talents and love for the sport as the 5th-8th grade soccer coach at Pennfield. She loves to be active and enjoys going to the beach, reading, practicing yoga, and playing in various sports leagues with friends and family.

Dr. Elle Hawks

English, 6-7

  • Appointed 2017
  • B.A. Fairfield University
  • M.A. Northern Arizona University
  • Ph.D. Salve Regina University
  • 401.849.4646 x216
  • ehawks@pennfield.org

Elle Hawks joined the Pennfield faculty in 2017. Her twin boys in 4th grade began as preschoolers at Pennfield! Elle previously taught high school English to grades 9-12 in Connecticut and taught for eight years as a writing instructor at the Naval Academy Preparatory School. Elle earned her B.A. in English with a journalism concentration from Fairfield University and continued her studies to complete her M.A. in English with a linguistics focus from Northern Arizona University. She stepped back from her teaching role at Pennfield in 2020 to focus on completing her doctorate at Salve Regina University and to increase wellness in her own life. She earned her Ph.D. in Humanities in 2022 and started her wellness company, Recharge Newport, in March of 2023. Her company was recently presented with a Best of Rhode Island Award for Best Couples Retreats and Best Personal Retreats!

Dr. Elle is also a certified yoga instructor for children and adults and a certified soul coach, which is based on her training with Sedona Soul Adventures. She has studied ecotherapy and the power of nature and the expressive arts as powerful healing modalities. She is a published author of several children’s books, as well as several creative nonfiction pieces. She believes that music, art, movement, and writing have the ability to inspire and heal.

Dr. Elle loves swimming, golfing with her husband and her two boys, yoga, reading, going to the theater, music, delicious coffee, and travel.

Ryann Humes

Pre-K

  • Appointed 2024
  • B.S. University of New Hampshire
  • RI Education Certification K-Grade 2
  • 401.849.4646 x117
  • rhumes@pennfield.org

Eddie Jewel

Athletic Director; Physical Education; Technology, Grades 2-8

This is Eddie’s fourth year teaching at The Pennfield School, and sixth year in the classroom. Before Eddie began teaching he was an outstanding collegiate athlete, earning division three All American status and received full scholarship to play division one football. He went on to play professional sports in Europe, and coach both high school and collegiate football. Eddie has a strong passion for helping young people to believe in themselves while working hard to achieve their dreams. He has helped multiple student athletes pursue their goals of furthering their academic and athletic goals in high school and at the collegiate level.
In addition to his love of athletics, Eddie has a creative mind and passion for arts and enjoys helping students unlock their creativity in his technology classes. Eddie is certified in Project Lead the Way, Design & Model. Students will use STEM, imagination, and collaboration to solve real world problems.

Emily Johnson

Assistant Teacher

  • Appointed 2017
  • B.S. University of Rhode Island
  • RI Certification in Early Childhood Education
  • 401.849.4646
  • ejohnson@pennfield.org

Patricia Johnson

School Nurse

Jane Kirkpatrick

Grade Five; Curriculum Coordinator

Jane has been a part of the Pennfield community since 2016, working as a long-term substitute in Pre-K, 1st and 2nd grades, as an assistant teacher in kindergarten, and now as the fifth-grade teacher. Her interest in teaching began after college when she became a member of Teach For America’s initial corps. She taught elementary school in Brooklyn, NY and Oakland, CA. She has also worked in investment research & client services with Dresdner RCM Global Investors LLC and Goldman Sachs. Before settling at Pennfield, Jane worked as a Development Associate at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center in Newport. She has held leadership positions in numerous non-profit organizations, including Aquidneck Land Trust and Portsmouth Youth Sailing.

She lives in Portsmouth with her husband, just down the hill from Pennfield. On most days she can be spotted walking her dog, Delilah, throughout the Glen. Her two grown children live in NYC. She loves working with kids and especially teaching 5th grade! When not in school, she enjoys learning, traveling, practicing yoga, sailing, biking, and all things outdoors!

Karen Lambert

Assistant Head of Students and Faculty

  • Appointed in 2000
  • B.A. Salve Regina University
  • R.I. Certification in Early Childhood Education
  • 401.849.4646 x121
  • klambert@pennfield.org

This is Karen’s 25th year at Pennfield. She began as the preschool teacher, and became the Head of Lower School in 2018. Beginning in 2024, she stepped out of the classroom to accept her current position as Assistant Head of School for Students and Faculty. Although she will miss being with our youngest Panthers everyday, she is excited to work with students at every level.

