Our Instructors

Powered by Passion. Led by Experts.

At Spanish Legacy Academy, our team of native-speaking instructors and seasoned educators brings more than 70 years of combined experience to our classrooms. We don't just teach—we inspire our young learners to reach their full potential while connecting cultures and building global bilingual leaders.

Mara Jacobs

Founder, Preschool Academy Director, K-6 Math Instructor, & Grades 1-2 Montessori Instructor

“If you love what you do, you never work a day in your life.” Mara brings an infectious enthusiasm for language and childhood development to Spanish Legacy. For Mara, the Academy is more than a school; it is a launching pad for helping children reach their full potential and opening doors for them to expand their horizons beyond what they thought was possible.

Global Perspective Raised across South America, Europe, and the United States, Mara became bilingual out of necessity. This sparked a genuine love for global travel and the business advantages of multilingualism, eventually leading her to found Spanish Legacy.

Expertise & Philosophy With a degree in Psychology, Mara is a recognized authority on language education. She has been formally trained in Montessori, Waldorf, International, and Classical methods. Combining these disciplines, she developed SLA’s proprietary method to teach language fluently to students of any age. When she isn’t in the classroom or tutoring, she enjoys traveling, entertaining friends, and spending time with her family.

Erin Hevern

Operations Manager, PreK-6 English Instructor

"Every child deserves an open, safe environment where they feel seen, valued, and capable of learning. When students feel secure and supported, meaningful growth naturally follows."

About Maestra Erin

Originally from Alexandria, Minnesota—the land of 10,000 lakes—Erin’s path to the classroom was paved with stories. After earning her degree in English Literature, she spent years as a professional, published writer and journalist. While her background is rooted in the art of the written word, it was her arrival at our school that sparked a new passion. Witnessing the "joy and spark" that occurs when a child first learns to read changed everything for her, leading her to transition her skills from the newsroom to the classroom.

In the Classroom & Beyond

As both a teacher and a member of our administration, Erin brings a perfect balance of creativity and structure. She views the bilingual environment as a rich intersection of culture and identity, and she is dedicated to helping students navigate that world with confidence.

Her approach to education is built on:

  • The Magic of Literacy: Using her deep background in literature to help students find their own voices as readers and writers.

  • Consistency & Empathy: Creating a predictable, joyful space where students feel safe enough to take risks in their learning.

  • Relationship-Building: Ensuring that every student feels "truly known" and supported as a whole person, not just a learner.

A Little More About Erin

When she isn’t helping our school run smoothly or teaching English, Erin is a true adventurer. She is a fan of soccer and the great outdoors, always looking for a new place to travel and explore.

  • Favorite Pastimes: Watching movies, traveling, and staying active outdoors.

  • Life Motivation: The moment a child connects with a story for the first time.

  • Core Values: Joy, empathy, and the power of a safe learning community.

"I’m grateful to be part of this school community and feel honored to support your children as they grow as readers, learners, and people."

Karin

Kindergarten Instructor

Diana Pizarro

K-6 Science Instructor, Grades 3-6 Instructor

"Every child deserves to feel valued, capable, and supported as a learner."

About Maestra Diana

With a Bachelor’s degree in Science and 20 years of professional experience, Maestra Diana is a seasoned educator who brings the natural world to life for her students. Originally from Cuba, her journey into education began when she was inspired by her own biology teacher. That early spark turned into a lifelong passion for exploring nature, discovering diverse life forms, and the hands-on thrill of conducting experiments.

In the Classroom

In the 3rd Grade Science lab, Diana blends rigorous academic discovery with a calm, supportive environment. She believes that science is a universal language, but she adds a special layer of depth by integrating Spanish language and culture into her lessons.

Her classroom approach focuses on:

  • The Power of Discovery: Encouraging students to explore the life forms that surround us through "experimentos" (experiments).

  • Respectful Relationships: Building a foundation of trust where every student feels proud of their personal and academic progress.

  • Bilingual Connection: Making science accessible and exciting by connecting everyday experiences with Spanish terminology and cultural context.

A Little More About Diana

Maestra Diana’s love for the natural world extends far beyond the classroom walls. She is an avid gardener and a lifelong learner who finds peace in the quiet moments of life.

  • Favorite Spanish Words: Experimentos (experiments) and Aprender (to learn).

  • Favorite Book: Tom Sawyer.

  • Coffee or Tea: Tea.

  • Way to Relax: Gardening and reading, which allow her to stay connected to nature and new ideas.

