Faculty & Staff
The VMS directresses (teachers) are trained with a keen sense of observation and have a deep and loving concern for each child. While they are willing to dedicate all of their energies to the students who need them, they are also able to disappear in a small corner of the classroom to allow the “child to be his own teacher.” At VMS, the directresses prepare the environment, direct and supervise activities, function as the leaders, and offer each child stimulation, but it is the child himself who learns.
Each Montessori directress holds an Association Montessori Internationale (AMI) diploma and faculty members participate in the development and growth of the program.
Classroom Directresses
Sr. Juliana Tengia 🍎
Assistant Principal/Lower Elementary Directress 🇹🇿
Sister Juliana comes to us from Moshi in the Kilimanjaro region of Tanzania and is the youngest of seven siblings. Fluent in Chagga, Swahili, English, and Italian, she obtained her Bachelor of Educational Psychology from Saint Vincent College in Latrobe, PA. With 27 years of teaching experience, including 19 years at VMS, she has taught various grades in public schools across Tanzania. In recent years, Sister Juliana served as VMS school principal and continues as our assistant principal this year.
She has traveled extensively, including visits to Nairobi and several cities in Italy, and has explored various locations across the U.S. In her spare time, she enjoys gardening, sewing, and savoring her favorite Tanzanian dish of cooked green bananas, as well as occasional outings. Sister Juliana's unwavering commitment to both the school and her students is evident in her tireless efforts to inspire and support their academic and personal growth.
Sr. M. Letizia Tribuzio 🍎
Upper Elementary Directress 🇮🇹
Sister Letizia was born in Mola di Bari in Italy's Puglia region and is one of nine siblings. With a diploma from the Istituto Magistrale in Conversano and extensive Montessori training, she boasts 56 years of teaching experience, including 50 years at VMS, where she also served as principal for 24 years. Fluent in English and Italian, she has also studied French and Latin, and her travels include destinations across Israel and various cities in Italy and the U.S.
For relaxation, Sister Letizia takes pleasure in music, gardening, painting, and cherishing nature, while finding joy in her large family and friendships. Her favorite treats are ice cream, vegetables, fruits, and sweets, reflecting her vibrant and nurturing spirit. Sister Letizia exemplifies a steadfast commitment to education and the success of each of her students.
Sr. Martha Msambili 🍎
Lower Elementary Directress 🇹🇿
Sister Martha hails from Mpwapwa in Dodoma, Tanzania, where she grew up with eight siblings. A linguist, she speaks multiple languages, including Swahili, Hehe, Gogo, Tiriko, Masai, English, Italian, and Spanish, and holds a Master of Arts in Linguistics from LUMSA in Rome. With 21 years of teaching experience, including 10 at VMS, she has taught both elementary and high school students in Italy and Tanzania, where she served as a principal. Sister Martha has traveled widely across Africa and Europe, as well as visited several U.S. states.
In her free time, she has a penchant for cooking, with a particular fondness for Chinese food. Sister Martha's compassionate approach to teaching, creates an enriching environment where every learner feels valued and understood.
Sr. Veyce Matonya 🍎
Children's House Directress 🇹🇿
Sister Veyce is a native of the Dodoma region of Tanzania, where she grew up with three brothers and one sister. Fluent in Kigogo, Kiswahili, English, and Italian, she holds a Bachelor of Education from Seton Hill University and previously served as the Principal of Vocation College Mariele in Tanzania. With 12 years of teaching experience, she has dedicated seven of those years to VMS.
Sister Veyce has traveled to various countries, including Kenya and Italy, and in her spare time, she is fond of sewing. Her favorite restaurant is Olive Garden. Sister Veyce’s infectious energy creates an engaging and enjoyable classroom environment for all students.
Sr. Agnes Mahwera 🍎
Children's House Directress 🇹🇿
Sister Agnes is from Mabamba in Kibondo, Tanzania, and is one of six siblings. Fluent in Kiha, Kiswahili, English, and Italian, she completed her high school education at Chumvi Secondary School and obtained a Bachelor of Education from Seton Hill University, specializing in Montessori training at Hartford Training Center in Connecticut. Since joining religious life in 1997 and making her final vows in 2008, she has amassed ten years of teaching experience, four of which have been at VMS.
Sister Agnes enjoys traveling, having visited countries like Burundi, Kenya, and Italy, and she has a passion for trying new foods and recipes. Sister Agnes' profound love for children and teaching radiates in every aspect of her work, illuminating her interactions with everyone she encounters.