Karen graduated from Salve Regina University with a Bachelor’s in Psychology and a minor in Special Education. After graduating she began teaching in a child care center and realized this was the career she was meant for. She became certified in Early Childhood Education which led to a Director position, and then as a consultant in the opening of a brand new center. 

 Karen is also the Director of Religious Education at her church, a position she’s held for 26 years while teaching the second grade First Communion class. She lives in a log cabin with her husband, two sons, and three cats. She’s often found in the kitchen trying recipes, reading new books, or watching movies. Karen’s love of theatre began in high school, although you’ll likely find her in the audience, rather than on stage.

Allegra Lovoy

Physical Education; Assistant Teacher; Math, Grade 6

Allegra started her journey at The Pennfield School coaching the boys basketball team and assisting in extended day. From there, she added other assistant jobs in first and second grade and started teaching PE classes.  She is now currently teaching PE for Preschool through 3rd grade in addition to assisting in Preschool. Allegra has a BA in psychology and years of experience working with kids in various day cares and camps, including the Boston Celtics Camp where she has worked at for over ten years.

Allegra loves the game of basketball and played as point guard at Salve Regina University. She now shares her passion for the game as the coach of the Pennfield girls basketball team.

In her free time, she enjoys making homemade ice cream, hanging with friends and family (especially with her nephews), and bike riding. In the summer, she can be found swimming or reading a good book at the beach, paddle boarding, and traveling.

Derek Martin

Assistant Teacher; Assistant Band Director

Priscilla McGlaughlin

Student Wellness Coach

Kristina Michelson

CSS Literacy

After receiving a master’s degree in Elementary Instruction and Curriculum from the University of Colorado, Kristina began her career teaching kindergarten in Colorado before moving to 4th grade. When she met her husband, Drew, they moved to Connecticut where she continued teaching 4th grade. Her family grew, and Drew and Kristina had 3 boys. The family ultimately moved to Rhode Island where Kristina received her certification in Orton-Gillingham and taught using the approach as a 2nd grade teacher, Orton- Gillingham tutor, and 5th and 6th grade English teacher. In 2017 Kristina joined Pennfield as the Lower School Resource Teacher.

Kristina was an avid figure skater until switching to hockey; she played on the Brooks School’s first girls ice hockey team. In college Kristina spent a semester in London England studying play writing and wrote a play for school.

These days Kristina loves the mountains and enjoys skiing with her family. Kristina loves watching her boys play soccer as they all play for their schools. 

Emily Moulton

Assistant Teacher

After graduating with a degree in Early Childhood Studies from Plymouth State University, Emily has continuously worked to shape the lives of young children. First as a toddler teacher and childcare practitioner in the Boston area, and then as a teacher and parent after moving to Newport in 2007, Emily has worked with children from diverse backgrounds and specialized needs, in grades from Newborn to Kindergarten. She brings a unique sense of purpose and kindness to each interaction in the classroom or home. She spends emphasizing the joy of childhood with her students, while instilling structure and respect for each other.

Now that her two sons are a little older, she is excited to join them at Pennfield as a full time teacher. She lives in Newport with her family and enjoys the activities that living downtown affords as well as going to the beach and traveling to other sunny destinations.

Reagan Mulligan

Kindergarten

Reagan joined The Pennfield School in 2024. She is honored to be part of a community that values both academic growth and character development, and she strives to create a classroom environment where students feel supported and inspired to succeed.

She earned her bachelor’s degree from Salve Regina University in 2023 and is currently pursuing graduate studies at Rhode Island College. In addition to her work in the classroom, she serves as the head coach for the Salve Regina University cheerleading team, where she enjoys fostering teamwork, discipline, and school spirit.

Cheerleading has been a central part of her life, as she participated throughout high school and college. Beyond teaching and coaching, she enjoys spending time at the beach and listening to country music.

Erin Musich

English, 8; Library, Preschool - Grade 4

  • Appointed 2025
  • BS, Manhattan College
  • MA, College of New Jersey
  • 401.849.4646 x216
  • emusich@pennfield.org

Erin accepted a teaching position at Pennfield in 2025. After receiving her undergraduate degree in education and English from Manhattan College, Erin taught 5th and 7th grade ELA in New Jersey public schools from 2007 to 2015. She was also the moderator of the newspaper and yearbook. She left in 2015 to pursue a career in travel writing, which she had started in 2010 while pursuing her Master’s with a thesis in blogging in the classroom.

