Our Team

Collaboration allows teachers to capture each other’s fund of collective intelligence.

Benhaven Academy’s richest resource is the competencies, knowledge and experiences of the professional staff.

• Linda Grimm, Director:  Certified Elementary Education Teacher, Certified Special Education Teacher and Administrator, PhD in Leadership; more than 35 years’ experience in the field 
• Christa Jachym, Clinical Coordinator:  Certified Special Education Teacher and Administrator.  A Board Certified and Licensed Behavior Analyst; more than 25 years supporting students in home and school settings. 
• Five certified special education teachers:
  • • Marie Facin
    • Mercy Kelly
    • Mike Ocone
    • Matt Osora
    • Lisa Skelly 
• Certified subject area teachers provide academic classes for middle school and high school age students:
  • • Steven Antonelli - Science 
    • Kyle Naples - Physical Education & Health
    • Jon-Erik Newell - History
    • Danielle Payne - Math 
• Jaida Hart:  Certified, licensed speech/language pathologists 
• Geoffrey Canales:  Certified school social worker and licensed MSW
• Chris Abildgaard:  Contracted school psychologist
• OT/PT, art therapy, karate are contracted as determined appropriate for a student
• Well-trained, dedicated instructional assistants

ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

• Melissa Soybel:  Student Service Facilitator & Family Liaison, Title IX Coordinator 
• Theonne Lampros:  Administrative Assistant & Information Technology Specialist

SUPPORT STAFF 

• Danielle Castro:  Registered Practical Nurse (RN)