Gabby Adams
Business Manager
Degree: B.A. Virginia Wesleyan University
Gabby is a dynamic professional who made a successful transition from teaching to executive assistance. With a strong foundation in education, she honed her skills in organization, communication, and multitasking. As an educator, Gabby excelled in managing diverse responsibilities and supporting student success, which seamlessly translated into her role as an executive assistant. In her current position, she provides high-level administrative support, institutional knowledge, manages complex schedules, and coordinates projects with precision. Gabby has been with Friends for nine years and we can't wait to see where her new position leads her!
Carley Allison
All School Music Director
Degree: Berklee College of Music
Carley Allison is a passionate and accomplished music director with a rich background in songwriting and performance. She honed her craft at the prestigious Berklee College of Music, where she studied songwriting, immersing herself in the diverse world of music and developing a unique artistic voice. Following her education, Carley moved to Nashville, the heart of the music industry, where she thrived as a performing artist. Over the course of more than a decade, she toured the nation, captivating audiences with her soulful performances and heartfelt lyrics.
In search of a deeper connection to family, Carley relocated to Virginia Beach with her husband and their two young children. This move marked a new chapter in her life, blending her love for music with a desire to enrich young lives. Carley's dedication to music education led her to join Virginia Beach Friends School as the music director, where she is now entering her second year. Her commitment to fostering a love of music in students is evident in her innovative and inspiring approach to teaching.
Carley's journey from a celebrated performer to a nurturing educator underscores her belief in the transformative power of music. She is devoted to creating an engaging and supportive environment where students can explore their musical talents and express themselves creatively. Through her work at VBFS, Carley continues to share her passion and expertise, making a lasting impact on the community and inspiring the next generation of musicians.
John Bain
Interim Head of School
Degrees: PhD in Ecological Sciences, Old Dominion University
Masters in Environmental Management, Duke University
B.A., College of William & Mary
John is a Virginia Beach native and Norfolk Academy graduate who came to Virginia Beach Friends School after spending more than fifteen years in a variety of teaching and administrative roles in both private and public education. Trained as a coastal ecologist with a passion for blending science and public policy, he discovered his true calling in education after teaching his first college course at Tidewater Community College nearly twenty years ago. Since then, he has devoted his career to fostering meaningful learning experiences in a wide range of academic settings.
Before joining Friends School, John served as both a classroom teacher and administrator, designed high school and college curricula, developed a K–5 curriculum to accompany a nationally traveling oceanographic art exhibit, and worked as Associate Director of Admissions at Norfolk Collegiate. Since coming to Friends, he has served as Assistant Head of School, partnering closely with faculty, students, families, and the Board to strengthen the school’s academic program, cultivate a strong community, increase giving and event engagement, and support the school’s continued growth.
John is honored and excited to serve as Head of School this year. He is deeply committed to preserving the values that make Friends School so special while thoughtfully leading the school forward with a focus on community, academic excellence, and joyful learning.
John and his wife, Alexandra, have three young boys, all of whom attend Friends School. On the rare occasion he isn’t at school or chasing after his boys around town or on the baseball field, he can usually be found at the beach or in the ocean, surfing here in Virginia Beach or down in the Outer Banks.
Brisa Bermudez-Craft
Learning Center Specialist
BA in Psychology-Child & Adolescent Development
Currently pursuing MS in Educational Psychology-Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Data Literacy
Originally from Colorado, Brisa grew up in a military family and now proudly supports her husband as an Air Force spouse. She is currently pursuing a master's degree in Educational Psychology at George Mason University with a concentration in Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Data Literacy. Her experience includes working in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, serving as a preschool assistant and co-teacher, and supporting students in school settings. These experiences have strengthened her passion for helping children succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. She is dedicated to creating a positive, supportive learning environment where every child can thrive. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her 2 dogs, watching reality TV, and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys—Go Cowboys!
Max Bernstein
All-School Physical Education Teacher, Middle School Health Teacher, Athletic Director, Facilities
Degrees: B.S in Parks and Tourism, Radford University
Friends School is thrilled to have had Max join our community in multiple capacities for the starting in 2022! Max is beginning his seventh year teaching physical education, coming from Virginia Beach Public Schools and Christ The King Catholic School, where he also served as the Athletic Director.
