Holy Cross Academy
(PreK-8th)
Forming Saints, Scholars, and Leaders
Meet the Team
Ava Linsday
Favorites
-Peanut M&M
-Diet Coke
-Pilates
-Baking
Ava Linsday - Kindergarten Instructional Assistant
Contact Info:
Experiences & Accomplishments:
Working closely with the classroom teacher, I support early literacy, numeracy, and social-emotional development through hands-on activities, creative play, and individualized encouragement. My upbeat personality helps build strong connections with students, while my patience and consistency provide the structure they need to thrive.
Forming Saints, Scholars, and Leaders Since 1998
Maria Florio
Favorites
-Twix
-Diet Coke
-Iced dirty chai
-Reading
Maria Florio - Kindergarten Instructional Assistant
Contact Info:
Experience & Accomplishments:
I am a dedicated Kindergarten Teaching Assistant known for my calm, patient, and nurturing demeanor. I am passionate about supporting young learners as they take their first steps in their educational journey, helping to create a classroom environment where children feel safe, valued, and confident.
Forming Saints, Scholars, and Leaders Since 1998
Maria Fernandez
Favorites
Maria Fernandez - First Grade Instructional Assistant
Contact Info:
Experience & Accomplishments:
I am a cheerful and dedicated Elementary Teaching Assistant committed to creating a positive, supportive, and engaging learning environment for young students. With a naturally upbeat personality and a passion for education, I strive to make each school day encouraging, structured, and fun.
Forming Saints, Scholars, and Leaders Since 1998
Melissa Krazter
Favorites
-Salted caramel chocolates
-Coke Zero
-Baking
-Crafting
Melissa Krazter - First Grade Instructional Assistant
Contact Info:
Experience & Accomplishments:
I couldn’t be more excited to join the faculty at Holy Cross this year while also continuing my role as a proud parent. My Catholic faith has always been at the heart of my life, and I am grateful for the many blessings God has given me. One of the greatest blessings was meeting my husband, Kevin. We’ve been happily married for 17 years and have four wonderful children, ages 15, 13, 11, and 7 — the younger three are all proud Crusaders!
After graduating from James Madison University with a degree in Computer Information Systems, I began working for a large engineering firm. That career (and my husband's military service) have taken me to fascinating places across the world. I’ve lived in Washington, D.C., North Carolina, California, the Sultanate of Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, and I’ve had the privilege of visiting many countries. Those experiences gave me a deep appreciation for the richness of different cultures and the beauty of God’s creation around the world.
Eventually, I stepped away from corporate life to focus on my most important role — being a mom. Now, I am excited to bring my skills and enthusiasm to Holy Cross, working alongside our dedicated teachers and families.
When I’m not at school, you’ll often find me cheering at my kids’ sporting events, traveling to new places, or in the kitchen baking. I feel truly blessed to be part of the St. Mary/Holy Cross community and look forward to all the wonderful moments and memories.
Forming Saints, Scholars, and Leaders Since 1998
Tammye Herold
Favorites
-Reese's PB cups
-Diet Coke
-Disney
-Beach
Tammye Herold - Second Grade Instructional Assistant
Contact Info:
Experience & Accomplishments:
As a dedicated Elementary Teaching Assistant, I am passionate about supporting young learners as they grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Known affectionately by students and colleagues as the “Fairy Godmother,” I strive to create a nurturing and encouraging classroom environment where every child feels seen, supported, and capable of success.
Forming Saints, Scholars, and Leaders Since 1998
Ellen Sandkuhler
Favorites
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Ellen Sandkuhler - Resource Assistant
Contact Info:
Experience & Accomplishments:
As a dedicated Resource Assistant, I am passionate about helping children overcome learning difficulties and reach their full potential. I work closely with students, teachers, and families to provide individualized academic support tailored to each child’s unique needs.