Home of the Lions
Home of the Lions

Bio and Picture to come



Leslie Buterbaugh (Mrs. Leslie) is a dedicated Christian educator currently serving as a First-Grade Teacher at Grace Education Academy. With more than 20 years of experience teaching Kindergarten through fifth grade, she is passionate about creating nurturing, child-centered classrooms where students feel valued, supported, and inspired to learn.
Her love of education began in her grandmother’s bookstore, where she developed a lifelong passion for reading and learning. Today, she brings that same enthusiasm to her students through engaging instruction that promotes academic, social-emotional, and spiritual growth.
Throughout her career, Leslie has built more than two decades of successful teaching experience across multiple elementary grade levels. She has developed extensive expertise in early literacy, phonics, and reading instruction, helping young learners become confident, capable readers with a strong foundation for lifelong learning. Additionally, she has created inclusive, faith-based learning environments that promote academic success while fostering strong character, meaningful relationships, and a genuine love of learning in her students.
Leslie believes every child is uniquely gifted and learns best when instruction is tailored to individual strengths, interests, and developmental needs. As a Christian educator, she is committed to nurturing both the heart and the mind, weaving biblical principles into daily learning experiences that encourage faith, compassion, integrity, and purpose.
Beyond the classroom, Leslie enjoys spending time with her husband of 37 years, their three sons, and five grandchildren. She also loves traveling and relaxing at the beach. Above all, she is committed to helping children reach their God-given potential while partnering with families to create a classroom community where every child feels safe, valued, and empowered to succeed.

My name is Ma Mireyl Laessle, my nickname is Mimi. I am an accomplished dedicated educator originally from the Philippines. I have always had a passion for teaching and obtained a degree in Elementary Education. Driven to further my expertise in early childhood education, I pursued additional studies in California at Palomar College, where I completed 9 units in Early Childhood Education. In my pursuit of professional growth and excellence, I earned a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. This accomplishment is a testament to my commitment to providing high-quality care and education to young children, ensuring their holistic development.
Family is paramount to me, and I cherish my role as a wife and mother. I am blessed with two wonderful boys and a loving husband who supports my endeavors.
My upbringing in a Christian church has played a significant role in shaping my values and worldview.

Bio to come

Teaching has been my heart’s calling since I was 10 years old, when I first led a Sunday school class. That early spark grew into a deep passion for helping children learn, grow, and feel seen. I’ve also worked as an EMT on an ambulance and at a center for children with special needs—experiences that shaped my belief in the power of patience, compassion, and connection.
Now, as a mom of two and a teacher, I pour that same love and dedication into every child I have the joy of working with.

Bio coming soon

My name is Tiffany Middleton, and I am third year teacher at Grace Education Academy. I have been
happily married for 10 years with five children, three of which attend Grace Education Academy. Two of
my children have been diagnosed with different disabilities which has allowed me to learn more and
deviate from traditional teaching methods to some that are more effective and enjoyable for everyone.
Currently, I am attending Grand Canyon University to complete my degree in Childhood Education with
an emphasis in STEM. I am so excited to be teaching science this year to secondary students. My favorite
science subjects are Biology and Anatomy and Physiology. I absolutely love the life that God has created
and the study of it amazes me. Before becoming a teacher at Grace Education Academy, I was a long-
term substitute teacher at West Hernando Middle School. This changed my career choice from the
medical field to Education and I have been blessed since I made the change. I hope that I am able to
empower students to be the best that they can be as an individual and through Christ.

My name is Priscilla Hall. I am married with two beautiful daughters in college. We are a strong Christian family that centers our lives around the teachings of Christ and following the word of God.
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology/ Pre-Med from the University of Central Florida in 1998. I had dreams of becoming an MD in Pediatric Psychiatric Research. I didn’t realize at the time that my dream would be costly. Upon this realization, I changed my field and went back to school for Perioperative Nursing at National University in Indianapolis, IN. I stayed in the medical field for many years working in ambulatory surgical centers and ophthalmic offices. After living in very cold Indiana for many years, I returned home to Florida with my family in tow. I took a job working for Lake County Schools as a long-term substitute teacher in a Special Needs Unit. I finally got to put my original degree to good use. I fell in love with teaching. I had the most amazing students! My contract with Lake County Schools ended. My family and I decided that we wanted a farm so we moved to Pasco County, where we have a small family farm. I signed a teaching contract with Pasco County to teach a self-contained special needs class at Hudson High School. I also returned to school (my alma mater) The University of Central Florida, earning my Master’s in Higher Needs Education with a focus on Learning Strategies and Curriculum design. I am currently in pursuit of my Doctorate in Higher Needs Education. I am also the Founder and Director of The Blue Bulb Foundation. BBF is a nonprofit organization that continues educational services through the summer months for special needs students that require a more rigorous educational schedule. I believe that all children should have every opportunity to succeed.
Due to my strong faith and fortified belief in teaching our future with a Christian sense, I left public education and decided to teach in the private sector. I am very blessed to have been offered a teaching position at Grace Education Academy. Having the freedom to teach a Christ-centered curriculum and being able to be open about my faith is truly a blessing in life.
Gracias Jesus Cristo

Bio to follow

Bio to follow

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