Celebrating Montverde Academy’s Retirees

The Montverde Academy community bids a heartfelt farewell to two beloved science teachers, Mrs. Pat Kroll-Whiffen and Mrs. Sarah Schlussel, who are entering retirement.

Mrs. Whiffen has been an educator for the past 39 years, and the Montverde Academy Lower School has been lucky enough to be with her for seven of those years. Her classroom was a magical experience that students will never forget. Outside of the classroom, she led the Lower School Garden Club, where her love for the earth and her passion for gardening made a profound impact on her students.

“Pat has not simply invited students to step inside it,” said Lower School technology & theatre arts teacher Ms. Cyndi Cunningham. “Her classroom is a legendary ecosystem of its own—a vibrant, deeply inclusive space where children are surrounded by fossils, skeletons, STEAM challenges, and fascinating tree and plant artifacts. Under her care, learning becomes a tangible, immersive adventure where every student feels welcome to explore.”

Mrs. Schlussel was a public-school teacher for 19 years. And for the past 12 years, she has been an Upper School biology teacher at Montverde Academy, teaching a variety of courses, including Biology Honors, Anatomy & Physiology Honors, and AP Biology, among others. She also led MVA’s Biomedical STEM SAC, where she inspired the next generation of scientists, doctors, and other medical professionals.

“For over ten years, Mrs. Schlussel has been the glue of our science department,” said Upper School science teacher Mrs. Amy Napoles. “She is not only a brilliant educator, but also creative and encouraging, and always willing to help. We love her and can’t imagine our daily routine without her.”

Congratulations to these two incredible educators on their remarkable careers and their unwavering dedication to their students! We wish them the best of luck on their next adventure.