Sr. Anna Maria Leopizzi🍎
Children's House Directress 🇮🇹
Sister Anna Maria, originally from Parabita, Italy, is a seasoned educator with 45 years of teaching experience, including 24 years at VMS. She completed her Montessori training and holds diplomas in education and special education, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts from Saint Vincent College. Fluent in both English and Italian, she has taught various age groups across Italy, Turkey, and the United States.
Sister Anna Maria is also an avid traveler, having explored multiple countries and regions, while in her leisure time, she has an affinity for gardening, painting, and cooking, with lasagna and tiramisu among her favorite dishes. Sister Anna Maria's diverse experiences and passions enrich the VMS community, making her a beloved figure among students and the entire VMS community.
Sr. Angelina Grimoldi 🍎
Acting President of Corporation 🇮🇹
Sister Angelina hails from Milano, Italy, and is fluent in both English and Italian. She earned her Montessori diploma and attended Seton Hill University. She has been dedicated to education since 1975, teaching previously in Derry, PA before joining VMS. Now, she serves as the Acting President of Corporation.
When given an opportunity, Sister Angelina finds joy in sewing, painting, and cleaning. Sister Angelina’s extensive experience, deep compassion, and unwavering passion for education make her a beacon of inspiration for all future generations.
Staff Members
Mrs. Sharon Pasquarette 🖋️
Principal
Mrs. P, originally from Brookville, PA, now resides locally with her husband and cherishes her roles as a mother and grandmother. A dedicated educator with a Bachelor of Science in Education from Clarion University, she is currently pursuing a Master of Science and is Praxis certified for Pre-K through 12 in multiple subjects. With 37 years of experience in education, Mrs. P has taught in various schools and served two prior principal positions before becoming the new principal at VMS.
In her personal time, she enjoys the simple pleasures of life, such as candles, handwriting the Bible, and time with her grandchildren. Mrs. P is passionate about education and committed to fostering a nurturing learning environment for all students. Her vibrant enthusiasm for life transforms school into an exciting and enjoyable environment.
Mrs. Lisa Stewart 📎
Secretary
Mrs. Stewart, a Fayette County native and the eldest of three sisters, has been married to her husband Duane since 2001, and they have two children, Anna and Brennen. She holds an associate’s degree from Laurel Business Institute.
Outside of her work in the VMS office, Mrs. Stewart enjoys camping, scrapbooking, reading, and volunteering with various church ministries. Her favorite vacation destination is Nags Head in the Outer Banks. She is the smiling face that greets you and ensures that our school office operates smoothly.
Dr. Melonie Dropik 🔬
Middle School Teacher
Dr. Dropik hails from Mt. Pleasant, PA, and is one of four siblings. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology, her Master of Education, and her Doctor of Education in Instruction and Learning from the University of Pittsburgh, alongside a secondary biology certification from Saint Vincent College. With extensive teaching experience, she has instructed high school biology, anatomy, and physics at Greater Latrobe, as well as various courses at the University of Pittsburgh and Dominican University. Dr. Dropik has traveled extensively across the United States and Canada and spent six years living in the Chicago suburbs.
In her free time, she enjoys reading and listening to music. She delivers scientific knowledge in a captivating manner that keeps students engaged and eager to learn more.
Mrs. Ursula Adams 📖
Middle School Teacher
Mrs. Adams, a dedicated educator from Ligonier, PA, resides with her husband Ron. She has one daughter, Paisley and a son-in-law, Jess. With a Bachelor of Arts in Communication/English from Slippery Rock University and a Master of Education with a literacy focus from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, she is also certified as a Reading Specialist for grades K-12. Bringing 32 years of teaching experience, including six years at VMS, Mrs. Adams has taught various subjects, including Spanish and French, across multiple Diocese of Greensburg schools. Passionate about learning, she has studied languages extensively and enjoys sharing that knowledge with her students.
When she has downtime, Mrs. Adams enjoys creative writing, singing, knitting, crocheting, and spending quality moments with family, all while savoring her favorite cuisines of Italian and Mexican food. Her vibrant energy and creative lessons inspire students to be eager and engaged.
Mrs. Sarah Bogert ⚽
Physical Education/Lower Elementary Assistant
Mrs. Bogert, originally from Altoona, PA, now lives in Greensburg with her husband and children, all of whom have been connected to VMS. She holds a degree in massage and neuromuscular therapy from the Pittsburgh School of Massage Therapy and is a certified instructor in dance fitness, karate (Tang Soo Do), and kickboxing. In addition to her roles at Brave Martial Arts and TDI Ballroom, she has provided childcare for the Ellis School for Girls and has studied both German and Korean. Her travels have taken her across the United States, Canada, Italy, and the Virgin Islands.
For recreation, Mrs. Bogert enjoys hiking, outdoor adventures, exercise, Bible study, painting, and attending hockey games with her family. Her knack for fun transforms gym class and daily lessons into exhilarating adventures that keep everyone engaged and eager to participate.
