Administration
Holly Husser
Head of School
Bio
Natives of southern Louisiana, Holly and Alex Husser have been married since 2007. Seeking God first and striving for excellence, they diligently instill these values in their four children. Their background reflects these truths. Alex graduated from LSU with a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering and then worked in Venezuela for Schlumberger. Holly met Alex when he transferred to Lafayette. She moved to Beaumont and earned a degree in dental hygiene from Lamar University. After marrying, they moved to Texas, worked with non-profit organizations and found River Pointe Church in the Richmond area. Alex joined Alta Mesa and they continued to grow their family. They also created Indigeo Virtus to provide SAAS for the O&G industry. In April 2019, after much prayer, Alex and Holly moved back to Louisiana. Alex is currently a partner with Diamond S Builders, a general contractor. Called to start Louisiana’s first University-Model® school, Holly passionately leads Adolesco Prep as Head of School. God knew what he was doing when He beckoned them back to Louisiana!
Beth Vinyard
Director of Faculty & Classical Christian Pedagogy
Bio
Meghan Martinez
Director of Student
Support 6th-12th
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I used to be terrified of public speaking—I even dropped the class four times in college. But during that season, God kept putting me in situations where I had to share my story, and eventually, a really amazing professor helped me manage my nerves. That experience gave me a deep empathy for others who feel the same way, and now I love equipping people to confidently stand in front of others to deliver a message, no matter the size of the crowd. If you told me when I was growing up that I would speak in front of people and teach others to do it too, I would have laughed, but I have found so much joy and purpose in teaching communication!
This course at APA is a dual enrollment course. It’s really exciting that our students can earn college credit right here on campus.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
We enrolled our son at APA in 2023 after homeschooling for a few years. I loved the time APA gave me with my son, while also equipping me to take his education to the next level. I saw immediately how much the teachers and administration genuinely cared about his education. I’ve also seen how much his character has grown. As a teacher, I love the atmosphere of diligence, excellence, and the biblical worldview through which everything is taught.
How are you involved in your church?
My husband and I serve as the youth pastors at The Harbor. I’m also the Director of
Communication, but there really aren’t many areas of the church I’m not involved in. When I’m not teaching or at home, you can usually find me there!
What is your professional background?
I have a BA in Social Work and an MA in Organizational Communication. I’ve taught communication courses at the college level since 2012. I’ve been an adjunct instructor at Northshore Technical Communication College since 2018. Prior to that, I taught at
Broward College in Ft. Lauderdale and Southeastern Louisiana University.
Fun Fact: I’m pretty proud of this devotional I wrote for the YouVersion Bible app a couple of years ago. I hope to release another one soon!
Gina Shirley
Director of Student
Support PS-5th
Bio
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
I love the discipleship partnership with parents and Classical Education is another love of mine.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to exercise, walk around my neighborhood, and work in my flower gardens. My husband and I enjoy watching old shows from our childhood together.
What is your professional background?
I have taught a few years in public and private Kindergarten and First Grade classrooms. Before God blessed us with our two daughters, I was a Children’s Ministries Director in churches in Mississippi, Texas, and Baton Rouge. We homeschooled both of our daughters through high school. I have directed and tutored Elementary, English, and Middle School classes on Classical Education Home school co-op campuses in the Baton Rouge area.
What is your educational background?
I have a BA in Early Childhood Education and a Master of Arts in Christian Education with an emphasis in Children and Preschoolers.
Veronica Leto
Director of Advancement
Bio
Born and raised in SE Louisiana, Michael and Veronica Leto are fervent about advancing the Kingdom of God through discipling the next generation both internationally and here at home. This passion aligned with the invitation and task of cofounding APA as a distinctly Christian, discipleship school. Before meeting and marrying in 2012, Veronica lived in Washington DC, working for non-profit organizations and earning her Master’s in Theology at Regent University. Before this, she studied art history at LSU. Meanwhile, Michael studied Classical and Jazz Performance at the University of New Orleans followed by Business Management at Southeastern University. Michael enjoyed his last year at SLU studying in Italy at the University of Verona. Michael and Veronica are active in the local church ministering to others through prayer and worship. Michael is a Vice President of IPSC while Veronica supports the school as Director of Advancement where she oversees marketing, PR and development. Both have a zeal for traveling, international cultures and missions, the arts and have an excitement for learning. They hope to instill these passions into their five children and APA families through the classical method while inspiring their community to strive for excellence and see that Beauty truly abounds.
