Our Staff

Dr. Suha A. Jaber, Executive Director

Email: SuhaJaber@RisingLeadersAcademy.org

Dr. Suha Jaber founded Rising Leaders Academy in 2012. She served as the Principal until January 1, 2019, then became the Executive Director. She is also the Instructional Coach for the hands-on expeditionary learning model the school implements. Dr. Jaber comes from the state of New Jersey, where she was a full-time university instructor. According to a popular rating website by students, she is ranked among the top 25 professors in the country out of one million. Business Insider named her as one of the best 25 professors in America. In addition, Princeton Review named her as one of the best 300 professors in the country. She received an Excellence in Teaching Award and was recognized for her course/curriculum coordinator accomplishments. Dr. Jaber holds two Bachelor’s Degrees in Mathematics Education and Computer Science, a Master’s Degree in Applied Mathematics, and a Doctoral Degree in Educational Leadership with a specialty in Curriculum and Instruction (Summa Cum Laude). She also completed courses in Gifted, Exceptional Students Education (ESE), and English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). She is a certified Heroic Imagination Project workshop trainer and is certified in High-Performance Collaboration: Leadership and Teamwork. Dr. Jaber brings pioneering ideas to the school and provides an education model based on sound research and proven success. She created a public charter school accessible to all children of Bay County that offers an exceptional learning environment and innovative educational solutions.

Dr. Samar Mazloum, Deputy Director

Email: SMazloum@RisingLeadersAcademy.org

Dr. Samar Mazloum is a lifelong learner and educator who brings more than two decades of experience in environmental engineering, municipal infrastructure, and academic leadership to Rising Leaders Academy. She holds a Ph.D., M.A.Sc., and B.A.Sc. in Environmental Engineering from the University of Windsor, Ontario, where her research focused on innovative approaches to pollution treatment and sustainable systems.

Her academic career has included roles as professor, postdoctoral fellow, and researcher, during which she taught and mentored students, published extensively, and presented at international conferences. She is especially passionate about guiding young scholars toward excellence in science, math and engineering, and believes that education should inspire curiosity, nurture character, and empower students to make a meaningful impact in the world.

Beyond academia, Dr. Mazloum has applied her expertise to public service, most recently as City Utilities Engineer for Panama City, Florida. In that role, she oversaw a multi million annual budget, managed major infrastructure projects, and led a team of professionals & technical specialist—ensuring safe, resilient, and sustainable systems for the community. These experiences have shaped her systems-oriented approach to leadership, blending operational excellence with care and accountability.

At Rising Leaders Academy, Dr. Mazloum is excited to support teachers, students, and families in building an environment where excellence and compassion go hand in hand. She is committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and equity—values that help every learner reach their full potential.

Mrs. Alison Johnson, Principal

Email: AJohnson@RisingLeadersAcademy.org

This is Mrs. Johnson’s 6th year at RLA. She worked as a teacher, Coordinator for Curriculum and Instruction, Dean of Students, and this year, she has been promoted to Principal. Mrs. Johnson completed her leadership certification and has 15 years of teaching experience, in addition to her leadership experience. She moved to Bay County from Cherokee County, Georgia where she was 2019-2020 Teacher of the Year.  After many years of excellent teaching, she now serves as the Dean of Students. She holds a Bachelors in Early Childhood and Elementary Education, a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction, and certification for English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL). Mrs. Johnson is married with two adult children.  Mrs. Johnson has recently become a Grandmother to a precious baby girl.  Mrs. Johnson enjoys spending time with her husband shopping, fishing, traveling, relaxing on the beach, and spending time with family.

Mrs. Brittany Smith, Front Office Clerk

Mrs. Smith began her journey at Rising Leaders Academy as a paraprofessional, where she quickly developed a passion for supporting students’ growth and success. She brings valuable experience from more than ten years in the service industry. With a warm and welcoming personality, strong organizational skills, and a detail-oriented approach, Mrs. Smith is committed to ensuring that daily operations run smoothly while fostering a positive and supportive environment for students, families, and staff. Outside of her role at RLA, she is the proud mother of two children—one currently attending RLA and one in high school.

