

Meet the Team

Director of Operations & Virtual Learning
Mrs. Vanessa
Hello!
My name is Vanessa Merchant. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and have previously taught grades 5 and 6. I have been a math tutor for more than six years. I love math because it builds problem-solving skills! I love encouraging students to explore the different ways math can help them in their everyday life!
I can't wait to start your learning journey!

Little Learners, Elementary Assistance, & Homeschool Evaluations
Ms. Andii
Hi!
I am Andii Hunt! I began my career as a classroom teacher, first in Ohio and then in Florida. I have always been passionate about Early Childhood education and I enjoy creating classes, camps, and clubs that are inspired by children. After more than 17 years as a teacher, I decided to pursue 2 new dream goals... 1. homeschooling my son and 2. encouraging kids and their families that they can have a voice in what they learn and how they learn it while having fun, being creative, and working together!
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Academic Assistance & Virtual Learning
Elementary and Secondary Levels, Homeschool Evaluations
Ms. Julie
Hi, I am Julie Nily.
I grew up a military “brat.” I am one of four girls and two of them are younger than I am. I have always enjoyed being there to support and to help in any and all ways. I graduated in 2012 from the University of North Florida with my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education K-6. In 2022, I graduated from the University of Florida with my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. I worked at the elementary level for three years. I became a mom to my amazing daughter, Lily. I have started my eighth year teaching reading at the high school level. Together, my daughter and I have two dogs, two cats and a bearded dragon. We love to spend time together and enjoy each other’s company. I am looking forward to the opportunity to continue growing as an educational coach.

Academic Assistance & Virtual Learning
Secondary Education
Mr. Lance
Hi there!
My name is Lance Felton. I have a wealth of experience, having taught core curriculum subjects from 6th-12th grade. I have had the pleasure of becoming skilled in both traditional subjects like English and Pre-Calculus, as well as creative enrichment programs. I am drawn to Lotus Learning's hands-on approach to education and I can't wait to work with you!
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Academic Assistance
Elementary Education/ Math & Science Secondary Ed
Ms. Shaiyena
Hello everyone!
My name is Shaiyena Cepeda. I hold an Associates of Science degree in Pre-Medicine as well as a Bachelors of Science degree in Forensic Studies & Justice. I’ve always enjoyed math, science and reading and have recently found myself striving to help others learn and get more comfortable with all school subjects.
Since I’ve lived in Florida my entire life, my favorite things to do in my spare time is go the beach and play with my dog Milo! I’m also a big theme park lover.
I can’t wait to meet you all very soon!
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Home Education
Elementary Education
Mrs. Ashlynn
Hi, my name is Ashlynn Wierbonics. I have over 14 years of experience as an elementary teacher, working in Title I / Renaissance schools. I also have experience tutoring in person, as well as virtually. I have a K-6 BA degree in elementary education. Along with my teaching license, I also have endorsements in Reading K-12 and ESOL.

Home Education
Elementary Education/ Foreign Language (Spanish)
Mrs. Yadira
I am Yadira Rivers, originally from Puerto Rico. I have taught Spanish for a total of 4 years and have experience teaching Spanish from elementary through high school. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to work as a substitute teacher for all subjects at a local elementary and middle school in Pasco County. I am married and have 4 beautiful children, 3 of whom we adopted at a very young age and who have unique learning abilities. Last year, we were blessed with our miracle rainbow baby.
I have personal experience with unique learning abilities, and I am eager to share my experiences and grow in my educational coaching role with Lotus Learning. I believe every child has a unique way of learning, and I can’t wait to meet you!
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Home Education
Elementary Education
Mrs. Bettyann
Hello Everyone!
My name is Bettyann Pitti. I have been in education for 28 years. I graduated from USF with a Bachelor's Degree in Special Education, majoring in learning disabilities K-12. I have a graduate certificate in gifted education. I taught in the same private school my entire career, holding a variety of positions over the years. Librarian/Media Specialist, classroom teacher grades 1-4, reading intervention, Student Success teacher, math, yearbook advisor and TV broadcasting are just a few of the positions I have been lucky enough to teach. I am a lifelong learner and it's my passion to inspire a love of learning in my students. I am originally from Long Island, NY, but have lived more than half my life in Tampa, Fl. I have three grown children who all live nearby, so I get to enjoy plenty of time with my four grandchildren (number five on the way soon ). I love swimming, relaxing on the beach and spending time with my family and friends