Ashley Hines
Director of Programs
Bio
Why are you passionate about working with Adolesco?
I believe in the vision and mission of our school—family ministry, excellence in education, and partnering with parents. I have seen many families transformed by being a part of APA, as well as my own.
How do you spend your spare time?
My husband and I enjoy fishing together. We also like to take trips as a family with friends, sometimes even a few of our pups tag along!
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus has many roles in my life and He covers them all beyond mastery. He is omnipotent. When I needed His saving grace, He was there waiting for me to accept His invitation. He is the ultimate redeemer. There have been many times I have needed a rescuer or even a defender and He delivers without ceasing.
Educational/ professional background?
Before becoming a mother and finding APA, I spent most of my time in school studying environmental biology and working with animals.
Erica Whittington
Director of Operations
Bio
Why are you passionate about APA?
My husband and I never really saw ourselves homeschooling, but we also weren’t satisfied with the private or public school options available in our area. When we discovered Adolesco Prep, we were immediately drawn to its unique approach—combining strong, classical academics with an intentional partnership between parents and the school. APA’s focus on parent involvement in raising, disciplining, and discipling our kids aligned perfectly with our Christian values. It feels like the best of both worlds—having the structure and resources of a school, while still keeping parents deeply engaged in their children’s education and spiritual growth. That’s something I’m passionate about supporting and being part of every day.
What do you like to do in your spare time and with whom?
I love spending time with my family, being outdoors, gardening—especially flowers—and working on DIY projects to make old things feel new again. My family and I enjoy camping and outdoor adventures, always looking for somewhere new to explore together!
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus is my Savior, Lord, and constant guide. He is my source of hope, peace, and strength. One of the biggest turning points in my faith was in June 2021 when my husband and I experienced our first daughter born still at full term. In that season of unimaginable loss, we had to fully put our trust in the Lord when we could see no way out of the darkness. His faithfulness has carried us, and today we have an amazing little girl who reminds us daily that “His mercies are new every morning.”
What is your professional experience? I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Management and Administration with a concentration in Human Resources, and I also have military experience. I offer extensive support in administration and organizational leadership and have a passion for helping systems and people thrive.
I also serve as the Administrative Director at Crossroads Church and also volunteer in many ministry areas, supporting events, communications, discipleship initiatives, and more.
Grammar School
Bonnie Nicaud
Preschool
Bio
Why are you passionate about teaching?
I consider it a calling and a privilege to shine the light of Christ into the next generations.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
After starting each day in my prayer chair (coffee with Jesus). I enjoy cooking/baking, reading, and crafting. Spending time with my family and friends is my favorite thing, though!
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
Jesus is the evident cornerstone of the University-Model. I am deeply inspired by the APA vision for students and families.
What is your teaching and/or professional background?
Certified Catechist and Campus Minister for grammar school through high school; Certified Montessori Primary Guide, owned/directed/taught at University Montessori School of Hammond; Certified Guide for Catechesis of the Good Shepherd; Owner of Mammolina Montessori Offerings LLC
Rebecca Lucas
Junior Kinder
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I am passionate about what and who I teach because of the foundational and fundamental aspect for this age group. Making Christ center as early as possible in their lives and teaching them TRUTH so when they are faced with deception they will know the difference.
I have been reminded about when in Mark 10, when the disciples rebuked the children as to keep them away from Jesus to not bother him. Then, Jesus saw what was happening he stated, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it.” Mark 10:14 (NIV) We see that the children are just as important, wanted, and welcomed into His presence– for Christ is the ULTIMATE foundation for each one of us.
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus is my Abba, my sustainer, my refuge, and my strength.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
The most prominent characteristic of Adolesco Prep Academy is that Jesus is the center of every decision, every detail, and every aspect through and through. The opportunity He has given my family and me to join Him where He is so obviously at work is truly a blessing.
Pamela Prescott
Kindergarten
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I am called by God to build his family through educating people.
Who is Jesus to you?
He is the whisper when I need to listen, the loud voice when I need clarification. He is my anchor in my storms, my hope and confidence when life is unsure. He is my quiet place when my heart is too heavy to deal with life, and finally… the filter by which I see, do, process and ponder!
How are you involved in your church?
I have been a Sunday School teacher for 30+ years. I lead women’s retreats, speak at events, and write Bible lessons.
What is your professional background?
I have been involved in education for 50 years, including teaching, administration, school board, academic therapist, teacher trainer, and consultant.
What is your educational background?
