The "Optional Learning Experience" for Oxford Virtual Academy Students
OUR FACULTY
Austin Brantley
OVA On-Site Mentor and Alg 1
Being born and raised in Oxford, Austin brings a commitment to education that is deeply rooted in our local community. After graduating from Oakland University with a degree in Elementary Education in 2019, he was hired as a full-time teacher with Oxford Virtual Academy. Austin is a Michigan certified teacher with endorsements in middle school mathematics and language arts. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree at Western Governor’s University and is scheduled to graduate September of 2024.
Beyond the classroom, Austin extends his passion for mentorship by coaching girls’ basketball at Oxford High School during the winter months. Additionally, he is actively involved with Oxford Township Parks and Recreation, where he serves on the board of commissioners. In his leisure time, he enjoys being outdoors with his wife and their one-year-old son. When time allows, he is an avid golfer who loves to be out on the links!
Austin’s main objective is to empower Dragonfly students by helping them understand the expectations and requirements of Oxford Virtual Academy.
Amy Burgard
Alg 1/2, ELA 6/7, & History 6/7
Amy has a passion for teaching and a heart for learning. She is thrilled to be a part of our Dragonfly Middle School community!
Amy is married to Bob, and together they have three wonderful adult children: Spencer, Grant, and Sarah. Spencer, 24, is a skilled mechanic, while Grant, 20, is pursuing his education at Central Michigan University with a major in Education. Sarah, 19, is following her passion in the Nursing program at Northern Michigan University. Their family is completed by two furry companions, Curly the Labradoodle and Sadie the Goldendoodle.
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Amy enjoys exploring new destinations, diving into a good book, or cherishing moments with her loved ones when she's not in the classroom. With a Bachelor's degree in Education, certification in grades K-8, and a Master's degree in Educational Administration from Western Michigan University,
Amy brings 27 years of elementary teaching experience to Dragonfly. Though she officially retired in January 2023, her love for education and dedication to student success remain strong. She is here to support and guide your 6th, 7th, and 8th graders as they embark on their educational journey. Let's make this school year one to remember!
Melissa is a lifelong teacher. She began working in classrooms as a teenager and has continued to teach in various settings ever since. Her most recent classroom experience was teaching math and science to hybrid students.
Melissa obtained her undergraduate degree at Alma College and her masters degree at Oakland University. She taught full-time in the classroom until her first of four children came along. She now spends her evenings and weekends traveling for her children's sporting events, camping with her family, organizing the busy family calendar, volunteering or reading for fun.
Melissa Castonia
MATH 7/6, SCI 6-8
Mindy DiPonio
Alg. 2, Phys. Science, Biology, Chemistry & Physics
Mindy is a dedicated educator with a background in accounting and a passion for math and science. She holds a degree in Accounting from Davenport University and has always been drawn to numbers and scientific inquiry.
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With two children of her own, she understands the importance of education. She supports her son's pursuit of an education in the electrical field and her daughter, whom she formerly homeschooled, attending the HHS Academy in high school.
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Mindy finds joy in teaching students of all ages, but she mainly thrives in teaching advanced high school math and science courses. Her favorite moments in the classroom involve conducting experiments, connecting with her students, and witnessing their success.
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Outside of teaching, Mindy enjoys reading and listening to music. She takes pride in cheering on her children as they participate in sports and activities, and she loves traveling, especially if it means soaking up the sun on a beach somewhere.
Mrs. Fleury's Bio is coming soon!
Rachelle Fleury
Geometry, HS PE/Health, & Computer Lab
Layla is a Rochester High School graduate pursuing Social Work through online classes. Layla brings a unique perspective to the Dragonfly school community with a profound understanding of alternative education methods and six years of experience immersed in homeschooling alongside her six siblings.
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As a dedicated educator, Layla is passionate about student engagement and constantly explores innovative approaches to inspire learning. Outside the classroom, she is an enthusiastic sports lover, passionate about hockey and various athletic pursuits. Layla also enjoys trips to Disney World and spending quality time with her family.
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Layla's commitment to creating a supportive and stimulating environment for her students makes her an invaluable team member.
Layla Koziara
History 8, US History and ELA 8/9
Angie was born and raised in Michigan and eventually moved to Southern California to go to college. She graduated with her Bachelors of Arts and Visual Communications Degree with an emphasis in Graphic Design. Angie and her husband have been married since 2013 and they have two boys whom love to play hockey. She has coached children in Color Guard and Dance as well as volunteering as a Girl Scout Troop Co-Leader.
In her spare time, Angie is a hockey mom/wife, crafter, photographer, and a Shetland Sheepdog enthusiast. She has volunteered for Guide Dogs of America, Leader Dogs For the Blind, and Freedom Dogs. Angie's goal for her Dragonfly students this year is to inspire them to learn something new every day and be the best versions of themselves they can be!
Angie Warloe
Math 8/7, Civics/Econ, World Hist., ELA 10/11/12