Introducing Our Team
At Stella Maris School, our people are our greatest strength. Our administrators, teachers, support staff, specialists, and volunteers are all dedicated to building a safe, inclusive, and supportive place where every student is valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.
Get to know the dedicated people who help make Stella Maris a place for learning, compassion, opportunity, and belonging.
Doreth Pascasio Griffith is an educator and leader with over ten years of experience helping students grow, feel included, and succeed.
She has experience in resource teaching, designing inclusive classrooms, developing curriculum, and leading professional development. She started her career as a primary school teacher at Queen Square Anglican School, then worked as an inclusive classroom specialist at St. Peter’s Anglican School, and as a resource teacher at Louisiana Government School.
Throughout her career, Mrs. Pascasio Griffith has supported student-centered learning and ensured that students, especially those with special educational needs, receive the support and opportunities they need to succeed.
Her leadership goes beyond the classroom. As a former City Council Member and Deputy Mayor of Orange Walk, she worked on community projects and inclusive policies. She also helped start the Charitable Roots Foundation, which supports children with special medical needs and promotes community health.
Mrs. Pascasio Griffith is currently a doctoral candidate in Education at Universidad Internacional San Isidro Labrador. She also has a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Emerging Technology from Marconi International University, a School Leadership Certificate from Mount St. Vincent University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education from the University of Belize.
She speaks English, Creole, and conversational Spanish.
As Principal of Stella Maris, Mrs. Pascasio Griffith believes every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Her vision for inclusive education is built on working together, embracing innovation, promoting fairness, and believing in education’s power to change lives.
Elizabeth McLaughlin, known to many as Ms. Lisa or Teacher Lisa, has over 25 years of experience in education. She is dedicated to children and inclusive learning, and now serves as Vice-Principal at Stella Maris School.
Ms. Lisa grew up in Orange Walk Town and found her love for teaching as a Sunday School teacher at Orange Walk Baptist Church. She later earned an Associate’s Degree in Primary Education from St. John’s College Junior College and a Bachelor’s Degree in Education, majoring in Social Sciences, from the University of Belize.
She also trained as an Official Paraprofessional Facilitator through Autism Belize’s Let’s Talk program.
She spent much of her teaching career at St. Peter’s Anglican Primary School, where she taught in the Infant and Middle Divisions, worked as a Remedial Teacher, and supported students as a Special Education Teacher. She also taught Special Education at Ranchito Government School. Supporting students with diverse learning and developmental needs became one of the most meaningful areas of her career. Ms. Lisa has worked closely with teachers and families to help students successfully transition into inclusive classroom environments.
Her dedication has been widely recognized. In 2012, she received both the Orange Walk District Teacher of the Year Award and the National Teacher of the Year Award in Special Education. In 2022, the Orange Walk Town Council honored her with the Patriotic Servant Award.
Ms. Lisa has worked with Autism Belize, the Ministry of Education SPED Unit, Special Olympics Belize, and the Orange Walk Town Council to raise awareness, support teacher development, and create more opportunities for children with disabilities.
As Vice-Principal at Stella Maris, she brings experience, compassion, and mentorship, along with a strong belief in every child’s potential.
Her educational philosophy is summed up in the words of educator Rita Pierson:
“Every child deserves a champion.”
Felicia Garbutt
Ms. Felicia Garbutt is a dedicated Belizean educator with more than 15 years of experience in primary and special education.
Her educational journey began in Benque Viejo before she joined Stella Maris School in 2010. During her years at Stella Maris, she has served in several capacities, including Lower Division Teacher, Sewing Instructor, mentor to student teachers, and Early Childhood Educator working with children ages five and six.
Ms. Garbutt strongly believes in the power of inclusive education and is committed to creating engaging learning environments that meet students’ diverse needs.
Creativity is an important part of her teaching and her life. A talented dancer and former member of the Stella Maris band, she has shared her love of the arts with the school community while bringing enthusiasm, imagination, and joy to her classroom.
