Leadership Team
Principal: Carrie Broquard
Known as Dr. B to Miner students, Carrie Broquard has led as a principal within DCPS since 2014. Dr. B began her career in education as a science teacher in Los Angeles, California. Within the Los Angeles Unified School District, Dr. B later served as a chemistry teacher, gifted and talented education coordinator, and an assistant principal. In 2008, she relocated to Normal, IL, where she has served as an assistant principal, an emotional-disabilities coordinator, and a clinical assistant professor in educational administration. Dr. B holds a bachelor’s degree in chemistry with a minor in education from Bryn Mawr College, as well as both a master’s degree in educational administration and a doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of California, Los Angeles. On the weekends, Dr. B can be spotted spending time with her two daughters and prepping her camper for upcoming adventures.
Assistant Principal: Madison Bosurgi
Madison Bosurgi began her career in Philadelphia as a 1st-grade teacher for 7 years and later moved to DC, where she taught 3rd-grade math/Science for one year. Shortly after, she became an Assistant Principal within DCPS and is beginning her 9th year in this position. Ms. Bosurgi holds a Bachelor of Science degree in both Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education, and a Minor in Psychology. She also has a Master’s of Education in School Leadership. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her dog, Mikey, and traveling back home to New Jersey and Philly whenever possible. Go Eagles!
Assistant Principal: Airnecia Mills
Airnecia Mills is a native of Mississippi. She attended Alcorn State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education in 2013 and a Master of Science degree in Education with Reading and Special Education endorsements in 2015. She continued her advanced studies at Arkansas State University, graduating in 2020 with a Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership. Airnecia is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership at Belhaven University, Jackson, Mississippi.
In 2013, she began to teach in the Greenville Public School District as a first-grade teacher at Weddington Elementary School. In 2016, she transferred to Hollandale School District, where she served as a Special Education Case Manager, Inclusion teacher, 11th Grade English Language Arts teacher, and Head Cheer Coach. In 2019, Airnecia became an Academic Coach in the Sunflower County Consolidated School District. Soon after, she served as the Assistant Principal at Lockard Elementary School in Mississippi and as an Assistant Principal at Tubman Elementary within DCPS. In her spare time, Airnecia finds immense pleasure in reading and researching, frequent travels, and exploring parts of the United States and other countries.
Director of Specialized Instruction: Stephanie Storlie
Director of Strategy & Logistics: John Guzman
John Guzman serves as the Director of Strategy and Logistics (DSL) at Miner Elementary School, where he brings more than 15 years of dedicated service within DC Public Schools. His career has been defined by a commitment to strong operational systems, efficient schoolwide structures, and a belief that smooth operations create the conditions for student success. Before joining Miner ES, Mr. Guzman served as the DSL at Bancroft Elementary School and as the Manager of Strategy and Logistics at Cardozo Education Campus, where he supported major school operations, cross-functional planning, and strategic initiatives.
In his current role at Miner ES, Mr. Guzman oversees several essential functions, including finance and purchasing, facilities and logistics, student information systems, student recruitment and enrollment, human resources management, and health and safety. His leadership ensures that the school operates effectively each day and that students, staff, and families experience a safe, organized, and welcoming environment.
Beyond his administrative responsibilities, Mr. Guzman is an active member of the Miner community. He coaches Miner’s DC SCORES soccer team and has received recognition for his dedication to youth sports and student development. His coaching is rooted in teamwork, perseverance, and building confidence in student-athletes—values he carries into his work across the school.
Mr. Guzman holds a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and a Master of Arts in Accounting and Information Systems. Outside of school, he enjoys playing chess, spending time with his daughters, and playing soccer. He is proud to be part of the Miner ES family and looks forward to continuing to help strengthen the systems that support student achievement.
