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Upper School English Faculty
Upper School English Faculty
abenson@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2022
EDUCATION
BA English, University of Georgia
FUN FACT
She loves to challenge herself, especially in the gym with heavy weights. She considers herself her own competition and is always amazed by what her body and mind are capable of!
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Homecoming week festivities
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Matthew 28:20
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Starbucks Triple Grande hot latte
Born and raised in the suburbs of Atlanta, Georgia, Mrs. Amanda Benson earned a Bachelor’s in English from the University of Georgia and later became a contract paralegal for a biopharmaceutical company. After the privilege of being a stay-at-home mom and Bible study teacher for many years, she worked with a small publishing company and writer’s group in Orlando. In her professional work, her love for words and writing has only increased. It is a passion she hopes to pass on to her students. She and her husband Brad have two thriving young adult kids, Sophie (pre-law UF '26) and Henry (SSC - Fire Academy '25), and two fun and fluffy Goldendoodles, Moose and Buffles. In her free time, Amanda loves hanging out at New Smyrna Beach, chasing a new gym personal record, reading a great book, and eating delicious food. A faith lesson she will hold onto always is "God wastes nothing."
4th Grade Reading Faculty
4th Grade Reading Faculty
avaughn@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2018
EDUCATION
BS Elementary Education with ESOL & ESE Certification, Florida State University
FUN FACT
A true Floridian, Amanda enjoys Disney vacations and recently experienced her first Disney cruise.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
She loves Homecoming week, especially how the Lower School participates with enthusiasm.
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Proverbs 3:6
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Iced Hazelnut Oatmilk Shaken Espresso or Diet Coke
Mrs. Amanda Vaughn graduated from Florida State University in 2006 with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education, along with ESOL and ESE certifications. With 19 years of teaching experience, she is venturing into teaching 4th-grade reading after years in early education. Married for 19 years and a mother of two, Amanda's family has been part of the Orangewood community for seven years, embracing the school's spirit and forward-looking ethos.
English Faculty
English Faculty
acooper@ocsrams.org
Apple Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2021
EDUCATION
BA English Education, University of Central Florida
FUN FACT
Reading has always been a source of an outlet for her; she enjoys getting lost in a good book. Now, having two young daughters, her hope is to instill that love for reading in them.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Serve Day
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Jeremiah 29:11
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Coffee…LOTS of coffee!
Mrs. Amber Cooper was born and raised in Apopka, Florida, where she completed her high school education at Apopka High School, and met her husband, Justin. Together, they have two daughters, McKenzie and Lainey, who bring immense joy to their lives. Through them, Amber has experienced firsthand the love that Jesus has for us, His children. She earned her bachelor's degree in English Education from the University of Central Florida and is now entering her tenth year of teaching. The saying, "Do what you love and you'll never work a day in your life," has proven true for her. She feels incredibly blessed to pursue a career she is passionate about. Growing up in Apopka has fostered a deep appreciation for the slow-paced, small-town life. She has a profound love for all that God has created and finds beauty in His handiwork, whether it's a sunset, a garden of flowers, or the sight of a bird flying overhead. She loves curling up with a good book and a cup of coffee, relaxing by the ocean, listening to the waves crash, and exploring new destinations with her family.
1st Grade Faculty
1st Grade Faculty
adixon@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2022
EDUCATION
BA English, University of Central Florida
FUN FACT
She relishes sunny days at the beach with a good book, combining her love for reading and nature
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Homecoming RAM BASH
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Micah 6:8
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Cold brew with sweet cream
After years of homeschooling, Mrs. Anne Dixon returned to teaching, grateful for the opportunity to share her faith daily. She holds a BA in English from the University of Central Florida.
Lower School Media Specialist
Lower School Media Specialist
alewis@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2008
EDUCATION
BA Education, University of Florida
FUN FACT
She likes watching classic movies, particularly Film Noir.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Passing the Light at Graduation
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Jeremiah 29:11
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Vanilla Cream Cold Brew
Mrs. Anne Lewis grew up in South Florida and relocated to Vero Beach during her senior year of high school. She attended the University of Florida and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education, after initially majoring in Theatre. She is married and has two boys, the youngest of whom graduated from Orangewood in 2023. She loves being a part of the wonderful, God-centered community at OCS.
Upper School Receptionist
Upper School Receptionist
ahellwege@ocsrams.org
Apple Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2024
EDUCATION
BA English, Rollins College
FUN FACT
Her family has a love for Braves baseball that spans generations, and they enjoy watching games
together.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
6th Grade Car Parade
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Isaiah 30:15-21
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Cold Brew Coffee
Mrs. Ann Hellwege grew up in Jacksonville, FL, and started walking with Jesus while in high school. After graduating from Rollins College with a degree in English, she spent time serving in both ministry and education. She currently lives in Winter Park with her husband Stephen and their two sons, Jacob and Micah. Their family enjoys going on adventures and all things baseball.
