Faculty & Staff Directory

Kelly Bazely

Kelly Bazely joins Maumee Valley as its marketing communications specialist. She is a creative marketing professional with more than a decade of experience building compelling brand identities across diverse industries including e-commerce, travel, fashion, and manufacturing. Her passion lies in building visually engaging marketing that drives growth and strengthens audience connection. She most recently served as Marketing Director at RAM Windows & Doors in Texas, where she established the company’s first marketing department and led strategy, branding, content creation, and digital campaigns. Previously, she ran her own successful photography and branding business, with work featured in The New York Times, Food & Wine, and Travel + Leisure. Her clients have ranged from global brands like Time Inc. (formally American Express Publishing), Gilt Groupe and Travelzoo to public-sector projects such as the City of Defiance. Kelly excels at blending storytelling with strategic marketing, using her design and photography background to bring brands to life. She has a master of science in marketing from Texas A&M University and a bachelor of journalism with Honors from the University of King’s College.

Mallory Cabrera

Lynn Casto

Lynn D. Casto was named Head of School in October 2017, with the appointment being effective July 1, 2018.

She joined Maumee Valley from the Sanford School in Hockessin, DE, where she has served as Upper School head since 2013.

She brought an impressive background in independent school education to Maumee Valley. She attended the Columbus (OH) School for Girls, discovering a dual love for athletics and the arts. At Davidson College (NC), she earned a bachelor of arts degree in art history while playing NCAA Division I lacrosse. She went on to earn two masters’ degrees in education: one in arts education from The Ohio State University (where she also was a member of the Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society) and the other in private school leadership from the Klingenstein Center at Teachers College, Columbia University.

Prior to Sanford, she held faculty and leadership roles at Charlotte Country Day School (NC) for 13 years. She also served as head of the school’s Department of Fine Arts from 2007 to 2013. She began her teaching career at Brookwood School (GA), where she served as the Middle and Upper School art teacher in addition to teaching AP Studio and AP Art History. She also coached softball and soccer teams.

She was recently appointed to the 20-person Heads Circle, new think tank created by Independent School Management to help independent schools around the country become more effective and sustainable. She is also a member of the Ohio Association of Independent Schools Board of Trustees.

Martha Chandran-Dickerson

Martha Chandran-Dickerson joined the Upper School as a member of the English faculty in 2023. She also serves as a writing consultant working with students in the Natural and Health Science Residential Community at Bowling Green State University. In addition, she is a freelance writer and cultural literacy consultant. She also served as managing editor for Taylor and Francis’ scholarly journal Science Activities. She has taught English courses to both high school and college students. She has a bachelor of arts in communications and English from Daystar University (Nairobi, Kenya) as well as a master of arts in English (specializing in Literary and Textual Studies) from Bowling Green State University. She is a parent to Amani-Jordan ’24 and Jadon-Christian ’27.

Ryan Evans

Ryan joins us as a second-year teacher who most recently served as a K-5 reading intervention teaching fellow for Federal Hocking Local Schools. In that role, she provided small-group phonics and fluency instruction to her caseload of students. She has also served as a substitute teacher for Athens-Meigs Educational Service Center; as a private literacy tutor; a summer camp teacher at the Toledo Zoo; and as a Learning Community Leader coordinator at Ohio University, a role for which she received Ohio University’s Student Affairs Senior Leader Award in 2023. She holds a bachelor of science degree in early childhood and elementary education and a master’s of education degree in reading education, both from Ohio University.

Kyle Fettig

Kyle Fettig brings a deep background in education, residential life, and student support, which has been shaped by more than 15 years of experience across the United States and Mexico. He most recently served as faculty resident at Saint John’s Prep in Minnesota, where he oversaw dormitory operations, led student programs, supported admissions, and mentored new staff—all while stepping in as a substitute teacher across a variety of subjects. His previous roles include guidance counselor, English teacher, and program leader at international schools in Cabo San Lucas, where he also tutored hospitality professionals in English. Known for his compassionate and community-centered approach, Kyle has led youth camps, directed volunteer initiatives, and fostered strong student engagement through personalized support. He holds a bachelor of arts degree in philosophy and Catholic studies from the University of St. Thomas.

Salena Ferguson

Salena brings extensive experience as a licensed social worker to Maumee Valley. Most recently, she served as a student assistance program coordinator for the Educational Service Center of Lake Erie West. In that role, she oversaw drug and alcohol prevention programming and provided evidence-based support to students in local school districts. She previously served as a waiver service coordinator at the Area Office on Aging, addressing the psychological and social well-being of clients over 60. At Ohio Guidestone, she supported pregnant and parenting students through individual and group counseling. Salena has also volunteered with organizations such as Lucas County Mental Health & Recovery Services and the Boys and Girls Club of America, demonstrating her commitment to community and mental health. She has over 12 years of experience as a mental health professional, working in schools and building programs. She has a bachelor’s degree and is working towards her master’s degree in social work, both from The University of Toledo.

