Exceptional Student Education (ESE)

Meet the Teachers

Christine Guayara Leal, MS CCC-SLP Christine Guayara Leal graduated from the University of Central Florida with her Bachelors in Communication Sciences and Disorders. At Florida International University, she graduated from a bilingual emphasis Speech-Language Pathology program with her Masters of Science degree. Christine is a Spanish-English bilingual SLP and frequently interacts with culturally and linguistically diverse populations. Mrs. Leal has treated both adult and pediatric clients with communication and swallowing disorders in various clinical settings. In her spare time she enjoys creating music, playing the piano, making art, attending conventions, traveling, and visiting family and friends.

My name is Christa Balchunas. I graduated from Flagler College with a dual degree in Deaf Education/Elementary Education. I am currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. This is my 2nd year here at Melaleuca Elementary, 17th year teaching. I work with K- 5th grade Deaf/Hard of Hearing, and I teach Reading and Math. I love working with the students and teachers here at Melaleuca.

I am Mrs. Busse. I have taught at Melaleuca Elementary for 18 years. I like teaching with visuals, and engaging students in small groups while making learning fun.

My name is Mrs. Atwell. I am the ESE Coordinator and an ESE Teacher. I have been teaching for 14 years and have been at Melaleuca for 5 years. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Exceptional Student Education. I love watching Disney movies and going to the parks with my family.

​Marcia Blatt​ I've serviced children with special needs as a Licensed Speech/Language Pathologist for almost 40 years. I began my career in the New York State public schools and have been providing therapy in the state of Florida for the past five years. I continued my career in Florida because of my love for teaching and to see the children that I work with grow in their academic setting.

​Sara Hetzel​ I graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. After that I attended graduate school at Nova Southeastern University where I graduated with a Specialist’s Degree in School Psychology. I have been working as a School Psychologist for the past 9 years and have worked with students from prekindergarten through high school. I enjoy working with students of all ages and I am excited to be a part of the team at Melaleuca.

Links

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