Staff

Alicia Young

6th Grade Math and Language Arts; Creative Solutions (STEAM); Odyssey of the Mind Lead Coach

When I finally “escaped” middle school and moved to ninth grade, I vowed I would never again step foot in a middle school. Those years of my life were probably very much like the middle school experience most have, but I felt I was alone in thinking they were awful. The memory of those years led me to pursue a degree in Child Development and educate my children at home, which I did for many years. I’ve long had a passion for education and being a part of that “ah-ha” moment when a child understands a new concept. When I learned about The Pioneer School, I knew it was exactly where I wanted my own children to spend their middle school years. For the first time, I could see middle school as both beautiful and positive. Not only did I want my children to attend the school, I also wanted to be a part of the “magic.” I joined The Pioneer School in 2016 as a coach for the Odyssey of the Mind team and began creating new courses for some afternoon classes. Several years ago I helped to bring the IEW writing program to the school and trained to deliver the course. I now primarily teach our precious sixth graders math and language arts in the morning and have continued with my proprietary STEAM course and coaching Odyssey of the Mind in the afternoon. I love being a part of The Pioneer School and seeing joy in children through these tumultuous years. Being present for those “lightbulb” moments is still my favorite part of the job. When I’m not at school, I love spending time with my large family. Our favorite thing to do is to explore new parts of the country and world. 

Maya Mehanna

6th/7th Grade Math and 7th Grade Science

I’m Maya Mehanna, an educator with over 20 years of experience in the field of education, spanning from elementary to middle school settings. My journey has included roles as a classroom teacher, administrator, and advocate for student success. I have a deep passion for teaching math and science, and I am committed to helping every student thrive in their learning journey. My career is dedicated to creating engaging, supportive, and effective learning environments where all students can reach their full potential.

Heidi Clay

7th Grade Language Arts; Accelerated Math

Hi folks! My name is Heidi Clay, and I’ve had a foot in the Pioneer School door, tutoring math, for many years. This is my second year to jump in full time, teaching the seventh grade Language Arts class, and the Accelerated Math class. In the afternoon, I’m excited to lead our 4-H Meadow Makers Flagship and Human Skills class.

As for my non-Pioneer life, I’m a local mama to four awesome kiddos, two of which are grown and flown, leaving my two teens to hug on when I can catch them at home. I also proudly go by ‘Mimi’ to my three fantastic grandkids. I’ve been fortunate to have been able to homeschool for 20 years, mostly within the Classical Conversations program. For the last decade, I’ve been enjoying teaching small groups of middle and high schoolers. While my focus has been mostly on Pre-Algebra, Algebra and Language Arts, I’ve been able to teach many fun subjects, from Latin to Debate to Geography and now Archery!

Camping and crazy hikes are right up my alley during spring and fall. I’m perfectly happy anytime, though, that I can curl up with a classic book. Add a cat on my lap, a dog at my feet and my chickens clucking out my window, and I’ll call it a Good Day!

Halie McConnell

6th & 8th Grade Science, Art, 4-H Meadow Makers

My name is Ms. Halie. I received my Bachelor’s Degree from Flagler College, doubling in Fine Arts and Psychology, and for my Master’s Degree, I attended University of Florida for Arts in Medicine. When I have free time, you will find me making art, looking for shark teeth at the beach, or relaxing with my French Bulldog named Leo, after Leonardo da Vinci of course!