Max loves everything about sports, which only makes it fitting that he is the PE teacher at Friends School. He loves to interact with his students and teach them skills in a variety of sports and activities. Max believes that being active and learning new techniques will help his students grow and appreciate physical activity. When Max is not teaching, he enjoys the beach, pickleball, basketball and spending time with friends and family.
Angela Bloodworth
Cottage Teacher Assistant
Degrees: Bachelor's in Physical Education, University of National Mayor of San Marcos
Angela joins VBFS as the new Cottage Teacher Assistant for the 2021-2022 academic year! Angela joins the school after four years as the Assistant Teacher and then Lead Teacher for Virginia Beach Montessori School. Angela has dedicated her twenty-five year career to helping children learn fundamental development with positive encouragement and passion. She was born in Peru, and has a passion for swimming. where she was a swim instructor for twenty years. Angela brings her great personality, personalized instruction and experience to the Cottage. We are thrilled she has joined VBFS!
Emma Carrico-Smith
PreK Lead Teacher
Degrees: Bachelor's in Psychology & Dance- Minor in Studio Art, Randolph College
Allison Claggett
Pre-K Teacher Assistant
Born and raised in Southern Maryland, Allison is excited to bring her talents and experience to Virginia Beach Friends School! With a background in theatre and years of teaching the love of the arts to students of every age, she is eager to continue that journey here. Her focus on inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility in the classroom and beyond are her driving force; along with her love of nature and free-will, these all guided her to Friends School. As they say, all the world is a stage, and Allison's goal is to fill it with the best, most well-rounded actors.
Sarah Combs
Director of Admissions & Human Resources
After spending many years in the legal field, Sarah left her career when her daughter, Zoe, who is enrolled at VBFS in first grade, was six months old.
Sarah, a Hampton Roads native, is a dedicated parent of two long-time VBFS students. She first joined the VBFS staff six years ago, spearheading the development and implementation of First Adventures at Friends, a pilot program designed to introduce young children to engaging, experiential classes in yoga, art, and cooking. After successfully running the program for two years, she transitioned into a faculty role, teaching in the 1st and 2nd grade classrooms.
As a certified yoga and meditation instructor, Sarah also created a mindfulness program for students from Cottage through 8th grade, equipping them with essential tools for mental well-being and positive habit formation. In 2023, she joined the Administration team as the Director of Admissions and Human Resources.
Sarah is deeply passionate about the lifelong benefits of an immersive and holistic Quaker education and takes great pride in sharing her love for Virginia Beach Friends School with every visitor who steps onto campus.
Kasey Curtis
Middle School English Teacher
DEGREE: Education and Psychology, William and Mary
Kasey is our middle school English teacher. Kasey is an experienced educator and former D1 college basketball player, having graduated from William and Mary with a double major in Education and Psychology. Kasey began their teaching career at Norfolk Public Schools, focusing on primary education. Now in their 9th year of teaching and 3rd year at Virginia Beach Friends School, Kasey continues to bring passion and expertise to the classroom.
Anna Facemire
Director of Marketing & Communications
Degrees: Masters in Business Administration, Old Dominion University
B.B.A. James Madison University
Virginia Beach native, Anna is mother to three young children, all who have been educated at Friends School. She thrives in a fast-paced environment and with three little ones in tow, considers herself a problem solver and task master. After past corporate experience, owning a small business, and a stint as a stay at home mom, Anna eventually found herself in her element when leading the social and fundraising committee at a local preschool. After a few years in that role, she now puts her MBA with a background in marketing to use by focusing on the growth and development of Friends School. She is thrilled to be part of the Friends School community and of the success of her children’s education here. It’s an exciting time to be part of this organization and she can’t wait to see what the future has in store for Friends School!
Courtney Grew
Librarian
Courtney is an avid reader and lover of books. Starting in Elementary school, she made the Library her home away from home. Now as the VBFS Librarian, she hopes to instill that same love and passion for reading in each and every Friends School student. Courtney has rebuilt the library program into a special class that aids students in learning the foundations of stories, and to develop the critical thinking skills needed to isolate and understand many different concepts. She hopes the library will forever be a safe place for students to explore and engage new thoughts and ideas. Courtney's three sons have attended VBFS!
