Head of School
Emily Miller
Head of School
508-228-0427 Ext. 1011 | emiller@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreCertificate in Early Education Leadership, Harvard Graduate School of Education
M.A. Curriculum and Instruction: Literacy Specialization, Lesley University
B.A. Sociology, Boston University
Orton Gillingham Certification, A/OGA
Teacher Certification: Massachusetts, Grades 1 - 6 and New Jersey, Grades K - 8
Since moving to the island at the age of five, Emily has called Nantucket home for most of her life and career. She first worked with the Nantucket Lighthouse School community in 2007, when she assisted the School with its development efforts. Since that time, Emily has had a long career as both an educator and administrator, both at the Nantucket Lighthouse School and off island. She is a passionate school leader with a demonstrated commitment to professional growth, particularly in the areas of teacher and child development, pedagogy, social emotional learning, literacy, organizational development, and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging principles.
Over the past thirty years, Emily has served in a variety of roles in schools. She has had the unique experience of teaching children in all grades from preschool through eighth grade while also fulfilling the roles of head of school, board member, director of development, division head, learning specialist, support services coordinator, and parent of independent school children. While varied, she has enjoyed every one of these positions, each offering a new perspective and broadening her understanding of the dynamic and complex nature of schools.
“It is with great enthusiasm that I join the Nantucket Lighthouse School community. Having worked in public and independent schools, both on and off the island, I have been fortunate enough to learn from a variety of experts in the field of education. I am excited to bring those experiences, as well as my certification in Orton Gillingham reading instruction and early education leadership through Harvard Graduate School of Education back to Nantucket Lighthouse School.
Having served as the School’s Head of School for nine years and lived on the island for most of my life, I feel an enduring connection to the Nantucket Lighthouse School, as well as the broader Nantucket community. What I have long admired about Nantucket Lighthouse School is its unfaltering commitment to developmental, whole child education and its ability to curate a learning environment that is simultaneously intentional and rigorous and beautiful and nurturing. Through an integrated, project-based curriculum, students are guided to delve deeply into their classroom studies, while also participating in weekly field trips and horticulture classes that allow them to form authentic connections with the natural world and their island community. Nantucket Lighthouse School students are the future stewards of our island, and of our precious Earth.”
Enrollment Coordinator
Julia Maury
Enrollment Coordinator & School Counselor
508-228-0427 Ext. 1022 | jmaury@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreM.A. School Counseling, New York University
B.A. American Studies, Columbia University
Julia was born and raised on Nantucket and is a passionate educator with 15 years of experience advocating for island children. She first joined Nantucket Lighthouse School in 2010, where she taught for seven years. In addition, Julia has been a teacher at the Montessori Children’s House and worked in the counseling department at Nantucket Public Schools.
After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from Columbia University, Julia obtained lead teacher certification from the ECC and American Montessori Society certification from Northeast Montessori Institute. She earned her master’s in school counseling from NYU, where she gained experience in individual and group counseling, cross-cultural counseling, and the informal and formal assessment of children and adolescents in schools. Her experience with strength-based, solution-focused strategies and interventions helps support the social, emotional, and academic development of all Nantucket Lighthouse School students.
“Becoming a parent deepened my belief in the kind of education that nurtures not just intellect, but heart and character. I knew Nantucket Lighthouse School was where I wanted my own children to grow—where learning is joyful, childhood is protected, and students are encouraged to think deeply and become their truest selves.
As the Enrollment Coordinator, it’s a joy to introduce new families to this extraordinary community. As the School Counselor, I’m honored to support the emotional lives of our students and collaborate with the families and educators who walk beside them. Lighthouse is more than a school—it’s a place where the whole child is truly seen, supported, and celebrated.”
Lead Teachers
Maggie Featherston
Small School Teacher
508-228-0427 Ext. 1018 | mfeatherston@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreB.S. Interdisciplinary Studies, James Madison University
Maggie has always been passionate about helping children to be their best selves. From a young age, she began volunteering at Giant Steps School for Autistic Children in Westport, Connecticut, serving as a one-on-one aid to children, ages 5 to 18, after school. This formative experience inspired Maggie to become a teacher. While spending her childhood summers on Nantucket, Maggie worked for local camps, including ACKventure Camp for five years, and as a soccer coach at Nantucket Soccer Academy.
