If you are interested in joining our faculty, please email us at founders@lumen.school.
My mission has always been to make math engaging, relevant, and accessible to all of my students. Over the course of 20+ years, I have taught math to hundreds of students from age 5 to 25, served as department chair in three schools, and worked extensively as a curriculum developer. I am also very proud to have helped create developmental apps for kids with language delay and for co-authoring multiple papers on the topic of cognitive development and language therapy. When I’m not teaching, I can usually be found running, rock climbing, or frolicking in the mountains with my friends, husband, and two young kids. Read more about my background and teaching philosophy.
I’ve spent over 15 years working in high-energy physics – building detectors, analyzing data, and collaborating with scientists around the world at places like CERN, MIT, and the University of Kansas. I’ve loved the challenge and excitement of discovery, but what’s stayed with me most is the joy of sharing that excitement with others.
For the past decade, I’ve been homeschooling my kids, which opened up a whole new world of teaching – full of curiosity, creativity, and connection. I led science clubs, taught a summer course on particle physics, and got to watch 10-year-olds light up while learning about quarks. It reminded me how powerful learning can be when it feels meaningful and joyful.
When my son joined Lumen, I recognized right away that this was something special. It felt like the kind of school I had been imagining for years – a place where children are known, challenged, and inspired. I’m so excited to be part of growing that vision, and to help create a school where a love of learning takes root and grows for life.
With experience managing complex projects at a Fortune 500 corporation, I bring operational and strategic insight to initiatives at Lumen Academy. Having familiarity delivering large-scale programs, I’ve led cross-functional teams through product launches, digital transformations, and process optimizations across multiple industries.
Now serving as a operations strategist at Lumen Academy, I’m focused on strengthening organizational efficiency, enhancing team collaboration, and implementing scalable systems to support Lumen Academy’s mission of delivering exceptional educational experiences. By combining corporate rigor with a commitment to progress, I aim to enhance Lumen Academy’s ability to deliver transformative learning experiences—ensuring sustainable growth and measurable outcomes.
I’m a licensed early childhood educator with a master’s degree in child development and psychology from Stavropol State University. I have been working with children of all ages since 2008, and as a mother myself I understand the importance of having loving and professional childcare providers in the lives of preschool children. My main priorities are safety and love, which are the foundation for bringing up a happy and successful person. I try to make learning fun and exciting by participating in continuing education and incorporating new educational methods into my classes.
When not in school I’m enjoying outdoors with my husband and our daughter and finding some time for my jewelry making hobby.
My journey of working with children began over 15 years ago. I started my professional career as a coach and later took on the role of Deputy Director at the Olympic Training Center “Avangard” in Donetsk.
I have extensive experience teaching physical education classes and conducting programs focused on children’s physical development. In my work, I adhere to the principles of an active lifestyle and healthy nutrition, aiming to instill good habits in children from an early age.
In 2022, I moved from Ukraine to the United States. When the time came to decide what I wanted to do, I immediately knew I wanted to work with children. It felt like the most natural choice for me. That’s how my journey in this profession began.
I truly enjoy working with kids — their honesty, energy, and curiosity inspire me every day. Over the past three years, I’ve gained valuable experience and realized that this is the field in which I want to grow and develop further.
Now, I would love to continue my professional path at Lumen Academy — in the preschool environment, where I can keep supporting children as they grow, learn, and feel safe and loved. I believe that working with children is more than just a job; it’s a meaningful mission that brings both joy and purpose.
Founder and Clinic Director of KidLink Therapy PC
I am a certified and licensed Pediatric Occupational Therapist with twenty years of experience working with infants, children and adolescents in clinic, school and home settings. I am also the founder and the clinic director of KidLink Therapy PC as well as the brain health coach and performance enhancement specialist at Artistry Martial Arts.
Founder and CEO of Hermiona Education
I am a high-tech entrepreneur and an educational expert. Currently, I am serving as a CEO and founder of Hermiona, an educational company whose diverse team are graduates of top American and global universities. From exam-prep to interview coaching to helping students formulate their personal mission as a capstone project, Hermiona’s team goal is to empower students to reach their potential.
