School Leadership

Director of Innovation

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Berenice, a dedicated professional, serves as the Director of Innovation at Mundo Verde. With a master's degree in bilingual/bicultural education from Teachers College at Columbia University and a bachelor's degree in mass communication from Louisiana State University, Berenice brings over ten years of expertise in children's performance management and program development. As a founding lead kindergarten teacher, she contributed to the creation of an award-winning bilingual short film, Vuela, Vuela Mariposa, written and performed by kindergarten students as part of their expedition on animal adaptation and habitat preservation. Berenice leads now the Instituto Mundo Verde at the forefront of innovative bilingual education professional development, fostering inclusivity, support, and sustainability.

Director of Student Services

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Delmy, the Director of Student Services, originally from Los Angeles, CA, enriches Mundo Verde's team with her profound expertise in the field of special education. She earned her Master’s in Psychology from the University of California, Irvine, and has been working in the Washington DC area since 2019. With over 11 years of experience in special education, Delmy has dedicated her career to supporting students from PreK to 12th grade in general education, resource, and self-contained settings. As a bilingual special education advocate, she brings a dynamic background, in delivering and monitoring special education instruction. Delmy's expertise extends to working with individualized education plans (IEP) and 504 plans, ensuring school compliance with local and federal laws and regulations. With her dynamic background, Delmy brings a unique perspective to Mundo Verde, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for students with diverse learning needs.

Director of Communications

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Diana, a vital member of Mundo Verde since 2013, holds over 15 years of expertise in marketing and business across non-profit organizations, multinational companies, and private businesses. Originally from Mexico City, Diana managed international volunteering programs as a Country Director for ProWorld Volunteer and led ecotourism workshops for indigenous communities. Before joining Mundo Verde, she served as an Outreach Coordinator at non-profit organizations, focusing on the Hispanic Community in DC. Diana holds a degree in Marketing with a specialization in Business Administration from Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey in México and a post-graduate degree in Sustainable Tourism from the University of Barcelona. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Diana brings cross-cultural understanding and strategic communications acumen to her role at Mundo Verde.

Extended Programs Director

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Gloria, Mundo Verde's Extended Day Program Director, brings a wealth of experience to her role, holding a master's in Sociocultural Anthropology from John Hopkins and a BA in political science from Swarthmore College. Her professional journey includes serving as Director of Operations at Multicultural Community Services and Executive Assistant to the Director at CentroNía. Gloria has also made significant contributions as a Program Specialist for Hispanas Unidas in Texas, where she developed a curriculum and taught in an after-school program, enhancing the self-esteem and life skills of middle school girls. Her commitment to education and creative program development is evident in her role at Mundo Verde, where she oversees Extended Day Programs and contributes to the school's enriching environment.

Director of Teaching and Learning

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Heleena, Mundo Verde's Instructional Coach, brings over a decade of educational expertise to the organization. Originally from the Boston, MA area, Heleena pursued higher education at Howard University. With roles as a classroom teacher, Math Instructional Coach, and Math Implementation Specialist for Eureka Math, Heleena is well-versed in educational practices. Her diverse experiences and passion for education make her a valuable asset to Mundo Verde's commitment to providing a high-quality and inclusive learning environment.

Director of Development

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Isadora, Mundo Verde's adept Development Manager, is a seasoned fundraising expert with over 15 years of dedicated experience. Coming from Costa Rica, Isadora is fluent in English and Spanish, with proficiency in Portuguese. Specializing in fundraising strategy, talent search, major giver campaigns, and more, Isadora has made significant contributions to organizations like Onward, WITNESS, Inc., and Higher Achievement in Washington, D.C. Her expertise in fundraising aligns seamlessly with Mundo Verde's mission, enhancing the school's commitment to providing an exceptional learning environment through her strategic and impactful efforts.

Chief Operating and Sustainability Officer

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Kat, an invaluable addition to Mundo Verde, leverages over a decade of experience across DCPS and DC public charter schools. Previously serving as the Director of a public Montessori school, Kat demonstrated proficiency in merging campuses and expanding student enrollment. With a background that includes living abroad in Nepal and South Korea and working with international organizations such as the World Bank, Kat is enthusiastic about contributing to Mundo Verde's bilingual and diverse learning community. Holding two master's degrees from Georgetown and Cornell, and a BA from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Kat brings a wealth of knowledge and commitment to fostering an inclusive educational environment.