Vercine Jimenez
Ms. Vercine Jimenez has been a dedicated teacher at Stella Maris School since 2016.
Her teaching experience also includes part-time service at Trinity Methodist Primary School, Sunshine Preschool, and Belize Rural Primary School.
Known for her warm and friendly personality, Ms. Jimenez readily supports her colleagues and contributes to school activities. She is committed to creating a positive and welcoming learning environment for her students.
A proud mother, Ms. Jimenez values family life and enjoys spending quiet time at home watching her favorite programs.
Her thoughtful and inquisitive nature continues to enrich her work with students and colleagues.
Lythia Rhaburn
For more than a decade, Ms. Lythia Rhaburn has helped shape young minds at Stella Maris School.
Her professional experience spans preschool, primary, and special education. She holds an Associate Degree and a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education, an Induction Certificate for Newly Qualified Teachers, and a Certificate in School Leadership.
Ms. Rhaburn is committed to creating engaging, supportive learning environments where students can thrive. Her dedication and professionalism have earned the respect of colleagues, administrators, and members of the wider community.
She consistently strives to provide students with meaningful educational opportunities and is known for going beyond expectations to support positive outcomes.
Outside her professional life, Ms. Rhaburn treasures spending time with family and friends and values her mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
Maria Newport serves as the Transition Coordinator at Stella Maris School and is deeply committed to empowering students with disabilities as they prepare for adulthood, greater independence, and future opportunities.
Guided by compassion and a strong commitment to service, she works to identify and remove barriers, create meaningful opportunities, and support students and families throughout the transition process.
Ms. Newport’s work helps students develop confidence as they prepare for the next stages of their lives. Her resilience, compassion, and commitment make her an important source of encouragement for students and families navigating the transition toward independence and success.
Karen Williams
For 19 years, Ms. Karen Williams has dedicated her teaching career to Stella Maris School, serving students across all class levels.
She is passionate about helping every student reach their fullest potential, whether that means developing greater independence at home, strengthening academic and life skills, or preparing them to become active, contributing members of society.
A hardworking team member, Ms. Williams values collaboration and consistently puts her students’ needs at the center of her work.
Beyond the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her family and helping care for the school’s garden and chickens, which provide students with valuable hands-on learning experiences.
Sheree Salgado
Sheree Salgado is an accomplished educator with more than 18 years of experience in special education.
Passionate about inclusive learning, she has worked extensively with students with diverse needs, including autism, learning disabilities, and behavioral challenges.
Ms. Salgado holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education from the University of Belize and certifications in Sign Language, Frontline Service Excellence, and Leadership Training.
In addition to her work as an educator, she teaches cosmetology as part of the school’s skills program, helping students develop practical abilities that can build confidence and independence.
Ms. Salgado also proudly serves as a Justice of the Peace and remains committed to supporting students and strengthening her community.
Cecelia Smith
Cecelia Smith is an experienced Special Education Teacher with 23 years in the field, including 19 years of dedicated service at Stella Maris Special Education and Life Skills Learning Center.
She is deeply committed to creating inclusive, supportive learning environments that encourage students with diverse needs to grow, participate, and achieve.
Ms. Smith holds a Certificate in Primary Education and an Associate Degree in Business Administration and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education.
She also brings valuable experience as an interpreter, supporting effective communication for diverse learners.
Her advocacy extends beyond the classroom through her service as a board member for Special Olympics Belize District.
A proud mother and full-time caregiver, Ms. Smith also enjoys travel, adventure, camping, and exploring the natural world.
Rozeta Kanisha Mossiah
Rozeta Kanisha Mossiah is a passionate educator from Belize City with teaching experience across Anglican, Catholic, private, and government schools.
Today, she serves as a Special Education Teacher at Stella Maris, where she strives to be a warm, encouraging, and positive role model for her students. She approaches education with honesty, respect, compassion, and a belief in every learner’s potential.
