Meet The Program Assistants

cgowrylow@virtualconnectionsacademy.net

jherman@virtualconnectionsacademy.net

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Mrs. Herman  has a deep commitment to education. She graduated from Miami University, Oxford, Ohio with her Bachelor’s Degree. She is currently pursuing her Masters Degree in Special Education.  She has worked as a Special Education paraprofessional for several years with students of different cultural backgrounds, abilities and family circumstances. Mrs. Herman's interpersonal communication skills  have helped others feel valued and respected.  Mrs. Herman is very passionate about working with young learners and helping them progress in all areas of their development. When Mrs. Herman is not at school, you’ll often find her enjoying the simple pleasures of life, hanging out with her husband, cheering on her three children at various activities, and traveling around the world.

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tpeterson@virtualconnectionsacademy.net

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Ms. Peterson is a paraprofessional and educator with over 25 years of experience in the field of instruction and instructional design. She possesses a Master of Arts degree in English Language and Literature and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Teaching English.  Ms. Peterson has taught ESL and academic courses at a variety of levels while working with native, international, and immigrant student populations both in the U.S. and overseas. Being a multilingual person, she’s interested in linguistics and learning about different cultures. In her free time, she enjoys going for long walks, playing the piano, and traveling.

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sskafgaard@virtualconnectionsacademy.net

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Ms. Skafgaard comes to us with over 10 years of experience as a Paraprofessional. She is currently enrolled in a behavioral science program at Purdue working on her Bachelors and Masters degrees. Ms. Skafgaard has worked with all ages throughout her years of teaching. Mrs Skafgaard has a passion for helping each student become their best. When Mrs. Skafgaard is not t work she enjoys resale, binge-watching her favorite shows, and listening to music. 

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azuffante@virtualconnectionsacademy.net

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Mr.Zuffante is a Paraeducator and substitute teacher who has a passion for working with children and adolescents. He earned his Bachelor's Degree with a Major in History and a Minor in Sociology from Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago, IL and is currently working towards obtaining his LBS1 in the Florida Teacher Ready Program. Mr. Zuffante has worked in a variety of school settings and is passionate about teaching Social Studies. Currently he facilitates the Middle School World History and Current Events Live Lessons, as well as High School Physical Education. In addition to this Mr. Zuffante also chairs the school’s Diversity Committee. His main interests include history, world cultures, sociology, politics, philosophy, royalty, travel, and film.

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