Restorative Justice Coordinator: Nicholas Wall
Nicholas Wall began his career teaching 5th & 2nd grade in Fairfax County and later moved into DCPS, where he began teaching 1st grade and then moved into a coaching role for behavior. After leaving his previous school, he moved into the Restorative Justice Coordinator position at Miner and is excited to be starting his 2nd year in the position. Mr. Wall got his Bachelor’s in science for elementary education and his Master’s in Literacy from Canisius University in Buffalo. He recently graduated with his Education Specialist’s Degree in Educational Leadership from The George Washington University last spring. During his free time, he enjoys gardening, cooking, playing video games, and spending time with his husband and their dog Nüni. Go Bills!
Early Childhood Education
Pre-K3 Teachers
Yolanda Jones
Trina Mears
Erica Trimboli
Dawn Smith
Pre-K3 Instructional Aides
Mia Hodge is so excited to help support your child on their learning adventure this school year. She is a native Washingtonian with 4 years in education, working as a paraprofessional in elementary childhood education. She attended Norfolk State University, where she obtained a bachelor's degree in Psychology. During her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends! She is committed to creating a supportive classroom environment and looks forward to a fun school year with lots of learning!
Pre-K 4 Teachers
Tiara Paige
Kyeonshae Richardson
Shanice Wright is a Northeast, DC native. She began her teaching career at her alma mater as a paraprofessional, working alongside her former teachers. In her second year, she began studies to get her Master of Arts in Teaching, which she earned in 2020. Sometime after, her journey at Miner began - she is ready to embark on year seven! She is passionate about Early Childhood Education and everything artsy - fashion, crafts, etc. In her leisure, she loves working out, exploring museums, and traveling.
Kapri Urie is beginning her teaching career at Miner as a Pre-K 3 teacher. She recently moved from her hometown in Pennsylvania and is an alumna of Penn State University. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and a Minor in Social Justice in Education. In her free time, she enjoys going on walks, exploring new places, and taking dance classes.
Pre-K 4 Instructional Aides
Angela Mack-Lee is a dedicated Early Childhood Teacher Aide with over 14 years of experience working with infants and toddlers. She’s deeply passionate about creating safe, nurturing, and engaging environments where young children can explore, grow, and develop essential skills through play, music, storytelling, and hands-on creative activities. Her approach to teaching is rooted in supporting the whole child socially, emotionally, cognitively, physically, and linguistically, ensuring that each toddler is prepared for their next stage of learning. Her journey in early childhood education began with a genuine love for working with young children and a strong desire to make a meaningful impact in their earliest years. Over time, her commitment to this field has grown as she witnessed the incredible influence that high-quality care and intentional teaching can have on children’s development. Her experiences in the classroom, combined with mentorship from a former director who recognized my potential and encouraged me to keep growing, inspired her to pursue her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Studies. Which she will attain by the end of the year 2026. In her free time, she enjoys going to concerts (music & comedy), traveling, going out to eat, and anything fun.
Britney Roscoe
Primary Education
Kindergarten
Courtney Cunningham began her career in event management, serving for five years as the Assistant Director of Events in Maryland, where she orchestrated high-level events with both precision and creativity. She later transitioned into early childhood education, bringing her organizational strengths and vibrant energy into the classroom as a kindergarten teacher in Baltimore County. Shortly after, she joined DC Public Schools, where she continues to teach kindergarten with dedication and heart. Ms. Cunningham holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology with a minor in Spanish, as well as a Master's of Higher Education in College Student Personnel. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys traveling the world, spending quality time with friends and family, cooking new recipes, and running her own event planning business.
Hannah Taylor is originally from Norristown, Pennsylvania, where she graduated with a BS in Environmental Science and a Med in Elementary Education. She moved to DC 11 years ago to be closer to her sister and her family. She has 2 nieces and 1 nephew. Ms. Taylor loves hiking, going to Phillies games, going to the theater, and reading. This is Ms. Taylor’s second year teaching at Miner and her 9th year teaching in DC public schools. She is excited to begin this school year, where she can share her love of science and reading with her students.
