Accepting the Unique Abilities, Educational Opportunity, and Tax Credit scholarships.
Our Staff
Dr. Carmen Reitano McGuinness holds Masters and Doctoral degrees in Psychology, Behavior Analysis, Nutrition Education, and Special Education. She has worked with students and families since 1983, as a teacher, researcher, curriculum developer, and therapist. Among her accomplishments, is the development of the Phono-Graphix reading method and Language Wise . A popular conference and TV presenter, Dr. McGuinness has appeared on documentaries in the US and Britain. (tap photo for full vitae)
Geoffrey McGuinness holds a Bachelor's degree (hons) from University of Bristol. A 30+ years veteran teacher, he has taught students with a broad variety of exceptionalities in private and public schools. Geoff has addressed dozens of national and international educational organizations, including the Int Dyslexia Assoc and Scottish Dyslexia Society. A true Renaissance man, Geoff teaches across the subjects to our 6-12th grade students, as well as teaching Music and French.
Keara Elam teaches kindergarten through fifth grades at Chrysalis School. During the last 15 years Keara has worked with students with learning and developmental disorders of all ages. She holds a Masters degree in Special Education and graduate certificates in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Katrice Hickman teaches our PK4 to 3rd grade class. Katrice holds a Masters Degree in Exceptional Student Education and Applied Behavior Analysis.
Maria Gomez returned to Chrysalis School in April of 2025 after a two year sabbatical. She teaches in the middle school grades, and provides push-in and pull-out instruction and ongoing teacher training. Maria is a graduate of Universidad del Sagrado Corazon, and holds a Montessori teaching credential and Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Maria is a veteran Montessori teacher, having worked in several Central Florida schools, including twelve years at Chrysalis School.
Fatima Abdul is a Montessori teacher and artist, specializing in Art instruction in diverse educational facilities in Central Florida. Fatima's commitment to bringing a love of Studio Art in a broad range of media to children and teens shines through in her instruction.