Dear SCS Families and Caregivers,
Now that it is officially May, we are excited to honor the growth our students have shown over the course of the year, their two-year loop for those transitioning, or their entire SCS career for our soon-to-be graduates. At the same time, we are planning for new beginnings coming in 2026-27. As part of that, we are thrilled to welcome the following faculty members to the SCS team:
Emily Reid (Grade 3/4 Loop)
Hello! I am so excited to join Shelburne Community School in third/fourth grade next school year! I am originally from upstate New York, but moved throughout the United States post-college before I settled in Vermont five years ago. I received my Master's of Elementary Education from DePaul University in 2021. Since then, I have been teaching fifth and sixth grade in Starksboro, Vermont. In the classroom, I am very passionate about the science of learning and making sure every student feels a sense of belonging at school. In my time outside of school, I love to run, read, and spend time with my family and our dog Ahsoka.
Anastassya Sells (Grade 1/2 Loop)
Hello! My name is Anastassya Sells, and I am thrilled to be joining Shelburne Community School. I value connection, creativity, and balance in my everyday life, and I live in Essex Junction with my partner, Aiden, my cat Mary, and my dog Acorn, where I enjoy the strong sense of home and community that surrounds me. I also have a deep love for rock music, which is not just an interest outside of work but something that reflects who I am and often influences my approach in the classroom by helping create an engaging and expressive learning environment. As an educator, I strongly value inclusion, diversity, and equitable opportunities for all students. I have a deep appreciation for creativity in the classroom, and it plays a central role in grounding my teaching methods. I strive to design learning experiences that allow students to think creatively, take risks, and express themselves in meaningful ways, while also encouraging them to bring their own interests, identities, cultures, and traditions into the classroom. I believe that honoring student voice and fostering self-expression helps build confidence and a strong sense of belonging. I am intentional about creating a classroom community where diversity is celebrated, traditions are respected, and every student feels seen, valued, and connected.
Throughout my teaching career, I have worked to ensure that all students feel supported and capable of success, and that their unique perspectives are recognized as strengths. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from New England College, where I developed a strong foundation in effective instructional practices and a commitment to continuous professional growth. My own experiences as a student have played an important role in shaping my approach to education, reinforcing my belief in the importance of supportive, engaging, and inclusive learning environments. I look forward to contributing to and growing within this community.
Alison DaBica (Grade 1/2 Loop)
Hello! I’m Alison DaBica and I’m so happy to be joining the Shelburne Community School family. I first came to SCS in 2025 as a long-term substitute, and from that very first day it felt like home. During that first experience, the supportive, collaborative spirit here helped me grow as a teacher, and I’m grateful to be invited back to such a caring community. I love the joyful, fast pace of teaching and find my greatest happiness in learning alongside my students. In our classroom, I’ll focus on building a strong, caring atmosphere where students learn to work together, speak up for themselves, take responsibility, show empathy, and practice self-control. I believe children learn best when they feel safe, respected, and engaged; when curiosity is encouraged, creativity is sparked, and there’s plenty of room for laughter.
I live in Bristol with my husband, our son Francesco, and our two dogs, Gigi and Moonbeam. Whether I’m traveling or spending a quiet afternoon at the lake with a new picture book, I always look forward to my favorite place—the couch at home—surrounded by the people I love and my dogs curled up in my lap. I’m so excited to be part of this wonderful community. Please stop by and say hi!
Kylie Cleanthes (Special Educator)
Hi, I’m Kylie Cleanthes, and I am excited to be joining Shelburne Community School this year as a special educator. I was born and raised in Vermont, and I am passionate about supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally while helping them grow in confidence and independence. I believe in creating a caring, inclusive, and positive environment where every student feels valued and supported. I look forward to building strong relationships with students, families, and staff and becoming part of the SCS community. A fun fact about me is that my favorite animal is a sea turtle!
In partnership,
Antonia, Jen and Brett
The SCS Administrative team
