Staff Biographies
Thomas Reid, Co-Executive Director
Thomas is a musician, composer, and educator from Charlottesville, Virginia. This is his third year as a coordinator with DEDP. He loves making all kinds of sounds, from electric guitar shrieks and squeals, synthesized beeps and boops, beatboxed boom-naps. His favorite thing is to make music with students, but he also loves comic books, video games, all things sci-fi, tacos, and jokes. Come chat about MIDI sequencing, loops and sampling, and anything else in the world of audio!
Megan Woodsmall, Co-Executive Director
Megan earned her Bachelors degree in Communications from Indiana University in 2012, and her Masters in Educational Leadership and Management from Fitchburg State University in 2022. Megan can usually be found hiking, biking, skiing, baking, and enjoying a coffee in her time outside DEDP. She’s been working at DEDP in various roles since 2018, and this is her second year as the Executive Director. She cannot wait for adventures ahead!
Vinny LaFrazia, Associate Director
I am thrilled to be at DEDP for my 26th year, each one of them a unique and exciting experience. I feel fortunate to be allowed to be a part of so many children’s lives. I will be forever thankful to all the families and coworkers - past, present and future, who have allowed me this incredible opportunity. In my other life I enjoy playing golf, cooking, and spending time with my wife and two children.
Preschool/Pre-K Team
Olivia Manzi
Preschool Group Leader
Preschool Classroom Coordinator
Olivia graduated from Drew University in 2014, after spending four years splitting her time between studying child development (with a focus on early childhood language development) and experiencing it hands-on while working at the on-campus childcare center. She returned home to Massachusetts after graduating and has found herself surrounded by preschoolers ever since. She has worked in early education programs in Beverly, Cambridge and Jamaica Plain over the last ten years, and is excited to be a part of the DEDP community! She loves the three/four-year-old age group because she can never predict what the children are going to say next. In her free time, you’ll probably find her either at the library, a concert, or sampling her way through all the different flavors at an ice cream shop.
Alejandra Mejia
Preschool Group Leader
I am from Boston, born and raised. I have been working in childcare ever since I was in high-school and it’s something I have stuck with because of how much I enjoyed working in the field. I graduated from Umass Boston with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and I am now currently studying at Northeastern University for another year. I love to travel, try new Mexican restaurants, and watch movies. I also have a great passion for cars. I am excited to start at DEDP and create memories with the kids!
Kate Sargent
Preschool Assistant Group Leader
Having dedicated six years to the Brookline Early education program and three years to an extended day program, I have consistently demonstrated dedication and excellence in nurturing young minds.Beyond my commitment to education, I find joy in the company of my husband, Phil, along with my beloved dog, Wynnie, and cat, Shadow. I enjoy long runs to rejuvenate and unwind, indulging in a good book for personal growth, and sharing big laughs with cherished friends.
Jada Mitchell
Preschool Assistant Group Leader
Jada is a Boston native who has always had a love for being around children! She has been an early childhood educator for a year now and is excited to be a part of DEDP. Seeing children she works with make big or small milestones is one of the greatest gifts of her life. Seeing the impact she can make within children’s lives brings her so much joy and fulfillment. When she is not working she loves to read, travel and hanging out with friends.
Kindergarten/Grade 1 Team
Alicia Ruth Jackson
Grade K Group Leader
K/1 Classroom Coordinator
Alicia Ruth is so excited to be back for another fun filled year at DEDP! She is originally from Montgomery, Alabama where she received a degree in Theatre Performance from Faulkner University. She has several years of experience in childcare and education including roles as camp counselor, workshop instructor and Theatre and Music Director for grades K-12. Outside of DEDP Alicia Ruth enjoys reading, singing and trying every seasonal treat from Trader Joe's.
Liz Young
Grade 1 Group Leader
Liz (They/She) is an artist and educator currently residing south of Boston. Their educational background stems from spaces such as New Art Center in Newton and Boston Children’s Museum. Outside of DEDP, you can find Liz exploring the Greater Boston Area, likely thrift shopping or hiking.