Maggie graduated from James Madison University in 2018 with a degree in interdisciplinary studies and a focus on education. In 2020, Maggie moved to Nantucket full-time and was honored to join the Nantucket Lighthouse School community, beginning as a Kinderclass and Small School teaching assistant before becoming a lead Small School teacher.
“Nantucket Lighthouse School is truly a one-of-a-kind school. It has completely changed my way of thinking when it comes to teaching and learning. The school’s philosophy and mission have taught me more about myself than I ever imagined! We are a family, and my colleagues are people that I can go to for anything and everything. I am honored to be a part of such an amazing school and community.”
Joseline Howard
Small School Teacher
508-228-0427 | jhoward@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreM.Ed. Early Childhood Education, Merrimack College
B.A Psychology, Southern New Hampshire University
Joseline brings a wealth of experience working with children from diverse backgrounds and varying needs. With a passion for creating inclusive and welcoming classrooms, Joseline is committed to supporting students’ growth in every area—not just academically, but socially and emotionally as well. She believes that educators are lifelong learners and approaches each day with openness, curiosity, and heart.
Bilingual in English and Spanish, Joseline earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology before beginning her career in education at Nantucket Public Schools. Over the past six years, she has grown from a substitute teacher to a bilingual support specialist in the English Learner Department, to a kindergarten teaching assistant, and most recently, an ESL teacher for students in kindergarten through 2nd grade—all while earning her master’s degree in early childhood education.
“I had long heard wonderful things about Nantucket Lighthouse School, but it wasn’t until I stepped through the doors that I truly understood what makes the school so special. It felt welcoming and peaceful. The classrooms were cozy, the teachers were smiling—I knew right away it was a place where both children and teachers are uplifted. I am excited to work in an environment that focuses on more than just academics.”
Jessica Patnode
Small School Teacher
508-228-0427 Ext. 1019 | jpatnode@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
M.Ed. Special Education, Keene State College
B.A. Early Childhood Education, Keene State College
Jessica is a compassionate educator with ten years of teaching experience. She received her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education and her master’s degree in special education from Keene State College in New Hampshire. Jessica continues to pursue professional development opportunities, most recently receiving Waldorf early childhood education certification from Sunbridge Institute.
Prior to joining Nantucket Lighthouse School in 2021, Jessica was the lead pre-kindergarten teacher at Happy Child Preschool in Newton, MA, for seven years. In addition to her classroom duties, Jessica directed the annual school play and was an active member of the Happy Child Preschool’s accreditation team.
With her background in special education, Jessica is devoted to creating an inclusive and safe classroom environment. She strives to provide all her Small School students with individualized support to ensure their emotional, developmental, and academic well-being. Jessica feels fortunate to be a part of the Nantucket Lighthouse School community.
“When I first walked through Nantucket Lighthouse School, I was in awe of the warmth in the classrooms, the dedication of the teachers, and the magical wonder of the students. As a Small School teacher, I get to watch young students flourish because of our play-based approach, thoughtful art projects, and respect for the world around us. Every day I feel fortunate to be a part of the Nantucket Lighthouse School community.”
Amanda Torchia
Head of Small School & Camp Lighthouse Director
508-228-0427 Ext. 1020 | atorchia@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
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Director & Early Childhood Education certifications, ECC American Montessori Society certification, Northeast Montessori Institute Amanda relocated to Nantucket 16 years ago from Annapolis, Maryland where she worked as a music teacher and a sailing instructor. Since then she has obtained a Certificate in Early Childhood Education, Director Certification from the EEC and American Montessori Society Certification from the Northeast Montessori Institute. While on Nantucket, she has worked as a lead teacher at the Montessori Children’s House and Small Friends and held positions as a nanny for several island families. “Nantucket Lighthouse School is the only school on Nantucket I have felt meets the needs of myself as a teacher and my daughter as a learner. I am able to share so many of my passions with my students through our integrated curriculum - like handwork, pottery, and music - while simultaneously watching their academic skills flourish. I wish I had been able to attend a school like this as a child, and I am so grateful to have my daughter be nurtured in this type of learning environment.”
