As the 2025–2026 school year gets underway, our classrooms and hallways are full of fresh energy, new names, and growing connections. At the Intergenerational Schools, each new staff member helps shape the culture and community that make our model thrive, whether they’re leading instruction, supporting learning needs, coordinating visits across generations, or helping families feel welcome.
This year, as we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we’re proud to introduce the newest teachers, support staff, and administrators joining our team. Together, they bring experience, enthusiasm, and a shared commitment to helping every student grow in the classroom and beyond.
New Teachers
Ms. Rachel Genco
Developing Stage Teacher | The Intergenerational School – East
After two years away, Ms. Genco returns to TIS–East, where she previously taught Refining Stage writing. Now serving as a Developing Stage teacher, she supports students in 3rd and 4th grade-level multi-age classes as they strengthen core skills and grow as confident, independent learners. She holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Miami University in Ohio.
Ms. Marielle Grady
Developing Stage Teacher | The Intergenerational School – East
As a Developing Stage teacher, Ms. Grady helps guide students through a pivotal period of growth, supporting foundational academic skills while fostering a sense of independence and curiosity. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from Miami University in Ohio.
Dr. Matthew Phelps
Intervention Teacher | Near West Intergenerational School
Dr. Phelps provides academic support in reading and math for students in Primary and Developing Stage classes (typical grades K–4), and also teaches a 4th grade math class. He holds a PhD from Penn State, a master’s degree in education from John Carroll University, and a bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University.
Ms. Kelly Reid
Special Education Intervention Specialist | The Intergenerational School – East
As an experienced intervention specialist, Ms. Reid works closely with students who have specialized learning needs—providing targeted academic and behavioral support aligned to each learner’s goals. She earned both her master’s and bachelor’s degrees from Cleveland State University.
Ms. Sophie Wasserman
Science Teacher, Applying Stage | The Intergenerational School – East
Ms. Wasserman works with our Applying Stage students (typical grades 7–8), helping them explore and apply scientific concepts as they prepare for high school and beyond. She is a recent graduate of Penn State with a degree in Education and Public Policy, and joins our team through Teach for America.
New Admin and Support Team Members
Ms. Amber Clark
Assistant Principal | Near West Intergenerational School
Ms. Clark plays a key leadership role in supporting school culture and instructional practice, including implementation of the Responsive Classroom framework. She helps students acclimate to our model and partners with teachers to foster inclusive, joyful classrooms. Ms. Clark holds a master’s in educational leadership from the University of Northern Texas and a bachelor’s from the University of Cincinnati.
Ms. Taijia Elder
Assistant Director of Intergenerational Programming | Network Role
Ms. Elder leads our intergenerational programming and community-based learning experiences—coordinating visits to senior living facilities, organizing volunteer Learning Partners, and helping connect alumni and supporters to our mission. She holds a master’s in nonprofit administration from Cleveland State and a bachelor’s in gerontology from Bowling Green State.
Ms. Melina Higbee
Advancement Director | Network Role
Ms. Higbee brings more than 20 years of nonprofit fundraising experience to her new role, where she will lead development strategy across the network. A longtime member of our school community, she’s also a parent of a student from one of the earliest Intergenerational School classes. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University.
Ms. Deidra Verhosek
Building Coordinator | Near West Intergenerational School
Ms. Verhosek helps keep daily operations running smoothly, ensuring teachers and staff have what they need to support students, while also welcoming families and visitors to the building. She brings three years of experience in education and is currently pursuing her paralegal associate’s degree.
As we reflect on 25 years of learning together, we know that strong schools are built on strong communities, and that includes the people who greet our students each morning, guide their learning, and help them feel seen and supported every step of the way. Welcome to all of our new team members. We’re so glad you’re here.