Alicia LaPorta
Grade K Group Leader
I’m Alicia! Born and raised in Massachusetts and currently working on a certificate in human services. I have been working with children and youth since 2017 and have been involved in various programs that benefit in youth development through expressive arts and various forms of activism. When I am not at school or work, I’m at local art events supporting local artists as I also hone my numerous art forms including singing, dancing, spoken word, photography to name a few. Like the Gemini I am my interests are vast and various and I dibble dabble in plenty of new experiences! P.S my hair color changes around every month so be prepared!
Alexa Cabrera
Grade 1 Group Leader
I’m Alexa! I’m a Massachusetts Native and currently studying for a degree in Human Services & Liberal Arts. I’ve been working with children for about 6 years and I love it! One of my favorite things about working with kids, is how much you can truly learn so much from them. I believe every child deserves a chance to be heard and celebrate their differences. When I’m not at school or work some things I enjoy are cooking, playing my instruments, writing and reading all things spooky.
Mia Hardister
Grade K Assistant Group Leader
I was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon and graduated from the University of Oregon this past June with my BA. I moved to Boston to obtain an MA in Philosophy from Boston College and am hoping to go on to get my PhD and teach philosophy at the university level. I am so thrilled to have the opportunity to work with DEDP this year! I have 3 years of professional experience working with children in summer camp and daycare settings and find that it brings so much fulfillment and joy to my life. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, playing card games, knitting, and going for walks around the city.
Etleva Gashi
Grade 1 Assistant Group Leader
Etleva has been a teacher for fifteen years starting at Preschool Experience in Newton Center, Sunshine Academy, and Tiny World in Brookline. There she helped children learn and experience new challenges that help build their confidence while they play. She values the importance of early literacy, art, and STEM activities. She has always loved children, baby sitting, and building relationships with kids. When she is not teaching she enjoys cooking and finding new recipes.
Grades 2/3 Team
Aaron Dias
Grade 2 Group Leader
Aaron is excited about joining the DEDP community. looking forward to growing and even learning something from some of the activities and projects we do.
Shantell Johnson
Grade 2/3 Classroom Coordinator
Shantell is a Massachusetts native who has about 2 years of professional experience in early childhood education in the city of Massachusetts and New Hampshire. She is excited to be joining on board for her first year with DEDP and looks forward to bringing her enthusiasm to keep a positive environment. She is a passionate educator looking to spark creativity to enhance students' curiosity, innovation, and independence. She loves to incorporate diverse learning devices to expand comprehension and make real-world connections. When she is not working alongside children she loves to travel, cook new recipes, explore different cultures, dance, and play with her two dogs Cool-Jo and Miracle.
Tiara Benton
Grade 2 Group Leader
My name is Tiara and I am currently in college studying communication sciences disorders. I recently moved here from Charleston, South Carolina where I was born and raised. I spent my first year in Boston working at a daycare center as well as being apart of the Driscoll Cafe staff. Childcare has always been an integral part of my life and I plan on dedicating the rest of my career to uplifting the youth. I am so lucky to be apart of DEDP team and work closely with the kids, Its a pleasure learning each of their strengths and unique personalities! When I’m not working, I enjoy watching films, writing poetry, doing yoga, antiquing, and researching random things that pique my interest!
Amber Stahl
Grade 3 Group Leader
Amber is excited to be working at DEDP again. She has BA degrees in History and French from Wittenberg University and is currently working on a Master’s for teaching English. She has worked for 3 years as an English teacher in South Korea with Kindergarten and Elementary school students and has recently finished working for 2 years as a High School English Assistant in France. When not working or studying she likes to hang out with her family, friends, and cats. She enjoys reading, playing video games, watching films or tv shows, or even planning her next trip.
Carlyn Akeman
Grade 2 Assistant Group Leader
I was born and raised in Tampa, Florida and moved to Brookline in the summer of 2022. I have worked with children for 10+ years and have enjoyed every second of it. This is my first year at DEDP and i could not be more excited for all the adventures ahead!
In my free time, i enjoy reading, baking, making jewelry and searching for the best local coffee shops.
AJ Houtzeel
Grade 3 Group Leader
AJ’s had years of experience as a counselor at other after school programs and summer camps and is absolutely thrilled to bring this experience to DEDP this year! He was a third year student at Quinnipiac University studying sociology but is currently taking time off. In his free time, he likes to listen to music, play basketball, and play video games.