Graduate, Post Graduate, Certifications for Educational Therapy, and Educational Leadership
Misty Dixon
Kindergarten, Music
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I love helping children build confidence, develop a love for learning, and grow in both knowledge and character. I have a heart for discipleship and value partnering with parents in this foundational season of life. I am excited to work alongside other wonderful teachers and disciplemakers.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to spend time with my family! I have two children in college who are both musicians, and we go watch them perform regularly. I also enjoy painting, reading, bird watching, and spending time with friends.
How are you involved in your church?
My husband is the senior pastor of our church, and I enjoy serving wherever needed, both behind the scenes and in the foreground. I have led a women’s discipleship group for many years, and have worked closely in children’s, youth, and young adult ministries for a long time.
What is your professional background?
I have experience homeschooling, serving as a Classical Conversations director, and teaching in church ministry. I also have a background in administration, project management, event management, and communications.
Charlene Williams
First Grade
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I love watching kids learn new concepts. I love teaching our ELA and Math curriculum because of how biblically integrated it is and because it is strong in phonics.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love to pray and study the Bible. Spend time with our animals, mainly the cows. My husband and I do everything together whether its work in the yard with plants, wash vehicles, or run errands.
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus is my redeemer! He is my best friend! He is my anchor!
What is your professional background?
I taught ELA for over seven years in Christian private schools before working in Early Childhood for 20 years, eight of which my husband and I owned our own childcare business.
Benita Hardy
Second Grade
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
Teaching had always been a passion of mine, even after teaching 1st and 2nd grade for 34 years.. I love being able to help students gain confidence in their reading, writing, and math skills. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing that look of accomplishment on a student’s face when they realize they’re able to do something they thought they couldn’t do.
What do you like to do in your spare time and with whom?
I enjoy fishing with my husband, playing games, and spending time with my family.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
The Christian environment where I can openly discuss and teach about Jesus, working alongside parents as co-teachers to nurture both academic and spiritual growth of children.
How are you involved in your church?
I help teach HIS Kids Sunday School, help with HIS Kids camp during the summer, and WMU – hands and feet to work for Christ on mission activities.
Joanne Folks
Third Grade
Bio
What do you like to do in your spare time and with whom?
I love to work in the yard. I love going down to Madisonville with my husband to watch the bridge open and close while we eat a picnic lunch or dinner.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
At first, the intentional small class sizes and close proximity to my home. But once becoming a part of APA, it is now the atmosphere that surrounds the school and flows out from it. APA is focused on educating the child, not by a robotic curriculum, but through instilling virtues and proven, Godly ways to build leaders who will be able to think, write, and lead for themselves.
In the Bible, we are told to go out and make disciples. How do you make disciples if they are not taught? Teaching is an opportunity to help build a foundation not only in academics, but the complete child (mind, soul, and body).
How are you involved in your church?
In my church, The New, my husband and I are Elders. The power of prayer is our weapon and we stand as gatekeepers. I am also over King’s Kings, which is our Children’s Department. I write the curriculum and prepare lessons for my wonderful ladies/gentlemen to present to our children.
What is your professional background? In the 34 years I have taught Kindergarten to 4th grade. I have experience in Early Intervention Special Education (children 3-6 years old), Inclusion, Mentoring teachers, Behavioral Issues, and so much more.
My certifications are 1st – 8th grades, Kindergarten, Early Intervention, Student Teacher advisor. Additionally I was trained and certified through the Parish; Mentoring, State Certified Assessor, Autism, Behavioral Trained and medical trained.
Fun Facts: I won Teacher of The Year at Midway Elementary; Certified State 1st Responder with Natalbany Fire Department; and a Tangipahoa Parish Above and Beyond recipient.
Morgan Simms
Fourth Grade
Bio
Why are you passionate about teaching at Adolesco Prep?
Teaching is my greatest passion because I love pouring into the lives of children and helping them discover the gifts God has given them. I wanted that for my own children and was drawn to Adolesco Prep because it gives me more time to spend with them.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my church family, cheering on my sons at their activities, and baking or reading whenever I have a little quiet time.
What is your teaching and/or professional background?
I previously taught in Livingston Parish before returning to Southeastern Louisiana University to earn my Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
What is your educational background?
I earned both of my bachelor’s degrees—Middle School Education and Nursing—from Southeastern Louisiana University. Go Lions!
Kayla Johnson
Fifth Grade
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
My goal is to make math feel approachable and even fun! I am passionate about helping every student build the confidence they need to take on new challenges—both in math and beyond.
