Faculty and Staff Directory

We welcome Mr. Pugliares as our new principal, as he assumes the role after serving as our Assistant Principal last year.  He has twenty-three years of experience in education. For twenty years, he worked in Connecticut, teaching English and coaching soccer at New Britain High School. He joined us last year after his tenure at Incarnation Catholic School in Sarasota, where he taught middle school Language Arts. Mr. Pugliares received his Bachelor of Science in English and Secondary Education from Central Connecticut State University. He also completed his coursework in Educational Leadership and Administration at Southern Connecticut State University, as well as receiving his Master of Arts in Learning and Thinking from the Graduate Institute in Bethany, Connecticut. 

Roberto is passionate about working in a Christ-centered environment, as his Catholic faith is the foundation of his life. His family is from Sicily, and he is a first-generation Italian-American. He speaks fluent Sicilian and lives in Venice with his wife Kelly and their three children: Mia, who will be a junior at the University of South Florida; Annabella, who will be a first-year student at Florida Gulf Coast University; and Luca, who will be a sophomore at Venice High School. Roberto and his family are active parishioners at Epiphany Cathedral. You may have seen him and his wife greeting you on Sunday at 11am Mass, during which his children often altar serve. 
 

Mrs. Tylka, Assistant Principal

Mrs. Tylka is originally from Ohio and most recently lived in Northern Virginia before moving to Florida in 2020. Over the course of her career, she has taught in all three states, serving in a variety of roles including substitute teacher, Title I Reading Specialist, elementary classroom teacher, school-wide intervention resource teacher and coach, and mentor to pre-service and new teachers. She is now beginning her second year as Assistant Principal at Epiphany.
Mrs. Tylka holds an Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education from Stark State College, a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education with a Reading Endorsement from Walsh University, and a Master of Arts in Education with a focus on Curriculum, Instruction, and Design from Eastern Mennonite University.
Mrs. Tylka believes that building positive relationships and rapport with colleagues, students, and families is the foundation for helping every child succeed. Above all, her goal is to help each child come to know Jesus.
 

1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always preserves. 
I graduated from Florida Tech in 1993 with an AS in Electronic/Computer Repair. 
I married Vicki who joined the US Navy and we moved to San Diego, Ca. where I worked at 5th Avenue Computers. We returned to Florida in 1995 and I eventually started working at American Computer Express in Sarasota. A.C.E. closed its doors in 1997, but before they did God led me to Epiphany. I was the first computer technician to be hired in the diocese, when all the schools were still having teachers try to fix their technology problems. 
I wear many hats here as I am responsible for all the maintenance and upkeep of the networks, the computers, printers, servers, TVs, radios, all electronic components, and all the technology programs. I have coached many of the school sports teams which included boys’ and girls’ soccer, boys’ and girls’ basketball, boys’ football, and golf.
Life for me is a blessing. I Love my family and I Love my job. My three oldest children attended ECS and now have graduated high school. My oldest son works for the Sarasota County Sheriff’s department as a dispatcher and call taker in the Emergency Response Center. My youngest son is in the US Navy working on the nuclear propulsion of an aircraft carrier. 
To be here around all our children, who share their love with me, is very fulfilling. When God directs your life great things can happen, and for me, this is one of those things. 
Always remember that God loves you unconditionally and I strive to do the same. 

Hello ~ My name is Shannon Dalton and I am the Lead Resource Teacher at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School.  I have been a proud part of Epiphany since 1995 and consider this special place to be my ‘second home’.  I am originally from Upstate New York and hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from the State University of New York at Oneonta with a minor in Educational Psychology.
I provide children with support and enrichment opportunities to foster a positive and successful academic year. Every child I teach holds a place in my heart. I believe children are unique and bring something special to a class. Smiles are an important part of everyday life.  I always say “A smile happens quickly, but the memory of it can last a long time”.
A little information about me… My husband and I are the proud parents of two wonderful young men.  They both attended Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School. We enjoy spending time together as a family and playing with our two silly dogs.
A bit of wisdom:  Learning is a life-long journey, and every day is a new adventure.  Grab ahold of that excitement and never stop exploring the beautiful world God gave us to enjoy!
One of my favorite prayers is the Peace Prayer of St. Francis.
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is injury, pardon; Where there is doubt, faith; Where there is despair, hope;
Where there is darkness, light; Where there is sadness, joy.
O, Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek
To be consoled as to console;
To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love;
For it is in giving that we receive, It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
And it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
God Bless! 
 