Jason Yoho has taught kindergarten at Miner for 8 years. He enjoys relaxing with family and vacationing at the beach. He can’t wait until the school year starts so he can share his love for Legos and dinosaurs with his students.
Kindergarten Instructional Aides
Diyale McLane
Keith Moore
Vanessa Garcia
1st Grade
Pametra Geer is excited to join the Miner Elementary community as she enters her eighth year in education. Born in South Carolina and raised in Philadelphia, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Spelman College and her master’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania. She loves watching students grow academically and become more confident in themselves. Building strong relationships with students and families is at the heart of her teaching, and she is committed to creating a classroom where students feel welcomed, supported, and excited to learn. Outside of school, Pametra enjoys traveling, cooking, working out, and cheering on the Philadelphia Eagles. She is also the founder of Redefining Girlhood, an organization that helps girls build confidence, character, and community through mentorship and meaningful experiences.
Tanayris Mejia has been working with children for over 10 years and is passionate about helping young learners grow both academically and socially. She earned her Associate's degree in Child Development and her Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. This school year marks her fifth year teaching in elementary school, and she is excited to continue fostering a positive, engaging, and supportive classroom environment. Originally from New York City, Ms. Mejia enjoys bringing warmth, enthusiasm, and creativity into her classroom each day. During her free time, she loves spending time with her family and friends, traveling back to New York City, reading a great book, and watching movies. She looks forward to making this a successful and memorable school year for every student!
Ellen McLam is originally from North Carolina, where she received her bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She relocated to Washington, D.C. In 2022 to pursue a career in education. This will be her fourth year teaching 1st grade for DCPS, and her first year at Miner Elementary School. In addition to her work as an educator, she is currently pursuing a master's degree in elementary education from Johns Hopkins University. In her free time, she enjoys long walks with her dog, baking, and reading.
2nd Grade
Aurielle (Auri) Jones is originally from the DMV area. Went to undergrad in Raleigh, North Carolina, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Chemistry. After undergrad, she came back to the area. She then pursued her love for children and started a long-term substitute teaching role in Alexandria, Virginia. She was offered a full-time position as a Special Education Teacher, and the rest is history. Aurielle made her way across the river in 2019 and began teaching in Southeast D.C. Aurielle has 10 years of education experience under her belt. During her free time, she loves to coach cheerleading, go on hikes, go to the movies, spend time with her friends/family/dogs, and eat crabs on the beach.
Dominique Quigley is a proud Washingtonian "The Heart of Go-Go"! She is an accomplished education professional with over 15 years of experience supporting student success in diverse learning environments and roles. She holds a bachelor's degree in business management and an MBA with a concentration in Non-Profit Management. She has a passion for youth development, can connect with students of all backgrounds, and is committed to creating impactful, nurturing spaces for learning and growth. She balances my professional life with my role as a mother of three, a creative hair braider, and a lifelong learner who enjoys a good book.
3rd Grade
Christina Daniyan
Maggie Lucas is beginning her first year teaching at Miner Elementary School! Ms. Lucas holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a Minors in Deafness and Hearing Studies and Special Education. She continued her studies and obtained her Master of Education in Special Education. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time outside in the sun, in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes, and curling up with a good book. She can't wait to share her love for reading with her students this year!
4th Grade
Lashonda Thigpen is a Georgia-born Navy brat with a penchant for the big city. After graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of Virginia with a bachelor's degree in English and history, she dedicated her life to public service. She has worked diligently for women's rights, environmental conservation, and education in a variety of professional capacities. However, after realizing that many children, even those in high school, were reading below grade level, she joined Urban Teachers (UTC) to obtain two master's degrees: one in general education and the other in special education. Currently, Lashonda has 14 years of experience teaching at the elementary level, and DCPS has deemed her "highly effective" for several years. She wrote and published her first fantasy novel, "The Reaching," in 2020 and is currently working on both the sequel and a new series about "two-spirit" Native Americans. In her spare time, Ms. Thigpen loves playing video games, cosplaying, reading, writing, and watching the juiciest of reality TV shows. That being said, don't ask her about Game of Thrones unless you have a lot of spare time on your hands. It's still a touchy subject.
