Steve’s Special Education and Music experience includes university level positions and work with students from age Pre-K to age 21. Steve began his career with the New York City Department of Education where he taught for 7 years. Following his work in New York, he worked in the Westport Public Schools for 23 years and taught in the Hamden Public Schools. In addition to teaching in the Special Education field, his music groups performed at the prestigious Connecticut Music Educators Association conference and received ratings of Superior at national and local adjudications and festivals. Steve completed his Administration Certification at Southern Connecticut State University and presented at several well known conferences. For his development and application of technology-based innovation in learning, Steve was awarded the Connecticut Distance Learning Consortium’s Teacher Innovation Award. In his spare time, he has served as a pianist on Broadway for Phantom of the Opera and off-Broadway for the Sullivan Street production of The Fantasticks. Steve earned his Ph.D. from New York University and holds a M.M. from the Manhattan School of Music.

Ryan started working at Woodhouse Academy as a substitute teacher in the Winter of 2022 . Ryan studied Business at Arizona State University, but fell in love with the Graphic Arts after taking multiple classes while still getting his degree. Since coming to Woodhouse, Ryan has encouraged students to explore their artistic side through various different mediums, from traditional drawing and painting to new-age digital platforms like Photoshop. Outside the classroom, Ryan enjoys watching various different sports, spending time outdoors by playing golf and snowboarding, and spending time with his friends and girlfriend, Paula.

Emily joined Woodhouse Academy in August 2019 as a Middle School Teacher. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in History and Secondary Education as well as a Masters of Education, both from Merrimack College. Emily holds a Connecticut History and Social Studies Teaching Certificate for Grades 4 through 12. She has extensive experience working with neurodivergent students in both public districts and private institutions to allow students to learn in their least restrictive environment. Emily also coaches high school girls basketball. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her one year old twin boys and her husband.

Peter joined Woodhouse in September of 2017 as a music teacher. In 2023, Peter added culinary lessons to his Woodhouse schedule. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education, Piano, and Upright Bass from “Cyril and Methodius University” in Skopje, Macedonia (a former republic of Yugoslavia). Peter relocated to the USA in 1985. Prior to Woodhouse, he worked in public and private schools as a music teacher and string orchestra teacher. He even owns his own music studio!

Upon graduation, Peter also served two years in the Yugoslav military where he attained an Associate Degree in Electronics. When he’s not teaching, he loves chasing around his adventurous and Apple air-tagged cat, Machka.

Matt is beginning his first year at Woodhouse Academy. He graduated from Hamden High School in 2010, going on to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Eastern Connecticut State University and completing his Master’s in Math Education at the University of Bridgeport. With a deep passion for both math and teaching, Matt is looking forward to helping our students grow and succeed at Woodhouse. Matt has completed 12 years in education and 8 years teaching. His previous stints include teaching Math at East Hartford High School, East Hartford Middle School, and Roberto Clemente Academy in New Haven. In addition to these 8 years he worked as an intern at Branford High and a Behavior Manager at Hamden Collaborative Learning Center.

When Matt’s not teaching, he serves as the Assistant Varsity Baseball Coach and Strength Coach for the Hamden High baseball team. These roles allow him to connect with students outside the classroom and support their personal development through sports and teamwork. When he’s not in school or on the field, he enjoys playing golf, watching sports, Jeopardy, and listening to audiobooks.

Sasha first began working at Woodhouse Academy in the Summer of 2016. Initially going to UCONN to study the sciences, Sasha pivoted to education, graduating with a BS in Art Education from Southern Connecticut State University. Sasha is a jack of all trades having taught art, science, math, and yoga during her tenure at Woodhouse. After 8 years as a classroom instructor, Sasha completed her Masters degree in Special Education, enabling her to step into her current role as a certified Special Education teacher. Sasha is an avid reader, animal enthusiast, music junkie, and lover of the outdoors. Sasha and her husband also welcomed their first child over the Summer!

