Khadijah Ahmad - Toddler Directress (kahmad@vimsia.org)
Ms. Ahmad was born and raised in the culturally rich land of Palestine, where her deep appreciation for language and education began. With a degree in English Language and Literature and a minor in Education from the prestigious Birzeit University, she has cultivated a strong foundation in her academic and professional pursuits.

After graduating, Ms. Ahmad embarked on her teaching career, where she quickly demonstrated her passion for nurturing young minds. Her dedication and talent in the classroom soon led to an opportunity to expand her impact as a program advisor, a role she fulfilled at the University of the People (UoPeople) for three years. During this time, she was instrumental in shaping educational strategies, providing guidance, and supporting both teachers and students in a dynamic online learning environment. Currently, Ms. Ahmad is pursuing her AMI (Association Montessori Internationale) training at the Montessori Institute in Denver, Colorado.

Outside of her professional life, she is an avid artist, channeling her creativity into painting and sculpting clay. These artistic endeavors not only serve as a personal outlet but also influence her approach to education, where she believes in the power of creativity to inspire learning and personal growth.

Kelsilene Lima - Spanish Speaking Teacher’s Assistant
Señora Lima is from São Tomé.   Her native language is Portuguese, and she speaks Spanish and English as well.   Señora Lima has been volunteering at the school since her arrival in St. Thomas in 2013.  She came on staff full time in 2015.  Her husband, Señor Araujo, has been teaching Spanish, soccer, and PE at VIMSIA for over 25 years. Their daughter, Anisley, is a student here at VIMSIA.

Sherri Marx - Casa Lead Teacher (smarx@vimsia.org)
Ms. Sherri was born and raised just north of Detroit, Michigan. Sherri has a bachelor's degree in psychology, with a minor in child development; she graduated cum laude. She spent the first 25 years of her career in the medical field, owning and operating her own home care agency. Sherri has two children, Joey is 22 and Kayli is 20. Motherhood inspired Sherri to pursue a new career in Montessori education. In 2018 she furthered her education by gaining her infant/toddler Montessori credential while leading a toddler Montessori environment. She continued guiding children in that environment until last school year. 

During her many trips to St Thomas, Ms. Sherri dreamed of moving to St. Thomas and finishing her career here. After doing some research and learning about VIMSIA, Sherri decided this would be the right time to conquer this mission. 

Outside of Ms. Sherri's career, she loves spending time with her family and traveling.

Melisa Matthias-Brookes, Casa Assistant
Melisa Matthias-Brookes is a native of St. Thomas, mother of two, lover of science, and seeker of peace and joy. She proudly holds two degrees from two HBCUs (UVI and Tuskegee University). Melisa is excited about this new journey, especially meeting you and your little ones!