During her break from teaching she explored the world as a travel writer for two years before settling down in New Jersey when her son was born. During this time, she worked as a Web Content and Social Media Manager at an all-girls Catholic School in Northern New Jersey. She settled in Rhode Island in 2020 with her family, for what was supposed to be for a year. But she knew Aquidneck Island was where she wanted to raise her son. He started kindergarten at Pennfield and it became a second home and sanctuary for the whole family. Erin is thrilled to be returning to teaching in a place as special as Pennfield.

When she is not teaching, Erin also enjoys adventuring locally with her son, living near the beach, reading, writing, gardening, painting, and traveling any chance she can. She has been to 35 countries across 6 continents (India, Botswana, and Croatia are her top three) and all the states aside from Alaska. She writes a monthly family column for Newport Neighbors magazine and founded Newport Families in 2022.

Kaitlynn Nolan

Assistant Teacher

Blayney Norton-Hayes

Art, Kindergarten - Grade 8

Blayney officially joined The Pennfield School in 2016 but had been previously teaching Art camps at the school for many summers. Blayney teaches Art in grades K-8 with a curriculum that focuses heavily on experimentation with creative process and studying artists from contemporary times to the masters from art history.

Blayney grew up in a family of artists and writers where exploring creativity was a way of life. She has been a working artist for decades and has a busy studio practice at home, and her work can often be seen in local galleries. Blayney has a wholesale line of painted signs and objects that can be found in boutiques all over New England and the Caribbean. Blayney has also worked in retail buying, selling, designing, and styling for individuals. Before coming to Pennfield, Blayney co-chaired a granted program at a local public school in Bristol which focused on art history-based Art lessons. Recently, she has been taking courses with the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and infusing her curriculum with themes from these classes. 

In her free time Blayney can be found painting in her studio, spending time with her husband and her daughter who is a freshman at Salve Regina University. Blayney loves dogs, tennis, lacrosse, fashion, and Art.

Dawn Pigott

Resource/Student Services; SSAT Coordinator

  • Appointed in 1988
  • B.S. University of Maine
  • Graduate Study Harvard University
  • 401.849.4646 x215
  • dpigott@pennfield.org
Dawn’s tenure at The New School/The Pennfield School began as a parent. As a faculty member, Dawn has held many positions: 2nd grade, English and history in grades 6-8, and later as Head of Resource, emphasizing the incorporation of the Orton-Gillingham (OG) approach for remedial instruction. 
Dawn’s professional training in OG was under the tutelage of Ms. Emi Flynn, founder of The Hamilton School. Dawn and Ms. Flynn worked summers instructing RI and MA teachers in the integration of this alternative reading approach into their elementary classrooms. They collaborated and completed workbooks and teacher manuals reflecting OG principles and were both Past Presidents of the RI Branch of the International Dyslexia Association. For over 10 years, Dawn served as adjunct faculty in the Education Department of Salve Regina University where she taught Professional Portfolio for Education students, Praxis Test Preparation for RI Teacher Certification, and an introduction of OG into the elementary classroom. 

Dawn is a skiing enthusiast and was a member of the Alitalia International Girls’ Professional Ski Team. 

Kimberly Ripa

Kindergarten

Kimberly joined the Pennfield community in 2023 as a new Kindergarten teacher. She found herself already invested in the community as she has been caring for many different Pennfield children outside of school as their babysitter for the past few years. Not only has she already been invested in the Pennfield community, she has lived in Portsmouth her whole life, truly leading her right to Pennfield. Prior to teaching kindergarten, Kimberly was a behavioral technician where she worked closely with students who have disabilities, working to improve their physical, social, emotional, academic and life skills.

Kimberly deeply cares for the children she works with. One of Kimberly’s most prized possessions is the children’s book she wrote and illustrated, “Flappy’s First Day”. She dedicated her children’s book to all her future students and is eager to continue this passion!

When Kimberly isn’t at school you can find her at home working on her watercolor paintings or baking her favorite treats.