Founder and Strategic Advisor

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Kristin Scotchmer, the lead founder and executive director of Mundo Verde, brings over 17 years of professional management and governance experience to the organization. Holding a bachelor’s degree in political science and Latin American studies from the University of Chicago and coursework towards a master’s degree in Latin American studies from the University of Texas at Austin, Kristin has been a driving force in strengthening the capacity of small community-based organizations. Her significant contributions include leading the development of Philanthropic Advisory Services during her five years at the Community Foundation for the National Capital Region, where she managed donor-advised grant-making and supervised teams across various departments. Kristin's educational background and extensive experience uniquely position her to guide Mundo Verde's vision and operations with dedication and expertise.

Director of Teaching and Learning

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Monica, the Director of Teaching and Learning at Mundo Verde, brings a wealth of diverse educational experience. Starting as a Fellow Teacher in kindergarten in the 2015-16 school year, she progressed to become a Lead Teacher in 5th grade. Monica's extensive background includes work at Universidad del Zulia in Venezuela, where she taught children, teenagers, and adults. Holding a diploma in Teaching Techniques and earning her PhD in Chemistry through studies in both Venezuela and Spain, Monica is dedicated to enriching the educational experience at Mundo Verde with her varied and comprehensive pedagogical expertise.

Interim Executive Director

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Rich’s career blends a passion for education with a robust background in law and non-profit leadership. After beginning his career as a classroom teacher and outdoor educator, he pursued a legal education with the aim of integrating his expertise into educational reform. Rich has significantly impacted the DC education landscape through roles such as Executive Director at Thurgood Marshall Academy Public Charter High School and Chief of Operations and Policy at E.L. Haynes Public Charter School. His work includes founding CityWorks DC to enhance postsecondary opportunities for DC youth and managing substantial educational initiatives as the Director of Race to the Top. Rich’s approach combines analytical problem-solving with collaborative leadership, emphasizing the importance of community and student development. He holds a Bachelor’s from Indiana University Bloomington and a Doctor of Law from Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University.

Director of Data and Accountability

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Rodrigo, Mundo Verde's dedicated Director of Data and Accountability, brings extensive teaching experience to his role. Originally from Peru, Rodrigo earned his bachelor's in international political economy from Georgetown University's School of Foreign Service and a master's degree in Bilingual Education from American University. Rodrigo's commitment to educational equity was sparked during his AmeriCorps service with the Latin American Youth Center, where he worked in a dual-language classroom and tutored at Powell Elementary School in NW D.C. Additionally, Rodrigo has previous experience as a bilingual math intervention teacher, lead teacher in fourth and third grade, and as a classroom fellow in kindergarten, emphasizing his dedication to fostering a bilingual and diverse learning environment at Mundo Verde.

Network Coordinator

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Siobhan brings a wealth of experience to Mundo Verde as the Network Coordinator, with over 12 years of experience in the field of education, including her recent role as a dedicated Spanish teacher in Virginia. Born in Germany and having traversed various states before finding her home in South Carolina, Siobhan's diverse background enriches the Mundo Verde community. Holding a degree in Spanish from the University of South Carolina Upstate, she is well-equipped to foster language education within the school. Siobhan's commitment to educational excellence and her broad perspective make her an invaluable addition to the Mundo Verde community, where she looks forward to contributing to the school's mission and goals.

Principal of Lower Academy

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Johanna Mamiam is a dedicated bilingual and dual language educator with over 12 years of experience, originally hailing from Colombia and relocating to the United States in 2015. Her journey in education has taken her from teacher assistant to her current role as Principal, serving students from infancy to 5th grade. Johanna holds a master's degree in Educational Leadership from the American Public University System and a bachelor's degree of Science in Teaching French and English as a Second Language from the University of Cauca, Colombia. Additionally, she earned an ECE credential at Miami Dade College and is a certified CLASS Observer. Her passion for education is evident through her development of three educational projects in Colombia, aimed at enhancing bilingual skills among students. Beyond education, she spent eight years as a dedicated Scout leader and actively contributed to fundraising for the Santa Clara Foundation in Colombia, supporting children and students with financial needs. Johanna is known for her unwavering commitment, empowering leadership, and dedication to improving the learning and teaching experiences for all, recognizing the profound impact a great administrator can have on a school and the lives of its members.

Dean of Academics - Lower Academy

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Kata, Dean of Academics, has been an active member of the Mundo Verde community since 2015, working as a lead teacher in upper and lower grades and collaborating with various school projects. Furthermore, she has worked as a special education teacher and taught Spanish as a second language in institutions focused on languages. Kata's background includes over seven years of teaching experience in Colombia and the Dominican Republic. Currently, Dean Kata is pursuing her master's degree in International Education. She received her bachelor’s degree in Education from the Pedagogical University of Colombia and has participated in numerous trainings with Responsive Classroom, expeditionary learning education, and child psychology.

