Michele Fasnacht is the visionary and founder of Solid Rock Florida, which encompasses both Solid Rock Community School (SRCS) and the Sanctuary at Solid Rock (SSR). Since its inception in 2004, SRCS has become a pioneering educational institution under her guidance. Michele’s forward-thinking is also evident in the development of the Sanctuary at Solid Rock, reflecting her dedication to fostering supportive and transformative environments.
Michele has earned numerous recognition's for innovative educational leadership and holds a variety of credentials in business, leadership, education, nutrition, and religion. Her extensive background in education spans public, private, virtual, and homeschooling sectors, showcasing her commitment to tailoring educational programs to meet individual needs.
Beyond education, Michele is a certified health and wellness coach and holistic nutrition expert. Facing her own challenges with progressive Multiple Sclerosis and mobility issues, she became a fervent advocate for plant-based nutrition, which she credits with mitigating the effects of her conditions. Michele’s advocacy for plant-based diets not only highlights her personal triumphs but also serves as an inspiration for embracing dietary changes that promote health.
Michele embodies a profound dedication to leveraging education as a means of empowerment, deeply rooted in principles of compassion, sustainability, and inclusivity. She cultivates a space that encourages diversity, inclusivity, and interfaith understanding. Michele’s commitment to fostering compassion, respect, and kindness among all individuals is central to her initiatives, aiming to develop empowered, resilient students. Michele’s endeavors showcase her unwavering commitment to creating an environment where the pursuit of lifelong learning and the well-being of every living being are of utmost importance.

Eric Fasnacht joined Solid Rock in 2005 where he has used his experience from managing multi-billion dollar companies to significantly enhance the school’s operational capabilities.
Eric’s leadership as the Operations Manager is marked by an unwavering commitment to upholding high standards of work integrity in all aspects of the school’s operations. With a deep sense of dedication, he consistently prioritizes the school’s needs, ensuring that every decision and action supports its core values and objectives. His tenure at Solid Rock has been distinguished by effective coordination and enhancement of critical operational areas, including facilities management, safety protocols, IT infrastructure, fleet management, regulatory compliance, and emergency planning. His talent for addressing complex issues, along with his ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, has fostered a learning environment that is both secure and conducive to education. Eric’s comprehensive oversight guarantees that every facet of the school’s operations runs smoothly and adheres to the highest standards of excellence.

Melissa Yost has been involved with Solid Rock since 2008. She has her National Administrator’s Credential as well as a certificate in Grant Writing. She is a hardworking and caring individual who wants to see more families have the opportunity to better educate their children, especially those who have children that do not best fit into mainstream, public school. As a mother of three boys, all with different needs, she understands firsthand the importance of a school that can serve a family with children with varying needs. Melissa worked as a registrar and administrator with World of Knowledge, a Montessori School. She spent ten years in finance where her titles included loan processor and mortgage officer, as well as SBA, small and large business loan officer. Melissa Yost has strong ties with the Florida Department of Education, Veteran’s Administration, Florida Corporate Tax Credit Scholarship, Personal Learning Scholarship, and McKay Coalition where she advocates for each student’s needs on a daily basis.

Matt Welch has a Masters Degree in counseling from USF and is a licensed marriage and family therapist. He has over twenty years experience working with parents and children throughout the bay area as a counselor, principal, and coach. Matt has conducted hundreds of workshops across the state of Florida to benefit parents, teachers, and other mental health professionals. He was named Counselor of the Year in Pasco County in 2004. Matt has been involved with Solid Rock Community School since 2015 counseling students, training teachers and working with administration.  Matt has a successful counseling practice in Dunedin called Cooperative Coaching Concepts, and is the SRCS go-to for recommendations of outside counseling and mental health evaluations.

Jim Ellis has been an integral team member since the foundation of Solid Rock Community School (SRCS) in 2004, applying his extensive experience as a Financial Planner and Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to the unique needs of our organization and supporting the school’s objectives.
Jim’s proficiency extends to a comprehensive range of financial services crucial for SRCS, from establishing robust internal accounting controls to crafting effective accounting procedures, and preparation to advocating for the school’s interests. His expertise not only ensures the financial health of the school but also aligns with its mission to provide a quality education to its students, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to excellence in education through financial stewardship.

