Educators

Caroline Diehl serves as a PreK-4 teacher at The Compass School of Texas. Caroline is a caring teacher who builds a strong relationship with each child and helps each student grow academically. Previously, she taught 1st grade at Washington Woods Elementary School in Westfield, Indiana. She received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and completed two minors, Diverse Learners and Art + Design. Additionally, Caroline studied the Reggio Emilia approach at Butler University. 

Throughout her undergraduate education, Caroline spent time in various schools and classrooms throughout the greater Indianapolis area. One of Caroline’s student teaching placements was in a Reggio-inspired PreK-8 school. She learned first-hand the importance of giving space for a child to explore and let their curiosity run wild. From solving math word problems centered around worms to creating a fantasy “Worm Hotel,” Caroline helped facilitate the worm-centered project work that occurred in 1st grade. She is excited to foster the same curiosity and wonder about the world while working with the students at Compass. 

The idea of developing future leaders with critical thinking skills brings Caroline great joy.

Caroline recently relocated to Dallas and is enjoying living in the same city where her older sister is located as family is very important to her. Caroline grew up in southern California and loves going back to visit her parents and grandparents. She wants to continue her education and plans to complete her Master's Degree in the next few years.

Reference remarks:

“She is family-oriented, prioritizes people, and brings loyalty and trustworthiness to her relationships.” 
 

Amy Taitel serves as a PreK-4 teacher at The Compass School of Texas. Amy has over 20 years of experience in education and describes teaching as a calling. She began her career teaching 1st grade and then stayed home with her children before returning to teaching in 2013. She continued teaching 1st grade before transitioning to teach PreK where she has been for the past six years. 

Amy graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Applied Learning and Development from the University of Texas at Austin. She then graduated with a Master of Education degree with an emphasis in Literacy from the University of North Texas.

As an educator, Amy is passionate about educating the whole child. During her time as a PreK teacher, Amy has helped develop cross-curricular learning standards and more child-centered assessments. Amy’s initiative in these areas led to district-wide changes for all PreK students.

Amy enjoys spending time with her husband, 3 young adult children, and her very large extended family. She also enjoys reading, shopping, and going for walks with her two dogs.
 

Reference Remarks:

“Amy is a team player who treats colleagues with respect, kindness, and caring; and the children always come first.  She is an advocate for her students.”  

Jessica Boardman serves as a Kindergarten teacher at The Compass School of Texas, where she is committed to fostering a love for learning in her students and supporting their holistic development as well-rounded individuals. She looks forward to continuing her journey as an educator at The Compass School of Texas and contributing to our vibrant school community.
Jessica holds a Bachelor of Arts and Sciences from Dallas Baptist University with a course emphasis in psychology and child development. She is certified to teach Pre-K through 6th grade and has enriched her skills by completing multiple training programs in reading instruction. She is currently pursuing further education in Sequential English Education (S.E.E.)
at The Shelton School and Evaluation Center to become a Certified Academic Language Practitioner (CALP) and is working towards her Masters of Arts in Teaching. Previously, Jessica taught 1st and 2nd grades at The Winston School, a small college preparatory institution for students with diverse learning profiles. Here, she developed a deep appreciation for personalized instruction and small class sizes, fostering strong personal connections with her students. She also contributed to curriculum selection and development, strategic planning, and the ISAS Accreditation team.
Before joining The Winston School, Jessica taught 1st and 2nd grades within the Dallas Independent School District, where she honed her skills in differentiated instruction and classroom management. During her tenure, she served on the curriculum selection and adoption team, the faculty advisory committee, led several community projects, and was
appointed team lead, continuously fostering a supportive learning environment.
Outside the classroom, Jessica enjoys photography and music. She and her husband live in Richardson and have six children and two grandchildren. They are passionate about travel and often take in concerts or live music, both locally and nationally.

Reference remarks:

 “Jessica is a phenomenal educator.  Her calm and deeply attentive demeanor brings a very individualized approach to her classroom”.
 

Mara Brachtl serves as a Kindergarten educator at The Compass School of Texas. Mara has been an associate teacher for the last two years at Greenhill School. During that time, Mara managed her classroom’s project-based learning initiatives, transforming her classroom multiple times into a life-size learning environment. Most notably, Mara altered the classroom to become an underwater world where students’ learning about the ocean, coral reefs, and wildlife came alive.

