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.

English Language Arts (ELA)

Ms. Thomas-Robinson is a mission-driven leader with a passion for equity, community building, and inclusive systems. With a background that spans education, nonprofit operations, and internal communications, she’s spent over a decade managing people, projects, and partnerships with heart and strategy. Her travels—from Rome to Ecuador—have shaped her global perspective and fueled her love for culture, connection, and impact. As a mom of three, Chavon brings a whole new level of multitasking magic, empathy, and adaptability to everything she does.

Music

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.

Civics

Originally from Ontario Canada Dr. Nichols immigrated to the United States in 1992 to pursue studies in education.

Dr. Nichols graduated from Ottawa University in Phoenix with a degree in Secondary Education and History.

Dr. Nichols continued his education at Western New Mexico University and Concordia University Portland while teaching Social Studies at the secondary school level in Tolleson, Arizona.

Dr. Nichols moved to Florida in 2023 after twelve years of teaching in Arizona.

Mathematics (Math)

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.

Science

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.

Kindergarten/VPK Director

Ms. Hamilton is a dedicated and detail-oriented elementary school teacher and a recently accredited VPK Director, certified through the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF). She also completed the DCF Child Care Training and Florida Early Care and Education Professional Development coursework. Beginning her directorship in August 2025, Ms. Hamilton oversees one VPK classroom, ensuring compliance with Florida Early Learning standards and VPK readiness benchmarks.

Known for her excellent classroom and time management skills, she fosters a well-organized, engaging, and supportive learning environment. In her role as VPK Director, she is responsible for curriculum planning, staff supervision, compliance reporting, and conducting teacher observations and evaluations. Her strong foundation in critical thinking and problem-solving supports her ability to maintain structure, uphold clear expectations, and prepare young learners for long-term academic success.

Ms. Hamilton is passionate about helping children develop confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love for learning within a structured and nurturing environment.

1st Grade Teacher

Mrs. Jackson is a passionate and creative educator with over five years of experience teaching students from pre-kindergarten through third grade in both private and public settings. Originally from Colorado, and a resident of Lake County, Florida for the past 25 years, she began her professional journey in the world of hospitality agter graduating from the University of Central Florida. Her love for education was sparked while training cast members at Walt Disney World, leading her to earn her Florida Professional Teaching Certification. Mrs. Jackson is known for her dedication to meeting each child’s individual needs and her commitment to ensuring no student falls through the cracks. She has a strong ability to support early literacy through phonics, reading, and writing instruction, and she brings joy and creativity into every classroom she enters, which is a place of encouragement and structure where children thrive. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her family, exploring antique shops and tea rooms, readhing at the beach, attending musicals, and loving animals of all shapes and sizes. Her faith and family are the heart of everything she does, and she considers it a privilege to make a meaningful difference in her students’ lives.

Pre-Kindergarten (Pre-K)

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.

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

Reading/Speech

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.

Administrative Assistant

Anne Heslop serves as the Administrative Assistant at First Trinity Academy, where she brings a warm, professional presence and a heart for helping others. Outside of her time at the academy, she works professionally as an Event Coordinator. Anne is excited to use her organizational and communication skills to support the school community.

With a background in Event Management and administration, Anne is passionate about creating smooth, welcoming experiences for students, families, and staff. She is proud to contribute her time and talents to help First Trinity Academy operate efficiently and continue its mission of excellence in education.