Tanya Hall
Early Kindergarten Lead Teacher
Degree: A.S., Early Childhood Education, Tidewater Community College
B.S in Early Childhood Education from Ashworth College
Tanya loves the early childhood program because this is the time when students' personalities blossom and she truly enjoys seeing the "light bulb" go on when they catch on and learn something new. Her favorite subject to teach is math because it involves other disciplines such as phonics, the alphabet, sounds, and correct formation of letters and numbers. Tanya has numerous certifications in specific early childhood learning, such as; emergent drawing, pre-writing skills, foundation blocks and milestones, and sensory solutions. She is also certified in Creative Curriculum, which is the Pre-Kindergarten program at VBFS. Tanya is also a member of the VBFS Diversity Committee. She served as a Sunday School Director for almost 10 years, worked in the public school Pre-K program for 6 years and in a private daycare for 3 years. Her teaching began as a stay at home mother and then home schooled her oldest children. "As mothers we are all truly the first teachers our children have." Did we mention Tanya has 8 children? Two are teachers and one graduated from Friends School!
Cam Hoye
Lower School Teacher Assistant
Degree: B.A. Theatre, Film, and Media Studies / St. Mary’s College of Maryland
Formerly a student at VBFS, Cam has returned as a teacher! He began his education career volunteering at The Goddard School Redmill at thirteen years old and worked his way up to a summer camp assistant and classroom lead. While studying abroad in Stratford-Upon-Avon, England, he had the opportunity to work with such great minds as Dr. Nick Walton in courses on play analysis, literary artifacts, and history. He hopes to have the opportunity to one day use these tools and teachings to help stoke the love of theatre and the arts. Upon returning to the States, Cam entered into the world of film and media production, taking time in Washington DC and Baltimore to work with big names like Disney, Netflix, and ESPN. He moved back to the Hampton Roads area and briefly worked with a local news station before deciding to take the leap to education once again.
Kate Keck
Lead Spanish Teacher
Degree: BA, International Relations with Spanish Minor, St. Joseph’s University
Kate Leon
Director of Garden Programming
Degree: Equine Science, Centenary College
Kaleigh Merritt
Learning Specialist
Degrees and Certifications: B.S. Psychology, George Mason University; M.Ed. Special Education George Mason University; Autism Spectrum Disorders Cert. George Mason University; Registered Behavior Technician; Provisional Teaching License, Special Education, General Curriculum, K-12, University of Virginia, Anticipate Completion, December 2023
Kaleigh is our new Learning Specialist for the 21-22 school year! Kaleigh has always loved working with children of all ages and abilities. She has also had a close connection to the Friends School community, as she attended and graduated at the top of her class from Friends in the Spring of 2015. Since then, she has continued to learn with the Friends school SPICES instilled within her. She began her collegiate career at George Mason University studying psychology and childhood development. While dedicated to her studies there, she started working with college-aged students with developmental and intellectual disabilities as a specialized tutor, helping students to reach their highest academic potential. In her senior year of college, she shifted gears a bit and started working as a Registered Behavior Therapist for children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. In this position, she truly found her passion for working with children with learning and behavior challenges.
The families that Kaleigh has worked with over the years describe her as someone who is energetic, intuitive, and supportive. She knows how to reach and connect with children of all ages and abilities, and understands that collaboration with families and teachers is imperative to learning. Watching students succeed in meeting their goals is one of her biggest joys in life, and she can’t wait to make a difference in the Friends School community!
James O'connor
Head of Visual Arts
Degrees: B.F.A. The University of the Arts Philadelphia Studied Abroad at: Illaboratorio per Affresco *Qualified professional technique certified by the Italian Government under Leonetto Tintori
With over 23 years of experience in teaching at MOCA (previously known as the Contemporary Art Center) and 13 years with us at Friends. James inspires students and adults with his amazing artistic skills and talent. He works with every age demographic and specifically enjoys the early childhood group, anticipating the discovery moment when they "get it", which makes all of the hard work worth it. Life drawing, independent film, classical arts and contemporary forms are a few of his favorite lessons to teach. His wealth of knowledge from studying abroad, to extensive field experience and on site experiences at places like the Philadelphia Zoo, glass blowing studios and outdoor adventures, help shape his passion towards art. Ultimately, he became a teacher because he loves sharing what was shared with him- a passion for creating.