Grades 4/5/6 Team
Liza Ulrich
Grade 4 Group Leader
Grade 4/5/6 Classroom Coordinator
Liza is beyond excited to be back at DEDP this school year as the coordinator of the fabulous 4/5/6 team! With a degree in art history and studio art, Liza has worked in many roles as an educator in Massachusetts since 2010. As an extra-curricular teacher, summer camp counselor, theatre educator, and costume designer, Liza is extremely passionate about making fun and critical connections between science, math and the arts within a STEAM curriculum for her students. At DEDP, Liza encourages these interdisciplinary studies with activities using sewing, design and the culinary arts. In her spare time some passions include: cooking and baking, yoga, astrology, trader joes and exploring the vast art scene within Boston!
Shanell Johnson
Grade 4 Group Leader
I’m so excited to be joining the DEDP community! I am going to love working your children in supporting their growth and development so that they can create a brighter tomorrow with the tools that we (DEDP) provide them with. Everyday is going to be different working with the youth, and I look forward to embracing that. It’s a blessing to be able to teach the kids as well as learn from them in return. In my free time, I love to research topics that spark my interest, listen to music, go to the gym, and go on walks with my two dogs whenever I have the time so we can enjoy nature together. My motto is to embrace, love, live, and learn.
Caitlin Stahl
Grade 5 Group Leader
Caitlin is excited to be returning to the DEDP staff this year. She took a small break over the last 2 years to get a degree in Scottish Gaelic at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig in Scotland. She has a Masters in Scottish Linguistics from the University of Edinburgh and a Bachelor's Degree in Honours Linguistics from Concordia University in Canada. During her free time, she like to hang out with her friends and family, read books, write, and make quilt.
Marie Coyle
Grade 4 Assistant Group Leader
Marie graduated from Nazareth College in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in Community Youth Development, and is currently pursuing her master’s in Gender and Cultural Studies at Simmons University. She has eight years of experience working in childcare, most recently having spent the summer as an Assistant Director at 4-H Camp Bristol Hills in upstate New York. In her free time she enjoys reading, thrift shopping, and going to concerts.
Alex Taylor
Grade 5 Group Leader
Alex is super excited to be joining the DEDP community this year as a Group Leader! With an extensive musical background, he approaches childcare and education through a creative lens, working closely with students to develop social-emotional skills through artistic expression. Alex received a B.M. in Contemporary Writing & Production and an M.A. in Music Business from Berklee College of Music in Boston. Outside of teaching, he loves songwriting, singing, musical theatre, books, traveling, and his tuxedo cat, Simon.
Float Teachers and Substitutes
Bana Janeway
Float Teacher
My name is Bana and I have graduated from Boston University with a Psychology Degree. I am currently going back to school to get my Masters in School Counseling. I have had over 10+ years of working with children. This will be my 5th year coming into DEDP! During my spare time I like to spend time with my friends, read, make friendship bracelets, and hang out with my dog, but most of all getting Boba or making homemade boba tea!
Hannah Slavin
Float Teacher
Hannah is a senior at Suffolk University. She is studying psychology with a minor in youth and community studies. This is her second year at DEDP. She has many years of experience working with children of all ages. She is excited to be working at DEDP again! In her spare time she enjoys drawing/painting, as well as cooking and baking new recipes.
Lexi Raupach
Float Teacher
I grew up in a military family so I moved around quite a bit growing up, but I found my roots here in Massachusetts when I attended Bridgewater State University. I graduated in 2016 with a bachelor’s in psychology. Since then I’ve worked in healthcare and eventually found my passion in working in the school systems! In my free time I enjoy seeing live music and crocheting new projects, and I can nerd out about movies for hours if you let me.
Cher Koor
Float Teacher
Cher has been working with children for over 5 years within daycare, as a nanny, at camp, and within an afterschool program. As a Massachusetts native, she graduated from Simmons College and currently lives in Allston, Ma with her budgerigar parakeet, Fruity. She has many creative passions including watercolor painting, mixing essential oils, cooking, gardening, and more. She is a lifelong learner interested in philosophy, sociology, history, culture, physical & mental health, and anything that offers new perspectives and widens her mind. She is so happy to be a part of the Driscoll team showing kids how much fun learning can be!