Abby Rowe

Front Desk; Office Manager; Administrative Assistant to Head of School

Abby first became a part of The Pennfield School community as a Kindergarten parent in 2014. She is now the proud parent of two Pennfield graduates. Abby got to know the school as a Pennfield volunteer, serving hot lunch and chairing the PSA. In 2017, Abby began working in a more formal role, joining the Business Office as an Accounts Payable Associate. Since then, she has worn several hats, including work in the Business Office and a Kindergarten assistant teacher.  Abby now mans the Front Desk and is the Assistant to the Head of School.

Abby has served on the Board of Trustees at the Norman Bird Sanctuary, a wildlife center in Middletown, RI, and is currently a member of the Board’s Development Committee and the Capital Campaign Committee. She likes to hike, walk, and run and has spent several years as a Girls on the Run coach, a program that builds empowerment and confidence through running.

Abby loves to spend time at home with her family where she is often outside in her garden, reading, or needlepointing.  

Sam Schreiber

Science K-5; History, Grade 8; Sustainability Educator

After receiving his Masters in Education (k-12) from Tufts University, Sam Schreiber worked around greater Boston schools for several years teaching both science and art. He has taught courses in biology, physics, chemistry and visual arts at both the high school and middle school level.

Aside from teaching, Sam’s passion lies in nature and he believes the preservation of our planet is tied to the classroom and our future generations. He teaches Science at Pennfield (k-5), History(8), and heads the school’s sustainable practices with the help of the highly dedicated, student based, Green Team. He combined his love of nature and education by working on boats during the summer months, taking students to the Boston Harbor Islands and organizing sustainable fishing trips and eco tourism adventures.

Fishing is one of Sam’s favorite hobbies. When he’s not in the classroom and the weather is good, you can find Sam South of the Vineyard pursuing tuna.

Allison Serina

Senior Director of Operations and Finance

Kate Sisk

Assistant Teacher

Jessica Stadel

Events Coordinator

Jessica experienced Pennfield as a parent first. It was only after that she decided to take on the role of Events Coordinator. Jessica has experience planning events in all types of locations: the Supreme Court in Washington D.C., The Waldorf Astoria in New York City, Tigers Stadium in San Fransisco, Fountainbleu in Miami, The St. Regis in Naples, Stateroom in Boston, as well as smaller more intimate dinners and cocktail receptions in a variety of locations and private homes. Some of her high-end weddings have been published in magazines and featured in online publications. She brings a fresh and vibrant perspective to the Pennfield community with each event she plans.

Jessica and her husband own five shoe stores, so in her spare time she helps to run their business. She loves to spend time with her two sons, host parties, and travel.

She feels so fortunate to her use her creativity as she conceptualizes and executes events for her children’s school and the greater Pennfield community.

Loralee Swanson

Music, K - Grade 8

  • Appointed in 2024
  • B.A. University of Wyoming
  • M.A. University of Kentucky
  • 401.849.4646 x141
  • lswanson@pennfield.org

Loralee first joined The Pennfield School family in 2022 as a parent of a current student.  Loralee has a Bachelor in Music, Music Performance from the University of Wyoming and a Master of Arts in Arts Administration from the University of Kentucky. After spending 10 years as an active-duty Navy Musician, Loralee spent 5 years teaching music lessons and classes at her own studio to students from ages 4-18. In addition to teaching music at Pennfield, she teaches trombone as an adjunct faculty member at Salve Regina University and CCRI.  Loralee has big plans for our music program and she wants Pennfield to be recognized as a school that celebrates the arts!

In her free time, Loralee loves spending time with family, attending concerts, running, gardening, and enjoying the outdoors.

Amy Sylvia

Grade One

  • Appointed 2025
  • BA, Bridgewater State University
  • 401-849-4646 x123
  • asylvia@pennfield.org

Amy Sylvia brings valuable teaching experience to The Pennfield School, having spent four years working in a variety of classrooms at Wilbur and McMahon School in Little Compton, as well as in diverse learning environments in Taunton and Bridgewater. Her background includes serving as a long-term substitute in first grade and working as a paraprofessional supporting students with special needs. These experiences have deepened her commitment to fostering inclusive, engaging, and supportive learning environments that promote learning through exploration. Having always admired the Portsmouth community, she is delighted to now contribute her skills and passion for teaching here.

Outside the classroom, Amy enjoys reading and discovering new places in the area. She also has a strong background in dance, having studied jazz, tap, and ballet for over ten years, though she is currently taking a break from formal training. Amy is thrilled to be part of the Pennfield School community and grateful to join such a welcoming and dedicated team.