Emma Graham
Kinderclass Teacher
508-228-0427 Ext. 1021 | egraham@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreB.S Journalism, Suffolk University
Certificate in Early Childhood Education, Fisher College
Emma was born and raised on Nantucket and is grateful to relive the magic of an island childhood through her students’ eyes. After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from Suffolk University, Emma obtained Early Childhood Education Certification from Fisher College and earned her Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certification from International TEFL Academy.
Emma enthusiastically joined Nantucket Lighthouse School in 2020, serving as a teaching assistant before becoming the Kinderclass teacher in 2022. Emma fosters a classroom environment where children love coming to school and are excited to learn. As a teacher, Emma strives to ensure that her students arrive at and leave school with smiles. Emma appreciates working at a school that allows her to share her passions for reading, baking, and the natural world.
“I love working at Nantucket Lighthouse School because of the supportive and collaborative community of faculty, teachers, and families. I appreciate that Nantucket Lighthouse School educates the whole child and is guided by the principle to provide every individual with what they need to learn and grow.”
Kerry Ray
1st Grade Teacher
508-228-0427 | kray@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
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A.A. Education, Manchester Community College Special Education Certification, Manchester Community College Kerry is a creative, passionate, and caring educator with a decade of experience teaching children. She began her teaching career serving as a lead teacher and Early School Head at Nantucket New School. Most recently, Kerry has been the dedicated director of S.T.A.R. Nantucket, developing programming for island children with diverse needs and abilities. After graduating from Manchester Community College with her associate degree in education and a special education certificate, Kerry received her examiner certification with the Gessell Institute of Child Development. A lifelong learner, Kerry has continued to pursue professional development opportunities through Responsive Classroom, Oak Meadow, Waldorfish, and Literacy for All. Kerry is thrilled to join her two sons, Homer and Harrison, at Nantucket Lighthouse School. "Nantucket Lighthouse School offers children and families a one-of-a-kind educational experience that truly nurtures the whole child. Children are embraced for who they are in an environment that encourages kindness, creativity, problem-solving and cultivates a caring community. Nantucket Lighthouse School embraces the magic and pace of childhood, building a life-long love of learning. I’m proud to be part of NLS as a faculty member and parent."
Stephanie Gilchrist
2nd Grade Teacher
508-228-0427 | sgilchrist@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
B.S Biophysical Sciences, Southern Methodist University
Stephanie graduated from Southern Methodist University with a degree in biophysical sciences and minors in Spanish and mathematics. During her time in college, Stephanie worked as a physics research assistant and presented research findings to the American Physical Society. Stephanie has received numerous academic awards and has been honored as a Provost Scholar, Discovery Scholar, Hamilton Research Scholar, and Dedman College Scholar.
Stephanie was introduced to Nantucket Lighthouse School while working as a childcare provider for a Lighthouse family. She was immediately enthralled by the school’s holistic approach to education. Stephanie’s love for the school inspired her to move from Texas to make Nantucket her home. She is thrilled to be a part of a team of educators dedicated to fostering both the academic and ethical development of children.
"I love Nantucket Lighthouse School because I resonate with its philosophy of educating the whole child. Students at NLS are treated and nurtured as humans who will grow up to be generous, kind, and loving members of society. These values really get me excited about working alongside students – not only within the classroom but out in the world."
Eli Roach
3rd Grade Teacher
508-228-0427 | eroach@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
M.Ed. Early Childhood Education, Colorado State University
B.S. Human Development and Family Studies, Colorado State University
Eli is a thoughtful, dedicated educator with a passion for early childhood learning and development. After earning a bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies and a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Colorado State University, Eli began her path into the classroom by working as a paraprofessional in a Center-Based Autism program. This experience supporting neurodiverse learners helped shape Eli’s commitment to inclusive, whole-child education.
Eli is especially drawn to Nantucket Lighthouse School’s belief in nurturing each child’s natural curiosity, inner joy, and personal path of discovery. With a strong foundation in developmental theory and a passion for hands-on, relationship-based learning, Eli strives to create classroom experiences where children feel safe, valued, and inspired to grow. She values the magic of childhood and honors each learner’s unique rhythm, fostering deep connections between thinking, feeling, and doing.