Tyler’s connection to Woodhouse Academy started in 2017 when he was hired as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher, after graduating from UCONN with a BS in Human Development and Family Science. After four years in that role, Tyler completed his English Education certification through Ohio State University and stepped into the full-time role as the English teacher at Woodhouse Academy. Tyler is incredibly passionate about athletics, and has spent the last decade working as a youth baseball coach in Trumbull. Working with athletes ages 8 to 18, Tyler brings a knack for building relationships and instilling a strong work ethic to the Woodhouse community. Tyler is married to Woodhouse’s Special Education teacher Sasha, and the two welcomed their first child over the Summer!

David Lee is starting his very first year teaching at Woodhouse Academy. He is teaching Mathematics and Middle School Science. David graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education at Southern Connecticut State University in the spring of 2022 and currently earned a teaching license in the same field. David is also currently working towards obtaining his Math Education License. Outside the classroom, David loves listening to rock music.

With over a decade of experience teaching both high school and college-level science, Jesse is a dedicated educator committed to teaching and nurturing strong student relationships. Specializing in Life & Physical Sciences, Jesse brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to the classroom on a daily basis.

Jesse has a passion for science education and a deep commitment to student development. This dedication extends beyond the classroom, where he strives to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment. Jesse believes that building strong, positive relationships with students is key to inspiring curiosity and encouraging academic success.

Outside of teaching, Jesse enjoys spending quality time with family, staying active through training, and proudly taking on the role of “Cheer Dad” at various events. Balancing professional expertise with personal interests, Jesse exemplifies a holistic approach to life, integrating the joys of family, fitness, and community into a fulfilling and well-rounded existence.

Michael Oldziej teaches Social studies and History at Woodhouse Academy. After receiving his undergraduate degree, he went on to obtain his Masters at the University of Connecticut in Educational Psychology. He has specialized his teaching in games for education and situated cognition, believing these innovative methods provide an effective foundation for learning. Michael is a vital member of Woodhouse, exerting charisma and intelligence that creates a uniquely entertaining environment for learning. When he is not teaching he is a game designer, writer and magician.

Sean originally started at Woodhouse Academy in 2020 to assist with janitorial and logistical challenges posed by the pandemic. Charismatic and compassionate, students and staff instantly took a liking to Sean. Motivated and inspired by his time at Woodhouse, Sean worked toward and attained his certification as a paraprofessional and substitute teacher. For the last two years Sean has been a vital team member, handling a multitude of roles both in and out of the classroom. Sean enjoys following sports, playing video games, and spending quality time with his wife, Aly.

Erica is an outgoing and compassionate social worker. She has extensive experience in providing therapeutic services to children and families in clinical, in-home, and school settings. Erica has experience in assisting students in planning their academic achievements, along with addressing their mental health needs. She has worked with children/young adults that display aggressive behaviors, have mental health, and have specific neurological/developmental disorders. Erica holds a masters degree in social work from the University of Saint Joseph (MSW) and is a certified school social worker in CT. Erica’s enthusiasm and optimistic attitude has made her a natural fit to the Woodhouse community.

Stephanie joined the Woodhouse team as a school social worker after her extensive work with individuals on the Autism Spectrum. She holds a masters degree in social work from Fordham University (LMSW) and is a certified school social worker in CT. Prior to working at Woodhouse, Stephanie’s experience includes working in a residential program for individuals with developmental disabilities, at a transitional treatment program for dually diagnosed adults along with chronic homelessness, and as an ABA therapist in an early intensive behavioral intervention program. Stephanie’s passion and positive attitude has made her a natural fit in our program.

Amanda joined Woodhouse Academy in November 2022 as an Office Manager/HR Coordinator. She holds a Master’s Degrees in Business Administration and Human Resource Management from Keller School of Management at DeVry University. Prior to Woodhouse she recently worked as a medical secretary for an orthopedic company and an activities coordinator for dementia patients at a senior living center. She has also worked for Walt Disney World and Universal Studio Florida as a ride attendant and trainer. Her favorite rides to work were Journey Into Imagination with Figment and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith. In her free time, she travels with her son and their team (Boo’s Clues) and embarks on paranormal tours and ghost hunts across the United States.