Our Staff
John Hettler
– Principal, Founder
B.A., University of Richmond
M.S., Nova Southeastern University
John began his career working as a special education teacher in the public school system. John became very interested in reading and exploring why students struggled with reading. This lead to learning more about dyslexia, and how to help dyslexic students. John holds a master’s degree in Varying Exceptionalities, and has specialized training in reading interventions for dyslexic students. In 2006 John co-founded The Reading Station, an after-school tutoring program for students with dyslexia and other learning differences. This program grew, and in 2009 the Sea Of Strengths was founded. John Hettler and Susan Stevens established the school to create a unique learning environment where students are able to thrive and achieve their goals. John currently serves as the school’s Principal and assists with math classes in the morning.
Robin Hamilton
– Vice Principal, HS Lead Teacher
B.S., Florida State University
After graduating from Florida State University in 2010, Robin began working as a teacher and a tutor at the Sea of Strengths Academy and The Reading Station. Robin has attended several International Dyslexia Association conferences, and has received specialized training in multi-sensory teaching strategies for students with dyslexia. As a passionate member of the SOSA family, Robin began the tradition of SOSA’s annual Mad Scientist Day, which built on her love of science. She has been the driving force behind many exciting events at SOSA such as the annual Spring Fling Field Day and Spirit Week. Robin brings a special blend of enthusiasm and creativity to her classroom and is endlessly attempting to find new and creative ways for her students to learn and understand key concepts. Robin currently teaches students in Writing and Science classes.
Meryl Rizzo
– Lead Teacher
B.A. City University of New York
Ms. Meryl has many years teaching English, History, Theater and Speech in Middle and High School before joining us at the Sea of Strengths Academy. Meryl became involved with students with learning differences because of her own children. “I can’t imagine anything more fulfilling and rewarding than inspiring students to accomplish goals they have always felt were out of their reach. Every day is a new challenge and an opportunity to share and teach subjects which I feel passionate about.” Ms. Meryl brings the passion that comes with having a child with special needs, and wanting to make sure that they receive a high-quality school experience. Meryl has attended Orton-Gillingham training and uses this knowledge to help build students’ skills in reading and spelling. Meryl also regularly attends ongoing training and national conferences focusing on students with language-based learning disabilities. Hard-working, dedicated, compassionate, and enthusiastic are just a few words that describe Meryl’s work with SOSA students. Meryl currently teaches Literature and Social Studies classes at SOSA.
Tiffany Whitehead
– Administrative Assistant, Development Coordinator
B.A. University of South Florida
Tiffany began her career in Early Childhood Education back in 2011 as a lead preschool teacher. By 2019 she obtained a degree in Professional and Technical Communications. When she joined SOSA in 2018, she started as a TA as well as the aftercare teacher. Through hard work and dedication Tiffany is now SOSA’s Administrative Assistant and Development Coordinator. She assists with the school’s daily operations, administrative tasks, event planning and marketing. She is a hard worker, sets a great example for the students and always pushes them to never settle for anything less than their best.
Karley Horsman
- Lead Teacher
B.A. Wilmington University
Karley recently relocated from Delaware to Florida after earning her bachelor’s degree from Wilmington University. After two years of experience working at a school for students with autism, she discovered her passion for helping students who face challenges. She is thrilled to bring her expertise to Sea of Strength’s Academy, where she is dedicated to supporting students and helping them to overcome obstacles and thrive.
Dr. Randi Sofman, Ed.D. Language Arts and Literacy
- Lead Teacher
Randi has been in the education field for her lifetime career. She earned her undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degrees from Boston area universities. In addition, she has written over a dozen textbooks on educational strategies.