Where there is darkness, light; Where there is sadness, joy.

O, Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek

To be consoled as to console;

To be understood as to understand; To be loved as to love;

For it is in giving that we receive, It is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

And it is in dying that wear are born to eternal life.

God Bless! 

My name is Denise Lohbauer and I am the School Counselor. This is my fifth year at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School. This year will be my twenty-sixth year as a school counselor. I received my bachelor's degree from Francis Marion University and my master's degree from the University of South Carolina. My family moved to the Venice are over six years ago. We love the beaches and the small-town feel of Venice!  I look forward to teaching students from PreK-8th grade about the virtues of our Catholic faith and how to live as a disciple of Jesus each day. As the school counselor, I am available as needed to meet with students and parents for any academic, social, or emotional concerns. I look forward to a great year working with the students, families, and staff at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School. 

Jacqueline Stuart

Preschool Director and PreK 4 Lead Teacher

Hello, I am Mrs. Jacqueline Stuart. I really love teaching! Every day is always a new adventure and a gift from God. The children's wonderful smiles and great stories always fill my heart with joy. I joined the staff of EpiphanyCathedral School in 1992. I am so blessed to be a part of this community where I’m able to share my faith every day with my students. I attended the University of South Florida and graduated with my Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. I later attended Barry University and earned my Master of Science degree in Exceptional Student Education. 

My Florida certifications include

Director Credential

Primary Education

Elementary Education

Varying Exceptionalities

VPK

From the Diocese of Venice, I have my Intermediate Catechist certification.

Pre-K-4 is a year of great exploration with an emphasis on phonemic awareness skills and number sense development. In our class, we enjoy many STREAM activities. Cooking in our classroom is a marvelous activity that includes all of the five senses that God has given to us. The rule is that everyone must take a two-bite taste test. To this day, the taste test rule is used in the homes of former students who are now parents.
A great educational and spiritual foundation is what I strive to give to all my students. I believe that a positive self-image and strong self-esteem are two of the greatest assets a child can possess. I strive to ensure that all my students achieve these qualities. A well-rounded, holistic, social, emotional, academic program is provided in this Catholic Environment. 

The song, All Are Welcome by Marty Haugen, exemplifies how our Catholic identity and faith are shared in my classroom. 

Let us build a house where love can dwell, and all can safely live, a place where saints and children tell how hearts learn to forgive. Built of hopes and dreams and visions, rock of faith and vault of grace; here the love of Christ shall end divisions. All are welcome, all are welcome, all are welcome in this place.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, relaxing at the beach, especially at sunset. Reading, often with my granddaughter, biking, sightseeing, baking, and cooking in general are wonderful family activities I enjoy. My husband says, “Our kitchen always smells like something yummy.”

My name is Chris Collins.  I have an A.A. Degree from Manatee Community College, Venice, FL, (now SCF) and a CDA Degree also from Manatee Community College and have a Staff Credentail.  In addition to my degrees, I have taken continuing educational classes thru USF and Sarasota Technical School.  I started at Epiphany Early Childhood in Feb. 1991 in the After School Program and became the Junior Kindergarten/VPK Assistant in Aug. 1991 to the present time.

I believe in a Catholic Education because it is rich in academics and rooted in faith.  My parents gave me a Catholic education because they saw the importance of having religion in my life.   The students that attended the Preschool are now college graduates and responsible adults.  Several of Epiphany graduates have become doctors and lawyers. I enjoy working with the children on the computer and see how they improve their skills, proficiency and independence.  

My teaching philosophy: All children are miracles and they deserve the opportunity to show it.
My favorite quote: “We are shaped and fashioned by what we love.”    Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
My favorite Bible verse: In everything you do, put God first, and he will direct you and crown your efforts with success. Proverbs 3:6

I grew up right here in sunny Venice, Florida and I have my bachelor's degree in early childhood education. I have been teaching children between the ages of 1-7 years old for 20 years. I feel blessed to teach some of our youngest students about Jesus. My husband and I have two children and one dog, and we love to stay busy outdoors and spending time with friends and family.  