I am also a mentor and board member of several international startups, as well as a Forbes contributor and a speaker at the International Economic Olympiad. I have extensive experience in the educational landscape and have authored programs for gifted children.
I feel privileged to be able to join Lumen in its inaugural year as the school nurse! Prior to School Nursing I worked as a Family Nurse Practitioner at a Primary Care & Walk-In Clinic, then a private internal medicine practice out of Newton Wellesley Hospital. For the past 5 years I have been home raising my own 3 children, one of whom is a 4th grader at Lumen! One of my kids is medically complicated and has special needs. He has been the best teacher a nurse could ever ask for. I cannot wait to get to know your children and help care for them at school.
As a kindergarten teacher, my focus is on creating a nurturing and joyful environment where young children feel safe, confident, and excited to learn. I believe early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong curiosity and growth, so we spend our days exploring through play, stories, songs, and hands-on activities. My background is in Early Childhood Education, and I have several years of experience working with young learners. I love watching my students develop new skills, friendships, and a love of learning.
I’ve been teaching kindergarten for the past 28 years, and I still find joy and purpose in every day with my students. With a background in early childhood education, I’ve developed a strong foundation in literacy, social-emotional learning, and hands-on, exploratory teaching. Over the years, I’ve created engaging curriculum across subject areas, led school-wide programs, mentored fellow teachers, and built lasting relationships with families. I’m passionate about creating a classroom where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn—and I bring patience, creativity, and a deep commitment to each child’s growth.
Mayra Lissette Garcia brings both a love of discovery and a rich background in science to Lumen Academy. She earned her PhD at Yale University, where she specialized in virology and pharmaceutical drug design. After graduate school, she worked in patent law at a leading international law firm, supporting the translation of scientific discoveries into real-world applications.
As a parent and educator, Mayra has spent over seven years homeschooling her two gifted children and leading homeschool co-ops in the community. She drew from the classical education tradition while also incorporating other teaching philosophies, tailoring her approach to the unique needs of each child. She believes children learn best when their natural curiosity is honored and their voices are heard. At Lumen, she is excited to bring her scientific expertise and passion for teaching together, helping students cultivate curiosity, critical thinking, and joy in scientific discovery.”
I am a mathematics educator with over 12 years of experience. I have worked with students of various ages and skill levels, focusing on making complex concepts accessible and helping them achieve their academic goals. My teaching methods emphasize critical thinking and real-world applications , aiming to inspire student’s appreciation of mathematics in every day life. I am passionate about education and take pride in seeing my students grow in confidence and capability. In my free time I enjoy hiking, skiing and skating with my husband and 3 kids.
I am a dedicated math educator with experience teaching in private school settings, where I’ve worked closely with students to build both strong foundational skills and a deep appreciation for mathematics. My approach combines clear instruction with real-world problem-solving to help students see the relevance and beauty of math in everyday life. I value creating a supportive, engaging classroom where students feel confident to ask questions, think critically, and challenge themselves.
As a mathematician, I’ve always been fascinated by the elegance and power of numbers, but as a teacher, my greatest passion is helping young people discover that same beauty for themselves. With 25 years of experience—15 years in Russia and 10 years in the United States at RSM in Boston—I have had the privilege of teaching mathematics, specializing in working with gifted students and using unique methodologies, including the Vygotsky-Galperin system, learning cycles technology by H. Levitas, and my own key problem’s method for teaching geometry, which is described in my upcoming book (in print).
I believe that mathematics is not just a subject to be learned, but a language to be understood. This philosophy has guided my work, from my Master’s studies at the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology, where I also taught for a decade, to my work in some of the most prestigious schools in Moscow, including “The League of Schools”, Lyceum #2, and “Intellectual” School. It was during this period that I had the honor of serving as a member of the All-Russian Congress of Teachers of Mathematics at Moscow State University. I have also authored a number of scientific and methodological publications in journals such as “Matematicheskie Zametki” (“Math Notes”) and “Kvant”, the renowned Russian journals for students and teachers of mathematics and physics.
