Ms. Ericka Lee
A little slice of heaven, is what Ericka Lee is experiencing, in her new life in St. Thomas. Hailing from Houston,Tx. she comes with a BFA from Howard University with a concentration in Musical Theatre. Upon graduation, Lee was hired by Perseverance Theatre, to work on a brand new version of the musical “Hair” with its original writer, James Rado. Under the watchful eye of artistic director PJ Paparelli, Lee continued with the Alaskan theatre, as a residential actress, doing famous works such as: “Noises Off, “ “The Who’s Tommy,” “ Yellow Man,” “ The Laramie Project,” and the one woman show telling the life of Billy Holiday through story and song, “Lady Day at Emmerson’s Bar and Grill.” She topped off her Alaskan career by collaborating with the Tony Award winning writers of “Urinetown” on their future Broadway hit “Yeast Nation.” Lee most recently spent a winter in New York where she worked with the historical Harlem theatre company, The Hadley Players. With them she performed several works including “Sisters on Fire” and an original work, “A Bolt From the Blue” earning her an Audelco Award nomination. Lee is absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to share her love of musical theatre with the Montessori School and looks forward to having the children share their talents with the community.
Musical Theater
As an admirer of the Montessori School and the work that it has done in the community, I am absolutely thrilled having the opportunity of possibly sharing and teaching what I love to do, Musical Theatre. I intend to expand the children's knowledge and understanding of life through various venues of performance art such as voice, dance and of course acting. With my long history of teaching youth, I will be able to assess each child at their current talent, and help them blossom in to a stronger singer and dancer while preparing for the musical “Bugz.” (The choice of show may change dependent upon the age group and number of participants.)
“Bugz” is one of my favorites and always a hit with the parents. It has knee slapping country music, jazzy singing ladybugz, dancing stink bugz and acrobatic bumble bees. Here is an excerpt from the show.
This program targets students in the Upper Elementary age groups. .
Professor Ron Van Clief
Professor Van Clief (The Black Dragon) has been a student of the martial arts for over 52
years. During this period he has been a 5 time world karate champion in
point karate and kickboxing and 15 time All American Champion. Professor Van
Clief has authored four books on martial arts education,
The Manual of the Martial Arts,
The Ron Van Clief Whitebelt Guidebook,
The Ron Van Clief Green and Purple Belt Guidebook, and
Black Heroes of the Martial Arts.
He received his Ph.D in Martial Arts Education in 1977 and has taught
over 150,000 students in 35 countries. Senior defensive tactics
instructor to the US SECRET SERVICE 9(1983-1993)at the World Trade
Center in New York City. He was former commissioner of the ULTIMATE
FIGHTING CHAMPIONSHIP (1994-1995). Prof Van Clief also fought in UFC
IV at the age of 51 years old. He retired from competition at the age
of 60 after winning the All American Championship. He has worked on
over 200 films as a screen actor guild (actor, stuntman, stunt
coordinator and action director). He moved to St. Thomas in 2006. He
is presently host for THE BLACK KUNG FU EXPERIENCE on the Discovery
Channel. The one hour weekly show airs in 2010.
Please visit his
website for more information on Professor Van Clief. We are most certainly thrilled to have Professor Van Clief as part of our VIMSIA family.
Self Defense 101
Course Description:
The objective of the course is to develop basic self defense skills and principles. Human development is what the course is all about... Learning about yourself and your potential and limitations. Self defense is not just learning kicking , blocking and punching - but the ability to face adversity and learn from it. Self defense is a life development course. Confidence, mental strength, appreciation,acceptance, personal satisfaction. Self defense is learning how to live in a chaotic world with peace and tranquility. Professor VanClief will offer student and adult classes. Click
more info for a further description of the class and what you are expected to bring/wear/etc.
