At Foundations Academy, we believe that every child is wonderfully made with a unique purpose!

Ms. Debra LaFountain is the driving force behind Foundations Academy, Port Saint Lucie. As Principal, she embodies a dynamic blend of passion, precision, and purpose.

Ms. Debra brings not only a powerful presence but a transformative vision for the classroom—one rooted in best educational practices, a deep connection with students and faith-filled leadership.

A master of building rapport and igniting student motivation, she believes learning is not a passive experience but an adventure to be lived. She empowers students to take charge of their own learning journeys, combining academic excellence with social-emotional intelligence and real-world readiness.

She is a skilled architect of coordinated intervention strategies—academic, behavioral, and emotional—meeting each student where they are and lifting them higher.

Ms. Debra holds a Master of Special Education from Liberty University, a Bachelor of Elementary Education from Southeastern University, and an Associate of Science in Business administration from Southwest Virginia Community College.

Her credentials are a testament to both her expertise and her commitment:

• Elementary Education (K-6)
• Exceptional Student Education (K-12)
• Hearing Impaired
• Reading Endorsement
• ESOL Endorsement
• Autism Endorsement

All through the Florida Department of Education

Her rich background in Christian education has shaped her into a leader who values not just curriculum and standards but also calling and service.

She joined Foundations Academy in June 2023, bringing with her years of impact as a Christian educator where her work has left a legacy of academic innovation, excellence, and unwavering care.

Whether she’s greeting preschoolers at the door or guiding a faculty team through strategic planning, Ms. Debra leads with wisdom, warmth, and an unstoppable drive to raise up the next generation of learners and leaders.

Foundations Academy is proud to call her our Principal.

Christine Dvorak pours 30 years of dedication, expertise, and the joyful light of her faith in Jesus, to shaping the hearts and minds of her students.

With a career spanning over three decades, she has worked with little ones from birth to age five, laying a Foundations for a lifetime of learning. She brings a rich wisdom and an unmatched level of experience.

As a seasoned educator and leader, Ms. Christine holds an A.S. in Early Childhood Education from Indian River State College and a Director’s Credential, showcasing her commitment to excellence in early learning.

Her impact goes far beyond the classroom—she has nurtured, guided, and motivated countless children, families and fellow educators, always ensuring that every child is seen, valued, and given the best start possible.

Ms. Christine’s deep knowledge, coupled with her joyful, Jesus-inspired, inclusive approach, makes her an irreplaceable force in early education.

At Foundations Academy, our revered Ms. Christine brings passion, faith, leadership, and a wealth of expertise, creating an environment where your little learner’s big dreams take flight!

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Brad Lynch holds a Bachelor's Degree in Global Education from Southeastern University and is certified to teach Kindergarten through 6th grade. He is currently pursuing his Master’s degree from the American College of Education, further strengthening his commitment to lifelong learning and educational excellence.

Mr. Lynch brings valuable experience from working as a substitute teacher and serving in children's ministries, where he developed a strong ability to connect with students and support their academic and personal growth. He promotes group learning by actively engaging students and fostering a focused, efficient classroom environment.

Building positive relationships is at the heart of Mr. Lynch’s teaching philosophy. He believes that trust and connection are key to student success. Known for his adaptability and passion for education, Mr. Lynch is dedicated to helping students grow and equipping them with the skills they need to thrive both in school and in life.

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Ms. Alisha is a natural-born teacher, bringing warmth, patience, and love to our students every single day.

As a mother of three energetic boys, ages one, four, and six, she understands the importance of gentle guidance, emotional connection, and fostering a love of learning in our first grade students.

Ms. Alisha is a compassionate and dedicated educator who consistently fosters a safe, secure, and welcoming environment where students feel valued and supported. Her nurturing approach creates a classroom atmosphere that encourages open communication, mutual respect, and a strong sense of belonging. Ms. Alisha takes the time to understand each student’s unique needs and learning styles, promoting both academic growth and emotional well-being. Her genuine care for her students is evident in the positive relationships she builds and the trust she inspires, making her classroom a place where students feel confident to explore, ask questions, and thrive.

Ms. Alisha hold a B.A. in Psychology from Colorado Christian University, giving her a deep understanding of child development, emotional well-being and the unique needs of growing minds.

At Foundations Academy, Ms. Alisha's passion for working with children extends beyond her own family-she has also served in children's ministries, where she has help guide and support young hearts in faith and learning.

With Ms. Alisha at the helm and Jesus steering the way, learning becomes an adventure and every child is seen, heard, and empowered to shine.

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At Foundations Academy, we believe that first grade is the gateway to an exciting academic adventure- where curiosity, inspiration and faith begin to fully combine and together create a lasting love for learning.

