Meet The Program Assistants

mgarcia@virtualconnectionsacademy.net​​

mhart@virtualconnectionsacademy.net​​

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Ms. Hart, who is originally from Denver, Colorado, is a licensed paraprofessional and substitute teacher with a bachelor's degree in finance. She has spent the past two years working in day programs, where she discovered a strong passion for supporting students in special education. Ms. Hart is highly motived by helping others reach their goals and, as a result, she is currently working toward her teaching certification with special education licensure.  Outside of work, Ms. Hart enjoys being outdoors and staying active through hiking, skiing, pickleball, and traveling. She also loves fashion and pop culture and enjoys using shared interests as a way to connect with others. Ms. Hart values building meaningful relationships and is passionate about creating positive, supportive connections with the people she works with.

mmaddison@virtualconnectionsacademy.net

​Ms. Madison has been in the field of Education since 2011. She is extremely passionate about children, creative art, and restorative practices. Ms. Madison has been a paraprofessional, building substitute, and classroom teacher in different districts. Ms. Madison is extremely excited to build relationships with families and students at VCA!​

lrodriguez@virtualconnectionsacademy.net

​Ms. Rodriguez has taught in a therapeutic day school for a little over 2 years. She received her Associates Degree in Arts from Triton College. Ms. Rodriguez received her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with an LBS1 endorsement from Elmhurst University. She is dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming and supporting environment that meets the needs of all the students she works with.

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awild@virtualconnectionsacademy.net

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Ms. Wild is a paraprofessional educator with seven years of experience working in student support services. She graduated from the University of Illinois at Chicago with a Bachelor’s degree in Disability and Human Development. She has worked alongside students with learning needs in a variety of settings, from elementary to post-secondary transition. Ms. Wild has also worked as an independent living advocate and vocational coach and is an avid proponent for the independent living movement. In her free time, she helps operate an LGBTQIA advocacy organization called Trans-Continental Freedom and enjoys playing music and going on hikes.​​

Swright@virtualconnectionsacademy.net​​

azuffante@virtualconnectionsacademy.net

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Mr.Zuffante is a Paraeducator and substitute teacher who has a passion for working with children and adolescents. He earned his Bachelor's Degree with a Major in History and a Minor in Sociology from Northeastern Illinois University in Chicago, IL and is currently working towards obtaining his LBS1 in the Florida Teacher Ready Program. Mr. Zuffante has worked in a variety of school settings and is passionate about teaching Social Studies. Currently he facilitates the Middle School World History and Current Events Live Lessons, as well as High School Physical Education. In addition to this Mr. Zuffante also chairs the school’s Diversity Committee. His main interests include history, world cultures, sociology, politics, philosophy, royalty, travel, and film.

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