Ms. Wendy McMahon
Wendy has been practicing Yoga for over 22 years and is a certified instructor. She has studied Iyengar, OM Vinyasa, and Ashtanga (Power Yoga). The combination of her massage practice and EMT training has given her a good understanding of anatomy / physiology and postural assessment. In her private practice, Wendy offers yoga therapy and customizes routines for the individual or couple. Wendy has lived on St. Thomas for 18 years and has three children, Nathaniel and Isabella are in VIMSIA and Faith was born in July, 2009.
Introduction to Yoga
Workshop (Adults)
This workshop is a basic
introduction to yoga that explores the physical, mental and spiritual branches
of yoga. This beginner workshop includes
a fundamental breakdown of poses, Sanskrit terminology, mental awareness of the
body and it’s movements, meditation and philosophy.
Beginner Yoga Class
(Adults)
In conjunction with the
“Introduction to Yoga Workshop” or all on it’s own this Iyengar-based class
will focus on the sun salutations, stretching and the more popular poses so
that you have a good foundation for a vinyasa class.
Intermediate Yoga Class
(Adults)
A
combination of styles culminates into an intermediate vinyasa practice. A good understanding of basic poses is
suggested but not necessary. Take in
combination with the beginner class for assistance. Build your strength, maintain your
flexibility, and enjoy the peace of mind that results from a regular practice
Ms. Betty Story
Betty Story has practiced yoga for 20 years. She received her yoga teaching certification in 2001.
She has taught many types of yoga: Iyengar, Ashtanga, and
Scaravelli . She emphasizes that all yoga is still the basic Hatha
yoga.
She has studied with teachers such as David Swenson, Dona Holleman, Donna Farhi, Diana Long and Liono Mielr in Europe and Asia.
She has taught private lessons for many years and also taught
elementary age students for several years in Zurich, Switzerland and
high school students in Daytona Beach Florida.
Yoga
The classes are for beginners as well as advanced students.
Focus is on body awareness and breathing which in turn brings
relaxation and flexibility.
In addition to being a librarian, Ms Story has taught English, study skills, and reading to students of all ages.
Tumbling/Gymnastics
Ms. Mattingley works with students on gross motor skills. Exercises include forward rolls, pencil rolls, crab walk, cartwheels, plus. The exercises and movements in this program focus on development of balance, coordination, self-confidence and inner discipline of the child. Safety is always paramount, so that each exercise is taught with proper and safe body alignment as the first consideration. This is always a fun class which the students are thrilled to participate in.
Ms. Melanie Moskowitz
Melanie took her first gymnastics class at the age of four and began competing three years later. For the next 10 years, she travelled around the United States competing through the United States Gymnastics Federation and the Y.M.C.A. Five years into her competitive career Melanie began coaching gymnastics classes in the same facility she was training out of as a USA Gymnastics safety certified instructorZaz. She retired from the competitive gymnastics circuit ranked nationally on floor, bars, and all around events.
Melanie’s love of movement led her to the University of Arizona where she earned a Bachelors of Science in Physiological Sciences while coaching recreational gymnastics and motor development classes through the Tucson Parks & Recreation Department. She moved to Chicago, Illinois after graduation and pursued a career as a certified Personal Trainer and Pilates Instructor, eventually opening her own health and wellness studio in Chicago’s Gold Coast.
Melanie moved to St Thomas in 2007 and has been teaching Gymnastics, Motor Development, Pilates, and Mommy & Me Classes as well as Personal Training. She is currently working to complete a certification as a Youth Fitness Specialist. Tumbling Class
This fun class emphasizes the development of gross motor skills, balance, coordination, self-confidence, focus, strength & flexibility. Students are encouraged to explore movement and challenge their limits through various forms of play within a safe environment. Classes begin with a dynamic warm up then move into a progressive skills based tumbling sequence. Skills taught include animal walks (crab, donkey, frog, etc) basic tumbling (forward & backward rolls, cartwheels) and vault preparation (jumps, approaches & landings).