Producer John Corry oversees high profile documentary films, TV Series and Online Educational/New Media projects.  His most recent producing credits include the feature documentaries FROM FOOD TO FREEDOM (2023), REVELATIONS CAFE (2023), THE MINDFULNESS MOVEMENT (2020 with Deepak Chopra and Jewel), and CODE BLUE (2019).
John’s groundbreaking feature documentary film FORKS OVER KNIVES has become one of the most influential and best-selling documentaries since its release in theaters in 2011 and a nine-year run on Netflix. His other productions on health and wellness include PLANTPURE NATION and THE ENGINE 2 KITCHEN RESCUE, both seen on Netflix.
His film producing credits also include Universal’s hit action-comedy THE RUNDOWN with Dwayne The Rock Johnson and Christopher Walken, the 3D animated THE TEN COMMANDMENTS with Ben Kingsley and Christian Slater, AYN RAND AND THE PROPHECY OF ATLAS SHRUGGED, TATTOO NATION with Danny Triejo (Spike TV), THE BOWDEN DYNASTY with Deion Sanders, Lee Corso, Burt Reynolds, Jimmy Johnson, Bobby Bowden (ESPN), and THE FACE OF EVIL: REINHARD HEIDRICH with Charlton Heston (History Channel). John has also created and supervised over 200 hours of television documentary programming, including the popular long-running animal series SAFARI TRACKS with Ben Brown for FOX in syndication (52 eps), THE COLOR OF WAR with Peter Coyote (17 hours), and SWORN TO SECRECY with Charlton Heston (65 hours), for the History Channel, CELEBRITY WINGS with Dennis Quaid for Discovery Networks and WEAPONS AT WAR with George C. Scott & Gerald McRaney (65 hours), for A&E Network. His television specials include THE WILD YAK PATROL for Animal Planet and THE LONG MARCH for History International. John Corry’s three-hour special THE LAST DAYS OF WWII was nominated for a National Emmy and his acclaimed all-color WWII series THE COLOR OF WAR was recognized with the CINE SPECIAL JURY AWARD as the Best Network or Cable Historical Program of the year.
John also served as a Captain in the US Air Force’s Combat Camera Squadron at Norton Air Force Base, in San Bernardino, CA.
John met Michele, the Solid Rock Founder in 2017 and in 2023 became actively involved with the school and its forward thinking initiatives. Leveraging his expertise in storytelling and production, John utilizes his creative talents to significantly enhance the school's growth and enhance its role in driving meaningful change in a fast-paced and challenging world.

In 2012 Steve met a piglet, soon to be named Esther, when he agreed to adopt her from an old friend he knew in elementary school. Little did he know, the tiny piglet he brought home would grow up to be a stunning 650lb “Wonder Pig” that would flip his life upside down in every possible way. A Facebook page was created in 2013, with Steve lending his trademark self-deprecating humor and wit, to bring Esther’s personality to life. A decade later, Esther’s pages boast millions of followers from every corner of the globe.
In 2014 Happily Ever Esther Farm Sanctuary was created in her honor, setting a new standard in animal care and social media advocacy for farmed animals. Esther broke down barriers in the medical world, too, going as far as purchasing the largest CT Scanner in Canada to provide a level of care previously not available to animals or the people who treated them. She even inspired multiple books, claiming #2 on the New York Times Best Sellers list with her debut title “Changing the World One Heart at a Time.”
Since Esther’s passing in late 2023, Steve has continued Esther’s mission of promoting kindness and compassion for humans and animals alike.
In 2024, Steve Jenkins teamed up with Solid Rock, as the Global Outreach Ambassador, contributing his expertise in social media, sanctuary operations, volunteer engagement, and fundraising. With his background from Happily Ever Esther Farm Sanctuary and a commitment to animal welfare, Steve is supporting Solid Rock’s development of an educational model of compassionate animal care, designed to influence both their students and organizations worldwide.