It’s a journey of discovery, growth and wonder, lifting your child into a world where knowledge and faith intertwine to shape both the mind and heart.

Who better to guide our young explorers than Ms. Melanie, a devoted educator with a passion for both learning and adventure?

With experience as a first-grade teacher in the St. Lucie County Schools and here at Foundations Academy, Ms. Melanie knows how to turn every lesson into a joyful experience. She brings patience and a commitment to excellence, ensuring that each child feels encouraged and inspired. Her background as an ESE support teacher and behavior technician has equipped her with a deep understanding of how children learn and grow, allowing her to meet each student where they are, and help them flourish.

But Ms. Melanie’s passion doesn’t stop at the classroom – she also brings her love of music and worship into everything she does. A member of the praise team at High Point Church, she uplifts and inspires through song, creating an environment where faith and learning go hand and hand.

A proud graduate of the University of Valley Forge with a B.S. in Pyschology, she seamlessly blends faith, knowledge and care – making them the Foundations of her uniquely gifted teaching.

For your child, first grade with Ms. Melanie won’t just be about learning – it will be an adventure filled with discovery, growth, and excitement!

At Foundations Academy, we are thrilled to have Ms. Melanie as part of our family, where her joyful spirit and deep faith makes every day a new opportunity to learn, explore, and shine.

Welcome to first grade – Let the journey begin!

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Winnie Nabukenya holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and is a certified K–12 educator with a passion for working with young learners. She has experience teaching students in Kindergarten through 4th grade and is especially skilled in integrating technology into her lessons to enhance learning and engagement. Ms. Nabukenya uses differentiated instruction to meet the unique needs of every student, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to grow and succeed.

She is dedicated to creating a safe, loving, and welcoming classroom environment where every child feels valued and supported. Beyond academics, Ms. Nabukenya serves as both an academic and spiritual advocate, helping students recognize their self-worth and discover their God-given gifts and strengths. Her holistic approach to education nurtures both the mind and the heart, making a lasting impact on the lives of her students.

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Ms. Alysha is a passionate and dedicated kindergarten teacher with valuable experience teaching both Kindergarten and ESE Pre-K.

She has a heart for young learners and a deep desire to help each child grow not only academically but also spiritually. Ms. Alysha believes in guiding her students to demonstrate God’s love in their everyday actions, fostering kindness, compassion, and respect in all they do.

She is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive classroom environment where every child feels safe, accepted, and valued—no matter their learning level. Through the use of diverse teaching methods, she thoughtfully engages all learning styles to ensure each student reaches their fullest potential.

A graduate of Colorado Christian University with a degree in Applied Psychology, Ms. Alysha is deeply committed to helping every child, regardless of ability, reach their fullest potential.

At Foundationss Academy, Ms. Alysha brings her passion, her energy, and her belief in every child’s potential to life, making learning meaningful, dynamic, stimulating and fun.

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With over seven years of experience as a preschool teacher and a strong background as a Children’s Ministry Director, Ms. Brianna brings both educational expertise and spiritual guidance to the classroom. She holds an Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education and is deeply committed to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, and spiritually.

Ms. Brianna understands that the education of a four-year-old is a pivotal step in a child’s development. At this age, children are rapidly expanding their language, cognitive, and motor skills. Through structured and engaging learning experiences, she helps children grow in their ability to communicate, solve problems, and build healthy social relationships. Her supportive and personalized approach ensures that every child receives the affirmation and encouragement needed to flourish during this formative time.

Ms. Brianna fosters a love for learning, curiosity, and resilience—traits that lay a strong foundation for future academic success. Her faith-based teaching style creates a nurturing environment where children not only grow intellectually but also spiritually, helping them thrive and bloom in every area of life.

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Ms. Alexis is a passionate and deeply involved educator who brings her entire heart to her work with young learners.

With over two years of experience working with preschool children, she has developed a natural ability to connect with little ones, creating a classroom filled with wonder and discovery.

Beyond the classroom, Alexis is deeply involved in her community, serving as a youth leader at High Point Church, where she mentors and inspires the next generation.

Her academic journey is just as impressive. She holds an A.A. in Criminal Justice from Indian River State College and is currently pursuing her B.A. in Elementary Education, further solidifying her commitment to shaping young minds.

As a teacher of our four-year-olds, Alexis brings an embracing engaging approach, helping her young learners build concrete skills in a loving, faith-based, constructive environment. Ms. Alexis is focused on fostering your child’s love for learning, knowing Jesus, and ensuring that your child feels uplifted, secure and excited to grow.

At Foundations Academy, Ms. Alexis is making a difference every day, preparing her students for bright futures ahead!