Mara is extremely passionate about creating opportunities for students to take ownership over their learning and make it visible. Prior to teaching at Greenhill School, Mara had the opportunity to work across Kindergarten through 5th grade classrooms, at an environmental magnet school in California. She graduated with a Bachelor’s in Sociology from California Baptist University and received a Master in Teaching degree from Pepperdine University. Mara grew up in Thousand Oaks, California and moved to Texas in August of 2021. 

Mara loves working with young students because she has a strong desire to help foster a love for school at this age that will hopefully carry on to the rest of their educational careers. Her favorite thing about teaching is the wonder and excitement that each day brings with this age group that is so naturally curious.
 

Reference Remarks:

“She is a skillful teacher who cares deeply about children.”

Dawn Capp serves as a 1st grade educator at The Compass School of Texas. She is an energetic and goal-driven instructor dedicated to helping her students reach their full potential. With over 20 years of education experience, Dawn brings a wealth of experience to the team. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education with a double major in Early Childhood and Specific Learning Disabilities from Palm Beach Atlantic University. Her previous experience includes teaching in elementary schools in University Park, TX, San Francisco, CA, and Palm Beach, FL.

Her true passion is teaching first and second grade, and she strives to create a community of learners that nurtures growth in a challenging, positive, and fun environment. Dawn believes that it is crucial to provide a positive educational experience for each child at a young age because their impressions of learning are captured early on and will continue throughout their lifetimes.

Dawn currently resides in University Park with her husband, daughter, son, and two dogs. Her two children are both in high school at the Episcopal School of Dallas. When she is not planning school lessons and activities, you can either find her diving into a good book, cooking up something new, traveling with her family, skiing, doing pilates, volunteering with her children, or spoiling her dogs.

Reference remarks:

“Dawn values hands-on projects and brings a multi-sensory approach to her classroom.  She is exceptional with all children”.

 

Austin Seewald serves  at The Compass School of Texas as a 1st grade educator. Originally from Houston, Austin moved to the Dallas-Fort Worth area over a decade ago and has since become deeply rooted in the community. She began her seven-year journey in early childhood education by teaching Pre-K and kindergarten in Dallas and Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD. She continually hones her skills and expertise in the classroom and enjoys the daily opportunities to grow her students for success. Austin’s teaching style is characterized by her nurturing and supportive approach. She believes in creating a safe and engaging learning environment where students feel empowered to explore and discover. Austin is dedicated to providing a well rounded education that meets the diverse needs of her students. She inspires young minds by fostering their love for learning. Her commitment to excellence in education and dedication to her students’  growth and development makes her an asset to our school community.

Austin graduated from Texas Christian University with a degree in Strategic Communication and a minor in Spanish. She also studied at the Istituto Lorenzo de Medici in Florence, Italy, and Universidad Internacional Menéndez Pelayo in Seville, Spain. Austin enjoys traveling, reading, shopping, and spending time with her friends and family. She is active in her church and several Dallas community organizations. 

Reference remarks: “Austin reaches every child in a special way and uses an Individualized approach. She is strong and full of grace”.
 

Brie Handahl serves as a 2nd grade educator with The Compass School of Texas. With over a decade of experience with elementary aged students, Brie continues to dedicate herself to creating an engaging learning environment for her students. Her journey began in a before and after school program, where she discovered a passion for teaching before pursuing a degree in Elementary Education with a Minor in Special Education at The College of St. Scholastica.
Throughout her career, Brie taught both fourth grade and kindergarten, focusing her skills in differentiated instruction and student-centered learning. In addition, she spent the past three years teaching 5th grade summer school, where she collaborated with fellow educators to improve curriculum and provide enriching experiences for students.

For Brie, one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is building meaningful connections with students and their families. By understanding their interests and backgrounds, she strives to create a personalized learning experience that empowers each student to reach their full potential.

Originally from Minnesota, she recently relocated to Texas with her fiancé. She is enthusiastic about this new chapter of life and thrilled to contribute to Compass’ community. Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time outdoors and  hiking. Brie also enjoys traveling and experiencing other cultures, with highlights including South Africa and Spain.

Reference remarks: 

“You can always count on Brie to bring a positive spin to anything she does. She has strong relationships with families and students. Her implementation of the curriculum is stellar.”

 

Michele Matamoros serves as a 2nd grade teacher at The Compass School of Texas. With over 20 years of experience in accredited international schools, she served as a Special Education Teacher and Interventionist, a Reading and Math Instructional Coach, and as Elementary Principal. Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders from Baylor University, a Bachelor of Arts in Educational Leadership and Management, and a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction for Special Education from Longwood University in Virginia.

