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Our Leadership

Judith M. Carnivale - Principal

 

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Education:

I graduated from Youngstown State University with a degree in Sociology. I earned a teaching degree from the University of Toledo. I also have a Masters of Education degree and Education Specialist degree from the University of Toledo.

 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

I have been in education for 27 years. I began my career as a paraprofessional. I earned my teaching degree and taught school, before becoming an assistant principal and finally a principal.

 

 

What do you like most about working here?

I enjoy working for NHA because of the commitment to children and the desire to give children the best possible education to help them grow toward college.

 

 

Other work experience:

In my life I have been a waitress, a daycare provider, a seamstress, a hospital and school volunteer. I have also worked for a charter school authorizer.

 

Personal Information:

I am a true grandmother. When my grandchildren started calling me granny, friends thought I would cringe. I never cringed. I love that name all most as much as I love them.

 

 

Nicole Herbert - Middle School Dean

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Education:

I graduated from The University of Toledo in 1998 with my Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.  In 2010, I graduate from the University of Phoenix with my Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction.

 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

Before coming to NHA I taught in the traditional public school setting.  I taught kindergarten, third, fifth and sixth grades along with being a fifth grade Title I teacher.    When I came to Bennett Venture in 2005, I taught fourth grade and the following school year became the Assistant Principal.

 

What do you like most about working here?

I love working at Bennett Venture Academy because of our diverse student population and our hard working staff.  Bennett Venture carries out NHA’s mission as we work to challenge our students and prepare them for college. 

 

 

Personal Information:

I have been married for 11 years to my husband Lee.  We have two boys: Tyrese age 10 and Marcus age 7.  Our dog, Serena, is a great addition to our family and is spoiled rotten.  I enjoy cooking, attending my children’s sporting events, and being outdoors whenever possible.


 

Kristi Haywood,  Dean of Intervention

 

Education:

 

I have a bachelor degree from Bowling Green State University in Early Childhood Education.  I currently hold a Pre-K through third grade teaching license.  I graduated in May 2011 with my Masters in Education.  I will have my administration license in May of 2012.

 

 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

I began my teaching career as a substitute teacher in the public school system.  I taught kindergarten for 6 years before coming to Bennett.  My experience in teaching Kindergarten I worked with students with ADD, ADHD, and Asperger’s Syndrome.
 
 

What do you like most about working here?

I love the new challenge in my career.  I love the parents, staff, and students. I am looking forward to many more years here at Bennett.

 

 

 

Wendy Johnson, K-2 Dean

 

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Education:

I have my Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Toledo grades K-8. I have been working on my Master’s Degree in Special Education also at the University of Toledo.

 

 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

I have been teaching for 12 years. I have been a building sub for grades 6-8 but most of my teaching career has been in 5th grade including two years at Bennett. I have enjoyed my position as the K-2 Dean this past year.

 

What do you like most about working here?

Bennett Venture Academy challenges each student to do their best and to work hard at whatever goals they have set for themselves.

 

 

Other work experience:

I have worked at the YMCA as a camp counselor, receptionist, day care provider, and taught Saturday afternoon crafts.

 

 

Personal Information:

I am married and have 6 boys. I love riding my bike and cooking with my husband.

 

 

 

April Coy, 3-5 Dean

 
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Education:

  • Eastern Michigan University - Elementary Education, Bachelor of Science; Specialization: Language Arts; K-8 All Subjects
  • Bowling Green State University - Master of Education; Specialization: Reading; K-12 Reading Endorsement

 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

  • Bennett Venture Academy
  • 5th Grade Teacher (2007-2009)
  • Instructional Coach K-2 (2009-2010)
  • Dean of Intervention (2010-Present)
  • Toledo Academy of Learning (September 2000-August 2007)
  • Direct Instruction Coordinator (September 2004-August 2007)
  • Title I Reading Specialist (September 2003-September 2004)
  • 1st/2nd Grade Teacher (September 2001-September 2003)

 

What do you like most about working here?

I like all of the professional development and resources that NHA provides to their employees. I feel like I am continuing to grow as a professional. I also like the leadership team that I work with this year. We are all very supportive of each other.

 

Personal Information:

I have an 11 year old son who is an avid soccer player. Due to allergies, I do not own any pets. My interests include shopping, spending time with my son, and watching Michigan football. Go Blue!