Ms. Sophia Mintas 🎼
Music Teacher
Ms. Mintas, originally from Palo Alto, CA, is an accomplished music educator and polyglot, having studied Italian, Spanish, Turkish, and Russian, with singing experience in multiple languages. She holds a Bachelor of Music from the Mary Pappert School of Music at Duquesne University and has dedicated 12 years to teaching, including her current role at VMS for the past three years. With a rich background in education, she has taught Spanish and music to various grade levels at Chestnut Ridge Christian Academy. Ms. Mintas is also a passionate traveler, having explored countries like Italy, Mexico, Turkey, and China, which has enriched her diverse culinary tastes, enjoying dishes such as sushi, baklava, and gyros.
In addition to her musical expertise on 15 different instruments, she also teaches music lessons and cooking classes, demonstrating her versatile talents and interests. She also studied acting at the Los Angeles City College Theatre Academy, worked in movies, commercials, performed in Los Angeles, and assisted in coaching acting with children from ages three and up while enriching her music education. Her musicality truly reaches a high note when our students contribute their voices to the harmony.
Mrs. Cecilia Rohosky 🍏
Children's House Assistant
Biography coming soon...
Mrs. Linda Wagner 🍏
Lower Elementary Assistant
Mrs. Wagner is originally from Decatur, Illinois, but spent much of her childhood in Texas. With a Bachelor of Journalism from the University of Texas and a Master of Education from Carlow University, she has been teaching since 1973 across several states, including Arizona, Oregon, California, and Pennsylvania, and is certified in both elementary and special education. Fluent in Spanish, Mrs. Wagner brings a rich cultural perspective to the classroom, and this is her second year teaching at VMS. An avid traveler, she has explored destinations in both the U.S. and Europe, including England, Austria, and the Czech Republic.
In her leisure, she enjoys gardening, reading cozy mysteries, rescuing cats, playing the piano, and indulging in her favorite foods. Her gentle manner creates a nurturing environment that warms the hearts of students, making them feel cared for and appreciated.
Ms. Deborah Witt 📚
Librarian
Ms. Witt is a Fayette County native and a proud parent of VMS alumni. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Long Island University and a Master of Library and Information Science degree from the University of Pittsburgh/West Virginia University. Along with 25 years of experience as the school librarian at VMS, she previously taught library science in the Uniontown Area School District.
In her spare time, Ms. Witt enjoys oil painting, sewing, history, and traveling, having visited Canada and all 50 states except Alaska and Hawaii. Her passion for library education and diverse interests enrich the VMS community.
Mrs. Shawna Little 🔤 🔢
Reading & Math Specialist
Mrs. Little is an experienced educator residing in Uniontown with her family. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Education as a Reading Specialist from California University of PA (Penn West). With 22 years of teaching experience, she has spent the last two years at VMS.
Outside of her professional life, Mrs. Little enjoys supporting her children's activities and relaxing at Virginia Beach during summer vacations.
Mrs. Anicia Lelich 🌻
Guidance Counselor
Mrs. Lelich lives in Latrobe with her family and is a proud graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Saint Vincent College. This year marks her second year in the guidance role.
When Mrs. Lelich is not advising, she loves walking, playing with her dog, and attending high school football games. Her favorite foods include salad, pizza, and ice cream. Mrs. Lelich is excited to support and guide students throughout their educational journey.
Mrs. Lora Seelye 🗣️
Speech and Hearing
Mrs. Seelye resides in Belle Vernon with her husband, son, and dog. She earned her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Communication Disorders from California University of PA (Penn West) and has dedicated 16 years to the field as a speech language pathologist, including four years at VMS. Her professional journey includes experience with Pittsburgh Public Schools, Indianapolis Public Schools, and Intermediate Unit 1.
An avid traveler, she has explored the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, and in her spare time, she enjoys reading on her Kindle, baking cookies, and spending quality moments with her family. Mrs. Seelye loves visiting Starbucks, Red Lobster, Target, and shopping on Amazon.
Mrs. Stacey Bonadio 👩⚕️
Nurse
Mrs. Bonadio is a dedicated school nurse at Connellsville Area School District and VMS, bringing 16 years of experience in this role and a total of 30 years in the nursing field. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Pennsylvania State University and is certified as a school nurse through the University of Pittsburgh. Prior to her current position, she worked at Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.
Residing in Connellsville with her husband and three sons, she cherishes family moments, especially during Thanksgiving and Christmas, which she celebrates with beloved family meals. Outside of work, Mrs. Bonadio enjoys creating lasting memories on Disney vacations with her family.