Lindsey Painter
Lead First Grade Teacher
DEGREE: Bachelors in Speech and Language Pathology, Old Dominion University
Lindsey is overjoyed to be back at Friends School! She has extensive knowledge in childhood development, with a specialization in speech and language. Lindsey earned her bachelor's degree in Speech and Language Pathology from Old Dominion University. With over nine years of experience in education, including teaching Pre-K and Early-K at Friends School, Lindsey is excited to be back on this wonderful campus and rejoin the community after spending two years in public school. She and her husband, Brian, have two children: Mason, age 7, and Taylor, age 1. In her free time, Lindsey enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching football, crafting, and drinking lots of coffee!
Diana Plizga
Lead Pre-K Teacher
Originally from the western suburbs of Chicago, Diana brings a unique blend of creativity, leadership, and early childhood expertise to the classroom. She earned her background in Art History before beginning her career in visual merchandising, where she spent nearly a decade as a Visual Merchandising Manager for a major Chicago-based department store. Her creative foundation continues to inspire the engaging, hands-on learning experiences she designs for young children.
Diana's passion for early childhood education began while working in a local children's art program, where she discovered the joy of nurturing young learners' creativity and confidence. She transitioned into education as a Pre-K teaching assistant and has since served as a Lead Pre-K teacher, Preschool and Kindergarten School Director. These diverse experiences have given her a strong understanding of child development and the importance of creating a classroom where every child feels valued, supported, and encouraged to explore.
She believes children learn best through play, discovery, and meaningful experiences that spark curiosity and foster a lifelong love of learning. Diana is committed to creating a warm, inclusive environment where every child can grow academically, socially, emotionally, and creatively.
Above all, Diana considers her greatest accomplishment and most rewarding role to be being the mother of her two amazing daughters, who continue to inspire her both personally and professionally.
Beth Porterfield
Middle School Science Teacher
Degrees: Bachelors Degree, Prescott College
Masters Degree, American University
Beth Porterfield is a passionate environmental science educator and biologist who is incredibly excited to begin her twenty-second year of teaching by joining VBFS as the middle school science teacher! Beth was born and raised in Washington DC and is an enthusiastic world traveler, having visited all 50 states and all continents except Antarctica (yet!) Some of her adventures have included living and working in Alaska with Indigenous Native Alaskans, as well as, completing science fellowships in the Peruvian Amazon, at the Orangutan Foundation International sanctuary in Borneo and in the Galapagos Islands. She is passionate about helping students connect to science through project based experiential learning from developing curriculum for and teaching elementary and middle school children at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo to creating and running the Tide Turners World Travel Program at the Lab School of Washington, taking high school students around the globe from the Giant Panda Sanctuary in Chengdu China to Whale Camp in the Canadian North Atlantic. Since moving to Norfolk four years ago to be with her partner Tim, an environmental engineer for the Navy, she has worked part-time as a biologist educator on the dolphin and whale watch boats for the VA Aquarium and volunteers for the sea turtle care center and the stranding response team. Beth holds a Bachelor’s degree from Prescott College with a double major in environmental science and social justice education and a Master’s degree from American University in secondary science education with a concentration in special education for neurodiverse learners. She has taught biology, AP biology, biochemistry, ecology, environmental science, anatomy, health, physical science, marine biology and yoga! Her heroes are Jane Goodall and the Magic School Bus’ Ms. Frizzle. She loves living at the beach with her family in Oceanview.
Tieshia Ridley
Lead Cottage Teacher
Degree: AS in Early Childhood Education Bryant and Stratton
Anticipated Completion with a B.S in Early Childhood Education, Regent University
For as long as she can remember, Tieshia has known that teaching was her calling. Even as a young girl, she loved caring for her younger cousins and discovered the joy of helping children learn, grow, and feel loved. Those early experiences sparked a passion that has only grown stronger over the years. Today, Tieshia feels incredibly grateful to spend each day nurturing young minds and hearts during some of the most important years of their development.
Tieshia believes every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and celebrated for who they are. She strives to create a warm, joyful classroom where children are encouraged to explore, ask questions, take risks, and discover the excitement of learning. Nothing brings her more happiness than seeing a child's face light up with confidence after mastering a new skill or reaching a milestone they once thought was impossible.
She earned her Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Bryant & Stratton University and is just one course away from completing her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education at Regent University. Tieshia is also certified in Infant, Toddler, and Twos Montessori Teaching through the North American Montessori Center.