“I am honored to join a learning community that shares its commitment to compassion, creativity, and the lifelong pursuit of learning. I knew the moment I walked through the door that this was going to be the right place for me.”
Caitlin Tyler
4th & 5th Grade Teacher, Head of Upper Grades
508-228-0427 | ctyler@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
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M.F.A. Poetry, Washington University B.A. East Asian History, Lewis & Clark College Caitlin is a dedicated educator, writer, and mother born and raised on Nantucket. With a passion for travel and cross-cultural connections, Caitlin has lived and worked in Washington state, Italy, Kenya, Greece, and Vietnam. She began her teaching career in 2005, tutoring young children in Kenya, before moving to Vietnam to teach college-age students. Upon returning to the island in 2013, she was thrilled to accept a position teaching the oldest students at Nantucket Lighthouse School. Caitlin holds a bachelor’s degree from Lewis & Clark College in Oregon and a master’s degree in poetry from Washington University in St. Louis. She continues to pursue professional development opportunities, completing intensive trainings at the Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature School and the Sunbridge Institute. “I am honored to be able to teach at and send my own children to Nantucket Lighthouse School. The school’s commitment to fostering empathy and emotional growth while respecting the innate wisdom of children strikes a deep chord with me.”
Cayla Prichard
6th & 7th Grade Teacher, Head of Lower Grades & Math Curriculum Coordinator
508-228-0427 Ext. 1013 | cprichard@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreM.Ed. Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, University of Texas at Arlington
B.S. Human Environmental Sciences & Art History, University of Alabama
Cayla has a decade of experience as an elementary and intermediate school teacher and math interventionist, specialist, and coach in Texas and on Nantucket. Since graduating from The University of Alabama with a Bachelor of Science, Cayla obtained an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies from The University of Texas at Arlington. She has engaged in extensive professional development in curriculum writing; nonprofit success and community engagement; data-driven pedagogy; responsive classroom; and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Prior to moving to Nantucket, Cayla's involvement with The United Way of Metropolitan Dallas led to her becoming a member of the inaugural class of March Tocqueville Fellows; a social innovation experience designed to engage young professionals in fundraising, volunteering, and advocacy. Her nonprofit work has primarily been focused on educational equity.
"As a parent, I have seen firsthand the impact of Nantucket Lighthouse School's whole-child approach and the student-centered learning that takes place every day. Nantucket Lighthouse School provides the ideal learning environment for children and I am honored to be a part of our student’s educational journey”
Horticulture
Click here to learn more about Russell Morash, Chair in Childhood Horticulture
Zacil Sassy Nash
Horticulture Teacher & Lead Extended Day Teacher
508-228-0427 | znash@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreM.Ed. Elementary Education, Merrimack College
M.A. Spanish, University of Central Arkansas
Originally from Mexico and a U.S. Air Force veteran, Sassy is an educator with over 20 years of experience working with children of all ages—from toddlers to college students—in classrooms, gardens, museums, theaters, and outdoor education settings.
Through a journey that has taken her across the country, Sassy has held positions with Heifer International, Nature’s Classroom in New England, and The Outdoor School in Texas. In each setting, she has embraced the opportunity to teach about sustainability, food systems, and environmental stewardship through hands-on, immersive learning.
Sassy made Nantucket her year-round home in 2018, joining Nantucket Intermediate School as a Spanish teacher. She sits on the board of Sustainable Nantucket.
Sassy holds a master’s degree in Spanish from the University of Central Arkansas, a master’s degree in education from Merrimack College, and is currently pursuing a doctorate in education from Merrimack College. Whether she's teaching a class, managing a theater program, or tending to the garden with children, she brings energy, creativity, and a deep belief in nurturing curious, compassionate, and engaged citizens of the earth.
“Nantucket Lighthouse School feels like home—warm and welcoming. The way the school approaches learning—through exploration, curiosity, and collaboration—is exactly how I learn best, which makes me excited to teach in that way. From soil to harvest, working in the garden brings me peace and teaches me something new every day.”