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Sandy Marshall-Dixon has a gift for making lessons and learning feel like an adventure, turning everyday moments into meaningful experiences that spark a love of discovery.

She creates classrooms that are not just spaces for knowledge and education, but an environment where your child will feel validated, secure and guided by the love of Jesus.

As a certified Child Development Associate (CDA) holder with VPK Endorsement, Ms. Sandy spent the last four years shaping bright young minds in the VPK classroom, ensuring that every child is ready to take their first big step into kindergarten and beyond.

She is deeply immersed in her work—thoughtful, charismatic, and wholeheartedly devoted to the spiritual journey and individual success of your child.

Ms. Sandy is a true champion for young learners, bringing her love and expertise to every student she teaches. She creates a classroom that is not just a space for curiosity and creativity, but an arena where confidence grows, and your child will know in faith they are valued, capable, and ready to shine.

At Foundations Academy, Ms. Sandy is more than a teacher, she is a steady and inspiring presence in our students lives - a consistent source of unwavering guidance and encouragement for your little one.

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With four years of hands-on experience in the childcare setting, Bryanna Paulino is a passionate and dedicated early childhood educator. She is currently pursuing her degree in Early Childhood Education, further deepening her knowledge and commitment to nurturing young minds.

Ms. Bryanna is a positive, motivated, and caring teacher who believes in creating meaningful and loving relationships with every child. She listens attentively, guides gently, and teaches with a heart grounded in faith. Her godly perspective shapes her approach to education, fostering a safe, supportive, and spiritually enriched environment where children can grow, learn, and thrive.

Ms. Bryanna is passionate about integrating her faith into daily lessons, guiding students to see God’s love and truth in all aspects of learning. She uses innovative and creative strategies to actively engage her students, making learning both meaningful and fun. Her nurturing approach and dedication to each child’s development make her classroom a place where all students can thrive.

At Foundations Academy, she creates a joyful enriching environment where every child is empowered to thrive.

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Kaitlyn Raiano an inspiring and vibrant early childhood teacher with over five years of experience shaping young minds in the preschool setting. She holds a Florida Child Care Professional Certificate (FCCPC), highlighting her strong Foundations in early childhood teaching.

Ms. Kaitlyn has worked extensively with toddlers. At Foundations Academy, she creates a joyful enriching environment where every child is empowered to thrive.

Guided by her deep faith. Ms. Kaitlyn brings the light of spirituality into every day of learning. She believes that Jesus is present in each storytime, song and play activity, where he has his own seat and is never absent.

At Foundations Academy, your student is wholeheartedly welcomed into Ms. Kaitlyn's class and destined for an exciting year of faith, fun, and meaningful growth together.

With two years of experience working with one-year-olds, she has a special gift for creating an engaging environment where the little learners feel protected, empowered, and excited to explore.

Yakima Oliva Alaverz is a vibrant, dynamic educator who brings both expertise and energy to her curious young adventurers.

Ms. Yakima’s classroom is filled with enthusiastic inquisitiveness, and boundless energy, where even the tiniest learner can begin their journey of trailblazing with fun and confidence. With Ms. Yakima, learning starts with movement, laughter and a whole lot of love!

At Foundations Academy, Ms. Yakima’s passion for early childhood education shines through in everything she does, making her a cohesive part of our family.

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Kiara Brito is a natural-born caregiver and teacher, bringing warmth, patience, and love to our infants and toddlers every single day.

As a mother, she understands firsthand the importance of gentle guidance, emotional connection, and fostering a sense of security in our little ones.

Her passion for working with children extends beyond her own family—she has also served in children’s ministries, where she has helped guide and support young hearts in faith and learning.

At Foundations Academy, she pours her heart into caring for our youngest learners, creating an environment that is safe, soothing, and full of affection. Whether it’s through gentle cuddles, playful interactions, or encouraging first milestones, she ensures that every baby and toddler in her care feels cherished.

She is a teacher, a comforter, a guide, and a steady presence in the lives of the little ones who need it the most.

Ms. Kiara’s compassionate defining presence make her a favorite member of our teaching team.

Brianna Aguilar holds a Bachelor's degree in Language and Literature from the University of Valley Forge. She will be teaching our enrichment classes and brings a wealth of creativity and passion to her role. A multi-talented educator, Brianna has strengths in art, music, and languages, making her a dynamic and inspiring addition to our faculty.

She has experience working with children of all ages in classroom settings, children’s ministries, and summer camps. Miss Aguilar creates a loving, spiritually grounded environment where students are encouraged to grow both academically and personally. She integrates a biblical foundation into all aspects of her teaching, nurturing young minds as they mature in their faith, character, and knowledge.