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!
Veronica Leto, Th.M.
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.
Beth Vinyard
Director of Faculty Formation & Classical Christian Pedagogy
Bio
Orlisa DePhillips
Director of Upper School Student Support and Academic Advising
Bio
For Mrs. DePhillips, teaching high school sciences for 12 years and again at APA is not simply a profession but a calling to illuminate the wonder of creation and the wisdom of the Creator.
With a heart rooted in faith and a mind open to discovery, she delights in helping students see the beauty and order of the world around them. To her, science and Scripture are not at odds. Rather, they are harmonious revelations of the same magnificent story authored by God Himself.
Her desire to meet students’ needs led her back to college to earn her master’s in Counseling, advising high school students for 22 years, and then returning to utilize a
certification in Mild/Moderate Special Education. With a heart focused on discipling the next generation, she values holistic formation.
This is what drew Orlisa to Adolesco Prep and the classical education it offers. She values the emphasis on the comprehensive and cumulative methods, designed by timeless wisdom and intellectual rigor. She appreciates the Christ-centered focus of the classroom–every lesson, every subject, points back to Jesus.
She also values the school’s partnership with parents, who actively contribute to their children’s upbringing. APA’s collective commitment to honor God, prioritize learning, and build a strong community is both refreshing and inspiring to Orlisa.
It’s this shared mission—to faith, formation, and family—that continues to motivate her work in the classroom.
Ashley Hines
Programs
Coordinator
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
Operations & Administrative Coordinator
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
Lauren Blank
Preschool
Bio
I love watching young minds grow and seeing their little faces light up when they learn something new.
What do you like to do in your spare time/and with whom?
I love spending time with my family. We love ATV riding, especially when mud is involved, camping, being on the river, and anything to do with the outdoors.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
The schedule! I love having my kids with me most of the week because it gives us more time to do the things we love together. We take schoolwork on our adventures.
How are you involved in your church?
We go to church weekly, and I love to help out at our church outreaches.
Joanne Folks
Upper Grammar ELA
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.
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.
Dera Hughes
Kindergarten
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
My love for learning inspired me to instill that same love in young minds. Learning is liberating and satisfying as well as empowering. I am inspired to guide young minds to discover their God-given abilities. I love to help children know and believe that they can succeed, and the beauty of seeing them when they discover they can achieve those things they first thought were impossible.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy time with my family, reading a good book, four-wheeling and discovering new places across the country. I also like visiting beautiful tea rooms with family and friends and Sunday mornings in the Word with my pastor.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
The Christian-led environment, the ability to freely integrate Christ in education. Not only working with my students but also working hand-in-hand with parents to help with the spiritual and educational development of their children.
What is your professional background?
I have taught elementary grades for over 40 years, including working one-on-one with children with emotional and social disabilities. I have training in both the Classical and Montessori Methods. I have taught many different grade levels, but my love and heart are in teaching the younger students, and I have mainly taught Kindergarten. I am currently in my 5th year as APA’s kindergarten teacher.
Kayla Johnson
Upper Grammar Math
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!)
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.
Tonya Ratliff
Upper Grammar Math
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
I am passionate about teaching math because I struggled from 6 grade through high school with math. When I started teaching second grade, we had a math coach who came into the classroom to model lessons. She made math more concrete than abstract through discovery learning. I was learning along with my kids and now I teach this way. Math is fun!
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my spare time, I like to sit on my patio, drink my morning coffee, and pray. I also like to cook and bake. I also love having brunch with my favorite guy at my favorite spot.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are at the forefront of all we do. Also, I enjoy working alongside the parents as our co-teachers and the two-day work week on campus.
Educational/ professional background?
I have a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and 36 hours towards master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I am K-8 Elementary Education Certified. I am also a serial entrepreneur, spiritual life coach and senior leader at church with my husband.
Maddie Ricau
Latin & Lower Grammar History
Bio
Why are you passionate about what you teach?
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 APA because of their classical model. I was taught classically and so I felt equipped to teach classically.
Heather Knight
Upper Grammar History and School Nurse
Bio
What do you like to do in your spare time and with whom?
I love to camp at the beach and journey to Disney World with my husband and 5 kiddos.
Who is Jesus to you?
Jesus is my Savior, Lord, and friend. He is who I strive to be like.
What about Adolesco Prep was appealing to you?
Being involved in my children’s education as well as them being surrounded by Christ-minded individuals. I love all of the students at APA as well as the wonderful staff members.
How are you involved in your church?
I am on staff at First Baptist Covington as the Preschool Volunteer Coordinator as well as a Preschool Assistant. I teach in the preschool department on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. I am the children’s director of The Vine Co. I also teach kindergarten choir for the FBCC Children’s Choir.
Fun Facts about my nursing experience!
Basic Life Support (B.L.S.), Advanced Cardiac Life Support (A.C.L.S.), Neonatal Resuscitation Program (N.R.P.), AWHONN Fetal Monitoring Program, Crisis Prevention Institute (CPI Training), and a Member of Phi Kappa Phi Nursing Honor Society.
Lauren Quebedeaux
Science, Art and Music
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.
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.
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.
Logic/Rhetoric School
Orlisa DePhillips
Physical Science, Biology & Chemistry
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.
Meghan Martinez
Intro to Public Speaking
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 years ago. I hope to release another one soon!
Kristy Ricau
Latin & Logic
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
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.
Beth Vinyard
ELA, History & Comp/Lit
Bio
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.
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.