Music
Nigel Goss
Music Teacher
508-228-0427 | ngoss@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreB.A. Music, Cornish College of the Arts
Certification in Classical Piano, Royal Conservatory of Music
Nigel was born and raised on Nantucket. He began his teaching career by volunteering at Seattle Music Partners during college, offering lessons and ensemble classes to elementary schools in Seattle, Washington. After graduating from Cornish College of the Arts in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in jazz bass performance, Nigel began teaching private lessons and group classes at Nantucket Community Music Center. Nigel first became involved with Nantucket Lighthouse School as a parent. He began offering handbell lessons to the oldest students in 2016 and became the lead music teacher in 2019.
Nigel has been an active professional musician for almost 20 years. Currently, he plays many public and private shows on Nantucket with a variety of jazz and classical ensembles, as well as pop and rock bands. Nigel recently earned a Level 7 Certificate in classical piano from the Royal Conservatory of Music in Canada. In addition to his role at Nantucket Lighthouse School, Nigel teaches private and group music classes at Nantucket Community Music Center and serves as the Music Director at the Unitarian Universalist Church.
“I love the Nantucket Lighthouse School for its community, its mission and philosophy, the amazing colleagues, and of course, the wonderful students. My goal is to give my students a solid foundation of music skills and the confidence that they can play, sing, or enjoy music in whatever way they choose.”
Physical Education
Will Datilio
Physical Education Teacher
508-228-0427
Show MoreB.S. Sport Psychology, Plymouth State University
For the past 15 years, Will has dedicated himself to fostering a safe, nurturing, and enjoyable environment for children to develop their athletic skills as an ice hockey coach. During his extensive career in Exeter, New Hampshire, he excelled as Director of Player Development for Seacoast Performance Academy and prepared students for academic success, serving as an academic advisor and learning coach. Upon relocating to Nantucket, Will continued his commitment to youth sports by joining the Nantucket Ice Community Ice Rink, where he serves as the program director and the hockey director for Nantucket Nor-Easter Youth Hockey. In 2021, Will founded the Nantucket Hockey Academy, a drop-in clinic focused on skill development for the island’s youth. Will is excited to bring his passion for sports education to Nantucket Lighthouse School, where he serves as the physical education teacher for Small School through Grade 7.
“Growing up in a small school environment with dedicated teachers, I witnessed the benefits of personalized education firsthand. Nantucket Lighthouse School's philosophy of encouraging open-mindedness, creativity, and critical thinking resonates deeply with my educational ideals. I'm thrilled to join this community of passionate educators and students. ”
Learning Specialist
Allison Johnson
Learning Specialist & Special Education Liaison
508-228-0427 | ajohnson@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreM.A. Teaching (K-12), Chapman University
B.A. Psychology, Chapman University
Orton-Gillingham Reading Specialist
Allison graduated from Chapman University with a master’s degree in teaching (K-12). After spending eight years in California as Director of Teddy Bear Treehouse preschool, she moved to Nantucket to be closer to her family and her hometown of Yarmouth, MA. On island, Allison has taught kindergarten, first grade, and third grade.
Allison has always loved the remarkable growth that happens when children learn to read. Her own children’s learning challenges inspired her to further her education, acquiring the skills to teach dyslexic children. After completing training in Orton Gillingham, she was compelled to reach all students that needed a more specialized reading approach. In her spare time, Allison enjoys being a lifelong learner, reading, traveling, being in nature, and walking through the State Forest with her three children, Curren, Avalon, and Bodie.
“It is my great pleasure to work with such talented teachers at Nantucket Lighthouse School. When my daughter attended Nantucket Lighthouse School, I saw firsthand the magic of the school. She grew into a more confident person and developed a love of learning through the caring and guidance of exceptional teachers.”
