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Teacher

Meet the
Team

The Heart-Centered Academy team has extensive knowledge and experience in directing, coordinating, and teaching students with special needs in both the general education and self-contained classrooms as well as mentoring teachers in various learning environments.  Continuing education is paramount to ensure that strategies and techniques are implemented to the best of the team’s abilities.

Executive Director Melissa Coleman kneeling and smiling while holding up a young child

Executive Director

Mrs. Melissa Coleman

As a graduate of the University of Richmond in 2006, Mrs. Coleman soon began her teaching career in education. While pursuing her dream in teaching, she's held various positions within the special education field such as: Resource Center Director,  Section 504 Plan Coordinator, Special Education Testing Coordinator, Educational Specialist, Diagnostician, and Designee.  In her free time, Mrs. Coleman enjoys spending time with her husband and two sons, Benny and Bradley.  She also enjoys a good cup of  tea and times of laughter with friends. 

Learning Specialist

Mrs. Kelsi Day

Mrs. Day graduated from Pensacola Christian College in 2018 with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and then graduated from PCC with a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership.  While working with elementary-aged students, she developed a love for teaching students with special needs.  She is currently working on her second Master's Degree in Special Education.  Mrs. Day enjoys reading, playing the piano, spending time with her family, and visiting coffee shops. 

Learning Specialist Kelsi Day sitting casually on sofa holding coffee in one hand and smiling
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Learning Specialist

Miss Naaliyah (LiLi) Thomas

Miss Thomas is a graduate of Virginia Union University where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in English.  As a current elementary public school teacher, she extends her love for teaching as a part-time Learning Specialist at Heart-Centered Academy.  Miss Thomas is full of fun, creativity, and knowledge.  In her spare time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family.   

Learning Specialist

Mrs. Avashnee (Ava) Savage

As a graduate of Goldfieds Nursing College in Johannesburg, South Africa, Mrs. Savage has a love for serving others in a variety of ways.  In addition to nursing, she developed a love for teaching and was an Early Childhood educator before joining the Heart-Centered Academy team.  Mrs. Savage believes in life-long learning and is currently working on a degree in General Education with a focus in Special Education.  As a mother of two beautiful girls and a wife to a loving husband, family time is important to her.  Her nurturing and fun personality brings comfort and confidence to her students.  

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An Inspiring Vision

Our vision is to provide support to individuals who aspire to achieve their full potential.  We will do this by providing a loving, happy, safe, and supportive learning environment in which everyone is equal and all achievements are celebrated.  

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