Mrs. Brittany Warren, Data Clerk

I’m Brittany Warren — proud mom of three (two daughters and a son) and a passionate support educator. My journey in Bay County began as a Guidance Paraprofessional, where I first discovered the joy of supporting students directly. From there, I took a leap into the world of data, transitioning into a role that allowed me to develop a sharp eye for data integrity, streamline processes, and collaborate effectively with school teams. Over the past four years with Bay District Schools, I’ve come to see how accurate, timely reporting can drive better decisions and ultimately enhance student learning outcomes. In recognition of my dedication, I was honored to be nominated for Support Employee of the Year for the 2024–2025 school year.

Beyond my professional life, I’m a community-driven person with a strong creative spirit. As a dedicated mom and cheer coach, my children keep me busy with school clubs, sports, and volunteer work. I love supporting young athletes and helping them grow through teamwork, confidence, and leadership. My adventurous side shows through my love for water sports and travel—I’m always eager to embrace new experiences and explore diverse cultures. That curiosity and energy carry over into every part of my life, making it as vibrant and inspiring as the people I’m fortunate to connect with every day.

Ms. Monica Burleson, Cafeteria Manager

With over 10 years of food service experience, I have found my passion in caring for others. I hold a Certified Food Protection Manager certification and have experience working in both elementary and middle school cafeterias. I began my food service career working with the elderly and truly enjoyed the experience, where I developed compassion, patience, and a deep respect for serving others. I am committed to providing safe, nutritious meals while maintaining the highest standards of food safety.

As a Cafeteria Manager, I take pride in helping children grow and succeed by serving healthy meals. Making a difference through food is more than my career—it’s my purpose.

Born and raised in Panama City, Florida, I also spent 25 years in South Carolina and two years traveling across the United States. Those experiences shaped my appreciation for people, community, and service.

I am a proud mother of two and a blessed Mimi to three wonderful grandchildren who inspire me every day.

Mrs. Brittany Bevier-Smith, Cafeteria Assistant Director

coming soon

Click here to access FL DOE teacher certification information. 

KINDERGARTEN

Mrs. Lena Kharaieh

This will be Mrs. Kharaieh’s fourth year teaching kindergarten at RLA. She is a parent of three students who have attended RLA from kindergarten. She has seven years experience of teaching STEAM based preschool at, as well as Science camp, at the Science and Discovery Center in Panama City, Florida. After preparing preschool students to enter kindergarten for many years, she is very excited to help the incoming kindergarten class succeed at RLA, as well as watch some of her past students grow into successful learners.

Ms. Sarah Qashou

Mrs. Sarah Qashou is excited to begin her second year teaching kindergarten at RLA! She earned both her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and her master’s degree in ESOL from Auburn University (War Eagle!). After an incredible first year in kindergarten, she can’t wait to welcome a new class of learners. Mrs. Qashou is passionate about creating a classroom where every child feels welcomed, valued, supported, and excited to learn. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Qashou enjoys spending time with her husband and family, traveling, hiking, trying new coffee shops, and exploring local restaurants. She lives by the motto “seek discomfort,” embracing new experiences, stepping outside her comfort zone, and encouraging her students to do the same as they grow and learn. She looks forward to another wonderful year of learning, growth, and making lasting memories with her students!

Mrs. Lujain Albibi

Lujain Albibi graduated Magna Cum Laude from Florida State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and is a Florida-certified educator. Born and raised in Panama City, Florida, she is proud to serve the community that helped shape her own educational journey.

Lujain is passionate about creating a nurturing and engaging classroom where every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to learn. She believes the kindergarten years provide the foundation for lifelong learning and is dedicated to helping her students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Outside the classroom, Lujain enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, traveling, exploring new cultures, reading, and discovering exceptional coffee shops along the way.

FIRST GRADE

Ms. Christina Barron

This will be Ms. Barron’s 12th year teaching in Bay County. She is certified K-6 Elementary Education,  K-12 ESE (Exceptional Student Education), and she  has an ESOL endorsement as well. (English Speakers for Other Languages). She has two sons. Her oldest son attends college in Orlando, and her youngest son is a senior in high school this year. She loves spending time with her students, going to the beach, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.

