Meet the Reading Retreat Staff
Welcome to the Reading Retreat! I am Mrs. Masitti, your Media Specialist here at Lakeside Academy. I’ve been teaching for more than 20 years and have been a Media Specialist for 7+ years. Born and raised in a suburb of Chicago, I taught Kindergarten and 1st grade in Mundelein and Batavia, Illinois. I also taught 1st grade, 2nd grade and was a Learning Specialist in South Florida at Nova Southeastern University and Pine Crest School. Using my experience in teaching and knowledge about information studies, I plan and design lessons for all students in the Learning Lodge and the Discovery Den, as well as run the library side of the Reading Retreat. I couldn’t do this without the help of my two amazing paraprofessionals, Ms. Gerry and Ms. Browne.
I have over 20 years of experience in education, spanning early childhood teaching, Kindergarten paraprofessional work, and now my role in a K-8 academy. In 2021, I moved into the Media Center paraprofessional role, and it has become one of my favorite places to work. In the Reading Retreat, I help students find books they are excited about and check them out. I also help lead hands-on exploration in the Discovery Den, where students get to follow their curiosity and try new things. Along with supporting the students, I also enjoy adding a little extra color and fun into the Reading Retreat with our creative window decorations and the murals painted inside the Media Center. I’m originally from Pennsylvania and spent 19 year in Central Virginia before moving to Florida in 2019. I enjoy being part of the Reading Retreat team and working with Mrs. Masitti and Mrs. Browne. I look forward to supporting our students as they explore, read, and learn.