Faculty & Staff

Co-owner: CHEC Director

The Director of CHEC oversees all aspects of the program. They set the schedule, seek counsel and make decisions that align the offerings each year with the Mission and Vision of the community.   
 
Born and raised in South Florida, Cindy had the privilege of attending one of the finest private schools in the state for 9 years. At that institution she developed a passion for learning that is never satiated. As an adult, she realized how much of that was due to the environment cultivated at school.  When your passion collides with your gifts and talents you have found your place. Children, education and homeschooling are her passions and organizational leadership is her gift.  

“I pray for God’s guidance over CHEC and firmly believe that He is our true leader.  I strive for CHEC to maintain a standard of excellence in all we do and that everything we do bring as much value to the students as possible on a part time basis. It is very special to be part of a group where everyone is committed and focused on what is best for their children and their families.”

Contact: info@checacademy.com

Co-owner: Director of Operations

The Director of Operations manages the school budget, assists in the admissions process and coordinates the master school schedule. Preparing students to be competitive in the college admission process starts well before high school; our Director of Operations oversees the school’s role in assisting families through this process. 

Jessica and her husband, Javier, are from Puerto Rico and met in college on the island. After graduating from University of Puerto Rico as engineers, they both left Puerto Rico and headed to California to pursue their master’s degrees in engineering at California Polytechnic State University. Jessica worked as an engineer moving around the country for different opportunities until they made their home in Lake Worth shortly after welcoming their daughter.  Jessica oversees CHEC's STEM program and ensures our students are preparing themselves for STEM careers if that is their area of interest.

Contact: info@checacademy.com

Scholarship & Registration Processor

Tina graduated with a bachelor's degree in Biochemistry and a Master's in Medical Science. She has a passion for learning and teaching about God's creation. An active member in her Church community, Tina has been teaching children for over 15 years. She is a proud mother of 3 beautiful children and devoted wife of a pastor. She also shares her love with her sweet dog Kenya. In her spare time, she loves to train for races and bake (and eat) yummy cookies. 

Contact: info@checacademy.com

Day Manager

Ms. Christy is the Day Manager at the Academy. She moved from Michigan to Florida in 1997 to attend Palm Beach Atlantic College, where theater and dance played an important role in her studies. She graduated in 2001 with a degree in Biblical Studies and a minor in Dance Arts. Christy and her husband, Bob, have four children, and are active members in their church and local community activities. Her calm demeanor and strong organizational skills help keep the Academy running smoothly.

Contact: christy.garnett@checpalmbeach.com

Diamond & Dual Enrollment Program Lead

Annette holds degrees in Special Education and Early Childhood Education from the University of Florida, along with certifications and endorsements in reading, ESOL, and Pre-K disabilities. With more than 21 years of experience, she has served as a teacher, reading coach, tutor, and homeschool leader. She is passionate about nurturing curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

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Contact: annette.gerlitzappel@checpalmbeach.com

Junior High Civics & Geography,  Junior High/High School English Teacher

Laura teaches JH Civics and Geography, and JH/HS English with energy, curiosity, and purpose. She encourages students to think critically, communicate clearly, and understand how literature, history, and government shape the world around them. Guided by Scripture, Laura teaches with patience, kindness, and the heart of Jesus, creating a welcoming environment where students feel supported, challenged, and encouraged to grow both academically and personally.

Contact: laura.bragel@checpalmbeach.com

Junior High Science Teacher

Trish teaches science at the Academy and is passionate about teaching and helping students grow in both their knowledge and love of science. She has five years of experience teaching at St. Rita’s Catholic Church and serving as a VBS instructor. Mrs. Trish holds a bachelor’s degree in International Business Management from Missouri State University. She and her husband have been married for 14 years and are blessed with two children who attend the Academy. She enjoys photography, cooking, baking, and walks with her dogs.

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Contact: patricia.russello@checpalmbeach.com

Junior High English Teacher

Cajisha is a certified English Language Arts teacher and FAU graduate. She brings an energetic, engaging style that builds confidence, critical thinking, and strong reading and writing skills. She supports each student’s individual growth and strives to reflect God’s grace through her words, encouragement, and actions. When she is not in the classroom, she can be found at the park with her son, Brock, spending time with her husband Austin, or cuddling her cat, Mochi, while sipping a hot tea and reading a fiction novel.

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Contact: cajisha.geigerbitzer@checpalmbeach.com

Junior High & High School Math, High School History Teacher

James teaches Math and History at the Academy. He discovered his passion for teaching while working with elementary and middle school students in South Korea. He also taught children through Vacation Bible School and has five years of experience tutoring high school students and preparing them for the SAT and ACT. Currently pursuing a master’s degree in Secondary Education at FAU, James enjoys puzzles, books, and video games and brings that same curiosity and love of learning into the classroom.

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Contact: james.yates@checpalmbeach.com

High School English, Study Hall, Liberal Arts Elective Teacher

Ali  teaches English, elective classes, & supports students in study hall at CHEC Academy. She is a mom of two, coffee enthusiast, and professional wearer of many hats, earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism before obtaining her Teaching Certificate. She loves combining storytelling with helping students grow in confidence.  Her faith guides everything she does, and she believes God has a special plan for every child. Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, family time, iced coffee, Disney movies, and plenty of laughter.

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Contact: ali.baker@checpalmbeach.com

Geometry Teacher

Mary Schoellkopf brings more than 40 years of teaching experience and a heart for helping students succeed in mathematics. She is passionate about building both understanding and confidence, believing every student can grow with encouragement, structure, and meaningful challenges. At CHEC Academy, she looks forward to sharing her love of Geometry while helping students see the beauty, order, and design of God’s creation through math. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with family, reading, walking, and exploring South Florida.

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Contact: mary.schoellkopf@checpalmbeach.com

Elementary Science Teacher

Maria teaches elementary Science at the Academy and the Center.  She has served in Kids Ministry at Christ Fellowship, teaching elementary students, leading STEM activities, and helping develop volunteer leaders. She loves encouraging students to explore God’s creation with curiosity, wonder, and confidence. A graduate of Leadership College at Christ Fellowship, she is currently completing her nursing education.  She looks forward to supporting students’ academic, personal, and spiritual growth.

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Contact: maria.fraino@checpalmbeach.com