Mrs. Kathleen Gaffga

Rachel Gallahan

A passionate and dedicated educator, Rachel is in her third year of teaching. She grew up playing violin in numerous ensembles, including the University of Mary Washington Philharmonic. She spent her first two years teaching middle school choir in Stafford County, Virginia, where their choirs consistently earned top ratings at district assessments. With a rich background in vocal performance, Rachel has performed as a soloist and in various college, community, and church choirs throughout Virginia. Her love for music and commitment to student success continue to inspire young musicians. She is very excited to start her first year at Rising Leaders Academy. 

SECOND GRADE

Ms. Kristen Kelly

Ms. Kelly holds her professional teaching certification in K-6 Elementary Education and has been teaching for nine years. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Emory University and a Business certificate from Harvard Business School. Ms. Kelly established RLA’s Student Council and led RLATV, as well as the yearbook. She is eager to continue helping students find their voice and make a positive impact on their community this year through Student Council.

Ms. Megan Hardin

Mrs. Hardin is excited to begin her first year of teaching at Rising Leaders Academy! She graduated magna cum laude from Armstrong State University in 2020 with a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology and a minor in Psychology. She is currently pursuing her K–6 teaching certification. Following college, Mrs. Hardin fulfilled her childhood dream of becoming a dolphin trainer, spending over four years in the field before transitioning into education. A passionate advocate for animals—especially marine life—she brings her love for the ocean into the classroom in creative and inspiring ways. Mrs. Hardin hopes to instill in her students a deep appreciation for the ocean and a desire to protect its beautiful creatures. Her classroom reflects her enthusiasm for marine science, encouraging curiosity and wonder.

Outside of school, Mrs. Hardin is celebrating her fifth wedding anniversary with her husband, Cade. Together, they enjoy training calisthenics, going on adventures with their two dogs, relaxing at the beach, scuba diving, and growing the fitness community they founded—Gulf Coast Calisthenics. They are also members of Destiny Worship Center, where they enjoy worship and community involvement. Above all, Mrs. Hardin’s goal as a teacher is to help each student become the very best version of themselves.

THIRD GRADE

Mrs. Kristin Jeffrey

My name is Kristin Jeffrey. I have been married for 24 years and have 3 children with one attending RLA. I have a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education. I am Reading Endorsed and ESOL endorsed. This is my 19th year teaching and fifth year at Rising Leaders Academy. I have taught grades Kdg through 4th. I also worked 2 years at The Boys and Girls Club teaching kdg through 5th grade after school. This past school year, I was voted RLA Teacher of the Year. I was also awarded Florida Charter School Champion by Florida Consortium of Public Charter Schools.     

I live on 10 acres and have a farm. We have goats, pigs, ducks, chickens, turkeys, dogs, cats, a turtle, bees, and fish. I am a huge animal lover. I enjoy making goat milk soaps and lotions.

Ms. Michelle England

This will be Ms. England’s second year of teaching 3rd Grade English Language Arts (ELA) and Social Studies at RLA.  Ms. England has 7 years of experience teaching ELA to middle and high school students in Bay county.  She is certified to teach Elementary K-6 and English Language Arts 6-12. She has worked in education a total of 17 years, with experience teaching and working with all age groups from Pre-K to 12th grade.  Ms. England is a fur mom who loves to read and write.  Some of her poetry has been published in literary magazines both online and in print. She enjoys cooking, baking, kayaking, going to the beach, and camping. 

FOURTH GRADE

Mr. Mark Gregory

Tiffany Wells

Tiffany Wells was born and raised in Panama City, Florida, and spent 20 years living in Fort Worth, Texas. She is a graduate of Texas Woman’s University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Education in Interdisciplinary Studies, with a focus on English Language Learning and Special Education.

Tiffany began her teaching career in Fort Worth, working with 4th and 5th grade students in ELA and Science. Over the years, she discovered a deep passion for supporting struggling readers, which led her to become a Dyslexia Specialist and Instructional Coach. She is dedicated to helping students build confidence and experience the true joy of reading, believing literacy opens the door to every other success in life.

Outside of education, Tiffany enjoys reading, painting, relaxing at the beach, and spending time with her son and their fur babies. 