A proud wife and mother of two, Ms. Mossiah enjoys traveling, dancing, sharing laughter, and building meaningful connections with others.
Her personal motto is:
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
June Rowland
Ms. June Rowland was inspired to enter education by her mother and eldest sister, both devoted educators. She has dedicated more than 18 years of service to Stella Maris School.
Ms. Rowland holds an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration, a Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Education.
Throughout her career, she has worked extensively with students with diverse needs, including autism, hearing and visual impairments, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy. She is fluent in sign language and is a strong advocate for inclusive education.
Her service extends beyond the classroom. Ms. Rowland volunteers as a coach with Special Olympics Belize, supporting student-athletes at both local and international levels.
Committed to lifelong learning, she is pursuing a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership at Miami City University, with the goal of developing innovative educational strategies that empower students and educators.
Joycelyn Moreira
Joycelyn Moreira was born in Punta Gorda, Belize, and is a proud mother of three sons.
She holds an Associate Degree in Primary Education and is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree, demonstrating her commitment to continued professional and academic growth.
Ms. Moreira enjoys traveling, dancing, and socializing, and brings an outgoing, positive spirit to the Stella Maris community.
Alexander Viveiros
Alexander Viveiros is a passionate Special Education Teacher with six years of classroom experience.
He is committed to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued and motivated to reach their fullest potential.
Known for his organizational skills and diverse instructional strategies, Mr. Viveiros incorporates hands-on activities, technology, and differentiated instruction to engage students and support meaningful learning.
He is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, expanding his knowledge of school leadership and administration while continuing to support students’ academic, social, and personal development.
Mr. Viveiros takes great pride in celebrating every student milestone and views their progress as a shared achievement between the student, family, teacher, and school.
Irma Dyer
Ms. Irma Dyer, originally from Hattieville, brings more than 18 years of teaching experience to her work with students.
She is committed to encouraging children to believe in themselves, work hard, and always strive to do their best.
Family and faith are central to Ms. Dyer’s life, and she especially treasures creating memories with her four sons. She also enjoys sports, traveling, and discovering new experiences.
Her guiding principle is simple and powerful:
“Treat others the way you would want to be treated.”
Isma Duncan
Isma Duncan is a dedicated educator and lifelong learner. She is passionate about helping children grow in all areas of their lives.
She has an Associate Degree in Primary Education and brings patience, kindness, and commitment to her work at Stella Maris School.
Ms. Duncan works to create a classroom where students feel respected, supported, and encouraged to learn. In her free time, she enjoys reading and watching her favorite television series.
Her calm spirit and dedication make a real difference to her students and the Stella Maris community.
Dana Herbert
Ms. Dana Herbert is a dedicated educator with more than 13 years of experience.
She began her academic journey at Wesley Junior College, where she completed studies in General Studies and later earned a Certificate in Education from the University of Belize. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s Degree at Galen University, reflecting her commitment to continued professional development.
Ms. Herbert’s professional experience includes five years with the Ministry of Education’s TSC and nearly nine years of teaching at Stella Maris School.
She is passionate about supporting children with diverse disabilities and creating inclusive learning environments in which students are encouraged and empowered to thrive.
A proud mother of three children, Ms. Herbert brings warmth, friendliness, dedication, and a strong work ethic to the Stella Maris community.
Agriselma Delsil
Agriselma Delsil was born in Punta Gorda and moved to Belize City to continue her education. She earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from the University of Belize in 2002 and worked for 17 years as an Operations Manager.
Ms. Delsil’s passion for education led her back to university, where she earned an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Belize.
She started teaching at Star Bright Preschool for four years before joining Stella Maris School. Becoming a special education teacher at Stella Maris was one of her professional dreams come true.
Ms. Delsil uses a variety of teaching methods to engage her students and works closely with parents, colleagues, and the school community.