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus is my Savior, my guide, and my strength. His grace reminds me to teach with compassion and see the best in others.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
We were drawn to Adolesco Prep because they put the important things first. Students are not only challenged academically, but are also encouraged to grow in their relationship with God. I am so grateful to be part of a school that shares those priorities.
What is your professional background?
I have utilized my BA in Elementary Education to teach in Lafourche, Tangipahoa, and St. Tammany public schools, teaching elementary and middle school math and science. I also assist with catechism classes at our local church (I love teaching!)
Lauren Quebedeaux
K–8 Art
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I love having the opportunity to have a positive impact on my students. Being able to teach them about the things I love all while leading them to the Lord is such a blessing. Incorporating artistic projects in my science classes is an additional way to utilize my passion and degree in Visual Arts!
What do you like to do in your spare time and with whom?
I love being outdoors, whether that is playing with the kids or enjoying coffee on the patio.
Outdoors is where I feel the most connected to God, surrounded by the beauty He created.
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus is my Lord and Savior. From personal experiences, He has always been the light in the darkness, the one who truly saved my soul. He is an example of true love and selflessness, teaching me how to love.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
Finding a school that puts God first in all things was a top priority to me. Being able to disciple my children alongside some incredible teachers is a gift I will forever be thankful for. Having the extra time at home with my children will be something I truly cherish and won’t take for granted.
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I love having the opportunity to have a positive impact on my students. Being able to teach them about the things I love all while leading them to the Lord is such a blessing. Incorporating artistic projects in my science classes is an additional way to utilize my passion and degree in Visual Arts!
What do you like to do in your spare time and with whom?
I love being outdoors, whether that is playing with the kids or enjoying coffee on the patio.
Outdoors is where I feel the most connected to God, surrounded by the beauty He created.
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus is my Lord and Savior. From personal experiences, He has always been the light in the darkness, the one who truly saved my soul. He is an example of true love and selflessness, teaching me how to love.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
Finding a school that puts God first in all things was a top priority to me. Being able to disciple my children alongside some incredible teachers is a gift I will forever be thankful for. Having the extra time at home with my children will be something I truly cherish and won’t take for granted.
Logic/Rhetoric School
Lisa DePhillips
General Science, Physical Science, Biology
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I love to teach students about the wondrous creation all around us that we were gifted by our all-powerful creator-God. I truly believe that an open mind and willingness to continue learning scripture and science will reveal that the two are not in conflict. They are revealing two sides of the same amazing story!
Who is Jesus to you?
My savior and friend as well as my Lord and King. His unmerited favor or grace saved me because He knew my great need before I knew Him. His unselfish sacrifice is too big to comprehend, yet it is true. Mere words cannot express my gratitude.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
Quite a few things! The classical education model – teaching a comprehensive and cumulative curriculum designed by masters (and not progressives calling themselves educators) was and is very appealing. I love the fact that Jesus is at the center of all that we do and teach. I respect and am grateful for the contribution of our parent “co-teachers.” The entire attitude that God, family and learning is to be respected and protected is wonderfully refreshing here.
What is your teaching background, if applicable?
I taught high school science for 12 years after earning my Bachelor’s in Biology Education. Once I earned my master’s degree in Counseling, I was a professional school counselor at Ponchatoula High School for 22 years. I returned to college to get certified in Mild/Moderate Special Education and taught resource/inclusion math, English and social studies.
Maddie Ricau
Latin
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach (or about working here)?
I love teaching and I feel equipped by God to teach.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I love spending time with my sister, and I love writing.
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus is my savior and the one whom I can always lean on.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
I was drawn to Adolesco Preparatory Academy because of its classical model. I was taught classically and so I felt equipped to teach classically.
Kristy Ricau
Logic, Civics, & Debate
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I love all things linguistic! Diving deeply into God’s word is a passion of mine, which requires a knowledge of words, phrases, and clauses; and how they harmonize and organize into sentences, paragraphs, and ideas. Jesus is the word made flesh (John 1:14). This is why I am so intrigued by linguistics. The more we know His word, the more we know Him.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
My husband and I are second-generation homeschoolers, who have classically educated our two daughters. We strongly believe it is every parent’s God-given right and responsibility to train up their children (Proverbs 22:6) and that Christians should help each other (Philippians 2:4) in this pursuit. What better way than to partner with like-minded parents at Adelesco Prep?
What is your teaching background?
