Our Team
A Community of Professionals
United in Purpose
Scott Simpson, Head of School
I have been married to my amazing wife, Teresa, for 22 years and we have three sons: Andrew, Tyler, and Jake. Most of our time is spent at church, school, sports games, and band competitions. We’re all pretty competitive during family game nights and we love to travel and hike into God’s creation.
One of the defining moments of my career was the month before graduation, when I was offered a full-time teaching position at an incredible school and a full-time youth pastor position at a large church. I had spent the school year completing my education degree and my summers on mission trips or serving as a youth pastor, including one summer as an intern and one summer full-time for a church in between
pastors. God clearly opened my heart and took me to teaching, even though I was so excited and ready for the ministry.
I have no doubt that God did call me into ministry, but in a different form than church leadership. I do fully believe that my service in the public, magnet, and private schools have been for his glory, having a positive effect on students, teachers, and families throughout my time in teaching and educational leadership.
I served as a teacher and instructional coach for 11 years, teaching at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. I was blessed to have a principal who saw leadership in me and directed me to administration. After teaching, I served as an assistant principal and principal for 11 years at Liberty Magnet, Osceola Magnet, and Treasure Coast Elementary.
God has given me a passion for educating students and a relentlessly competitive spirit to provide the best education on the entire Treasure Coast. One of the unique experiences of Vero Classical School is that we are committed to go beyond the development of a student’s mind. We are committed to a Christ-centered education that cultivates wonder, wisdom, and worship. Students will learn to pursue truth, goodness and beauty within the confines of human knowledge and skills, for we are called to love the Lord our God with all of our hearts and souls as well, not just our minds.
B.A. Social Science, Wheaton College
-
History, Political Science, Anthropology Concentration, Bible & Theology minor
M.A. Teaching, Wheaton College
-
Certification in Elementary K-6, Mathematics 5-9, Language Arts 5-9, Social Science 6-12, Science
6-12, ESOL K-12
Ed.S. Educational Leadership, Nova Southeastern University
-
Educational Leadership (all levels)
Vero Classical School Faculty
Wendy Swearingen, Kindergarten
I am so excited to teach kindergarten at Vero Classical School. I have a Bachelors degree in Psychology, and I will begin my seventh year of teaching this fall.
I have been married to Nate for 20 years, and have two children, Banks who is 13,
and Ava who is 10. We love to watch our kids sports- football, basketball, and
lacrosse. I also enjoy the outdoors, relaxing at the beach and spending time with my
family.
Favorite Verse: Numbers 6: 24-26, The Lord bless you and keep you the Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Senaida Hart, First Grade
I feel excited and blessed to join the wonderful community of families and teachers at Vero Classical School. I find great joy in working with children and their families. My goals in education are to see students grow in the Lord, love others, and create lifelong learners. God made a wonderful world for us to enjoy and learn about together!
I’ve been a private English and reading tutor for many years and have taught in co-ops and private schools. I’ve delighted in being a Sunday School teacher for 20 years. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration with a focus on Policy and Leadership. I recently completed my Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction over the summer (2024).
My hobbies include spending time with my family and friends, spoiling my dog, reading, listening to podcasts, and volunteering in the community. The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis is my favorite book.
My heart verse - Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me and do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 19:14
Reeny Sempsrott, Teacher Aide
I am thankful to God for the opportunity to serve at Vero Classical School, and to be part of its beginnings. I am excited to learn and grow in the classical approach. I am passionate about helping children and families to know and love God by helping to create an environment of joy, curiosity, trust, and worder of God, his word, and his world. I have had the pleasure of serving in early education for the last 35 plus years by teaching both kindergarten and PK4, and directing for almost 15 years. It is here that I find my purpose and ministry. I have been married to my husband, Greg, for 37 years. We have 4 married children and 12 fabulous grandchildren, with another one on the way! Family and the beach are my happy places. I also enjoy running, working out, and eating good food!
I look forward to working with the leadership and staff, and to meeting the children and families at Vero Classical. It's going to be amazing!
Favorite Verse: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and hi will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Emily Smith, Second Grade
I am so thankful for the opportunity God has given me to join the Vero Classical family. I find great joy in molding young learners in the image of Christ and helping to prepare for their journey in this life. I have a Bachelor of Science in Elementary K-6. I have 11 years teaching experience in public education as a first grade and kindergarten teacher. I am so excited to begin a new adventure as the second grade teacher. I’ve been married to my husband, Bryant for 10 years. We have two sons, ages 5 and 3. My hobbies include swimming, reading, and spending time with my family.
Favorite verse: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13
Brian Smith, Third Grade
I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to teach at Vero Classical School. In meeting the amazing administration and staff and in seeing the curriculum, I couldn’t be more blessed and excited to bring love and laughter to the students and to provide the faith, character, education, and skills that will lead them to success.
