Grades 4-12
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Dragonfly Hybrid
The "Optional Learning Experience" for Oxford Virtual Academy Students
Besjana Ahmetaj
High School Science and Algebra 2
Besjana is passionate about education and has known she wanted to become a teacher since kindergarten. She is originally from Albania and moved to the United States when she was a year old, bringing with her a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and experiences.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Biology from Oakland University and plans to start a Master’s Degree program in the near future. Besjana has experience working in both education and healthcare, which enriches her approach to teaching. Her teaching philosophy centers around fostering curiosity, encouraging critical thinking, and helping students grow both academically and personally.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family, hiking, and trying new things. Besjana is excited to be part of the Dragonfly Hybrid community and looks forward to a meaningful and successful year with her students!
Austin Brantley
OVA Site Advisor and Mentor and Algebra 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.
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
Middle School Science and Math 7/6
Mrs. Fleury's Bio is coming soon!
Rachelle Fleury
Geometry & 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
Mrs. Mark Bio is coming soon!
Ashley Mark
Middle School ELA
Middle School History
Algebra 1/2
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Michelle Urban
5th Grade Teacher
Michelle has been teaching for 19 years at many different grade levels in a variety of settings. Michelle has her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Wayne State University and her Master’s Degree in Instructional Technology from Saginaw Valley State University. Michelle taught middle school for 10 years before transitioning to substitute teaching to accommodate her family better. She then homeschooled her children for three years and began teaching hybrid last year. She loves the hybrid model with its small class sizes and ability to give each child the one-on-one attention they need.
Michelle and her husband Chris have been married since 2007 and have 3 children (in 11th, 10th, and 5th grades). She and the kids are very excited for their new adventure at Dragonfly this year! In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, traveling, and enjoying nature walks.
Michelle is excited to be teaching 5th grade this year and looks forward to creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported in their academic journey.
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Mrs. Prais's Bio is coming soon!
Jillian Prais
4th Grade Teacher
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 been teaching here at Dragonfly since it's opening and has loved every moment of it!
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