Academic and College Advisor
Academic and College Advisor
bmore@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2008
EDUCATION
BS Mathematics Education, University of Central Florida
FUN FACT
She loves serving families as they navigate the college application process.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Be The Light Parade
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Colossians 3:23
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Sugar Free Vanilla Latte (hot or iced)
Mrs. Barb More has served in both public and private Christian education for over 28 years. Throughout her career, she has taught students in grades 6-12, covering subjects from Pre-Algebra through Calculus. She has served as a Dean of Students and most recently as the OCS Upper School Academic and College Advisor. She has been married to her husband since 1987. They have two daughters and three grandchildren. They are active members of their church.
Application Support Specialist and Trainer
Application Support Specialist and Trainer
bmercer@ocsrams.org
Apple Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2024
EDUCATION
MA Curriculum and Instruction, American College of Education
FUN FACT
She is passionate about adoption. God allowed her to adopt her daughter Brianna Joy after fostering her for several years.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
She looks forward to participating in all of the RAMS traditions.
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
James 1:27
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Mocha Latte
Miss Becca Mercer was born and raised overseas to missionary parents, living in the Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Kenya, and Indonesia. She has three siblings—one biological and two adopted. Adoption has always been a passion for her, and in 2019, the Lord called her into foster care. In 2022, she adopted her daughter Brianna as a single mom. Together they love going to Aquatica, swimming in pools, and going to playgrounds. Both are beginning their journeys at Orangewood in the fall of 2024, with Brianna in PreK. Before coming to Orangewood, Miss Mercer worked as a teacher for eight years, a freelance curriculum writer for one year, and an Instructional Technologist for one year.
4th Grade Writing Faculty
4th Grade Writing Faculty
bpanga@ocsrams.org
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2024
EDUCATION
BS Organizational Leadership & Small Business Management, Brenau University
FUN FACT
Her greatest joy is being creative! She loves to work with her hands and mostly that includes a lot of paint and a lot of mess!
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Romans 15:13
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Water (Still or Sparkling), Mango Juice, and Iced Chai
Ms. Belle Panga is from Georgia, and is excited to be teaching 4th grade writing this year! She graduated from Brenau University with a degree in business and leadership. Her journey in education started as a youth services librarian focusing on S.T.E.A.M and early literacy. She's also had the privilege of teaching both academic and creative writing alongside ESL in South Korea, which broadened her cultural perspective and deepened her passion for enriching the student experience. Currently, she is working toward completing her masters degree in Elementary Education. Putting her faith in the Lord is at the heart of everything she does. Inviting Him into every aspect of her journey has been life changing. Her faith influences how she teaches, leads, and connects with others, and it’s a source of constant inspiration for her. She's had the opportunity to lead small groups for young adults, which has deepened her love for guiding and inspiring others. Beyond the classroom, she is also the president of a nonprofit women's ministry called Love Out Loud, that focuses on empowering and uplifting women in the community. In all these roles—whether teaching, leading, or serving her community— she loves to make a positive impact and cultivate an environment for growth, driven by her faith and dedication to helping others.
Kindergarten Faculty
Kindergarten Faculty
bmaisonet@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2018
EDUCATION
MS Education, Southeastern University
FUN FACT
Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, playing card and board games, traveling, and relaxing at a spa
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Kindergarten Q & U Wedding
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
John 3:16 and Proverbs 3:5-6
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Chai Tea Latte or Green Tea
Ms. Bernice Maisonet holds a Master's degree in Education from Southeastern University and has 24 years of teaching experience. She is also a licensed Massage Therapist and Esthetician, advocating for the health benefits of spa treatments.
3rd Grade Reading Faculty
3rd Grade Reading Faculty
bbragg@ocsrams.org
2024
EDUCATION
MEd K-8 Math and Science, University of Central Florida
FUN FACT
He enjoys spending time with family and friends doing crafts...especially paint nights!
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Science Fair
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Jeremiah 29:11
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Hot Caramel Latte or Hot/Iced Chai Latte
Mrs. Brandi Bragg has been teaching for seven years in 4th and 5th grades. She has a Master of Education in K-8 Math and Science and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, with reading endorsement. She graduated with both degrees from the University of Central Florida. Go Knights! She has three amazing children and several fur babies. She loves to travel to new places and see visit extended family whenever she gets the chance.