Senor Adalio Araujo
Senor has been coaching soccer for 18 years. He is AYSO and FIFA (Football International Federation) certified. He is also a certified soccer ref. He loves to coach and also continues to play adult soccer. Soccer and Montessori kids are Senor's passion. Senor is from San Tome, Africa - but has been teaching (Spanish and PE) and coaching at VIMSIA for 18 years. We are so fortunate to have him - but you all know that already.
Soccer - Montessori Students
Senor's soccer - enough said.
Spanish
Friday afternoon Spanish has been a successful after school activity for years. Senor will continue with this program which is a great way to supplement your child's Spanish classes.
Mr. David Jenkins
Football, Glorious Football! There is no other game that brings the world together. All
you need is ball and four sweaters, and it’s game on! While growing up in
Europe I ate, slept and breathed the sport of Gods. And now I bring that thirst
to the Caribbean! In addition to supporting the Mighty Leeds United, I have
played the game for over thirty years. As well as coaching and playing at youth
club level and University in the UK, I also enjoyed a couple of
semi-professional stints in Sweden, Denmark and Spain, while teaching. With
some of the major clubs in the world banging down my door, I had to make a hard
decision and I chose the life of an educator instead. With age, comes craps and
what I call “lack of exceptional speed”. Since arriving here three months ago,
therefore, I have joined forces with Senor and play with him and his cronies on
the weekend.
Soccer - Academy Students
Although I initially did not plan to run this programme, I
spoke with the students in the IA and got the impression that there was a demand
for football (music to my ears!). In addition to learning and perfecting
individual skills, we will also focus on fitness, position and tactics. This is
intended to be a session for all IA kids to come and play, have fun and
improve. Depending on numbers, I would like to organize some friendly matches
throughout the year. Football does not need to be a season sport, indeed it
should not be! So come on; let’s play!
Ms. Jessica Murphy
Ms. Murphy grew up sailing in Hull, MA and has been sailing since she was 3 years old. She has been coaching sailing since 2004. She is a US Sailing Certified Instructor and US Coast Guard Captain. She has taught sailing for camps and various sailing programs, locally and in the states - including an adaptive sailing program in Vermont. She was the Waterfront Coordinator for St. Thomas Yacht Club in 2007, and as such was responsible for teaching and coaching Racing, beginner sailing, adult sailing and running the Yacht Club Summer Camp. Ms. Murphy has lived in the USVI for three years and we are fortunate to have her working at VIMSIA as an Upper Elementary Montessori Assistant. Ms. Murphy is currently working toward her AMI Elementary Teaching Certificate. She is thrilled to be able to bring her love and experience with Sailing to the students of her school.
Physical conditioning is also a very important part of sailing (and life, of course). Ms. Murphy's sports over the years have included Varsity Track (Jr. Olympics), Softball, and Field Hockey in addition to her sailing experience. As a seasoned athlete, Ms. Murphy understands the importance of conditioning for both physical and emotional strength. She is happy to offer a physical conditioning class as an after school program for Academy students. It is strongly suggested that the Sailing Team members participate.
Academy Sailing
With Coach Murphy's help, VIMSIA is working to establish a sailing program. Any interested academy students should contact Ms. Murphy. The program will be tailored around the skill level of those interested.
Physical Conditioning
This is a cross training class using circuit training machines and
other exercises that focus on body conditioning. There will also be a strong component that teaches conditioning technique and education (monitoring various heart rates, learning & targeting muscle groups, etc). It will be held on the soccer field field with access to the new weight machines, the Jr. Fitness Circuit, the perimeter of the soccer field for running, and the Steel Pan Stage, which is now matted. Students are required to bring a change of clothes appropriate for working out and tennis shoes with socks. Please bring a notebook and pencil for recording progress throughout the course. Ms. Murphy's goal is to improve wellness and physical consciousness among those participating. No prerequisites - Academy Level Students.
Captain Joe Wilkins, Tiny Bubbles
Certified SCUBA Instructor, licensed Six Pack Boat Captain, Certified First Aid, CPR, and AED (Automatic Electric Difibrillation) Instructor for Adults and Children. Captain Joe started SCUBA diving in the Marine Corps and has been an instructor for the past ten years. He has been diving since the age of 18.
