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Meet the Staff

Teachers who believe in you — and challenge you

SPARK's instructors bring advanced degrees, Florida teaching certifications, and a genuine passion for igniting a love of learning.

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Darlene Thiele, M.A.

Director & Instructor
Ms. Darlene has a B.S. in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin and a Master's in Liberal Studies – Literature and the Arts from Hamline University. She holds a Florida K–6 teaching license and is certified in Mathematics, Science, and English (Middle Grades 5–9) and Exceptional Student Education (K–12). A member of the Mensa High IQ Society, her instruction is individualized and based on current brain research and differentiated learning styles.
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Nolan Doffing

Business Manager & Instructor
Mr. Nolan has a B.S. in Finance from Florida Gulf Coast University. He holds a Social Studies teaching certificate (grades 5–9) with Florida and a Spanish certification from Ecuador, and is a member of the Mensa High IQ Society. He founded NRD Educational Services LLC in southwest Florida and uses practical, everyday applications to help students discover the purpose behind every skill.
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Phyllis French

Math & Science Instructor
Ms. Phyllis has a B.S. in Mathematics from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana and a Master's in Computer Science from Indiana State University. She holds a mathematics teaching certificate (grades 6–12) with Florida and is a positive educator with a deep understanding of scientific concepts and mathematical theories.
[Content to bring over from current site] — staff photos and downloadable resumes can be added here when available