Janice Brenner • Founder and Program Director
Suffolk University, Boston, MA
1985, Completion of Coursework with Certification in Special Education
1980, Master of Education with Certification in Administration
1973, Bachelor of Arts in English
Janice holds 5 Department of Education Certifications

Alice Dorant • Assistant Director
Alice has worked at the Holden School since 1987, beginning as an administrative assistant. Alice has held the position of Assistant Director since December 1997, bringing structure and organization to the school’s daily operations as well as providing financial management and dealing with student discipline.

Leona Thompson • Secretary
After twelve years as TV Listings Editor at the Boston Herald I felt it was time for a change. This change led me to the Holden School where I hope to be an asset to both staff and students. In return I know I will learn from the students and staff as well.

Lesly Michelot • Education Director
New England School of Law: Degree Juris Doctor (JD)
University of Massachusetts at Boston, B.A. Majors: History and Black Studies
As Educational Director, Lesly is responsible for the academic part of the program. Lesly has worked here since 1997 and enjoys working with the school population.

Vincent Primavera • Technical Consultant
Vincent is a technical consultant with 8+ years in the IT industry servicing small to medium size businesses in Boston and surrounding areas. Since 2003, he has worked with the Holden School's team to help them achieve their goals through the best possible use of technology. Vincent seeks to keep the School's network running securely and at peak performance, while implementing new technology where it will benefit the organization and students alike. In addition to providing IT services for extremely reasonable rates, Vinny volunteers on the school's Technology Committee where his expertise is invaluable.

James Macdonald • Clinical Director
Suffolk University, Boston MA - 1991, M.S. Clinical Counseling
1981, B.S. English, Journalism, Secondary Education - Certified in Language Arts
Over the past twenty years, I have worked in California and Massachusetts, both with gifted students and with those involved with DYS, DSS and DMR. I began work at Holden in 2008 and especially enjoy the DYS population as I believe they have the greatest ability to change their lives with proper role modeling, support and aftercare. One of my most memorable experiences was a solo bicycle trip across the United States. Currently, I enjoy working with my sons on their Scouting activities.

Noel Gomez • Counselor
Suffolk University, Boston MA - 1996, B.S. Criminology & Law
I started working at the Holden School in March of 2007. Prior to that, I worked as a Family Outreach Worker in Roxbury, MA. I also have worked in the real estate industry for the past 10 years. During my time off, I enjoy traveling.

Fitzgerald Pierre • Counselor
Salem State College, Salem MA - 1999, Master in Social Work, Concentration: Children and Family Services
Salem State College, Salem MA - 1993, B.S. Psychology
With more than 13 years experience in Social Services, I have specialized in the areas of Needs Assessment, Individual Counseling, Community Relations, and service delivery through Treatment Planning and measurable outcome. I began working here in 2008 with the goal of helping every child to graduate from the program at Holden School.

Deidre O'Connor • Transition Specialist
I graduated from Umass Boston in 2003, receiving my BA in Human Services/Youth Work. I began working at the Holden School in February 2004 as a Counselor/Case Manager. In January 2007 I was given the opportunity to become the Transition Specialist for Holden, and it has been a very rewarding position. I am currently enrolled in the School Guidance program at UMass Boston School of Education, where I am working towards earning my MEd. Some of my hobbies include music, drawing, and reading. Please also see the Transition Services web page.

Denise McCall • Computer and Culinary Arts Teacher
Springfield College, 2005 B.S. in Human Services
Quincy Junior College 1983, Disney College 1984
Currently I am enrolled in the Cambridge College, Information Technologies in Education Masters Program, and expect to graduate in 2009. In 2006 I was awarded a scholarship from the Telamon Insurance and Financial Network Charitable Foundation. At Holden I am not only the computer teacher but, with 25 years of experience in the restaurant business, I am also the Culinary Arts teacher. Please also see the Computers class web page.

Jake Forrest • Science Teacher
Worcester Polytechnic Institute, 1999, B.S. Chemical Engineering
After dropping my corporate, biotechnology job in California, I pursued the field of education by working for the California's Promise program, part of AmeriCorps. I returned to my home to pursue a teaching degree at UMass-Boston and continue my career in education here at the Holden School. I am looking forward to bringing out an appreciation of the natural world in my students. Please also see the Science class web page.

Bonnie Dennis • Social Studies Teacher
Keene State College, B.A. Social Science and Secondary Education
I recently moved to Boston, which is a Social Studies teacher's dream with all the history in the area. I truly enjoy teaching; it not only enables me to be creative, but also allows me to make a positive impact. I am looking forward to a constructive and exciting year, my energy and dedication will help me conduct a positive and productive year here at Holden. Please also see the Social Studies class web page.

Sarah Hopkins • English Teacher
University of Massachusetts, Boston, 2006, B.A.
Northeastern University, Boston, 2008, M.A.T.
The 08/09 school year is my first at Holden, and I look forward to making it a great one. I have lots in store for my English classes and intend to make them as fun, purposeful, and relevant as possible! When I'm not at school, I enjoy barbequing with friends, reading, and hanging out with my dog, Buster. Please also see the English class web page.

AJ Pave • Math Teacher
Hofstra University, 2004, B.A. in History
Following graduation I came back to Massachusetts and worked as a teacher's aide at Reed Academy in Framingham while getting my teacher's license at Framingham State College. After completing my student teaching I taught math and history at Dearborn Academy in Arlington, Massachusetts. In 2008, my first year at Holden, I anticipate teaching the students at Holden School, not just the math facts, but the themes and problem solving behind the math, to better prepare them for their life beyond Holden School. Please also see the Math class web page.

Michelle Mazaka • Teaching Assistant
Massachusetts College of Art, 2004, B.A. Fine Arts and Education
After graduation, I spent three years working at Medford High School and taught Art this past summer at Kidstock in Winchester. I am excited about my first year at Holden (2008/2009) and I am anticipating that it will be both productive and rewarding. I look forward to helping students develop the skills to be more creative and express themselves through the language of Art.

Mike Catan • Teaching Assistant
I was born in Boston and attended Milton High School and Umass/Boston. I also worked at the Headstart summer program. My goal at Holden is to open a student's mind and let him or her know there are options in life.

Tom Bendon • English Teaching Assistant
Wesleyan University, B.A.
2008 will be my first year at the school, and I am excited to join the Holden community as an English Teacher's Aide. I graduated from Wesleyan University, where I also played varsity lacrosse. I spent last school year substitute teaching at Medford High before spending the summer in Ghana, Africa. I enjoy live music, burritos, and biking around Boston.

Chris Michelot • Teaching Assistant
I graduated from Milton High School. Currently, I am attending Northeastern University majoring in Pre Med. My hobbies include reading, and playing basketball and tennis. I enjoy working at the Holden School because I believe I can make a difference in at least one child's life.

Alberto Rivera • Property Manager
Born in Puerto Rico and proud to be Puerto Rican, Alberto has worked at the school since 1992. After school, Alberto runs a work/study program to teach students the responsibilities of the work force and to build up their self-esteem and self-worth.

George Hughes • Assistant Property Manager
George is originally from Pennsylvania and has been Alberto's assistant since 2003. Originally trained as a nursing assistant, George worked in that field until his retirement. What keeps him working now at Holden is the students.