“She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31:26 

My name is Ms. Gaither! I have a passion for early childhood education and love creating a classroom where every child feels safe, loved, and excited to learn. In our class, we’ll spend our days exploring through play, building friendships, growing in our faith, and developing the skills needed for a successful school year.

When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family, making memories with my four daughters, being outdoors, and cheering on my favorite sports teams. I especially enjoy football and cheerleading!

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and have over 10 years of classroom experience. It is a privilege to share my love of learning with young children.

I moved to Venice, Florida, seven years ago with my husband and daughter after relocating from Littleton, Colorado. Before moving to Florida, I taught Pre-K at a charter school for six years while completing my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education. Through my studies, I also earned Reading and ESOL endorsements.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my family. Some of my favorite activities include hiking, biking, and kayaking. While living in Colorado, I made it my mission to hike to every waterfall I could find! I also enjoy playing games, and my family has a special tradition of playing a board game or card game together during dinner. Another favorite pastime of mine is listening to stand-up comedy.
This will be my fifth year teaching at Epiphany, although I had the opportunity to complete fieldwork here before joining the staff. During my time at Epiphany, I have fallen in love with the school, the staff, and the strong sense of community. I am grateful to be part of such an incredible team. One of the most meaningful aspects of teaching here is the opportunity to share a faith-filled curriculum with my students.
Teaching has been my dream for as long as I can remember. I believe every child can learn, though not always in the same way or at the same pace. My mission is to help every student feel capable, confident, and successful. I hope to inspire a love of learning, encourage a growth mindset, and nurture each child's unique gifts. Most importantly, I strive to help my students develop a strong love for God and trust in His teachings.
 

My name is Linda Slak and I am from Frankfort, Illinois where I graduated from Concordia University. I have always known I wanted to be a teacher! I recently moved to Florida so that my whole family could be together. I love living in Venice! I have experience ranging from K-8, but mostly Kindergarten and First Grade. Last year, I was an assistant in the Pre-K classroom. However, I missed having my own class and decided to come back to teach Kindergarten. I enjoy watching children learning and especially enjoy seeing the children develop a love for books and reading! I always look for ways to make learning fun and find pleasure in creating new games and activities for the children in my free time. I am very grateful to be able to have such an impact on teaching.

Ms. Jennifer Kopin is our second grade teacher and is celebrating her 26th year in Catholic education. Originally from the Chicagoland area, Ms. Kopin is delighted to call Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School and Florida home.

Ms. Kopin is passionate about recognizing and celebrating the God-given gifts that make each child unique. She creates a joyful, engaging classroom where learning comes alive through games, music, hands-on activities, art, and creative projects. Her nurturing approach encourages students to grow academically, socially, and spiritually while developing confidence in their abilities.

An avid reader, Ms. Kopin is dedicated to inspiring a lifelong love of books and learning in her students. She strives to make every day meaningful, helping children discover the excitement of learning and the joy of reaching their full potential.

Hi, I’m Nicole Semlow, and I am the third-grade teacher at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School. This is my fifth-year teaching at Epiphany, and I feel incredibly blessed to be part of such a wonderful school community.

I grew up in Homer Glen, Illinois, and moved to Florida about eight years ago to continue my education. I attended Indian River State College, where I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education with ESOL and Reading Endorsements. I graduated at the top of my class in 2021 and then relocated to Venice, Florida.

Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and I find so much fulfillment in what I do each day. One of the greatest rewards of teaching is watching my students grow academically while also developing a strong and trusting relationship with God. Being there to support, encourage, and guide my students is my greatest priority. I strive to tailor my teaching to meet the individual needs of each child and to create an environment where every student can learn and grow in the way that works best for them.

When I’m not in the classroom, I’m usually at home keeping busy with my husband and our two sons, who are five and one! We love spending time with family, and our weekends are often filled with visitors, activities, and plenty of fun. As a family, we enjoy going to the beach, riding bikes, exploring different parks, and working on crafts and DIY projects together.

I am so excited for another school year at Epiphany and look forward to all the wonderful memories, learning, and growth the year has in store!