Koushik Reddy is an interventional cardiologist in Tampa, FL.  He completed his cardiology and interventional cardiology training from Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, NY in 2007. Dr. Reddy was the first interventional cardiologist to be board certified in lifestyle medicine and heis currently the only cardiologist and one among only 14 physicians with the distinct honor of being a certified lifestyle medicine intensivist. In 2018 he established two, first of their kind Lifestyle Medicine clinics in Tampa. He published many papers in the area of lifestyle medicine and cardiovascular diseases. Dr.Reddy is on the executive board for the American College of Lifestyle Medicine. He is also the founding President of the Plant-Based Lifestyle Movement.  Koushick has been involved with Solid Rock Community School since 2019 when Michele, the Founder joined his board for PBLM.  Together, as like-minded individuals, they collaborate to impact both the school and the community through Lifestyle Medicine. Together, as like-minded individuals, they collaborate to impact and empower the Solid Rock families and local community to live better and healthier lives.  They hope their outreach will influence other schools to adopt similar initiatives and embrace healthier lifestyles. By setting a positive example, they aim to inspire broader changes in educational environments, promoting well-being and proactive health management across communities. Their joint efforts are dedicated to fostering a culture of health and education that benefits not only Solid Rock but also serves as a model for other institutions to follow.

Michael A. Klaper, M.D. is a graduate of the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Chicago. He has practiced acute care medicine in California, Hawaii, Canada, Florida, and New Zealand.
After a fifty-year career as a primary care physician, Dr. Klaper, a member of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine, now focuses on the non-profit Moving Medicine Forward initiative, wherein he shares with medical students and fellow health professionals the science of how health-promoting food and lifestyle choices can arrest and reverse chronic disease.
A long-time radio host and a pilot, Dr. Klaper has served as nutrition advisor to NASA’s programs for space colonists on the Moon and Mars and on the Nutrition Task Force of the American Medical Students Association.
On his websites, DoctorKlaper.com visitors can find the latest nutrition information through his numerous articles and videos, and at Movingmedforward.com you can learn about the Moving Medicine Forward initiative to promote applied nutrition being taught in medical schools.
Dr. Klaper is also an esteemed member of the Solid Rock Committee, where he contributes his extensive knowledge and passion for plant-based nutrition and lifestyle medicine to our school's initiatives.

Gina Botticello joined the Pasco County Animal Services (PCAS) team as a veterinary technician in July of 2015 and has since served in numerous capacities of the municipal shelter. With a keen understanding of the power of partnerships and collaboration, Gina empowers audiences to harness the collective strength of their communities in support of lifesaving initiatives. Through engaging storytelling and practical insights, she ignites a sense of purpose and possibility, urging others to join her in the fight for a no kill future. Gina has grown into the position of Community Partnerships and Programs Supervisor, a crucial role in fostering alliance between the shelter and the community to improve animal welfare outcomes and promote a more compassionate society.
Since 2021, Gina has overseen the development and management of collaborative initiatives with external organizations and community stakeholders. Cultivating relationships with local businesses, non-profit organizations, rescue groups, fosters and volunteers opened the door to increased positive outcomes for the PCAS shelter pets- and ultimately brought a new culture to the Pasco community. Gina’s focus on progressive lifesaving has helped Pasco County Animal Services increase animals going to partner rescue organizations from just 450 animals in 2017 to over 2,500 in 2023. Gina continues to impact community programs and her team to new heights through positivity, innovation, and collaboration.
In her spare time, Gina works at the Sanctuary at Solid Rock where she cares for a variety of primates, reptiles, birds, pigs, and various other exotics. Gina’s collaboration with Solid Rock Community School; Sanctuary at Solid Rock continues to thrive as they focus on educational programs that teach children about animal welfare and environmental conservation. These initiatives not only benefit the animals but also enrich the lives of the students by fostering a deep understanding and appreciation for nature and wildlife. With each passing year, Gina's dedication and tireless efforts contribute significantly to her community's journey towards sustainability and compassion for all living beings.

Sira Garib, celebrated for her exquisite vegan desserts at Pure Vegan Cakes, is more than a celebrity baker; she seamlessly embodies the roles of both a culinary virtuoso and a devoted mother championing sustainable and healthy practices.   Sira joined the Solid Rock Community in 2023, where she works collaboratively with Solid Rock leaders to implement initiatives that resonate with shared values of compassion, sustainability, animal welfare, and wellness. Her engagement is characterized by a synergy of strategic partnership and cooperative spirit, aiming to empower individuals and nurture a shared vision of a healthier, kinder society.
Sira’s active role in the Solid Rock Community is a vibrant example of her strategic leadership and heartfelt collaboration, believing that with passion and partnership, we can bake a better world, one vegan cake at a time.