A passionate and dedicated educator, Michelle believes that all students can learn and achieve their full potential when provided with the right instruction and supportive environment. In her teaching, she focuses on reaching the whole
child, empowering students to be their “best selves,” develop a love for learning, and explore their interests. Making a difference in each child’s life is her true passion, and she has  a particular love for working with lower elementary students.

Outside the classroom, she enjoys swimming, horseback riding, and reading. As recent empty nesters, Michelle and her husband love going to the beach and spending time with family and friends.

Reference remarks: 

“What an outstanding educator! Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to her students and colleagues. She is dedicated to educators, parents, and students alike, and everyone adores her.”

Darla Halbert serves the Compass School of Texas as a 3rd grade educator. She is a dedicated elementary classroom teacher with over 14 years of experience fostering positive and engaging learning environments. With a strong passion for promoting children’s natural curiosity, Darla is committed to empowering students to become critical thinkers, problem solvers, and decision makers. 
Darla attended Abilene Christian University where she holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. During her college years, Darla worked as an after school caregiver, tutor, and Children’s Ministry Intern at her church in San Antonio. She has always been passionate about building positive relationships with children. She is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Education Policy and Leadership from American University, and she is excited to be graduating in December 2024. 

Her previous experience includes teaching 1st and 3rd grades at HEB ISD and Northside ISD in San Antonio, where she participated in curriculum planning, differentiated instruction, and leadership positions on her campuses. Darla also served as a mentor for new teachers and student teachers, piloting innovative programs and providing guidance on classroom management and lesson planning.
Darla moved to Irving from San Antonio in 2020 to be closer to her family and loves being able to spend more time with her nephews and niece. Outside of her professional life, Darla enjoys spending time in nature hiking, camping, and kayaking. She loves spending quality time with her dog and indulging in her passion for baking.

Reference remarks: 

“True leader and excellent educator who is a learner, always wanting to learn.  Her passion and expertise is a gift to any classroom.”

Mercedes Macedo serves as the Spanish educator and the Pedagogista for all of the Compass School of Texas. Mercedes has taught children for nearly twenty-five years. Most recently, she taught preschoolers at Temple Emanu-El ECEC in Dallas for five years and guided many teachers as the Pedagogista for the last two years. Prior to teaching in Dallas, Mercedes taught in early childhood education preschools in Austin, Berkeley (CA), and Alexandria (VA). In addition, Mercedes has presented the Reggio Emilia approach to the Education department in her home country, Peru. Mercedes holds a Bachelor's degree in Education from St. Agustin University in Arequipa, Peru.

Mercedes is committed and passionate about inquiry-based, emergent curriculum, and the Reggio Emilia approach. In her words, "These approaches promote and support an education where every child is the main character on 'stage' and having an essential role in their learning." As the Compass School of Texas Pedagogista, Mercedes assists with professional development and provides ongoing support around documenting projects and the learning process. Mercedes is excited to share her love for her native language and to bring the culture of other Spanish-speaking countries alive for her students.

Mercedes enjoys collecting materials outside school to spark children's wonder and inquiry. When Mercedes is home, you will find her snuggling her little dog Mocha Marie, enjoying good music, and cooking. Mercedes is married and, with her husband Eric, loves traveling and attending concerts.

Reference Remarks:

"I have witnessed her hone her interpersonal skills, creativity, and eye for engaging programming. While teaching, Mercedes can see the whole child and build on their strengths and interests."

Khadicha Vinokur serves as the Farm to Table & Mindfulness Educator. Khadicha graduated in 2003 from National University of Uzbekistan with a Journalism degree. After graduating, Khadicha worked as a journalist and editor at a radio station while also teaching English. In 2006, she met her husband, and in 2009 moved to Dallas, Texas. She studied and engaged in Integrative Nutrition Health as well as Positive Psychology and Mindfulness. In June 2013, Khadicha became a teacher at Temple Emanu-El Dallas, where she captivated and engaged children with immersive Farm to Table experiences. 

Her classroom was a garden, rich in lessons that nurtured children’s love for nature and working together to see where food came from. Khadicha brings curiosity and a love for food and cooking in all of her classes. Khadicha is an avid reader of child development books and is a proud mom of a beautiful daughter who is 13 years old. She looks forward to bringing her passion in Farm to Table living with Mindfulness practices to Compass students, two fields which are proven to improve focus, overall health, and well-being of children.

Reference Remarks:

“Khadicha does a phenomenal job of teaching the emotional calming, entrepreneurial opportunities and responsibility that a maintaining a garden offers. Her students come home talking about how delicious a purple carrot is, the planting process and the importance of taking deep breaths through challenging moments!”