Her Montessori training beautifully complements the Friends School philosophy of educating the whole child. Tieshia is deeply inspired by the Quaker testimonies of S.P.I.C.E.S.—Simplicity, Peace, Integrity, Community, Equality, and Stewardship—and believes children flourish when they are met with kindness, respect, patience, and encouragement. She sees herself not only as a teacher, but as a guide who partners with families to help each child grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
Outside the classroom, Tieshia enjoys reading, especially inspirational books, and making memories with her family. She is the proud mother of two wonderful boys, Micah and Mekhi. Micah is excited to return to Friends School this year, and Mekhi, a Friends School graduate, now attends Ocean Lakes High School. As a family, they love riding bikes, playing board games, sharing lots of laughter, and enjoying movie nights together. Tieshia also loves relaxing with a good show on Netflix or Hulu.
Dafna Sonnenthal
3rd & 4th Grade Teacher
Degrees: M.S. Education, University of Miami Florida
Bachelors in Anthropology, Binghamton University
Dafna Sonnenthal is a lifelong educator with more than 38 years of experience teaching children and adults in primary, secondary, and college-level settings. She is a licensed educator in Virginia for grades 3–6 and English as a Second Language for pre-kindergarten through 12th grade. Throughout her career, Dafna has taught in diverse educational settings, from inner-city public schools to one of the nation’s oldest private academies, bringing a deep commitment to meeting students where they are and helping them grow as confident learners.
Dafna has been a valued member of the Virginia Beach Friends School community for 21 years, where she currently teaches Language Arts to students in grades 3–5. She is passionate about nurturing students’ curiosity, creativity, and individual voices through meaningful reading and writing experiences. She especially enjoys helping children discover the power of storytelling and develop the skills and confidence to express their ideas.
In 2021–2022, Dafna was honored as a Distinguished Educator by the Virginia Association of Independent Schools in recognition of her dedication to enriching the lives of her students.
Outside of the classroom, Dafna enjoys photography, capturing authentic moments of families, children, and the natural beauty of Virginia Beach. She and her husband, Ron, are proud members of the Friends School community and are the parents of two Friends School alumni.
Maritza Sutyak
Cottage Assistant Teacher
Degree: AS in Physical and Recreation Education from The Callao National University
Maritza Sutyak joined VBFS in 2019 as the Extended Day Specialist and Kindergarten Assistant. She transitioned to the Cottage Assistant Teacher position in the fall of 2020 and teamed up with her long-time friend and co-educator from Courthouse Montessori, Teacher Tieshia. Maritza is certified as an Early Childhood Professional with The Cares Association. Maritza has fifteen years of experience with infants to three years in a classroom setting as an assistant teacher. Previously, for five years, Maritza was a swim instructor teaching students ages one to twelve and coached volleyball for three years. She has numerous early childhood certifications in toddler development and guidance, cultural diversity, literacy play, and outdoor learning environments.
Roberta Watt
Office Manager
Roberta is the best Office Manager around. She doesn't just work for one administrator, she works for multiple and she does so beautifully! Roberta has worn many hats at VBFS since 2011 - subbing as a teacher's assistant, school purchasing and helping the front office. She also assisted in the Business and Development Office. As a Friends School parent, her daughter Courtney graduated in 2015. She moved to Virginia Beach from New York; and worked 25 years for Lillian Vernon as a Supervisor, Manager of Quality Call handling, and 2 years as an accounting associate for an Apartment Community.
She has completed various classes for business leadership through Tidewater Community College and attended many workshops on leadership roles for women and telephone skills. In her spare time, Roberta enjoys cooking, inventing spice blends and travelling when she can. Mostly, her role as a mom to a law student is the most rewarding!
Marley Wickum
Lead Kindergarten Teacher
DEGREE: Psychology & Special Education, James Madison University
Teacher Marley is excited to begin her first year at VBFS! As a Virginia Beach native, you can always find her taking a sunset beach walk or enjoying a sweet treat from her favorite local coffee shop. Teacher Marley is a proud alum of James Madison University (Go Dukes!!!) where she received her degree in Psychology and Special Education. After graduating from JMU, she taught Kindergarten for one year before moving to New York City to teach First Grade in the Bronx for 3 years. Teacher Marley is happy to be returning to her hometown of VB and joining the Friends School family to start her 5th year teaching!