Shelly Caruthers became part of the Solid Rock family in 2024, bringing with her a storied legacy as an influential leader in education. With a tenure exceeding 25 years in educational leadership, her career is a testament to a life dedicated to enhancing educational standards and fostering student growth.At Solid Rock, Shelly’s focus is on strategic planning and innovative growth, leading initiatives that have significantly boosted student engagement and academic performance. Her approach, grounded in data and collaborative strategies, has spurred marked academic improvements, evidencing her adept leadership in education.Shelly is passionately dedicated to the academic success and comprehensive development of the students, actively seeking collaborative partnerships with parents, teachers, and staff to support this endeavor. Her belief in cooperation and excellent communication is integral to her educational philosophy.Beyond her professional pursuits, Shelly is an enthusiast of the outdoors, participating in kayaking, charity 5k events, and local sports. Her love for music draws her to outdoor concerts, while her culinary curiosity finds her experimenting with new recipes. As an avid animal welfare advocate, she cherishes her role as a pet parent to six rescue dogs, sharing their park adventures on social media. Shelly’s diverse interests enrich the Solid Rock community, reflecting her holistic view on education and life.

Lucy Monette joined our team in 2018 as an inspiring teacher and has continually demonstrated her dedication to fostering an inclusive, empathetic learning environment. Her journey with us saw a pivotal moment in 2022 when she was promoted to Academic Advisor, a role  which supports the community of students and educators. In 2024, Lucy expanded her AA role to include that of Humane Education Program Manager, where she has begun to align the curriculum with the core values of our school. Lucy’s current focus on developing a curriculum specifically tailored to reflect our school’s core values is a testament to her commitment to education that not only imparts knowledge but also instills a deep respect for all forms of life. Her work involves meticulous planning and collaboration, ensuring that each aspect of the school program resonates with our mission to nurture compassionate and responsible individuals.

Wyndi Dayock has a rich background spanning early childhood education and the financial industry, culminating in her current role at Solid Rock Community School. Wyndi's professional journey began in early childhood education, where she dedicated over eight years to curriculum development, enhancing classroom environments, and serving as an assistant director. Her commitment to educational excellence laid a strong foundation for her subsequent career shift.
Transitioning to the financial sector, Wyndi spent 18 years focusing on community outreach and team leadership. Her work involved spearheading initiatives that fostered community engagement and led a team of associates, underscoring her adeptness in leadership and her passion for community service.
In 2018, Wyndi's search for an ideal educational setting for her son, who was entering 6th grade, led her to discover Solid Rock Community School. The school's commitment to care, compassion, and community deeply resonated with her, compelling her to join the team in 2022. At Solid Rock, Wyndi continues to leverage her extensive experience to contribute to a nurturing and supportive educational environment.

Melinda Benedetto has over 30 years of accounting and bookkeeping experience. Much of her career has involved serving the accounting and bookkeeping needs of retail companies, small businesses, and not-for-profits. Her detail oriented, structured personality coupled with her outstanding organizational skills make her excellent in this position. In college she was named “Business Administration Student of the Year” and was inducted into the National Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa. Melinda has served on several boards, including Solid Rock’s Board of Directors and the West Coast Child Care Food Program. Melinda is the Bursar at Solid Rock, responsible for managing billing, tuition payments, and other financial matters related to student accounts. 

Kayla Gainer-Edwards joined Solid Rock in 2023 as the Sanctuary at Solid Rock Manager.  She is a graduate of the University of Florida where she obtained a degree in Zoology. She has worked as a professional in the animal care field since 2012.Kayla has worked for many non-profit wildlife rehabilitation organizations, including one that helped over 7,000 animals annually, and multiple veterinary clinics. She has experience in working with over 180 different species of birds, 34 different mammals and 27 species of reptiles.Kayla is proficient in domestic, exotic, and native wildlife husbandry and nutrition. Her diverse skill set and comprehensive knowledge uniquely position her to manage various programs at the Sanctuary at Solid Rock. She is excited to grow with the organization and be a part of teaching the next generation about the humane treatment of all animals, emphasizing the importance of conservation and wildlife care.            