Nick Fox

Nick Fox is an accomplished educator and percussionist with extensive experience across academic, competitive, and performance settings. He most recently served as percussion specialist for Bowling Green Middle and High School and Adjunct Professor of Percussion at Bowling Green State University (BGSU), where he has taught since 2016. Nick has directed and instructed numerous percussion ensembles, indoor drumlines, and summer music camps throughout the Midwest and beyond. He has founded several performance ensembles as well as a private percussion studio. Previously, Nick led the Maumee High School Indoor Drumline and Marching Band Drumline. His courses at BGSU have included steel band, percussion methods, applied percussion, percussion ensemble, and world music. His performance and teaching have earned him multiple fellowships, grants, festival, and ensemble awards. A dedicated mentor and ensemble leader, Nick holds a doctorate of musical arts in contemporary music from BGSU, a master of music degree from Northern Illinois University, and a bachelor of music degree from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.

Rachel Freeman

Rachel Freeman P ’30, ’33, ’34, ’34 is the new director of family engagement. She is a dynamic community engagement leader with a strong background in relationship-building, event planning, and volunteer coordination. As president of the Maumee Valley Family Association and a member of the Board of Trustees and Development Committee, she has played a key role in strengthening MV’s school culture and family involvement. Under her leadership, Maumee Valley’s annual fundraiser achieved record-breaking success, raising over $400,000 and drawing widespread community support. Rachel also serves the City of Toledo in several leadership roles, including as co-chair of the Neighborhoods and Community Board and a mayor-appointed member of the Historic Commission, where she develops citywide engagement initiatives and advocates for inclusive neighborhood revitalization. Prior to her community-focused work, Rachel held strategic marketing roles at ADP and Aimia, where she led global campaigns, product launches, and high-profile client events. She holds a bachelor of arts in public relations from the University of Dayton.

Jessie Griffith

Jessie Griffith ’15 brings a unique blend of scientific expertise and educational experience to her role as Upper School biology teacher. After graduating from Maumee Valley, Jessie went on to earn her bachelor of arts degree in molecular biology from Kenyon College. With advanced degrees in both molecular microbiology and occupational therapy from Washington University in St. Louis, she offers an interdisciplinary approach to science education. Her background includes collegiate-level teaching, high school and college tutoring, and clinical work focused on supporting the academic and developmental needs of children of all ages. Most recently, she was a K/1 teaching assistant at Maumee Valley. She has taught microbiology at the college level, contributed to scientific research with multiple published papers, and led social-emotional learning interventions for students with ADHD and autism. She is passionate about making science accessible and engaging for all learners by tailoring instruction to diverse learning styles.

Gabrielle Gurley

Gabi Gurley brings diverse experience from her role as a building substitute at Westside Montessori, where she worked with students as early as 13 months old up to 8th grade. She completed her student teaching at both the Montessori School of Bowling Green, where she taught daily lessons to children ages 3-6, and at Fostoria Elementary School (Fostoria, OH) in a preschool classroom. Additionally, Gabi has provided childcare as a nanny; a toddler aide at the Montessori School of Bowling Green; an assistant with the STARS program at Rossford Elementary (Rossford, OH); and as a daycare team member at Lifetime Fitness (Mason, OH). She has a bachelor of education degree in human development and inclusive early childhood education from Bowling Green State University.

Britt Hampton

Britt Hampton P 31, ’33, ’35, ’37 joins Maumee Valley as director of alumni relations, bringing a strong background in community engagement, wellness education, and strategic communication. She has built a career centered around connection and advocacy. She previously founded and operated Sweat Like a Mother, a successful fitness and nutrition business supporting pregnant and postpartum women, where she grew a loyal client base through innovative programming, events, and digital outreach. Most recently, Britt served as a registered dietitian at Thrive Clinic, providing holistic care for individuals with eating disorders and contributing to the clinic’s content and social media strategy. She holds a bachelor of science degree from Miami University.

Alexandra Kania

PreKindergarten and Junior Kindergarten teacher
[email protected]

Niki McCoy

Niki McCoy is the new director of residence life. Her most recent position was program manager at Sunshine Communities in Maumee. Other experiences include regional director of the YMCA of Greater Chicago and a social worker and therapist at Steel City Academy (Gary, IN). A graduate of Sylvania Northview High School, she was named to the Division I 1st Team All-Ohio basketball team in her senior year. She earned a bachelor of liberal science degree from Bowling Green State University, where she also played on the girls’ varsity basketball team. She has a master’s degree in social work from DePaul University and served in the U.S. Navy from 2009 to 2012.

