Darryl Franklin Reaves earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Journalism from Florida A&M University (FAMU) and a Juris Doctor from the University of Florida. He is an accredited instructor in the disciplines of Sociology, History, and Government, having taught Sociology at the University of Miami and History and Government at his alma mater, FAMU.

A former member of the Florida House of Representatives, Reaves served on the influential Finance and Tax Committee, where he developed expertise in the state budgeting process. As a freshman legislator, he successfully secured millions of dollars to fund a healthcare center in an underserved area of Miami, Florida. The center was later named in honor of his father, Jefferson Reaves Sr., who also served in the Florida legislature.

Reaves currently serves on the Board of Trustees for The Foundation for Florida’s Future. He is married to Anette During (FTA’s CAO). They have two daughters: Cara Victoria, a graduate of Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia, with a Bachelor of Science in International Studies; and Zara Franchesca, who is currently in high school.

Before founding First Trinity Academy, Reaves taught in public schools at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. He believes that care and inspiration are the essential ingredients of effective education.

Math Teacher

Ms. Bradshaw is an enthusiastic and passionate educator specializing in Math. With a strong foundation in both elementary and middle school instruction, she brings clarity, structure, and enthusiasm to each lesson.

Ms. Bradshaw teaches with the belief that greatness grows from knowledge. Her goal is to help every student build confidence, master core concepts, and develop a lifelong appreciation for mathematics. Whether introducing basic number sense or guiding students through algebraic thinking, she creates a supportive learning environment where students thrive. She aims to touch not only the ears of her students, but also their minds and hearts—laying the foundation for a bright future in every classroom moment.

Music Teacher

Ms. Rasco’s musical experiences began as a small child singing in church in the choir and as a soloist.  She was involved in many years of band and chorus in school, as well as musical theatre.

Ms. Rasco attended Florida Southern College to major in Vocal Performance and upon graduation she began working at Walt Disney World in Entertainment. She was hired to teach middle school Choral music in Orange County and continued to teach music at the elementary or middle school level in Orange, Lake and Polk county over the next 30 years. Although her primary instrument is the voice, she also plays the piano, flute, guitar and viola.

English Language Arts (ELA) Teacher

Ms. Timberlake is a native of New York City and is currently pursuing her Doctorate in Theology. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Administration of Criminal Justice. Her professional experience includes working with students with disabilities in the private sector, as well as supporting exceptional student education within the public school system.

Ms. Timberlake takes an active learning approach, fostering student participation through group collaboration and hands-on activities. She is committed to creating engaging learning experiences by incorporating real-world strategies and critical reasoning into her instruction.

Science Teacher

Mr. Gray is an engaging and experienced Science teacher serving students in grades 2 through 9. He is passionate about sparking curiosity and making science come alive through hands-on experiments, real-world connections, and interactive lessons. From exploring ecosystems and the solar system to diving into physics and chemistry, he helps students develop critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of the scientific world.

Mr. Gray is committed to creating a classroom where students feel inspired to ask questions, investigate, and discover.

Civics Teacher

Mrs. Scott is a former third-grade teacher in Seminole County and a former intervention specialist in the Orange County school district. 

She has a Master’s degree in Accounting, a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, and teaching certification for grades 6-12. 

This will be her third year in the education field.

Mrs. Scott is committed to creating a classroom environment where students develop confidence and critical thinking skills for academic success. Her commitment to excellence demonstrates her adaptability in supporting children's development.

Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and traveling.

Mrs. Scott is extremely excited to join First Trinity Academy and is ready to make an impact on early learning standards.

2nd Grade Teacher

Candace Chatman is a Leesburg, FL native, and holds a double Master's Degree in Counseling and Psychology, as well as School Guidance Counseling.

She has prior teaching experience with Sumter County Schools, where she specialized in ELA and Social Studies. She also has extensive coursework in Educational Leadership. She led the Sumter Prep Academy ESE program and specialized in IEP accommodations and implementation.

Ms. Chatman serves the Lake County community well through the not-for-profit organization Virginia Samuels Cares, Inc., where she is the Executive Director and founder. Her teaching style is student-centered, and she believes that all children have the ability to succeed with proper encouragement and structure.

She loves to travel the world with her 10-year-old daughter. Education is important to her, and she is excited about educating the students at First Trinity Academy.

1st Grade Teacher

Mr. Gibson is a First Grade teacher at First Trinity Academy with nine years of classroom experience. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K–6) from the University of Central Florida and holds certification to teach English Language Arts for grades K–12.

As a lifelong learner, Mr. Gibson continually strengthens his practice through professional development in literacy, mathematics, social studies, curriculum analysis, support for students with learning disabilities, and instruction for English language learners.

Mr. Gibson believes every child can learn and grow with strong modeling, clear guidance, meaningful collaboration, and time to practice. He values the partnership between school, home, and community; when we work together, students thrive and step confidently into their potential.

Kindergarten Teacher

Mrs. Gardner is a dedicated professional with a background in elementary education and over a decade of experience in childcare settings. She holds an Associate’s degree in Elementary Education and brings strong skills in teaching, special education, time management, and student care.

Mrs. Gardner has worked in an educational environment, demonstrating her adaptability, commitment to excellence, and passion for supporting children’s development.

VPK Director/Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Mrs. Hilliard is a proud mother of two amazing boys, a devoted wife, and a passionate educator.

With two degrees, one in early childhood education and management, and a few certifications, she knows her knowledge will continue to expand. With years of experience as a teacher, youth coach, mentor, and community outreach leader, Mrs. Hilliard is now honored to serve as the VPK Director and Pre-K teacher to our youth.

Early childhood education has been her lifelong dream and greatest passion. The early years are the most impactful in shaping a child’s foundation for lifelong learning and success. As adults, we have the unique privilege and responsibility to be the “village” that nurtures, supports, and inspires children during these critical years.

Mrs. Hilliard is deeply grateful for the opportunity to help children grow, thrive, and develop a love for learning at First Trinity Academy. Her goal is to foster a warm, positive presence in each child’s life and create an environment where every child feels valued, capable, and encouraged to become their best self.

Athletic Director

Coach Marshall graduated from Heidelberg University in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management and a minor in Economics.

A former basketball player, Coach Marshall brings both athletic experience and academic expertise to the classroom and gym. This is his sixth year in education—three years teaching Physical Education and three years teaching 3rd Grade ELA.

He is passionate about helping students build confidence, teamwork, and lifelong fitness habits through an engaging and structured PE program.