Ms. Christina Moskal is so excited to be teaching Third Grade this year! This is her second year at Epiphany. Her approach to education emphasizes connection, creativity, and care, and she is deeply committed to supporting both the academic and emotional development of her students. Ms. Moskal believes in the power of kindness, curiosity, and community, and she is overjoyed to begin this next chapter with us.
 

Hello, I am Cherie Navarro. This is my fifth-year teaching at Epiphany. I am both proud and blessed to say that all four of our children attended Epiphany. I graduated Summa Cum Laude from Barry University, a Catholic University in Miami, where I earned a degree in PreK/Primary Education. I taught primary education in both Florida and Washington state. My passion is to incorporate all the senses in my teaching. When I am not in the classroom singing and dancing, you can find me looking for shells on Nokomis beach or birdwatching around town. I am also known to be in continual prayer. I find solace in the Mass, Rosary, Adoration, and reading scripture. One of my favorite Bible passages is Mark 4:35-41, where the disciples are fearful of perishing at sea in a storm. Jesus reminds them about faith as he directs the sea and wind to be still. When we recall that Jesus is in our boat, we can regain peace even during the storms in our lives. I pray that you and your child see Jesus through my actions and words.

Hello,, I’m Julie Collins and I am the 5th grade teacher at Epiphany Cathedral Catholic School. This is my 10th year teaching at Epiphany, but I was a substitute here for seven years before that! I was born in Peoria, Illinois and moved to Tampa when I was 10 years old. I attended Catholic school from Kindergarten through high school. I studied Elementary Education at Wingate University in Wingate, North Carolina and graduated from there in 2001. I began teaching at the elementary level and taught for six years until my husband (Epiphany Alum) and I started our family and I stayed home to be with our daughters. Two of our daughters attend Cardinal Mooney Catholic High School and they are in 12th and 10th grades. Our youngest daughter is in 7th grade at Epiphany. 
I grew up in a Catholic family that valued education. I truly love teaching at a Catholic school and enjoy attending mass every day with our students. I feel blessed that I can share my Catholic faith with my students. Teaching our students to be kind and loving is my most important job.
I enjoy reading, running, and spending time with my family. My girls take up most of my free time since they are involved in dance, gymnastics, theater and anything related to arts and crafts! They definitely keep us busy!
My favorite Bible verse is Matthew 6:25-34. “Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?”
 

Mrs. Phenix-Garces is from South Florida and has been a middle school English Language Arts teacher for 12 years. She has a bachelor's degree in English literature with a minor in history, and a Master's in Business Administration. She is a product of Catholic education, both in elementary school and high school, as well as higher education. Mrs. Phenix enjoys teaching students using enriching literature and facilitating thoughtful discussion that create meaningful connections with Catholic Faith. 

The entire law is summed up in a single command:  “Love your neighbor as yourself.”   Galatians 5:14

I started teaching at Epiphany Cathedral School in 2006. I earned my Associates Degree in Elementary Education from Manatee Community College and my Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Florida. I am certified in both Elementary Education and English for Speakers of Other Languages.

I attended Epiphany Cathedral School (Class of '95!) and Venice High School (Class of '99!). I am very fortunate to still be residing in Nokomis with my husband, Jesse, our beautiful daughter Emma (Epiphany alumni) and our handsome son Jack(Epiphany alumni).

I am very anxious to meet each of my students along with their wonderful families and am looking forward to a spectacular year!

My Teaching Philosophy

I truly believe that every child deserves to and can learn; however not on the same day or the same way. Because of this I feel teaching through differentiated instruction will best benefit the student.  I also believe that children learn best when they are part of a positive, non-threatening learning environment. This type of environment helps to develop a sense of self confidence which in turn assists in promoting an eager learner. Also, being part of a social environment where children can converse with other children, helps to expand language and their thinking. This is where I believe cooperative learning groups are necessary.  Children learn best through “hands-on” experiences where they are encouraged to question, explore, and discover. I feel through an integrated curriculum children can be engaged in real-life activities and learning centers. I believe that I need to set high expectations for my students and encourage them to show courage, practice honesty, have compassion, and be fair. I will have an open communication with my students that will not only build their trust but also show them that I too am human and make mistakes. I feel children learn best when there are positive parental influences not only in the home, but also involved with the school and in the classroom. I want my room to be comfortable for my students and their parents as well.

