Lisa Sylvestro began teaching at Unquowa in 2014. Having nine years’ experience as a Special Educator at Eagle Hill Southport, she became Unquowa’s Upper School Learning Specialist. In this role, she provides academic support to students via either push in or pull out instruction. In 2017, Lisa became the Dean of Students; she also continues her work as Learning Specialist as these two roles naturally intersect. She greatly enjoys both these roles since supporting and advocating for children is her passion.

Carlene Gordon joined the Unquowa community in 2006 and taught grades three and four for over fifteen years. She served as science department co-chair as well as Dean of the Lower School Faculty in conjunction with her teaching roles. Currently, Carlene serves as Dean of Faculty to work with both the upper and lower school faculty on professional and curricular development. Carlene’s past experience includes both public and independent school settings in multiple grade levels. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and a Master of Science Degree in Elementary Education, as well as Professional Educator Certification from the State of Connecticut.

Ms. Lauer came to head The Unquowa School in 2004 after spending over twenty years in teaching and leadership positions at other independent schools in the Northeast. Drawing from her own experience as an independent school teacher and raising a son and daughter – both of whom attended independent day schools and colleges – she writes and speaks frequently about the various aspects of childhood and a school’s role in working with parents to raise and educate their children. As a steward of our school’s future as it approaches its centennial, Ms. Lauer works to maintain the vigorous, experiential academic atmosphere that has been the hallmark of the school since its inception.

Mrs. Cerone joined The Unquowa School community in 2006. Along with previous experience in both the larger business world and the independent school setting, Mrs. Cerone has a keen sense of her role in the financial stability of the school.

Mr. Mitchell began teaching at The Unquowa School in 2007 as a fifth grade classroom teacher. In 2008, he took on the role of Technology Coordinator and teaches technology. Currently serving as the Director of Operations and IT, Mr. Mitchell continues to oversee all aspects of tech, both physical and curricular, as well as oversee daily operations staff, an evening cleaning crew and year round facility inspection, maintenance and renovation in addition to working with his colleagues around the thoughtful curricular use of technology. Mr. Mitchell served on the CAIS Commission on Technology and has two children attended at Unquowa – a daughter who recently graduated and a son in sixth grade.

Karen Williamson joined The Unquowa School in 2013 after 7 years working in marketing and communications. Karen brings her talent in project management, communications and community engagement to her roles at Unquowa.