Selma Carter- is a passionate educator entering her 5th year of teaching and 6th year with DC Public Schools. She began her teaching journey in special education and has had the opportunity to work with students across multiple grade levels and learning needs. During the second half of last school year, she proudly joined the Miner Elementary School community as a 2nd grade teacher, and this year, she is excited to step into her new role as the 4th Grade Math Teacher! With a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Social Work, Mrs. Carter brings a unique perspective to the classroom. She believes that great teaching goes far beyond academics—it’s about building relationships, creating a safe and welcoming classroom, and helping every student recognize just how capable they are. As a math teacher, Mrs. Carter loves making math feel approachable, meaningful, and even a little fun! She encourages her students to be curious, make mistakes, ask questions, and never be afraid to try again. Her goal is to help every student grow not only as a mathematician, but also as a confident and independent learner. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Carter is a proud mom to her daughter, enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new places, and—of course—starting her day with a good cup of coffee. She is also proud of her Moroccan heritage and loves bringing pieces of her culture and experiences into the classroom. Mrs. Carter is so excited for a new year of learning, laughter, problem-solving, and lots of math! She can’t wait to see what her 4th grade mathematicians accomplish this year!
5th Grade
Lindsay Brown began her career in her hometown of Orlando, Florida as a 6th-8th grade reading interventionist. In 2015, she moved to DC to continue her career, adding 10th grade to her teaching repertoire. After 10 years, it was time to grow again, so off to elementary school she went, leading her to become a proud Miner Bear! During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her dogs, Bluford and Justice, solo traveling, thrifting, reading, and oh so many other hobbies. Just ask! She loves to share her joy!
Edward Sauls Jr. is an experienced educator entering his 23rd year of teaching. He began his career in 2002 as a high school Special Education teacher in Baltimore County, Maryland. In 2011, he transitioned to teaching high school in Washington, D.C., and in 2021, he expanded his impact by joining the faculty at Miner Elementary School. Mr. Sauls holds a Bachelor’s degree in History and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership. In addition to his work in education, he is a competitive cyclist, a part-time cycling coach, and serves as the director of a cycling team.
Special Education
Special Education Programs
Kelly Vergamini began her career in DC Public Schools in 2009 as a teacher in a self-contained classroom for students with Autism. She worked in self-contained classrooms for 3rd-5th grade for 4 years before moving to high school. Ms. Vergamini returned to elementary school, where she worked as a resource teacher and LEA Representative for 5 years. From 2022 to 2025, Ms. Vergamini was a special education administrator at a DC charter school and a non-public separate day school. She is thrilled to be returning to teaching. Ms. Vergamini spent 15 years in the U.S. Army as a linguist and speaks French and Arabic. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in French and Yiddish and a Master of Science in Special Education Teaching. During her free time, she enjoys running, tending to her bees, and playing the cello.
Rachel Mann
Jasmin Martin
Alexandria Murphy
Selena Myers
Special Education Instructional Aides
Lakisha Devaughn is committed to positively engaging and enhancing the educational experience of all students. She is passionate, dedicated, and patient about teaching and ensuring that all students become the best version of themselves. She has provided exceptional support to elementary-age students for 2 years. She has also been developing talents in youth from ages 5-18 through multiple sports for 30 years. She looks forward to providing exceptional service and support for the 2025/2026 school year to the students and staff of Miner Elementary, where together we can make a difference one student at a time.