Math Teacher
Susan Chapin Lenane
6th & 7th Grade Mathematics Teacher
508-228-0427
Show MoreM.Ed. Cambridge College
B.A. Franklin and Marshall College
With over three decades serving in teaching and leadership roles, Susan Chapin Lenane brings a wealth of experience to Nantucket Lighthouse School. During her extensive career in education, Susan has served as a mathematics teacher at Nantucket New School, the Fenn School in Concord, Massachusetts, and the Maret School in Washington, DC. At Maret, Susan not only taught a range of math courses from middle school through advanced high school levels but also served as the Mathematics Department Chair, where she supervised and evaluated teachers, developed new curricula, and led initiatives to enhance the school’s math program.
With a bachelor’s degree from Franklin and Marshall College and an M.Ed. from Cambridge College, Susan has continually pursued professional development, including through the Case Institute for Curricular Innovation & Excellence and the Technology Beacon Program. Susan has also shared her expertise by presenting at educational conferences, such as the AIMS conference in Baltimore. Her commitment to fostering a deep understanding of mathematics in students is evident in her volunteer work and her leadership in designing and implementing mathematics courses.
Susan’s dedication to aligning curricula with state and national standards, mentoring teachers, and innovating math education makes her an invaluable asset to the Nantucket Lighthouse School community.
“I am so honored to join the faculty, staff, and students at Nantucket Lighthouse School! The school is incredibly welcoming and truly a student-centered community. I am thrilled to build the mathematics program in the sixth and seventh grade!”
Spanish Teacher
Maria Chirinos
Spanish Teacher & Teaching Assistant
508-228-0427 | mchirinos@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
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A.A. Harper College Maria is an experienced and engaging bilingual educator with a passion for teaching children with diverse backgrounds and learning styles. Before joining the Special Services Department at Nantucket Public Schools, Maria directed the Spanish Literacy Program at Nantucket Atheneum, where she also served as an ESOL instructor. Additionally, Maria has worked at Nantucket Community School, where she planned and executed early childhood events and after-school Spanish instruction. With empathy and energy, Maria goes to great lengths to create a positive, personalized learning environment that promotes curiosity and kindness. Maria enjoys opportunities to incorporate STEAM into classroom instruction. A lifelong learner, she continues to pursue professional development, completing coursework at Cape Cod Community College in child psychology and children’s literature. Maria is thrilled to join her two children, Ivan and Sofi, at Nantucket Lighthouse School! "Living on Nantucket as a parent, I believe that Nantucket Lighthouse School is the perfect place for my children. The welcoming staff genuinely understand and appreciate each child's unique qualities, making us feel at home from the moment we walked in. The school not only focuses on academic excellence but also encourages creativity and curiosity, going beyond traditional textbooks to promote hands-on learning and exploration that ignites my children's imagination. What makes Nantucket Lighthouse School stand out is its inclusive and supportive environment. The school celebrates diversity and prioritizes kindness in everything they do. Moreover, integrating art and nature into daily learning enriches my children's experience; whether they're exploring the school's garden, knitting, building a robot, learning in an outdoor classroom, or participating in any other outdoor activity, this fosters a deep connection with themselves and nature, nurturing appreciation and responsibility. I also value the mindfulness practices incorporated into my children's daily routines. These practices help develop emotional intelligence and resilience in students. Choosing Nantucket Lighthouse School for my children has been one of the best decisions we've made as a family. It's a place where learning is joyful, friendships are formed, and every child is empowered to reach their fullest potential. I feel thankful to be part of such a caring and inspiring educational community."
Teaching Assistants
Linda Ballinger
Teaching Assistant & Culture and Traditions Mentor
508-228-0427
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Linda attended Franklin Pierce College and Bennington College before moving to Nantucket in 1980, where she apprenticed under Andy Oates, her uncle and co-owner of the Nantucket Looms. While there, Linda was trained as a weaver, designing custom wall fabrics, upholstery fabrics, blankets, shawls, and table linens. Her career at the Looms lasted 19 years before she retired as head weaver. Linda has always had a love for learning and adventure. One of her many travels took her to San Miguel, Mexico, where she enrolled in a two-month-long ceramic program, not knowing a word of Spanish. On another adventure, Linda traveled to New Zealand with her bike and camping gear and cycled alone through the north and south islands for a month. Each adventure provided Linda with the opportunity for greater self-knowledge. After becoming a mother, Linda became interested in early childhood education. She was fascinated watching the way her young daughter explored the world around her. When her daughter was interested in summer camp, Linda accompanied her by signing up as a camp counselor. Lo and behold, she found a new calling. Her lifetime love of teaching children was kindled, and she soon began another adventure, this time as a teacher. Linda joined Nantucket Lighthouse School in 2017 and has been an invaluable member of the school community ever since. She has held a variety of roles at Nantucket Lighthouse School, including small school teacher, kinderclass teacher, second-grade teacher, teaching assistant, and culture and traditions mentor. “Working at Nantucket Lighthouse School brings me so much pleasure. I love the beauty of the campus, the involvement of the parents, the closeness of the faculty, but above all, I love seeing the eager smiles on the faces of the children as they come to school each day.”