Ashley Ouimet

Ashley Ouimet joins Maumee Valley from Fostoria City Schools (Fostoria, OH), where served as a Middle School technology teacher focusing on advancing students’ technology skills and integrating lessons across subjects. She also worked as an academic interventionist at Springfield Local Schools, specializing in phonics intervention and student development. Her role as a curriculum designer for Ink Splash involved creating tailored curriculum and assessment materials. At Whiteford Agricultural Schools (Ottawa Lake, MI), she taught 6th grade, chaired the department, and led curriculum development efforts. She also has taught 7th and 8th grade for Toledo Public Schools. She emphasizes project-based learning, critical thinking, and leveraging educational technology to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. She has a bachelor of science degree in international relations from Central Michigan University and a master’s degree in middle childhood education from The University of Toledo.

Heather Rakosik

Heather Rakosik begins a new role as the 7th-8th grade physical education teacher and assistant athletic director. She joined Maumee Valley in the fall of 2022 as the Lower and Middle School physical education, heath and wellness teacher. She previously taught at The Columbus Academy in (Gahanna, OH) as a middle/lower school physical education and aquatics teacher and basketball and lacrosse coach. Heather also taught and coached softball and basketball collegiately for 18 years at Kenyon College, Bucknell University, Ohio Wesleyan University, Hiram College, and Defiance College. She has a bachelor of arts degree in health and physical education from Muskingum University and a master of arts degree in education from Defiance College.

Robin Redmond

Robin Redmond P ’36 joins Maumee Valley as its new director of annual giving. Robin is a results-driven leader with over a decade of C-suite experience, specializing in strategic partnerships, fundraising, and organizational development. As the chief executive officer and founder of P41 Advisors, a consulting firm launched in 2022, she directed scalable growth strategies for nonprofits and small businesses to optimize operational efficiency and resource allocation. Previously, as executive director of the George M. Pullman Educational Foundation from 2011 to 2021, she led transformative initiatives and achieved significant increases in funding, expanded programming, and improved student outcomes. Her accomplishments included pioneering innovative fundraising strategies, securing substantial planned gifts, and enhancing scholarship impact through targeted program enhancements. Earlier in her career, she was a faculty member at Columbia College Chicago and has held leadership roles across the nonprofit sector. She holds a master of arts in management and public policy from Carnegie Mellon University and a bachelor of fine arts degree from Ohio University.

Andrew Ross

Andrew Ross brings a strong background in history education and dedication to student success in his new role. He also has extensive experience from his role as a history instructor at BASIS Independent Silicon Valley Upper School (San Jose, CA), where he taught AP U.S. History and World History with an impressive AP pass rate of 96 percent. He also coached cross country and track and field and advised several extracurricular clubs. Previously, he taught history, logic, and economics at Challenger School (San Jose). He has experience as a researcher, guest lecturer, and teaching assistant at Baldwin Wallace University and has tutored students for AP history exams. He has a bachelor of arts degree in history and theater from Baldwin Wallace and a master of arts degree in history from San Jose State University.

Kristen Sanders

Kristen Sanders has more than 21 years of experience in art education. She has served as an art instructor at the Toledo Museum of Art for students ages 5-18 since 2003 and taught grades Kindergarten through 8th grade at Christ the King Elementary School. Kristen excels in two- and three-dimensional arts, including sculpture, ceramics, jewelry making, printmaking, drawing, painting, and photography. She is a Golden Apple nominee, certified yoga instructor, and has organized numerous student art exhibitions. Her work has been showcased in exhibitions at the Toledo Museum of Art and the Ohio Jewelers Association, among others. She is known for her dedication, flexibility, and effective integration of core subjects into art curriculum. She has a bachelor of arts degree in painting and photography from Bowling Green State University and a master’s degree in art education from The University of Toledo.

Morgan Seavolt

Morgan Seavolt joins Maumee Valley having taught and observed a wide range of age groups, from young 5s to 12th grade, across various schools. She has worked in elementary and middle schools for Hudson Area Schools (Hudson, MI); elementary, intermediate, and high schools for Tecumseh Public Schools (Tecumseh, MI); and elementary schools for Adrian Public Schools (Adrian, MI). Her hands-on experience includes developing and teaching health and physical education lessons, facilitating diverse activities, and supporting students’ overall physical well-being. She holds a bachelor of arts degree in health and physical education from Adrian College, where she was a four-year member of its acrobatics and tumbling team.