Angela Keeno
Troy Smith
Special Education Resource & Inclusion Teachers
Danielle Harris, also known as Mrs. D, began her teaching career over a decade ago, working in special education classrooms supporting students from Pre-K through third grade. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from James Madison University, where she completed the Inclusive Early Childhood Education Program. This program led to dual licensure in both Early Childhood Special Education and General Education. Danielle is passionate about inclusive education and loves supporting all learners through fun, developmentally appropriate, evidence-based practices. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new hiking trails.
Sarah Isel discovered her passion for teaching over 15 years ago as a mentor for students in Chicago, IL. Since then, she’s taught abroad in the Middle East, worked as an adaptive PE teacher, became a certified special educator through Teach For America (DC’ Corps 2013), and earned her M.A. in Special Education at George Mason University. She has taught students with special needs in grades ranging from PK-3 through 5th as well as taken on leadership roles such as inclusion team lead, instructional coach, and special education coordinator. She is certified as an Academic Language Therapist (specializes in teaching students with severe dyslexia how to read) through the Atlantic Seaboard of Dyslexia Education Center. Empowering students to be their own advocates both in the classroom and out, creating equitable, safe, spaces for all kids, and helping students embrace their abilities are among the many reasons she can’t wait to return to the classroom at Miner Elementary School.
Sydney Shepherd is a recent graduate of North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, beginning her first year as a 3rd Grade Special Education Resource Teacher at Miner Elementary School. Earning her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a focus on Special Education, Ms. Shepherd has gained experience and tools to support her passion for creating inclusive classrooms where all students can grow socially, emotionally, and academically. Outside of the classroom, Ms. Shepherd enjoys reading, traveling, spending time with family and friends, and watching the latest Marvel movies.
Krysi Hermes is new to the Miner school community after teaching in DC charter schools for the last 10 years. She has taught special education across elementary grades and settings with a love for early childhood learners. Ms. Hermes came to teaching through the Capital Teaching Residency after completing both a Bachelor's and a Master's degree in Justice and Public Policy. When she's not teaching, she enjoys cooking, but not baking, searching for great coffee & donuts, and video games.
Student & Staff Support
Mental Health Team
Kanyinsola Charis, PhD., NCC., LGPC, School Counselor, began her career teaching sixth-grade science in Georgia and has taught both in the U.S. and internationally. She is excited to begin her second year at Miner. Her name—Kanyinsola (pronounced KAHN-yeen-SAW-lah)—comes from the Yoruba tribe in Lagos, Nigeria and means “to add honey into wealth.”Dr. Charis holds a Master’s degree in School Counseling from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from The Pennsylvania State University. At Miner, Dr. Charis helps students feel safe, supported, and confident so they can do their best academically. She uses creative tools like play, art, and thoughtful conversations to help students manage big feelings, solve problems, and build strong friendships. Her counseling approach includes trauma-informed care, play-based strategies and programs designed to help every child feel like they belong at Miner. Dr. Charis loves working closely with teachers, families, and all members of the school community—because when we work together, every child succeeds. Dr. Charis is a huge basketball fan—Go Washington Wizards!
Jeanecia Hayes, Behavior Technician, began her career as a Pre-K Paraprofessional in Washington, DC of 11 years. This is her first year serving as a Behavior Technician. Ms. Hayes hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. Though her academic background began in business, her heart has led to education and student support, where she finds fulfillment working with children and creating structured, nurturing environments for their success. During her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, cooking new recipes, exploring unique fragrances, and taking peaceful walks with her dog Birkin Bag!
Veronica Hill, Counselor
Kelvin L. Mitchell, School Social Worker, launched his social work career at The Children’s Village in Dobbs Ferry, NY, an organization focused on the well-being and human rights of children and families. He later worked as a substitute teacher in New York City public schools, taught in private schools in Ohio, and served as a social work consultant at private schools in Montgomery County. Most recently, he held the position of Chief Clinical Officer at Families Achieving More, LLC, where he provided clinical services for children and families in crisis. Mr. Mitchell holds a Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree in Social Work, as well as a Master's degree in Pastoral Ministry. In addition to these degrees, he has obtained numerous certifications, including those in grief counseling, trauma-informed care, and diversity and inclusion, among others. People are his passion, and he is particularly exhilarated by helping young individuals live with intention and direction. In his spare time, Mr. Mitchell enjoys dining out, going for walks, and spending quality time with his family.