She hopes to open an inclusive preschool in Lord’s Bank Village to make quality early childhood education more accessible and affordable for families. Ms. Delsil enjoys dancing and traveling and approaches life with faith, prayer, and gratitude.
Verie Vassel
Verie Vassel began her teaching journey at Stella Maris School in 2008, inspired by her parents’ commitment to education and her own passion for supporting children with diverse abilities.
After attending St. Catherine Academy, she continued her studies at St. John’s Junior College, where she earned an Associate’s Degree on scholarship.
Her dedication to special education later took her to Cuba, where she pursued a Bachelor’s Degree and gained valuable international experience and a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity in education.
During her years at Stella Maris, Ms. Vassel has served in both the Physiotherapy Room and the classroom.
She continued her professional development by pursuing a Master’s Degree in Inclusive and Special Education at The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus, Jamaica, and earning a Certificate in Leadership.
Today, she teaches the Beginner’s Class at Stella Maris and remains deeply committed to nurturing each student’s potential and giving children a strong, supportive start to their educational journey.
Olda Teresa Medina
Ms. Olda Teresa Medina, affectionately known as Ms. Medina or Tere, is from Libertad Village in the Corozal District.
She attended Libertad R.C. Primary School, Belize Adventist College, and Corozal Junior College before earning her Bachelor’s Degree in Primary Education from the University of Belize in 2021.
With more than ten years of teaching experience, Ms. Medina has served in government and Anglican schools throughout Corozal, including Chan Chen, San Antonio, and San Roman Preschools.
Today, she brings her experience and passion for education to Stella Maris School in Belize City, where she remains committed to helping students learn, grow, and discover their potential.
A proud mother, Ms. Medina believes strongly in education as a pathway to opportunity and success.
Arideine Hoare
Ms. Arideine Hoare serves as a School Warden at Stella Maris and brings experience in youth development and community service to her role.
A graduate of BCHS High School, she holds a Certificate in Conflict Resolution. She previously served as a Site Coordinator for a YWCA after-school program and also serves as the Leader of Stewardship at Christ the Good Shepherd Church.
As a mother of three sons, Ms. Hoare understands the importance of encouraging young people and providing guidance and positive opportunities.
She enjoys singing and reading and is passionate about helping young people make positive choices for their futures.
Carol Lopez
Carol Lopez proudly serves as a School Warden at Stella Maris School.
Dedicated to students’ safety and well-being, she approaches her responsibilities with kindness, warmth, and genuine care.
Ms. Lopez’s loving spirit and commitment to children help create the safe, welcoming school environment Stella Maris strives to provide every day.
Arlette Andrea Anderson
Arlette Andrea Anderson is a School Warden at Stella Maris School. She is dedicated to keeping students safe and supporting the whole school community.
Ms. Anderson graduated from Ecumenical College. She has worked as a teacher at Living Hope Prep School and as a community librarian at Leo Bradley Library, where she encouraged children and families to enjoy learning.
She is a proud mother of three children, who inspire her every day.
Outside work, Ms. Anderson enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time outdoors. She brings energy and positivity to her job and lives by these encouraging words:
“Try and try again.”
Elvira Young
Elvira Young is a valued member of the Stella Maris School support team.
A proud mother of eight children—two daughters and six sons—Ms. Young describes her family as her greatest joy and a powerful source of motivation.
She lives in the Belize District and serves as a Bathroom Attendant at Stella Maris, contributing to the cleanliness, safety, and well-being of the school environment.
Ms. Young believes strongly in teamwork and collaboration and approaches her responsibilities with diligence and a strong work ethic.
She is proud to contribute to both the Stella Maris family and her wider community.
One Team. One Mission.
Every member of Stella Maris contributes something important.
From administrators and teachers to wardens, support staff, skills instructors, volunteers, and those who care for our school environment, each person helps create a place where children can learn, grow, belong, and succeed.
Together, we are committed to the Stella Maris promise:
Every Child. Included. Safe. Learning. Loved.