Besides educating my own two daughters since birth, I have been tutoring/directing with
Classical Conversations for over 10 years; everything from Foundations (Kindergarten) to
Challenge IV (12th grade).
Julie Vicknair
Math 6 & 7, Algebra I & II, 6th Literature & Composition
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I love math! Algebra is my favorite! I like that every problem has a right answer (sometimes more than one depending on the problem). And if you get it wrong you can just keep trying until you get it right. It is so comforting to me!
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
I first attended an Adolesco Prep interest meeting when the school was just starting, but with my two still little, I chose to fulfill my dream of homeschooling. Though challenging, those five years were a blessing I wouldn’t trade. Eventually, we needed more structure and community, so after much prayer, I attended another interest meeting and felt led to apply. We quickly found support, accountability, and a community that nourished not just my children’s minds, but their souls.
What do you like to do in your spare time and with whom?
I love spending time with my family—whether it’s watching movies (we became Star Wars fans this summer), traveling to new places each year like Gatlinburg, Branson, and Chattanooga, or enjoying Disney trips. Our adventures often include museums, aquariums, zoos, hiking, and even yearly fitness challenges, from obstacle courses to 10Ks. I also treasure quiet time to read, especially fiction and sometimes history.
What is your educational background?
I graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with a Bachelor’s degree in Education in Mathematics and English for 6-12th grade.
Fun Facts: I completed the Dopey Challenge at Disney World in January 2024. It is a four-day running challenge through the theme parks at Disney World, completing one running event each morning: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon, and Marathon.
Natalie Jimenez
Earth Science, 6th Grammar & Spelling, Spanish I, Friday Scholé
Bio
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I love to take long walks, read, sew, or go thrifting. I enjoy spending the weekends with my husband. We love to try new restaurants and watch movies together.
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus is my cornerstone. He has been so faithful to me.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
I was drawn to Adolesco by the community’s love for the Lord and each other. Being at Adolesco truly feels like being with family. I love being able to work with kids and imparting my passion for Jesus, learning and language with them!
How are you involved in your church?
I work on the kids ministry team at FBC Folsom. I help teach Bible study on Wednesday nights and assist behind the scenes on Sunday mornings. I also sing in the worship band.
Beth Vinyard
History 6-8, ELA 7-8, Humanities 9-10, Socratic Seminar, Senior Thesis
Bio
I am convinced that learning how to communicate well is a necessary tool in all aspects of life. Through the study of History, Literature, and Composition, I hope that all my students will gain the knowledge and ability to interpret the events of the past and explain how literature reflects the time and culture that produced it.
How are you involved in your church?
I am a member of Crossroads Church in Hammond, where I help in the nursery and participate in Women’s Ministry. My husband and I also lead a small group Bible Study in our home.
What is your professional background?
I graduated from SLU in 1997 with a B.A. in English and a minor in History. I began my career as a writer; first as a reporter, then as a technical writer! Later, I worked as the administrative assistant for Restoration House. As my children grew, I really wanted to play a larger role in their education so we made the decision to homeschool. I taught writing and literature for our homeschool co-op. After doing that for about 5 years, God led me to APA!
Bio
I am convinced that learning how to communicate well is a necessary tool in all aspects of life. Through the study of History, Literature, and Composition, I hope that all my students will gain the knowledge and ability to interpret the events of the past and explain how literature reflects the time and culture that produced it.
How are you involved in your church?
I am a member of Crossroads Church in Hammond, where I help in the nursery and participate in Women’s Ministry. My husband and I also lead a small group Bible Study in our home.
What is your educational and professional background?
I graduated from SLU in 1997 with a B.A. in English and a minor in History. I began my career as a writer; first as a reporter, then as a technical writer!
Later, I worked as the administrative assistant for Restoration House. As my children grew, I really wanted to play a larger role in their education, so we decided to homeschool. I taught writing and literature for our homeschool co-op. After about 5 years, God led me to Adolesco Prep!
Interested in Joining Our Faculty?
Qualifications we look for in a prospective employee:
Born-again believers and active members of a local Christian church
Have a love for children
Self-motivated, interact easily with others and communicate well
Enthusiastic about learning and teaching
Have enthusiasm for their subject area and the classical approach
Are willing to partner with parents in the education of their children
Teachers must have a college degree, preferably in their subject area.
We prefer to hire certified teachers; however, we do consider individuals who are experts in a specific field of study or passionately driven.
Please email lobby@adolescoprep.org if you are interested in joining our team.