My commitment has been recognized with honors, including being a six-time laureate of the Dmitry Zimin “Dynasty” Foundation in the “Young Teacher” category. I am thrilled to bring my passion for teaching to Lumen Academy and to help your students grow into confident, capable, and curious thinkers.
I got a Masters Degree in Applied Math from Moscow Technical University and worked in software development for many years in Russia, Ukraine, and the US.
15 years ago I started teaching Olympiad Math at RSM and enjoyed very much helping advanced and curious students of all ages to prepare them for the Math contests of all kinds: MOEMS, Math Kangaroo, AMC, Math Counts and others.
I am sure that the spirit of Math creativity will flourish in the very creative and innovative atmosphere of the Lumen Academy.
Art Teacher at Lukomorie School
Math Teacher/Coordinator at Studio of Engaging Math
Upon graduating BU with a BFA, I realized that I love working with kids. I have spent the last fifteen years teaching art at a Russian-immersion program, running an illustration club at a Newton Middle School, and working with PreK–1st graders at the Studio of Engaging Math. In my free time, I helped run an escape room, participated at a small Russian theater and made two cute little girls, who have taken over and made sure I will never be bored ever again.
I’ve taught English and ELA in the Bronx, NYC; Richmond, VA; and Newton, MA. I love working with teachers, students, and their families to help young people become creative, independent thinkers and globally minded citizens. I hold a Master’s degree in Advanced Teaching Practices with a specialization in Reading and Literacy, and an endorsement from my students in puns.
For the past 3 years, I’ve taught Language Arts to students in grades 1-4 at Star Academy where I also introduced the third and fourth grade students to the works of Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare through guided reading seminars.
During the 12 years prior, I ran Academic Enrichment Programming for the City of Framingham through the Homework Center After School Tutoring Program. This included annual academic events like spelling and geography bees, essay contests, coding clubs, and cultural programming. During this time, I recruited, trained and supervised 62 tutors. Together we helped hundreds of children raise their grades, learn to believe in themselves and love all kinds of literature.
What I’d like you to know most about me is that I love reading. I believe my job is to help every student love reading too. Reading helps us understand life, it helps us become better critical thinkers. My academic background is Clinical Social Work.
I am transitioning to teaching after beginning my undergraduate studies in Secondary Education and History, where I first encountered Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences and began thinking critically about the global achievement gap. During that time, I completed two pre-practicum placements—one at St. Mary’s in Brookline and another at Brighton High School—which helped shape my vision for an inclusive, engaging classroom.
After graduating from Emmanuel College in Boston with a degree in Global Studies and International Relations, I spent several years working in government and public service. I supported a number of local and statewide political campaigns and served in both state and federal legislative offices, helping constituents from all across Massachusetts navigate systems and advocate for their needs. In 2018, I followed a long-standing passion for communications and opened a brand strategy and social media marketing agency. My work has focused on elevating small to mid-size brands through refined messaging, storytelling, and targeted outreach—skills I now bring into the classroom to support student engagement, creativity, and critical thinking.
I live on the North Shore with my husband and our cat, Lucy. As I step into the classroom, I’m excited to merge my background in education, public service, and strategic communication to create a dynamic and meaningful learning experience for my students.
Russian Teacher at Alma Mater, Shaloh House, and New England Language School
I’m a teacher of Russian language and literature with experience in Belarus, Israel, and the US. I am currently expanding my horizons by continuing my studies as a Speech Language Pathologist at Elms College. I’m also able to teach classes while hanging upside down from a tree branch or monkey bars.