Sage Geddes
Teaching Assistant
508-228-0427 | sgeddes@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
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B.A. Education (K-8), University of Massachusetts Amherst Sage was born and raised on Nantucket. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education (K–8) with a concentration in special education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Her passion for working with children has led her to support them in different roles over the years. She has been a teaching assistant at the Nantucket New School, a group leader at Strong Wings for four summers, and currently serves as an administrator for Strong Wings’ van camp program during the summer. Sage is deeply committed to fostering meaningful connections with children and helping them grow through hands-on, creative experiences. Outside of the classroom, she loves cycling around the island, baking sourdough, traveling to Southeast Asia, and spending time with her dog, Pickle. She is excited to support the students and staff at Nantucket Lighthouse School and looks forward to becoming an active member of this vibrant community. “I am so excited to join the community at Nantucket Lighthouse School. I’m drawn to the school’s hands-on approach and its commitment to honoring each child’s unique learning style. In a small, supportive environment like this, everyone benefits- students, teachers, and the community. I can’t wait to be part of a team that leads with compassion and helps children feel seen, supported, and excited to learn.”
Phoebe Strobino
4th & 5th Grade Teaching Assistant
508-228-0427 | pstrobino@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
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M.A. Art Education, Rhode Island School of Design Phoebe graduated from the University of Massachusetts Amherst with her bachelors in the history of art and architecture in 2021. While at UMass she developed a deep interest in museum education, leading her to pursue a graduate degree in art education from Rhode Island School of Design. During this time she gained diverse teaching experiences, from facilitating community programs at multiple museums to teaching one-on-one and group art-making experiences at Hasbro Children’s Hospital. She is dedicated to creating meaningful and creative learning opportunities for students, and is excited to become a member of the Nantucket Lighthouse School community. “I love the holistic, student-centered approach Nantucket Lighthouse School takes towards education. The school’s mission and philosophy resonate deeply with me—it is the type of school I would have loved to attend as a child. I am so excited to become a part of such a supportive, uplifting community.”
B.A. History of Art and Architecture, University of Massachusetts Amherst
Administration
Alicia Lynn
Office Manager
508-228-0427 Ext. 1010 | alynn@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreA.A. Communications, Dean College
Alicia has been an invaluable Nantucket Lighthouse School community member since she stepped into the role of Office Manager in 2017. Previously, Alicia was the manager of In the Pink for twelve years. While she enjoyed over a decade in retail selling everyone’s favorite Lilly Pulitzer products, Alicia longed for a stronger connection to Nantucket’s year-round community. She was immediately drawn to the warm, positive, and supportive environment at Nantucket Lighthouse School.
As Office Manager, Alicia plays a crucial role in ensuring the school’s efficiency, organization, and communication. Now that she gladly retired as the Covid Officer, she is able to fully devote her time to helping Nantucket Lighthouse School families, students, and faculty with any and all of their needs.
“From the moment I stepped into Nantucket Lighthouse School, I fell in love with its strong sense of community. The children are treated with the utmost care and respect, and it is an honor to contribute to the positivity that is palpable here every day.”
Mackenzie Thompson
Development & Events Coordinator
508-228-0427 | mthompson@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreB.S. Marine Science, Eckerd College
Mackenzie has served for over seven years as an Operations Manager for a successful local business. Prior to moving to Nantucket, she earned a bachelor’s degree in marine science from Eckerd College. After spending her college summers working seasonally on the island, she moved to Nantucket full-time to begin her professional career.