Upper School Innovation Lab Faculty
Director of Tables & Horse Stables / Upper School Innovation Lab Faculty
bhazzard@ocsrams.org
Apple Distinguished Educator - Class of 2019 & Apple Teacher
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2021
EDUCATION
BS Elementary Education, Campbellsville University
FUN FACT
He loves watching soccer, especially Orlando City!
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Be The Light parade
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Matthew 5:16
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Coke Zero or Black Coffee
Mr. Brandon Hazzard was born in Indianapolis, Indiana but grew up mostly in Florida and Southern Georgia. He is a 1995 graduate of Mooresville HS in Mooresville, IN. He has a bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Campbellsville University in Central Kentucky. Mr. Hazzard is a 25-year veteran of the classroom. He earned the distinct honors of being named an Apple Educator in 2019, a Sphero Hero in 2019, a Nearpod Pioneer in 2016, a Seesaw Ambassador in 2020, and a Printlab Ambassador in 2023. He is married to his beautiful, patient, and loving wife and the two have four children. He spends many hours helping out with his son's Boy Scout Troop, playing Nintendo Switch with his kids, and creating and printing 3D objects. He is a strong supporter of Orlando City, Indianapolis Colts, Florida State University, and Atlanta Braves.
4th Grade Science and Social Studies Faculty
4th Grade Science and Social Studies Faculty
bwitwer@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2015
EDUCATION
MA Education & Exceptional Student Education, Southeastern University
FUN FACT
She finds stress relief in baking and enjoys serving baked goods.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
6th Grade car parade
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Psalm 23
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Starbucks' Iced Blonde Vanilla Latte
Mrs. Breanne Witwer was born and raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and was blessed to be raised in a family of believers. She attended Christian schools from elementary through college. Breanne received her undergraduate degree in both Elementary and Special Education at Calvin College and received her Master in Exceptional Student Education at Southeastern University. She has been married to her best friend for almost 11 years, and they have two amazing children, Remy (5) and Henley (2). They currently have three pets, two that live in her classroom during the school year. Their cat, Jonesy, lives at home and behaves like a dog, coming when called. Their snake, Hydra, is a classroom favorite, and their axolotl, Xochi, has also been a great addition to the classroom. This summer, they welcomed a puppy into their chaos. She enjoys baking treats for her colleagues or spending time with her kids at the pool or the science center, and looks forward to starting her tenth year at Orangewood. She has taught many subjects at Orangewood, and currently teaches 4th Grade Science and Social Studies, which has been her favorite position. She loves the Orangewood community and is thankful for all the wonderful families and teachers who have helped her along the way. To her, Orangewood is a family.
K4 Faculty
K4 Faculty
bsnyder@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2023
EDUCATION
BA Interdisciplinary Studies, Western Governors University
FUN FACT
She loves running and is motivated by pushing herself to go farther in long-distance running. Her next goal is to run a marathon.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Serve Day
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
2 Timothy 1:7
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Starbucks Venti Cold Brew with oat milk and 5 pumps of cinnamon dulce syrup
Mrs. Brianne Snyder has been married to her wonderful husband, Branden, for thirteen years, and they have two children who both attend Orangewood Christian School. Savannah will be in 7th grade and Braxden will be in 5th grade this upcoming school year. The 2023-2024 school year was their first year at Orangewood as a family, and it has been a wonderful experience. Brianne began her journey in education as a substitute teacher for Seminole County in 2018 once her children were of school age. She loved it so much that she decided to have a classroom of her own. She went back to school and earned a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies from Western Governors University while working as a paraprofessional in General Education and Exceptional Special Education at Wekiva Elementary. She was blessed to land her first teaching job as a kindergarten teacher at Wekiva Elementary, where her children attended. She taught there for one more year until God opened a door to Orangewood. She feels that the story of being hired at Orangewood is a God thing. During her daughter's student interview for incoming 6th grade, she found out about an available K4 position. After a successful interview for her daughter, she was called back for an interview the same day. Everything happened quickly, but she believes it was all part of God's plan. She is excited for what God has in store for the years ahead, and is proud to be a RAM.
1st Grade Faculty
1st Grade Faculty
bharper@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2022
EDUCATION
MEd Curriculum and Instruction, University of Phoenix
FUN FACT
Her passion for crocheting toys is evident, as it connects her with her children's adoption journey.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Bible Families
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
John 16:33
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Venti Iced Green Tea with Splenda(2)
Mrs. Brittany Harper is a University of Central Florida alumna and has a Master's in Curriculum and Instruction. She has nearly two decades of teaching experience and enjoys being involved in her children's education at Orangewood. Married to Dennis for 14 years, they have two children. She cherishes the time spent with her family and their involvement in their faith community.