The teacher
Said to the students,
“Come to the edge.”
They replied,
“We might fall.”
The teacher again said,
“Come to the edge.”
They responded,
“It’s too high!”
The teacher demanded.
And they came…
Then
the teacher 
pushed them…
and they…flew.
                                   ~Anonymous

Classroom Expectations

Listen to directions
Enter and exit prepared
Always try your best
Respect others
No excuses

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Elementary Education. After attending Catholic schools myself, I have always had a strong desire to do my teaching in a Catholic school. My first teaching job was at St. Basil Catholic School in Michigan where I taught grades 6-8th Math and Science for two years. At that time, my husband and I moved to Florida and I accepted a high school math position. I taught classes ranging from Algebra 1 thru College Algebra at Key West High School for six years. When I was offered a position to teach grades 6-8th Math and Science at The Basilica School in Key West I could not refuse. Eventually we moved and I began to stay home with our boys. We now call Venice our home and love the Church and all it has to offer.
I am so thankful for the Catholic education that I received while growing up and would not be the person I am today without it. Teaching in the Catholic schools allows me to give back to our faith community. I am excited to be able to share my love of teaching with my students while always instilling a love for God and the Catholic faith.  

Miss Koolakian is a preschool-eighth sixth grade Spanish teacher. This will be her 8th year teaching Spanish at Epiphany, and her first year teaching 6th grade Latin. She has taught elementary and middle school Spanish for over 30 years at various other private schools. She received her bachelor’s degree in Accounting from SUNY Oswego, NY, and her Master’s degree in Education with a concentration in Spanish. She is looking forward to another great school year!

My name is Faith Allen, and I am proud to serve as the school librarian at ECCS.  This marks my 16th year here, following several rewarding years in the Sarasota County School.

I was born and raised in Ohio, where I earned my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Varying Exceptionalities from Muskingum College in New Concord, Ohio.  Prior to my current position, I was a resource teacher across elementary, middle, and high school levels.

In 1993, my husband and I relocated to Florida, where we cherished raising our children in the beautiful community of Venice. I am also a proud grandmother to six loving grandchildren, who bring us immense joy and pride to our lives.

As the school librarian, I am passionate about sharing my love of reading with our students. I am excited to engage with our enthusiastic preschoolers all the way up to our wonderful eighth graders.  It is a privilege to foster a love for reading and to encourage students to harness their knowledge and imagination to pursue their dreams.

I consider myself fortunate to be part of such a remarkable and caring school community. I eagerly anticipate a year filled with exploration and growth, nurturing each student’s passion for reading! 
 

Christene Jakoby

Middle School Theology & Technology Teacher, NJHS Advisor, Robotics Coach

I am a daughter of God, wife to Ken, and mother to Matthew, an Epiphany graduate.

Fun fact: I fell in love with this school community at my very first morning gathering! Now, I look forward to my 12th year teaching at Epiphany and am joyful to become our Middle School Theology Teacher and continue as our K-8 Technology Teacher. I also serve as National Junior Honor Society Co-Advisor, as Robotics Coach, and with the Jr. Legion of Mary. 
My path can be summed up by Proverbs 3:5 - Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. I am a career changer, coming from the business world with an AAS in Business Administration from Briarcliffe College, a BS in Accounting from SUNY Old Westbury, and the Teacher Certification program at SCF. As a lifelong learner, I am now working on my Master’s in Applied Catholic Theology through the University of Mary.

When we moved to Florida from Long Island, I was called to volunteer as a Catechist in Epiphany's Faith Formation program, which led to filling a long-term substitute position at ECCS and being hired at the end of that year. I continue to serve as a Catechist.

One of my favorite things about teaching at Epiphany are the students! I love watching them learn and grow throughout the years. I am especially proud when I see my students lead in church by being our altar servers, lectors, projectionists, cantors and choir members.

In my free time, I love to read (my students are NOT surprised!), travel, and spend time with my family. I think the best perk about living in Florida is being able to go to the beach year-round!  

Saint Monica is near and dear to my heart. Our classroom patron saints are Saint Benedict in Theology and Saint Carlo Acutis in Technology.