Kathleen Casper Reed, JD, is the gifted education specialist at Solid Rock Community School. She also runs a private nature school for children ages 4-10 and works as an attorney across multiple states. Kathleen has extensive experience, having served as the former state gifted specialist for the Florida Department of Education, where she led educational initiatives to support gifted, twice exceptional, and special needs students. She has taught and held administrative roles in K-12 schools for decades, and spent many years as a director on the Pasco Hernando Early Learning Coalition.
An advocate for foster children and at-risk youth, Kathleen is also a national speaker on underachieving gifted students and the author of Smart Babies: A Guide for Identifying and Supporting Gifted Traits in Infants and Young Children. She has served as vice president of WAETAG (Washington Association for Educators of the Talented and Gifted), a director on the national SENG (Supporting Emotional Needs of the Gifted) board, and past president of FLAG (Florida Association for the Gifted). Kathleen also worked as the K-12 Highly Capable Program Facilitator for Tacoma Public Schools in Washington.
Kathleen’s expertise extends beyond education as an attorney with a practice focused on children and families. She has provided gifted education support as a trainer and consultant to schools, districts, and families nationwide. Kathleen has been involved with Solid Rock Community School since 2016, where she continues to train and support teachers in working with gifted, twice-exceptional, and neurodiverse students.

Karen has been with Solid Rock Community School since 2022. With over fifteen years of experience as an educational and physical instructor, Karen is dedicated to helping students achieve their academic and personal goals. In 2017, she obtained her CDL and has since enjoyed the unique and rewarding experience of being a part-time school bus driver, engaging with children of all ages.  Karen is a team player, always ready to help wherever needed. Her versatility allows her to assist with elementary students, support special needs students, substitute a class, operate the front desk, and drive the school bus.  Karen is thrilled to be working at a plant-based school that aligns with her commitment to promoting a healthy, compassionate lifestyle. 

Sharon is a dedicated and experienced educator who has been teaching since 2006.  She has been a teacher at Solid Rock Community School since 2012. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, with endorsements in ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and special needs, showcasing her commitment to inclusive and adaptive education.
Originally from the Canary Islands, Spain, Sharon brings a rich cultural background to her work. Fluent in Spanish, she effectively connects with a diverse student body and their families, enhancing the multicultural fabric of her educational environment. Beyond her professional achievements,
Sharon is passionate about kayaking and swimming. She also loves spending quality time with her dogs and cherishes the company of family and friends.  

Tiara has an extensive background in caretaking, nursing, special needs, and supporting individuals in varying capacities, making her an ideal fit for Solid Rock Community School, where her skills will make a meaningful impact on our students' well-being. She has proudly embraced a plant-based lifestyle for the past eight years, a true reflection of her deep commitment to nature and sustainability. Passionate about this way of living, she integrates it into her daily life and frequently participates in community events to connect with like-minded individuals. Creativity is at the heart of who she is, whether through crafting art, sewing, or designing her own clothes. Having an adventurous spirit, Tiara has embraced life in several states across the U.S., always in search of new experiences and eager to create lasting memories. She relocated to Florida in 2023 to embark on a new journey and found that Solid Rock's core values strongly aligned with her, inspiring her to become part of our team. Her unique blend of skills and passions promises to enrich our community and support our mission of nurturing every student’s potential.

Chelsea brings a diverse range of professional experiences to our team, including her work as a teacher assistant, behavior technician, and certified beautician. She has experience working with students across various age groups, allowing her to adapt to a wide range of learning environments. In addition to her professional expertise, Chelsea is also a black belt, demonstrating her discipline and commitment.
As a proud graduate of Solid Rock Community School’s class of 2016, her return as a staff member is especially meaningful. Chelsea’s personal connection to SRCS, combined with her unique skill set, makes her an invaluable part of our community.

Mickey Maiorana is passionate about education and empowering students to reach their full potential. Her journey in education began when she graduated with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with certification in English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) from the University of South Florida in 2002. Equipped with this foundation, she was eager to make a positive impact in the lives of young learners. In 2013, Mickey pursued a master's degree in educational leadership from National-Louis University, driven by a desire to effect broader positive change within educational institutions. This journey deepened her understanding of effective leadership principles and pedagogical strategies, preparing me to lead with purpose and vision.She joined the team at Solid Rock Community School in July 2018. As an educational leader,  Mickey's mission is to create an environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to continuous improvement, she strives to inspire students to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens.