Dona Schwalm

Dona Schwalm returns to Maumee Valley this year in the new role of Middle School math teacher. She served last year as a Middle School science and social studies teacher for 4th and 6th graders. She has been a substitute at Maumee Valley since 2007 and a teacher assistant for both the Lower School and Middle School. She has served in teaching and substitute roles for school districts in southeast Michigan and northwest Ohio. She has a bachelor of science degree in elementary education from Eastern Michigan University and a master of education degree in curriculum and instruction from Walden University.

Mike Valentine

Mike Valentine is the new superintendent of building and grounds. His most recent role was as operations director/working operations director at Mason Consolidated Schools (Erie, MI). He also has held general maintenance, boiler operator, and groundskeeper roles at Monroe Public Schools (Monroe, MI) and as a machinist at Colonial Tool (Taylor, MI). He earned his operations director certification from the Michigan School Business Officials organization. His other operator certifications include boiler, powered industrial truck, and aquatic facility operations.

Holly Wallace

Holly Wallace brings a wealth of experience in both teaching and educational leadership. She served as principal and director of summer programming for Monroe Public Schools (Monroe, MI) from 2018 to 2023 and as the district’s curriculum specialist from 2015 to 2022, where she implemented K-12 adoptions in all content areas. Holly has extensive experience in curriculum development, professional development, student and family engagement, and school improvement. She has led numerous initiatives, supervised and evaluated educators, and coordinated programs to enhance student learning. She has taught many grade levels, including all grades 1st through 6th. She has a bachelor of arts degree in elementary education from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in the art of teaching from Marygrove College.

Morgan Weber

Morgan Weber joins Maumee Valley from Sylvania Public Schools, where she recently served as a 1st grade long-term substitute. Her other Sylvania experiences include student teaching in a kindergarten classroom, substitute teaching across various elementary grades, and as a Kindergarten long-term substitute. She also has worked as a tutor to close academic gaps with students from Kindergarten through 8th grade. Previously, she has taught science education at nature centers and metroparks. Morgan has also worked as a zookeeper before transitioning into education full-time. She has a bachelor of arts degree in zoo and wildlife biology from Malone University and a master’s degree in teaching elementary education from Western Governors University.

Kathryn Weinberg

Jade West

Jade West is the new director of human resources. She has seven years of experience in private K-12 education, including five years at Brightside Academy in Toledo where she was academy director. In that role, she oversaw all HR functions for a staff of 30. Most recently, she was the admissions and enrollment manager at Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School and Academy. A graduate of Start High School, she earned a bachelor’s degree from The University of Toledo in interdisciplinary studies with a concentration in human resource management.

Robin Wheeler

With over three decades of experience in private K-12 education, Robin Wheeler brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our community. Her diverse background includes roles as a teacher, principal, and director, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape.

Most recently, Robin served as the Lower School director at Charles Wright Academy in Tacoma, WA, where she made a significant impact on student learning and community engagement. Her dedication to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment aligns perfectly with our values here at Maumee Valley.

Robin’s extensive international experience, including teaching and leadership roles in Brazil, Ecuador, and Colombia, further enriches our global perspective and enhances our commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding.

In her previous positions at Vail Mountain School, Escola Americana do Rio de Janeiro, The Overtake School, and Eastside Preparatory School, Robin demonstrated her passion for empowering students to reach their full potential. Her dedication to creating meaningful learning experiences and nurturing each child’s unique talents will undoubtedly have a profound impact on our Lower School community.

Robin holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Emporia State University, a master’s degree in K-12 administration from Michigan State University, and an advancing leadership certificate from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Libbie Wise

Libbie Wise joins Maumee Valley as the new K–3 instructional assistant, bringing a background in international education and a passion for creating student-centered learning environments. Libbie was most recently a K-1 long-term substitute in the Lower School. Originally from the United Kingdom, Libbie spent the past six years teaching geography and humanities to middle and high school students, most recently at Saltash Community School in Cornwall. Her classroom experience includes designing interactive, inquiry-based lessons, leading fieldwork and interdisciplinary projects, and mentoring junior educators. Prior to her UK teaching career, Libbie taught preschool, kindergarten, and 1st grade students for two years at an international elementary school in China. She has worked closely with students, families, and colleagues to foster academic growth and emotional well-being. She holds a bachelor of arts degree in geography and history from the University of Leeds and completed her PGCE teaching certification in Plymouth.

Ryan Wright

Upper School ESOL Teacher

[email protected]