Principal of Upper Academy

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Natalie, a dedicated educator with two decades of experience in various educational roles, brings her passion and expertise to the vibrant community of Mundo Verde as Principal. Her career has encompassed teaching in public and charter schools, serving as a General Education and Special Education Teacher, ELA and Math Instructional Coach, Testing Coordinator, and most recently as an Assistant Principal. Natalie's diverse background has allowed her to collaborate effectively with various stakeholders to enhance student achievement and promote social-emotional well-being. As a first-generation American with Jamaican roots, born and raised in Florida, she deeply values equity, diversity, and stewardship. Her educational philosophy centers on the unwavering belief that every student can excel in a positive learning environment supported by a dedicated academic team, strong leadership, and engaged families. Natalie is a lifelong learner, holding degrees from Howard University, Concordia University, and St. Thomas University, where she is nearing completion of her doctorate in Leadership and Innovation.

Dean of Academics - Upper Academy

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Natalia, Dean of Academics, first joined Mundo Verde in 2015 as a lead teacher, bringing over 17 years of experience to Mundo Verde. She has previously taught 3rd-6th grades in Argentina and worked with PreK-5th grade students in the United States. Born in the United States and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Natalia firmly believes in building knowledge based on the needs of each child. Natalia has a degree in Primary Education from the National University of Santiago del Estero, a master's degree in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language from the UDIMA University in Madrid, and a diploma in Climate Management and Institutional Culture, from the Polytechnic of South America. She is an ontological coach with a specialization in emotional intelligence and has an NLP certification, and also serves as an executive mentor for the Autonomous University of Madrid.

Principal of Lower Academy

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Michelle as the Lower Academy Principal, brings over seven years of experience. She has served as an assistant principal and school administrator at LAMB PCS in DC, supporting teachers, students, and families through significant school transitions, including building changes, leadership shifts, and the challenges of a pandemic. Michelle's dedication to public education, particularly bilingual education and English learners, began as a second-grade teacher in a bilingual school in the New York City Public Schools. Throughout her career, she has worked at various levels to promote strong curriculum practices and foster inclusive learning environments. Michelle holds a master's in Education from Fordham University and a J.D. degree from Yale Law School.

Dean of Academics - Lower Academy

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Dean of Academics, Ronald, brings invaluable experience to his role. With over 14 years of dedicated service as an educator, Ronald now leads the PreK-2nd grades at the Calle Ocho Campus, building on his previous responsibilities at the J.F. Cook Campus. Ronald's academic journey encompasses diverse roles and global education, including a bachelor's degree in journalism and communications from Universidad Centroamericana “José Simeón Cañas” in El Salvador, a postgraduate diploma in Teaching from Universidad Don Bosco in El Salvador, a master's in Spanish teaching from Universidad Internacional Iberoamericana in Mexico, and a master's in coaching, emotional intelligence, and neurolinguistic programming from Escuela de Negocios de Barcelona in Spain. With an extensive professional background, Ronald has excelled in roles such as directing teacher onboarding and coaching. His contributions extend to serving as a distinguished Spanish intervention and science teacher at DC Bilingual Public Charter School and as a Spanish teacher at Bethesda International School. His steadfast commitment to educational excellence remains a cornerstone of Mundo Verde's mission and vision.

Principal of Upper Academy

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Liz, originally from Peru and serving as the Upper Academy Principal, embodies dedication to academic excellence and community leadership. She earned a bachelor’s degree in International Relations and Spanish from the University of Delaware and a master’s in Educational Leadership from Concordia University. Since 2008, Liz has been serving as a leading educator in Washington, D.C. She began teaching as a Spanish Foreign Language teacher with Center City Public Charter Schools. Liz started as a PreK teacher with Mundo Verde in our founding year. While at Mundo Verde, she has served as a lead teacher across different grades, as a Summer Program Director, and as a Leading Educators Fellow. In 2019, Liz joined Urban Teachers as an Instructional Coach, supporting first-year teachers across both DC Public and DC Charter Schools. She has also utilized her expertise as an adjunct professor, teaching graduate-level education courses at Johns Hopkins University.

Dean of Academics - Upper Academy

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Allie, Dean of Academics, is a dedicated educator with a strong commitment to educational equity, graduated with a bachelor's degree in Education Policy Studies and Sociology from Syracuse University, New York. Her passion for teaching led her to join Teach For America in Kansas City, Missouri, where she earned a master's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Missouri, St. Louis. Over seven years, Allie served the Kansas City community as a Pre-K, Kindergarten, and First Grade classroom teacher and founding member of two charter schools. Inspired by bilingual education, she spent the past two years teaching Kindergarten in Quito, Ecuador.