I am finishing my tenth year teaching third grade at Glendale Christian School, and I cannot continue without thanking my principal, fellow staff, students, and their families for the experience, wisdom, love, and memories I’ve received during my time there!
I was born and raised in Vero Beach. Fishing and camping with my family are what I love to do outside of teaching. I have been married to my wonderful wife, Sarah, for 12 years. We have three children ages 5, 6, and 9. When I look at them and at the students, I can’t help but teach and emulate the reference from the verse Matthew 19:26. “For with God, all things are possible!
Romans 15:4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope.
Natalie McLaughlin, Fourth Grade
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Vero Classical School community and to partner with families in the education and discipleship of their children. I have a deep passion for helping students grow not only academically, but also in their understanding of who God is and who He has created them to be. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science, a Master of Education in Educational Leadership, and a Master of Arts in Apologetics and Evangelism from Dallas Theological Seminary. I have spent several years in education teaching elementary students and developing curriculum that fosters both critical thinking and a love for learning. In addition to my work in the classroom, I have been involved in ministry through discipleship, teaching, and training both locally and internationally with organizations such as BeMultiplied and Athletes in Action. What I love most about classical Christian education is the opportunity to pursue truth, goodness, and beauty in a way that shapes both the mind and the heart. My desire is to cultivate a classroom where students are encouraged to think deeply, love learning, and grow in wisdom and faith. I have been married to my husband, John, for 20 years, and we have three children—one heading to college this year and two in high school. I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, writing, and being involved in church ministry.
Favorite Verse: Jeremiah 29:13 “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all of your heart.”
Melissa Carter, Grammar School Art
Art education is essential because children are whole persons and as such, have an innate need for beauty in their lives. We are all created for worship and the arts are an expression of that. I believe visual art helps children grow in countless ways, but particularly, it gives them language for creating visual poetry. Plus, it inspires joy!
I have been an art educator here in Indian River County since 2013, at Sebastian Elementary and Rosewood Magnet School. I graduated summa cum laude with my bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in Art Education from Florida International University, where I was trained classically in drawing and painting and was able to study abroad in France and Italy. My main medium has been oil paint, however, I’ve recently ventured out into murals for Calvary Chapel Vero Beach, The Buggy Bunch, and CareNet Pregnancy Center.
My husband Nicholas and I have three wonderful children - Remi, Clive, and Camille. I’m looking forward to making beautiful things with the students of Vero Classical! We’re going to have tons of fun and experiment with a wide variety of media.
It’s impossible to choose one favorite verse, but in regard to education, I love Colossians 3:23 “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.”
Wendy McLoughlin, Logic School Art
.jpg)
I am honored to be returning to VCS, where I had the privilege of serving during the school's founding year as the Art and Drama teacher. It is a joy to once again minister to students as the Art teacher for grades 5–7. I look forward to seeing how God works in each student's life as we explore creativity together through the guidance of the Holy Spirit and a biblical worldview, using art to glorify Him.
I earned my Bachelor of Science degree in Fine Arts, with concentrations in Painting and Ceramics and a minor in Art History, graduating Cum Laude from the College of Saint Rose in Albany, New York, in 1986. Before returning to the classroom, I spent nearly 20 years as an interior designer in New York, creating beautiful spaces for businesses and private homes through mural painting, custom lighting, flooring, tile design, and other artistic elements.
Since 2016, I have also enjoyed painting seasonal window murals for Chick-fil-A. One of my greatest joys has been sharing that experience with VCS fourth-grade students by inviting them to help paint the Christmas windows each year.
My husband, John (Jack), and I are blessed with six grown children and six wonderful grandchildren. My prayer is that every student who enters my classroom will discover the beauty of God's creation, develop the talents He has given them, and use those gifts to bring Him glory.
One of my favorite Bible verses is : "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11
Daniel Pastor, Physical Education
I am extremely excited at the opportunity to work at Vero Classical School. I was born and raised in Vero Beach and would never want to live anywhere else. I have a Bachelor's Degree from Florida International University, and I am currently pursuing a General Contractor's license as well as a Personal Trainer's license from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. I am very passionate about athletics and health in general because there is no limit to what one can accomplish with discipline and hard work. In athletics, one can always learn and improve with a healthy mindset and positive encouragement. I am very thankful for all the people who have encouraged me to be better because it has not only helped me with sports but also with my relationship with Christ. I love working with kids, and I look forward to helping them master their bodies and their attitudes through physical education class everyday!