In her previous role, Mackenzie thrived in operations and team leadership. She oversaw complex logistics, managed client relations, and supervised multiple departments. Her experience managing people, budgets, and day-to-day operations makes her a natural problem solver and communicator.
Mackenzie is thrilled to join Nantucket Lighthouse School as the Development and Events Coordinator. She is passionate about supporting the school’s mission and fostering the thoughtful, connected environment that makes lifelong learning possible. She is excited to bring her professional skills and community ties to the school and looks forward to leading beloved events and nurturing relationships with the supportive network that surrounds it.
“I have continually seen the positive impact Nantucket Lighthouse School has on its students, staff, and the surrounding community. The sense of creativity and nurturing you feel when walking into each classroom is truly inimitable. I’m grateful for the opportunity to join a school that focuses so deeply on the individual needs and growth of its students.”
Olga Vasko
Business Manager
508-228-0427 | ovasko@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreB.S. Psychology, North Kazakhstan State University
Olga is a dedicated professional with over a decade of expertise in project management and revenue operations. After earning a bachelor’s degree from North Kazakhstan State University, Olga began her career as a site and service coordinator in Nassau County, New York, before making Nantucket her home.
With 13 years of experience at Nantucket Cottage Hospital, Olga has excelled in various roles, most recently serving as a project manager. In this capacity, she was instrumental in analyzing data, identifying needs and areas of improvement, and proposing efficiencies to enhance operations.
Olga is thrilled to bring her strong organizational, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills to Nantucket Lighthouse School as the Business Manager. She is especially excited to join her daughter, Zoya, who has been a Lighthouse student for the past three years.
“Nantucket Lighthouse School is an incredible place for children to learn and grow. The supportive and nurturing environment created by the school's teachers and staff fosters a strong sense of community and helps build a solid foundation for our children's future. I feel very fortunate to be part of the NLS family!”
Extended Day
Nicci Aguiar Peña
Extended Day Teacher
508-228-0427 | npena@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreB.F.A. Sequential Art, Savannah College of Art and Design
Nicci was born and raised on Nantucket and grew up in a family of artists and educators. Her passion for art and storytelling led her to study Sequential Art and Storyboarding at Savannah College of Art and Design. After graduating in 2016, Nicci returned to the island and began teaching a variety of art classes and camps for children of all ages at the Artists Association of Nantucket. With almost ten years of teaching experience, she has had the privilege of teaching numerous programs including, preschool art, Teen Portfolio for perspective art students, summer camps, computer arts, comics and illustration and much more.
While teaching and working in office administration alongside role as gallery manager, she has also developed her career as an artist. She currently exhibits her work at the Artists Association of Nantucket galleries and Sustainable Nantucket’s Farmer’s and Artisans Market. Nicci is thrilled to be jumping into her first year teaching at the Nantucket Lighthouse School.
“While working with children from Nantucket Lighthouse School through after-school and summer camp programming, I have witnessed their strong creative minds and compassion for others. The mission and philosophy of Nantucket Lighthouse School is something that I have always admired and one day hope my future children will be able to experience."
Extended Day
Meg Glidden
Extended Day Teacher
508-228-0427 | mglidden@nantucketlighthouseschool.org
Show MoreB.S. Microbiology, University of Massachusetts
E.M.T. Certification, University of Massachusetts
Meg moved to Nantucket after earning her bachelor’s degree in microbiology from the University of Amherst. With a passion for mathematics and science, Meg has been an EMT, lab tech, childbirth educator, and science teacher at Nantucket Christian Academy. Additionally, Meg homeschooled her six children in all subjects for over 20 years.
Meg continues to pursue extensive professional development, including courses in Whole Brain Teaching for Challenging Kids, Bootstrap Workshop: Using Python to Teach Algebra Via Coding, CreateCodeLoad, Responsive Classroom, and Sunbridge Institute’s Foundations of Waldorf Education. Meg loves teaching students to write computer programs. She is an avid gardener who plays guitar and the flute.
“I am thrilled to be working with students at Nantucket Lighthouse School to discover the wonders of mathematics and the beauty of science.”