Studio Director of Arlekin Studios
My goal is to foster and encourage students’ interest in literature, language and theater, while developing their innate artistic talents. My approach combines the study of Russian language with teaching the basics of theater, and I believe it to be one of the most effective methods of language instruction. In my teaching, I draw upon my extensive knowledge of the Stanislavsky system, the Michael Chekhov technique, and the leading methods from the Vakhtangov school, which I learned as a student at the Shchukin Theatre School.
Founder and Director of Wandering Lampshade (Бродячий абажур)
As a scenographer and theater educator with many years of experience, I see theater as a way to explore the world, connect with others, and express who we are. I created Abajour Theatre to give children a space to move, build, imagine, and create freely.
My lessons immerse children in the creative process and help develop imagination, curiosity, confidence, spatial awareness, focus, and self-expression—through both movement and hands-on making.
At Lumen, I teach two classes:
– Theater for Life focuses on games, improvisation, and presence.
– Make It is all about working with materials and ideas to bring projects to life.
My goal is to support each child’s growth through art, play, and joyful experimentation.
My interests have always been around music and art (I graduated from Moscow Conservatory with BA in Performance and then persued Master degree in music theory and production from Russian Academy of Music). I started working with kids in 2016 as a music teacher and music director’s assistant in a youth orchestra. As a classical music producer I worked in Germany and Canada before I finally settled in Boston where my two sons were born. My own motherhood journey consolidated my interests in pedagogy and further expanded to child psychology and early childhood development.
My goal as a preschool teacher is to create a warm and nurturing environment where each child is supported. I love introducing kids to classical and world music and literacy as well as engaging in fun active games.
I am beyond happy to see my both sons thriving at Lumen Academy.
I’m a choral conductor, music educator, and passionate advocate for vocal training. I earned my Master’s degree in Choral Conducting with honors from the Russian Academy of Music named after Gnessins and pursued advanced studies at the Moscow Conservatory. After relocating to the U.S. in 1999, I continued my musical journey, conducting ensembles such as the Russian Women’s Choir of Boston and Boston Choral Ensemble, and serving as Music Director at Wellesley Hills Unitarian Universalist Church. I’ve sung with Voices 21C, NOVA, and the Marsh Chapel Choir, and I serve as a soprano section leader substitute for local churches.
In 2014, I founded Boston Bilingual Singers, a youth studio offering choral and solo voice training, piano, theory, and music history. My students have earned top placements at NATS Classical Voice Auditions, and my concert choir recently performed at the Appalachian Youth Voices Festival.
I hold a D.M.A. in Music Education from Boston University and I actively pursue professional development through workshops and master classes in the U.S. and U.K.
I am a Russian-American bass-baritone, pianist, composer, and stage director with a lifelong passion for music and education. As the creator of the ONE TWO THREE SING® method, I help students develop healthy, expressive voices through breath-based technique, musicality, and confidence-building exercises.
Over the years, I’ve had the joy of working with students of all ages and levels, many of whom have gone on to study at conservatories such as Berklee College of Music, the Eastman School of Music, and the Hartt School of Music. Some of my students have performed at venues like Carnegie Hall and Boston Symphony Hall, sung the National Anthem at major sporting events, and even appeared on America’s Got Talent. Seeing my students grow and find their own unique voices has been one of the most rewarding parts of my work.
I also serve as the Artistic Director of Commonwealth Lyric Theater in Boston, where I direct productions that bring together professional artists and emerging young talent. In 2024, I premiered my original family musical Pinocchio at the Emerson Colonial Theatre—a project close to my heart that continues to inspire young performers and audiences.
In both group classes and private lessons, I focus on creating a supportive, joyful environment where each student can thrive. I teach a wide range of styles, from opera and Broadway to jazz and pop, and always strive to help students build a strong foundation for lifelong musical development.
Composer, Arranger at Boston Bilingual Singers and Theater on the Roof
I am a highly experienced educator with advanced degrees in music history, composition, and arranging, boasting over 25 years of teaching experience. I am also the creator of a computer arranging course and founder of the MusicVision: The Engaging Story of Music educational project for children.