Favorite Verse: That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weakness, in insults, in hardships, in persecution, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:10
Joanne Knott, Music
I am excited to be a part of the beginning of this wonderful new school. My husband and I have been married 22 years, and have a daughter who just graduated high school and a son who is starting his junior year at IRCHS. I have a Bachelor of Arts in Drama from San Diego State University. While in California I started my own music studio with 40 students and was a teacher with the Music Teachers Association of California. I was blessed to spend the majority of my elementary and high school years in Peru where my father was a missionary with the
Lutheran Church. It was an experience which has had a large impact on who I am today. Since we moved to Florida 19 years ago, I have developed many musical connections in Indian River County. I have had the honor to play with colleagues in two “Monster Piano Concerts” at Christ By the Sea. I was the accompanist for the Vero Beach Choral Society for 12 years and currently do a lot of accompanying for SRHS band and choir students and IRCHS choir events like MPA, VAPA, and solos and ensemble. My family and I are very blessed to be at our current church Calvary Chapel of Sebastian, and I volunteer in the children’s ministry, prayer ministry and also
at Carenet Pregnancy Center in Vero Beach.
One of my favorite verses is “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him and are called according to his purpose” Rom. 8:28
Sarah Wuellner, Drama
I am thrilled to spend my first year teaching theatre with Vero Classical School! Both theatre and teaching have long been passions of mine, and I’m eager to share my experience and love for the performing arts with my students.
My journey in theatre began when I was just five years old, and since then, the Lord has blessed me with countless opportunities—from studying abroad to performing in over 30 productions. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, Educational Studies, and Journalism from Denison University, as well as an Associate of Arts & Sciences with a concentration in Theatre from Southern State Community College.
Over the past four years, I’ve worked in a variety of educational settings, including summer camps, after-school programs, preschools, K–12 classrooms, and a Montessori school.
Originally from a small town in southern Ohio, I recently moved to the beautiful (and much warmer) Vero Beach area. During my first five months in Florida, I worked at Disney World!
I’m delighted to be a part of Vero Classical School and to share my love for theatre and the Lord with others! It brings me so much joy to help students discover their artistic side and build confidence through the performing arts. I believe theatre has something to offer everyone - whether they shine onstage or thrive behind the scenes - and I can’t wait to see my students grow and create together this year!
Katie Arango, Logic School English
I have been teaching in the public school system for ten years. I began my career in the elementary classroom, where I taught fifth, fourth, and second grade, and for the last six years, I have been teaching high school English in Virginia.
At Vero Classical School, I will be teaching Bible, Literature, and History, bringing with me a decade of experience in both elementary and high school English classrooms.
As a Florida native, I am excited to move back home and embrace the opportunity to teach at Vero Classical School. I am passionate about helping students seek truth and pursue beauty through the study of language so that they may serve God and man more faithfully.
My brother's experience attending a Christian classical school deeply inspired me and shaped my own desire to be part of this rich educational tradition that integrates faith and learning.
Favorite Bible Verse: He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? — Micah 6:8.
Kevin Spingler, Logic School Science & Math
Mr. Spingler brings more than 40 years of award-winning teaching experience, an impressive academic background, and a deep commitment to Christ-centered education. Throughout his career, he has taught nearly every major upper-school science discipline—including AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Environmental Science, AP Physics 1, and Statistics—consistently guiding students to strong AP exam results and a genuine love for scientific discovery.
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Spingler has served in a wide range of leadership roles, including Science & Math Department Chair, Academic Dean, Director of Environmental Studies, and Interim Athletic Director, spanning 25 years of administrative leadership. He has also designed and equipped numerous science lab facilities and secured significant grant funding to strengthen school science programs.
​Most importantly, Mr. Spingler is deeply committed to helping students pursue Truth, goodness, and beauty through rigorous scientific study that naturally uncovers the unchanging and creative character of God. His expertise, leadership, and love for students will be foundational as we expand VCS’ Logic and Rhetoric science department and build a program that is both academically excellent and spiritually formative.
Sandi Benham, Logic School Math
I have been married for 32 years and have one son. My son has blessed me with a daughter-in-law and two granddaughters. I have been teaching for 21 years and was a worship leader at a local church for 2 years. I am thankful for my new opportunity to serve at Vero Classical School. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education and an Associate of Science Degree in Radiology. I am Florida certified Middle Grades ELA, Middle Grades Math, Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12, English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) K-12, Reading Endorsement K-12. My teaching experience spans across Kindergarten through Eighth grade. I am a student advocate committed to creating a safe and engaging environment that inspires a love for learning.
Favorite Bible Verses: Isaiah 41:10 - So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Matthew 19:14 - Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.”