August is a certified service dog and emotional support animal who has been a cherished member of the Solid Rock Community since he was one year old. Trained to provide comfort and assistance, August excels in his role, bringing joy and reassurance to students and staff alike. His gentle nature and intuitive understanding of the needs of those around him make him an invaluable part of our community. Whether he's offering a calming presence during stressful times or simply sharing his boundless affection, August is dedicated to his "job" and thrives on giving love and support to everyone at Solid Rock.

Jenn is an enthusiastic and dedicated teacher with over 5 years of experience in fostering a love for language in her students. She has been with Solid Rock since 2020.  Jenn has a bachelor's degree from Arcadia University and has completed graduate work in Orton-Gillingham. Jenn combines academic rigor with creative teaching methods to engage her young learners.
In addition to her academic responsibilities, Jenn has taught cheer, dance, yoga, theater, and fitness. Outside of school, Jenn can be found taking dance classes and volunteering for various local organizations. She currently is the Media Lead Chair for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network Tampa Bay.
Jenn’s passion for teaching, combined with her expertise and compassionate approach, makes her an exceptional educator who continues to inspire and nurture the next generation of readers and writers. 

Monique brings over 26 years of experience in education, with a strong dedication to creating enriching learning environments that inspire students to reach their full potential. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Human Services and a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Her diverse teaching background spans across elementary and middle school levels, where she has taught multiple subjects and embraced the opportunity to work with students of various abilities and backgrounds. Monique is deeply passionate about education and believes that every student deserves access to meaningful learning experiences that ignite curiosity, foster personal growth, and build confidence. She is committed to cultivating an inclusive and engaging classroom where each child feels valued and empowered to succeed.
In her free time, Monique enjoys expressing her creativity through arts and crafts, music, and interior decorating. She also cherishes time spent with her family, always finding new ways to connect and make lasting memories. Monique's dedication to both her students and her personal passions makes her an inspiring educator who consistently goes above and beyond to create positive and lasting impacts in her community.

Karen has a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Delaware and has been dedicated to the field of education since 1995. Since 2006, she has been a proud member of the teaching staff at Solid Rock Community School, where she has the privilege of working with a great staff and amazing students every day. Karen is known for her dedication, compassion, and innovative teaching methods, which have positively impacted countless students over the years. She has high expectations, and her students consistently rise to meet them, achieving significant academic and personal growth. Outside of her professional life, Karen enjoys cooking, swimming, reading, hiking in the mountains, and doting over her family, which includes five very cute rescue cats.

Dr. Derrick Colon embarked on his educational journey in 2001, demonstrating a versatile teaching ability across various age groups and subjects in both public and private schools. Affectionately known as "Dr. Dee," he has been a valued member of Solid Rock Community School since August 2014.
Dr. Dee holds a bachelor's degree in Biblical Studies from North Point Bible College, a Master of Divinity in Theological Studies from Liberty University, and a Doctorate in Education from Capella University. His diverse educational background and extensive teaching experience make him a vital member of the Solid Rock Community School team.

Carl Williams started at Solid Rock Community School in 2011. He began teaching in Hillsborough County in 1990 and has been an educator ever since. Carl was part of a committee writing curriculum for the state DOE in the area of Broadcast Journalism and co-created The Academy of Journalism for the School District of Hillsborough County. He has a degree in English Education from USF.  Carl has taught a variety of subjects and age groups and is a long-term reliable team player. He likes to rescue dogs and has had up to 16 dogs in his house at one time.

Amy Callaghan joined Solid Rock Community School in 2023. She has been able to combine her 30 years of experience as a public school teacher with her passion for humane education while working alongside the students as part of the SAVE (Vet Program) Educators team.
Amy has a master's in educational leadership from the University of South Florida, an Educator Certificate from the state of Florida with ESOL and Reading endorsements, and is also a certified Curriculum Designer. 

Jade has been dedicated to serving children and young adults for the previous 11 years by maintaining a career in specialized and general education K-12. She has been with Solid Rock Community School since 2022.  As a health, education, and performing arts advocate, Jade strives to enhance the physical and mental well-being of students by facilitating meaningful and lasting improvements via exercise, nutritional insight, and education. As a mother of two neurodivergent children, she has set out to direct the standard of academic delivery, for all students, towards excellence. She works diligently to curate the cohesion of mind and body for an 'out of the box' approach to education and performing arts ventures.