Saturday Swim and Snorkeling Classes
Tiny Bubbles also offers a Swimming and Snorkeling Program on Saturdays for ages 4 and up. This is an open program and is not handled through VIMSIA. Please call Captain Joe Wilkins for more information - (340)777-6574.
Music
Ms. Brett OMara
Brett Omara has established herself as an avant-garde violinist, well versed in many genres of music. She has performed at the legendary Carnegie Hall with many orchestras and at Madison Square Garden with hip hop legend Kanye West. Brett has worked in the movie industry and recently taught violin and doubled for Jessica Alba in ‘The Eye’. She has been a member of the Santa Fe Symphony, the New York Chamber Opera, and the World Youth Symphony. At the heart of her busy performance schedule is Brett’s passionate and creative musical voice. Whether she is playing in an orchestra, jamm’in on lead fiddle, swing’in with a jazz trio or rock’in out on her electric violin, Brett always brings intense energy and passion to every performance. She received formal training at The Boston Conservatory, University of Arizona and holds a BA in violin performance from The Manhattan School of Music.
Currently Brett lives and plays music in St. Thomas, USVI. She is founder and director of the VI Montessori Suzuki Violin School (at VIMSIA) and runs her won music service business. She is in high demand as a violinist for weddings, events, and concerts. She plays with several local bands including The Barefoot Davis Band, Greg Kinslow, and works as a session violinist at ISW studios.
Brett is truly an inspiration to our students. It is wonderful to wander campus and hear the beautiful music that she and her students produce floating over the campus. To learn more about this exceptional artist, please visit her website at
www.brettomara.com.
Violin - Individual Lessons
Ms. Omara teaches Suziki violin to children and adults. Many of our parents take lessons along with their child. Please contact Ms. Omara directly for more information and scheduling. email: brettomara@gmail.com.
Mr. James Anderson
James has been offering Guitar Lessons for VIMSIA students on campus for two years.
Guitar - Individual Lessons
James does some individual and some group guitar instruction. He also combines song writing with guitar instruction. Please contact James
directly to schedule Guitar lessons for your child, email:
james@islands.vi
Ms. Vadha Rajaratnam
Ms. Rajaratnam has joined the VIMSIA community as our new Upper Elementary Montessori Directress. We are thrilled to have her on staff for our classroom, and love the extra bonus that she is a qualified Suzuki and Traditional Piano Instructor. She owned and operated Rhythm Keys Music Academy in Boston for 20 years prior to moving to St. Thomas this year. She has been teaching private and group Piano Instruction and Music Theory since 1976. Ms. Rajaratnam has been playing the piano since she was 6 years old. She majored in music and education at Trinity College of Music in Sri Lanka and received her degree from the Royal Academy of Music in London. She is certified to teach Suzuki and did her Suzuki training in Queens University, in Ontario. She also received her certification for Music Pedagogy at the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston.
