Our Team
Committed to social-emotional growth and excellence in education. Each Instructor at WYSE is fully engaged with this age group, motivated to mentor and nurture students in their formative middle school years. Our team is full of energy, enthusiasm, warmth, and a willingness to go the extra mile for each WYSE student.
Mary Parascondola | Assistant Director
Mary brings a unique blend of warmth and structure to the WYSE program, drawing on her diverse background as a property manager, caregiver, Olympic swimmer, and mother of four. An expert in organization and communication, she oversees our on-site teaching and counseling staff while spearheading community networking and marketing. Whether she is managing physical spaces or providing vital emotional support, Mary’s multifaceted skill set ensures our program remains a supportive, high-functioning environment for every student.
Tamara Vena | Instructor, Academic Coordinator
Tamara’s decade of teaching experience and deep-rooted passion for education shine through whether she is leading students in the classroom or out in the field. With a BS in Social Science and specialized training from the Cornell University Civic Ecology Lab, she expertly weaves nature education and environmental science into our core programming. As a Certified Herbalist and Native Plant specialist, Tamara designs immersive curricula that bridge the gap between academic theory and the natural world.
Mónica Vázquèz | Instructor, Operations & Instructional Coordinator
A cornerstone of our team from the beginning, Mónica brings a deep love for her Puerto Rican heritage and an MS in Spanish Education to the classroom. As our most senior staff member, she serves as a vital mentor, advising our team on classroom management and student behavior strategies. When not sharing her language and culture, Mónica manages the Lannin House in Ridgefield and enjoys time with her large family across Connecticut and Puerto Rico.
Leah Lalama | Instructor, Mathematics
Leah is thrilled to share her passion for mathematics with the students at WYSE. With a BS in Secondary Education and Mathematics from Western Connecticut State University and as a current Master's Candidate, she brings both high-level academic expertise and infectious energy to the classroom. When she isn’t solving equations, Leah is a dedicated outdoor enthusiast and avid paddleboarder, usually accompanied by her favorite companion, her dog Bradley.
Max McGuire | Instructor Improv & Drama
Max brings a vibrant passion for the arts and humanities to the classroom, drawing on their B.A. in Theater Arts from Skidmore College. A creative force both in and out of the studio, Max teaches Improv, Drama, and Dungeons & Dragons, aiming to inspire that same imaginative spark in every student. When they aren’t leading a tabletop campaign, they are often found writing original music under the moniker Maxwell Andromeda.
Tyler Amarando | Instructor Language Arts & English
Tyler is a New Milford native and self-described nerd with a love of graphic novels, creative writing, and storytelling in all its forms. Tyler creates a collaborative classroom where conversation, group brainstorming, and student-led discussion help students reach their own unique goals as writers and creators. Western Connecticut State University B.A. in Journalism.
James Parascondola | Instructor, Social Science
James holds a B.A. in Sociology and Political Science from Western Connecticut State University and a degree in Film from the CT Broadcasters' Association. We are excited that he will be joining our team to teach Social Science Movement classes, as well as to act as support staff and our community videographer.
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Lockey Coughlin | Strategic Director
With a bird’s-eye view of the educational landscape, Lockey leverages her extensive background in teaching and mental health to curate bespoke learning paths. As President of Webb Youth Services, Lockey serves as a volunteer for WYSe, leveraging a premier network of tutors, counselors, and specialty schools to respond to complex curriculum needs with speed and insight. An alumna of The Frederick Gunn School, Hartwick College, and the University of Connecticut, Lockey is also a prominent New Milford business owner and education columnist, bringing a wealth of community-minded leadership and advocacy to our team.
Chris Tapia | Substitute
Chris is a passionate educator with a specialized focus on U.S. History and the World Wars. He holds a B.A. in History from Western Connecticut State University, complemented by a minor in Justice and Law Administration. Inside the classroom, he brings historical narratives to life; outside of it, he is a devoted traveler and sports fan who enjoys exploring the Star Wars universe and reading alongside his wife and their dog.
Theresa Ann McSpedon | Financial Director
With an academic foundation in Economics and Accounting from Columbia University, Theresa is the architect of our operational efficiency. A master of complex paperwork and financial modeling, she ensures the business side of WYSE runs with precision. Theresa’s expertise in business administration and her sharp eye for detail provide the stable infrastructure that allows our programs and students to thrive.