Jade received her Certified Nutritional Counseling degree through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, her academic degree through Keiser University and Florida School of the Arts. She also maintains her Dance Masters of America Certificate through Buffalo University, along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Diploma and Nutritional Counseling certifications, while maintaining coursework in the areas of Health Science and Specialized Education.

Matthew was born and raised in the UK. He joined the merchant navy, which is similar to the merchant marines in the US, where he discovered his love for marine conservation. After his time in the navy, he attended university and earned a degree in ship and port management.
Following his academic pursuits, Matthew joined the marine conservation organization Sea Shepherd and worked for five years on various campaigns around the world to protect marine wildlife. One of his most significant efforts was protecting the vaquita porpoise, the world’s most endangered marine mammal. Sea Shepherd fights to defend, conserve, and protect the ocean and safeguard the biodiversity of our delicately-balanced marine ecosystems. They protect endangered marine wildlife by mobilizing ships, captains, and crews in their defense throughout the most fragile ecosystems on earth. This position involved long hours, hard work, dangerous conditions, extreme weather, and adventure. It was the hardest work he ever loved and an experience of a lifetime.
Matthew also has a deep passion for health and sports. He loves to run marathons, kayak, and be active outside. He wants to impact and influence youth to live a healthy, active life and appreciate the wonders of the natural world. In 2021, he joined Solid Rock Community School, where he found a chance to be a positive influence on our youth. At Solid Rock, he is dedicated to nurturing young minds, increasing interest in being physically active and healthy, and promoting a holistic understanding of the world.

Shannon has been with Solid Rock Community School since 2020. As the organization’s Plant-Based Community Coordinator, she is dedicated to promoting a healthy and sustainable plant-based diet. Shannon teaches cooking classes to families and community members, making it easy for them to adopt and maintain nutritious and eco-friendly eating habits. Additionally, she teaches electives to students, where she instills the values of health, sustainability, and compassion. Outside of Solid Rock, Shannon is an influencer and animal advocate. She enjoys creating new plant-based recipes, rescuing animals, and engaging in community outreach programs that promote plant-based health and animal rights. Her passion for a sustainable lifestyle and animal welfare extends beyond the classroom, making her a cherished member of both the school and the broader community.

Chef John has been leading the plant-based kitchen at Solid Rock Community School since 2021, creating healthy and fresh offerings for our cafeteria. With over 35 years of culinary experience across six different countries, Chef John brings a world of flavors and expertise to our students and staff. Before joining Solid Rock, Chef John honed his skills in a variety of esteemed restaurants, hotels, and clubs around the globe. His extensive background allows him to craft diverse and nutritious meals that cater to a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. Chef John's dedication to excellence and innovation ensures that every meal served is not only delicious but also nourishing. At Solid Rock, Chef John’s contributions go beyond the kitchen. He is passionate about educating families on the importance of a balanced, plant-based diet and often collaborates on our school programs and special events so we can best serve our community. His culinary creations are a testament to his commitment to quality and his love for sharing the joys of wholesome, plant-based cuisine with the entire school community.

Jaimee is a talented NYC-trained pastry chef with nearly 15 years of experience crafting delicious creations in kitchens and bakeries nationwide.  Her passion for food extends beyond the kitchen as she loves teaching others the art of baking and enjoys getting her hands dirty in the garden. Cats, comic books, and flowers hold a special place in her heart, and she cherishes cooking alongside her favorite sous chef—her husband.  Jaimee relocated to Florida and started a new journey with Solid Rock in 2024.  A fun and unique fact about Jaimee: she had the thrilling opportunity to appear on the TV show MasterChef twice!

Tammy has been a valued member of Solid Rock Community School since 2022, contributing as part of our non-academic support staff offering assistance where needed, particularly during special events. With a diverse background in personal assisting, CNA care, and restaurant work, Tammy brings a compassionate, helpful attitude to our team.
In 2020, Tammy embraced a plant-based lifestyle, which significantly enriched her life and inspired her to pursue a degree in alternative medicine at Everglades University.
Outside of her professional life, Tammy enjoys swimming, shell collecting, spending time with her family and 5 grandchildren, and reading. Her multifaceted interests and dedication to personal growth make her an integral part of the Solid Rock Community School family.