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 | Program 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, Lead Mentor
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, Outdoor Education Coordinator
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.
Aileen Rosa | Instructor, Student Support Lead
Aileen brings a vibrant energy and a deep passion for student advocacy to our team. A graduate of the College of Charleston with a BA in Psychology and a current Master's Candidate, she leads our French, Psychology, and Mental Wellness curricula. Beyond the classroom, Aileen is an avid gardener and herbalism enthusiast, integrating her love of nature and wellness into her holistic approach to student support.
Chris Tapia | Instructor History
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 fiancée and their dog.
Emma Wologodzew | Instructor, Staff Support Lead
In addition to her work mentoring our students in art, Emma is an invaluable team member known for her big heart and exceptional talent for creating welcoming environments. With a keen eye for interior design and organization, she ensures that our physical spaces are cozy, functional, and inviting for both staff and students. Emma’s warm and dedicated nature makes her a wonderful mentor, providing consistent, reliable support that helps our onsite team thrive.
Joel Melendez | Instructor Circus Arts & Sports Lab
As the co-owner of Matica Arts and Thrive Movement Studio, Joel brings decades of teaching and performance experience to the WYSE program. An accomplished Capoeirista who has practiced since 1999, he is a master of unicycling, juggling, and acrobatics. Joel’s warm, easy manner allows him to use his extensive background in the physical arts to inspire confidence and creative movement in every student.
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.
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.
.jpg)
Lockey Coughlin | Strategic Program 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. She oversees a premier network of tutors, counselors, and specialty schools, responding 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.