Piano - Individual Lessons
Please contact Ms. Rajaratnam for more information and scheduling. Email vrajaratnam@vimontessori.com, or phone 617.733.8961
Ms. Marie Paul
Marie Paul is the founder
of Ife Ni JO West African Dance, an organization that aims to help
build self- esteem and self discipline in our youths, as well as to
educate, promote and preserve African history and culture through the
art of West African dance and drumming. Marie has been studying,
performing and choreographing dance for more than sixteen years. Her
dance background includes Afro-Caribbean, Hip Hop, Calypso and Reggae
Dancehall and of course, traditional African dance. In
elementary school, she started dancing and performing with the Bamboula
Dance Company, for five years she performed throughout the Virgin
Islands. Soon after, she danced with the Hip Hop based dance group, the
Infinity Dancers. In 1999, the Infinity Dancers auditioned for and
performed with the internationally known modern dance company from
Pittsburgh at the Reichhold Center for the Arts in the production,
Roots / Cross Routes. Shortly after, while still in high school, she
founded her own dance troupe. The Klymax Dance Group performed at many
local events, these included the then popular Caribbean Christmas
Chorale ’99 and ’00 and Starfest Talent Show ’00 at the Reichhold
Center for the Arts. After
graduation from high school, Marie studied at the University of
Oklahoma where she received a Bachelor’s of Science in Biomedical
Sciences. It is there that she was introduced to and fell in love with
West African Dance. In 2007, she began performing throughout Oklahoma
with the Sunnuada Dance Company, and in 2009 she relocated back to her
home, St.Thomas, USVI where she is committed to educating her community
about the beauty and necessity of African culture and dance. African Drum and Dance
West African dance is a high impact course that is intended for people of all ages. Each dance and movement has history and purpose as they originate from their respective peoples and culture.The dancer will learn to use their bodies differently while working up a sweat! Parents are encouraged to attend this program with their child(ren). Discounted rates will apply to parents of childen taking the class - talk to Ms. Marie for parent fee structure.
No shoes, Ladies wraps/sarong, Ladies tights under wrap, Men loose fitting clothing, Plenty water
Arts
Ms. Jerilee Roberts
Ms. Roberts has her degree from Casper College in Wyoming. She also has a Studio Art Degree from Hunter College in New York. She ran the Pottery Studio at the City Art Center, in Oklahoma City, for 4 years. She taught pottery for two years at Children's Aid Society in New York City, and has been teaching pottery for the past 10 years here at VIMSIA through our after school programs and Ms. Roberts' Summer Pottery/Arts Camp.
Pottery
Introduction to hand building techniques and pottery. The course will focus on creativity and structure for hand building treasures. Students will create their treasures from raw clay, mix their own glazes, glaze their work and have it fired right here on campus. They will be able to bring home their creations for lasting family memories. The pottery sale/display is always one of the highlights of our VIMSIA After School Performance/Show each spring.
Mr. Bill Johnson
Mr. Johnson is a retired K-12 school teacher of 30 years. He has also spent 23 years in the military. Mr. Johnson became passionate about wood turning in 2004 and has been perfecting his workmanship ever since. He regularly attends woodworking symposiums and sells his functional and artistic pieces here on the islands and in the states. He has given several demonstrations to the students and they are all very enthusiastic. I love to see a 6th grade boy with his mouth just dropped in awe and interest!
Wood Turning
This class is ideal for students age 10 - 17. It will open up a new world of creativity and may even get them started on a trade! The process involves a lathe (there are four available) to turn a wood block while it is formed using one of several various tools. Items that can be made are endless - including bowls, trivets, utensils, vases. In this class the students will make such things as spinning tops, yo-yo's, garden dibbles and tea light holders.
This is a power tool - please be sure that your child takes this course seriously. Any child that does not listen or proceed in a safe manner will be taken out of the class for the remainder of the session. Safety Rules: Goggles and Face Shield must be worn, long hair must be tied back, no loose clothing or jewelry of any kind, Mr. Johnson is the BOSS!
Ms. Nayda Young
Nayda Young, Fashion Designer, costume designer, sewing instructor and tailoress will be offering a sewing course for VIMSIA students. Nayda was the costumer for Pistarckle Theater and has taught sewing for over 30 years to children and adults.
Sew Stylish
Nayda’s students learn sewing machine use, pattern use and garment
construction. The students will display their finished garments during
a fashion show at the end of the course. Two classes will be offered. Ages 5-8 and 12-14 with a minimum of 5 students per class and a maximum of 6.
Pistarckle Theater Education Department
Please visit the
Pistarckle website for information on their After School offerings.
Academic
Mr. Darryl Allen
Chess
This will be Coach Allen's second year with our VIMSIA Chess students. Beginner to experienced players are encouraged to join the team. Coach Allen will be taking the VIMSIA Chess Team to tournaments throughout the year.