Courtney DiPietro, Logic School History
I am excited to join the community of educators and learners at Vero Classical School and to return to teaching history, a subject I have always loved. Teaching has been my passion for many years, and I have been blessed with opportunities to teach students of various ages while also collaborating with the Florida Department of Education and educators across the state to develop high-quality instructional resources.
I earned a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies from the University of Central Florida, with concentrations in Education and Nutrition and a minor in Psychology.
For more than ten years, I taught grades 7–10 history at a community homeschool co-op. Most recently, I completed five years with the Indian River County School District, serving as a third-grade math teacher, a fourth-grade classroom teacher, and an instructional math coach at Vero Beach Elementary.
While I valued each of these roles, I missed having my own classroom and the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with students and their families. My goal is to cultivate a love of learning that extends far beyond the classroom.
I look forward to seeing God's work unfold this year in my classroom and throughout our school community. Although I have many favorite Bible verses, the passage I return to each year as I pray for my students is Colossians 1:9–12.
Brandy Gibson, Office Administrator
I am truly thankful that God puts people in specific places for specific seasons of their lives. I worked at Master's Academy for 10 years, during which so many people and students left and imprint on my life and heart.
I have been married to my hardworking, loving husband for 21 years and we have two kids, Emily and Logan. Emily is a nurse in labor and delivery and will complete her NP next June. Logan is pursuing his calling from the Lord to join the United States Air Force, for which he will leave in the coming months.
I have worn many hats as an office administrator, but to sum it up, my love for kids and love for the Lord are my passion in everything I do, no matter the task. I am so excited to start my next chapter at Vero Classical School as the Administrative Assistant and Marketing Director.
Favorite Scriptures:
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalms 139:14
This is the day which the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it! Psalm 118:26
Jamison Kelley, Founder / Classical Coordinator
Education has been a passion of mine for as long as I can remember. I graduated from Wheaton College with a degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Sociology. Upon graduating, I had the extreme fortune of being hired as a first grade teacher at Covenant Classical School of Naperville. This was my first exposure to Christian classical education, and I was completely blown away by all the students were able to learn, understand, and communicate. Since then, I have continued to love and study this methodology of teaching over the last decade which has only solidified my position that Christian classical education is the very best option for schooling. I have both grammar school and middle school teaching experience - and I loved each one.
It is my joy and honor to serve at Vero Classical School as the Classical Coordinator. I believe so deeply in educating the whole child - mind and soul. I am so excited that Vero Classical School exists, and I delight every day in the work being done here by the most incredible team of teachers to the benefit of the most wonderful student body and their families. My husband, Michael, and I are the founders of Vero Classical School, and our three sons all attend in 6th, 5th, and 2nd grades. I'm so grateful that God has blessed the start of this school, and I cannot wait to see all He does in the future.
It's hard for me to choose a favorite verse of the bible because my favorite aspect of scripture is that from start to finish God is proving over and over again that He is who He says He is, and He will always accomplish what He says He will accomplish.
Emily Groothuis, Development Director
Emily Groothuis is a Florida native who grew up in Vero Beach enjoying the water, playing sports and being out in nature with friends and family. She attended the University of North Florida, where she met her husband, Kyle Groothuis. They have been married for 12 years and have three children, two of whom are rising third grader and a rising kindergartener. As the newly appointed Development Director, she brings a passion for relationship building and a strong background in fundraising, community engagement, and institutional growth. In her role, she is dedicated to expanding the school’s mission through strategic development initiatives, donor relations, and outreach efforts that strengthen the school’s financial foundation. With a background in Business Management and Customer Relations, she will be able to apply her skills to foster a culture of philanthropy that supports Vero Classical School’s long-term success.
​
John 4:8 “Anyone who does not love does not know God, because God is love.”
Stephanie Comstock, Business Manager
I serve as the Business Manager at Vero Classical School, where much of my work happens behind the scenes in support of the school’s daily operations and long-term growth. I am grateful to be part of a school community that values Christ-centered formation and shares a thoughtful, purposeful approach to education.
Before joining VCS, I spent over 20 years in administrative and operations roles. I hold a B.S. in Hospitality Management and Business from San Jose State University, where I graduated magna cum laude and was honored as Department Valedictorian.
One of the unique privileges of my role at VCS has been helping support the planning and execution of the new school building. It has been a joy to see the Lord provide through the generosity of individual families and donors as the school continues to grow.
My husband, Ben, and I have three boys: Hudson, Oliver, and Miles. Outside of work, I enjoy beach days and cheering our sons on in their many sports.
​It is impossible to choose just one favorite Bible verse, but I have been especially grateful for 1 Peter 1:3 and the reminder that, through Christ’s resurrection, we have been given a living hope; a hope that is not dependent on us or our circumstances, but is secure because of what He has done for us.