FIFTH GRADE

Mrs. Cooley

Mrs. Cooley joined R.L.A. at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year, bringing a diverse background to her role as an educator. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from Florida State University and is currently pursuing her K-6 certification. Before her tenure at R.L.A., Mrs. Cooley served as a child abuse investigator for the state of Florida. Prior to that, she enjoyed a successful career in journalism, where she spent over a decade as a writer, copy editor, and page designer for various daily and weekly newspapers across the Florida Panhandle. Notably, she found particular satisfaction in editing and designing the Panama City News Herald and its weekly entertainment section, the Entertainer. Additionally, she gained valuable experience as a substitute teacher in Jackson County. Mrs. Cooley is passionate about creating a dynamic and engaging environment for her students, particularly in the areas of reading, writing, and social studies.  

Mrs. Mary Taws

Mary Vickie Taws joined us November of 2025 to teach 5th grade Math/Science.  She has 40+ years of teaching experience as well as some years in the medical field.  She has taught in private, home school, and public arenas, and was part of the ground floor establishing several of these.  She also provided instruction and curriculum development for what was then the Junior Museum years ago, as well as overseeing large community events.  She has served as a math coach, reading coach, 5th grade teacher, and middle school math teacher (teaching Pre-AICE H.S. classes) for the last 19 years.  She was recognized by the State of Florida as a High Impact Teacher for her students’ scores.  She holds certifications in K-6 and Math 5-9, and endorsements in Reading, ESOL, and Gifted.  She is proud to have been voted Teacher of the Year and then selected in the top 5 teachers for Bay District in the past.   Mrs. Taws is so glad to be back in 5th grade teaching students with a desire to learn.  She has been happily married for 44 years, and has two grown children; Mrs. Marking teaches here at RLA and her son is the pastor of First Presbyterian Church.  She has four grandchildren that are at the top of her blessings!  Mary Vickie enjoys reading mysteries, selling on Ebay, and spending time with family. 

MIDDLE SCHOOL TEACHERS

Mr. Roland Hankins – Mathematics Teacher

Mr. Hankins worked at Rising Leaders for 10 years as a mathematics teacher. He was recognized by the state of Florida as a High Impact teacher for his students’ high math test scores, which were the top in the district and among the top in the state, for the FSA and EOC. Mr. Hankins is a certified teacher who has taught every grade level and around 15 years of teaching experience in Bay County. Most of his experience has been in middle school science and mathematics in Bay District Schools. He is certified in Middle School Mathematics Education, as well as K-6. He also completed training in STEM at Gulf Coast College, which include programming and robotics. In addition, Mr. Hankins completed a Beacon course in teaching Exceptional Students Education (ESE).

Mr. Daniel Woodrum – Social Studies Teacher

Mr. Woodrum started teaching in 2022 after receiving his bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Florida State University. He comes from a long line of teachers, including his father, grandmother, and several other close family members. He is blessed with a wife and two young sons, and loves to spend his free time with them. Otherwise, he is an avid reader of all things historical, recreational guitar player, and often volunteers with his local church.

Ms. Alexandra Barrey – Science Teacher

Ms. Alexandra Barrey is excited to join the Rising Leaders Academy family as a Middle School Science and Math teacher. She earned her degree in Education from SUNY Buffalo State and is passionate about helping students develop curiosity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning through engaging, hands-on instruction.

Prior to joining Rising Leaders Academy, Ms. Barrey taught middle school English Language Arts, Forensics, and Criminology at Bay Haven Charter Academy. She also taught high school Science at a maritime charter school, working with students in grades 9–12. This year, she will be teaching middle school Science as well as 6th Grade Math, and she looks forward to helping students build strong problem-solving skills while making both subjects engaging and meaningful.

Ms. Barrey believes that science and mathematics are best learned through exploration, inquiry, and real-world application. She strives to create a positive, supportive classroom environment where students feel encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and reach their full potential.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Barrey enjoys spending quality time with her children and embracing the outdoors. She loves swimming, kayaking, fishing, camping, and exploring nature with her family.