Gregory Rodgers, Behavior Technician
Content Specialists and Interventionists
Kolanje Alexander began his career in Memphis, Tennessee, as a 1st-grade teacher for 2 years and later moved to DC, where he taught 2nd-grade Math/Science and later became a Math Interventionist/Teacher Leader. Shortly after, he became a Math Instructional Coach within DCPS and is beginning his 3rd year in this position. Mr. Alexander holds a Bachelor of Political, Master of Education in Instruction and Curriculum and an Educational Specialist degree in School Leadership. During his free time, he enjoys spending time with friends, going to the gym, and carrying a gallon of water with him everywhere he goes!!
Erika Magana Alexander is an Early Childhood Education instructional leader who is passionate about helping young children, educators, and school communities thrive. With experience as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and program specialist, she enjoys partnering with teachers to create engaging, joyful, and meaningful learning experiences for every child. Erika holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from the University of Maryland and a Master of Science in Education, Culture, and Society from the University of Pennsylvania. She is also a CLASS Certified Observer. Outside of school, Erika loves spending time with her husband and two young sons, traveling to new places, and expressing her creativity through painting. She believes that curiosity, connection, and a love of learning are at the heart of every successful classroom.
Whitney Coleman, Occupational Therapist
Camilla Faulkner, Physical Therapist
Asia Ferrell, Speech Language Pathologist
Sophie Kelly, Speech Language Pathologist
Nia Muhammad, ELA Instructional Coach, began her career in Memphis as a Preschool teacher, where she earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Early Childhood Education, and then a Master’s in Reading. Shortly after, she moved to the D.C area and taught Kindergarten and 2nd grades. Ms. Muhammad then seized the opportunity to teach English abroad in Abu Dhabi, and, upon returning to the US, taught 1st, 2nd, and 5th grades in the Atlanta Metro area. Ms. Muhamad enjoys traveling, attending concerts, and hosting family events.
Adrienne Brown-Tobias, Reading Specialist Adrienne Brown-Tobias is a proud Washingtonian who has dedicated her career to serving the students of Washington, DC. She began her educational career in Washington, DC, at Rudolph Elementary School as a first-grade teacher. Over the course of her 17 years in elementary education, she taught every grade level, spending the majority of her classroom experience in third grade. After her elementary teaching career, Mrs. Brown-Tobias transitioned to the secondary level, where she taught sixth grade ELA for 5 years. Her passion for literacy and student achievement led her to pursue the role of Reading Specialist, beginning the next chapter of her career at Cardozo Education Campus. She served there for 12 years, supporting students and teachers in developing strong literacy practices and fostering academic success. Mrs. Brown-Tobias holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and a Master of Education degree in Reading Education. Her extensive experience across elementary and secondary level school settings reflects her commitment to empowering students through literacy and learning. Outside of her professional responsibilities, Mrs. Brown-Tobias enjoys spending time with her family and her beloved dogs.
Special Subjects
Allyson Chamberlaine, Music Teacher
TBD, Art Teacher
Kadeem Preston, Performing Arts Teacher
Michael Robinson, PE Teacher
Amuche Nwafor, School Librarian
Josh Senior, PE Teacher
Operations Personnel
Desmond Burwell, Foreman
Keith Moore, Custodian
Front Office Staff
Chaunyse Roscoe, Assistant of Strategy & Logistics
Lashaun Crymes, Registrar
Nurse Anderson, School Nurse
School Partnerships
TBD, FoodPrints Lead Teacher
Derrick Ford, Community School Coordinator