To get an idea of what I do, please visit my project’s website
I am a music educator with over 45 years of teaching experience. I hold a Master’s degree in clarinet and saxophone performance. As one of the founders of an orchestra for deaf and hard-of-hearing children in Uzbekistan, I helped bring music to life for students with special needs – an ensemble that went on to tour internationally. In addition to clarinet and saxophone, I also teach piano and flute. My students regularly perform in concerts, participate in international competitions and festivals, and are active members of esteemed ensembles, including the Boston Youth Symphony. I am deeply dedicated to my craft, and try to bring warmth, expertise, and a personalized approach to every lesson, and aim to inspire students of all ages and skill levels.
Since I moved to the US almost 4 years ago, I’ve been a PE teacher in Maimonides school in Brookline and Metro West Jewish Day School in Framingham.
I am a former tennis professional and former National Israel Tennis Coach who has been in education, sports, and wellness for 25 years.
I got my bachelor degree at Vingeate sport Academy in Israel
In my free time, I love spending time with family, working out at the gym, running, and playing soccer.
Head Instructor at Artistry Martial Arts, Waban
I am a dedicated and proficient martial artist who started learning Martial Arts at five years of age. I won gold medals in Wushu, Sanda, Tae-Kwon-Do competitions. I have twelve years of experience as an instructor, have taught hundreds of children, adolescents and adults and am well known in the martial art community.
I am a passionate Mandarin educator originally from Taiwan, with both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Chinese Literature. I taught Chinese literature at high schools in Taiwan. In the U.S., I’ve served as a Mandarin teacher and Dean of Academic Affairs at a weekend Chinese school. In 2023, I was honored to have the “Teacher Merit Award” from the Association of Chinese Schools. I believe in multiple intelligences and respect each student’s uniqueness, so I design lessons to support their learning styles.
I am a native Spanish speaker with a strong background in communication, caregiving, and education support. I studied at Universidad Panamericana de Guatemala and over the past few years, I have worked closely with children in different roles, which has helped me develop practical strategies, patience, and creativity to make lessons both effective and enjoyable.
I am passionate about sharing my language and culture with those who want to explore the Spanish-speaking world. I believe learning a language should be an engaging and meaningful experience, where students feel supported and motivated.
In my free time, I enjoy cooking international dishes, discovering new cultures, and practicing American Sign Language. I look forward to creating a positive, dynamic, and inclusive learning environment where every student feels encouraged to grow and succeed.
Chess Grandmaster, 6th rating in the world in 1992 (ICCF)
I have been teaching chess for 30 years; my students have gone on to become Massachusetts champions and trophy winners of US championships.
Chess is a unique activity, developing the following characteristics in a child:
And all of these are learned by the child in the most natural way – by playing the game!
I believe music is a joyful experience and I love sharing this art with kids. Singing is one of humanity’s oldest activities, and it fosters a sense of community and improves well-being.
I have trained at the Gnessin State Musical College and at the Institute of Contemporary Art. Additionally, I hold a master’s degree in Sociology and Psychology from Moscow State University of Management.
Throughout my career, I have authored and presented numerous thematic recitals, collaborating with artists and ensembles both in my native country and the US.
I have taught at the Beethoven Music School, provided music therapy, and currently work at the Maria Kotova & Ron Williams International Vocal Studio, as well as several preschool centers. I have also attended seminars for instruction in the Orff Pedagogic method with Tatiana Tutunnikova
Founder and Director of International Rock Climbing School
I have 38 years of climbing and mountaineering experience in the Alps, Caucasus, Crimea, Yosemite, U.S Rocky Mountains, Canada, Mexico, New England and Alaska, with many first ascents. I am a teacher by education; some of my students have gone on to become USA Youth and College National Championships, some have made the US Youth National Team and went on to compete at the Worlds.
I am also a USA climbing certified coach, a graduate of the Appalachian Mountain Club Leadership School, a Wilderness First Responder, and is CPR /First Aid certified.
The most frequently asked question I get: what is your hardest climb? Here is one video, and another which can answer the question.