Mrs. Jennie-Grace Marking – Language Arts Teacher

Jennie-Grace Marking is in her eleventh year of teaching and has over 20 years of experience working in education. In addition to her teaching career, she has served as a paraprofessional, substitute teacher, Bay Base aftercare staff member, and tutor. She has taught students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, with middle school reading remaining one of her favorite subjects to teach.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Teaching and Learning and is certified in the state of Florida in Elementary Education (K–6), Reading (6–12), and Exceptional Student Education (K–12). She also holds both her Reading Endorsement and ESOL Endorsement. Jennie-Grace has been honored as Teacher of the Year at two different schools, a recognition she feels deeply grateful and humbled to have received.

Jennie-Grace and her husband are the proud parents of two boys, Connor (17) and Cooper (7). As a family, they enjoy spending time together at Disney, the beach, and church. In her spare time, Jennie-Grace loves reading mysteries and sharing her passion for books and literacy with her students.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER

Summer Bernstein

Coming soon 

SKILLS TEACHER

Alice DeWall

​Alice DeWall joins the Rising Leaders Academy team last year as an Assistant PE Teacher, though she is a very familiar face around campus. A dedicated RLA parent since 2021, Alice is thrilled to transition from the sidelines to the gymnasium to support our students’ physical growth and wellness.

​Alice brings a unique and diverse background to RLA. She holds a degree in English from Florida State University and a degree in Accounting from the University of Kentucky. After a successful career in the accounting industry, she decided to trade the desk for the court, fueled by her passion for our school community and her love for making students laugh. She believes that fitness should be fun and aims to bring a smile to every student’s face while helping them stay active.

Part-time ARABIC TEACHERS

Mrs. Fatma Elemam

Mrs. Elemam has a Bachelor of Education in Arabic Language and Masters of Education from Bloomsburg University. She has over 20 years of experience in teaching Arabic. She taught all levels from kindergarten to university level, where she taught at Bloomsburg University. She has been teaching at Rising Leaders Academy for six years. She has a Teaching Certificate covering World Language.

Mrs. Asma Qashou

Asma Qashou is an experienced Arabic instructor with more than 15 years of teaching Arabic to non-native speakers. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Science with a specialization in Health Information Management and has taught students ranging from early childhood through high school.

In addition to her teaching experience, Asma served as a medical interpreter and translator at Duke University Hospital, where she facilitated effective communication between Arabic-speaking patients and healthcare professionals. She has also participated in numerous international conferences and earned multiple certifications in effective teaching methods and student engagement strategies.

Passionate about education and language learning, Asma is dedicated to creating engaging, supportive learning environments that help students build confidence and achieve their language goals. She brings a wealth of experience, cultural understanding, and enthusiasm to every lesson.

Outside of teaching, Asma enjoys traveling, discovering new coffee shops, and spending quality time with her husband and family.

Full-time SPANISH TEACHER

Mrs. Patricia Perkins

Mrs. Perkins has been teaching Spanish at RLA since it first opened in 2012. She was awarded an Excellence in Teaching Award the four years she taught at her previous school, Panama City Renaissance School. Over the years, she has taken several courses on education and has fulfilled all the requirements to obtain her Professional Education Certification. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina. Her background as an architect has made it easy for her to visualize and plan lessons that incorporate different forms of expression. This will be Mrs. Perkins’s 13th year at Rising Leaders Academy.

Art Teacher

Jocelyn Hawley

Mrs. Jocelyn Hawley is thrilled to launch her first year as an art teacher, guiding young artists from kindergarten through eighth grade. She specializes in painting and hands-on projects that encourage students to explore their imagination and develop confidence in their artistic abilities. 

Mrs. Hawley is currently pursuing a degree in Art education at Florida State University, where she continues to expand her knowledge of artistic techniques and student-centered teaching practices. She is passionate about building a positive, encouraging classroom environment where every student feels empowered to grow as an artist. 

School Nurse

Delilah Dumrongkulraksa

My Name is Delilah Dumrongkulraksa. I obtained an Associates degree in nursing from Chipola College in 2008. I went on to get a BSN degree from The University of North West Florida. I have 10 years hospital experience and 2 years nursing home experience. I am a mother of two that attend RLA, and I am happy to be a part of the wonderful RLA team.