"I value strong communication and partnership with families and look forward to working together to support each child’s success."

Yvonne

K-6 Montessori Instructor

Lizett (Liz) Villa

Early Childhood Instructor

"I believe every child deserves to feel loved, respected, and safe. When children feel protected, they are able to explore, learn, and fully develop."

About Maestra Liz

Originally from the beautiful Coffee Region of Colombia (Santa Rosa de Cabal), Lizett’s journey has taken her from the heart of South America to the United States. Her path to teaching was paved by her own experience as a mother and a lifelong love for infants. After building a diverse professional background in business and accounting, Lizett followed her true calling: Comprehensive Early Childhood Care. With a technical degree in her field and experience working at Chiquitines Creativos in Colombia, she brings a wealth of specialized knowledge and a gentle, nurturing spirit to our youngest learners.

In the Classroom

Lizett focuses on the most foundational stage of life: ages 0 to 1. She creates a "home away from home" where Spanish language and culture are woven into the very fabric of the day.

  • Bilingual Beginnings: Lizett introduces Spanish through the rhythm of daily routines—using songs, simple words, and stories to help babies recognize the sounds of the language from the very start.

  • A Loving Environment: Her classroom is built on patience, empathy, and commitment. She prioritizes building deep trust not only with the children but also with their families.

  • The "Con Amor" Approach: Lizett hopes her students remember her as the teacher who supported them with unconditional love during their very first learning experiences.

Beyond the Classroom

When she isn’t caring for our little ones, Lizett is often found embracing the simple joys of life. She is a family-oriented person who loves cooking, caring for her home, and constantly seeking out new things to learn.

Liz’s Favorites

  • Favorite Book: The Little Prince

  • Favorite Phrase: "Con amor" (With love)

  • Morning Essential: A good cup of coffee (a true Colombian at heart!)

  • Way to Relax: Listening to music and spending quality time with her family.

"I truly believe that by working together with families, we can give children the best possible start in life."

Carolina Cardenas

Pre-Kindergarten Instructor

"I believe a nurturing, loving environment is the essential foundation for a child's healthy growth."

About Maestra Carolina

Originally from Venezuela, Carolina’s journey to the classroom is a unique blend of professional expertise and personal passion. Before moving to Sarasota four years ago, she built a strong academic foundation with degrees in Business Administration and Marketing, followed by over a decade in the banking and finance sector. This background equipped her with high-level skills in personnel management, neurolinguistics, and crisis resolution—tools she now uses to create a calm, organized, and emotionally intelligent classroom.

Inspired by her own children, Carolina transitioned into early childhood education when she saw firsthand how much children thrive when they feel truly safe and loved. She brings a disciplined yet deeply empathetic approach to our Pre-K program.

In the Classroom

To Maestra Carolina, Spanish isn't just a subject; it’s a superpower. She loves being the person who introduces children to a second language, helping them realize that there are many beautiful ways to communicate and see the world.

She brings the heart of her Venezuelan culture to life through:

  • Storytelling: Sharing traditional legends and personal stories that make the Spanish-speaking world feel real and close.

  • Interactive Play: Using traditional games and artifacts so children associate Spanish with joy and action.

  • Emotional Safety: Creating a space where every student feels protected and free to be their authentic selves.

A Little More About Carolina

Outside of school, Carolina is a creative spirit who loves spending time with her family and traveling. You might be surprised to learn she is also a talented baker who enjoys decorating elaborate cakes!

  • Favorite Quote: "Si puedes imaginarlo, puedes lograrlo" (If you can imagine it, you can achieve it).

  • Favorite Books: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and the Harry Potter series.

  • Favorite Treat: A warm Latte.

  • Way to Relax: A quiet evening at home watching her favorite shows.

"I hope my students look back and remember my classroom as a place where they felt completely loved, protected, and safe to be themselves."

Angelica Fuentes

Two Year Old Instructor

"I believe in providing equal educational opportunities for all while deeply respecting each child's individuality."

About Maestra Angelica

Maestra Angelica is a veteran educator with over 18 years of experience in early childhood education. Born in State College, Pennsylvania, and raised in Venezuela, her journey has taken her from the classrooms of South America to Buenos Aires, Argentina, and finally to Florida. Teaching is a family calling for Angelica; inspired by her father’s vocation as a professor and her sister’s work in Special Education, she has dedicated her life to protecting and helping others.

With an Associate’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and 13 years spent working within the Ministry of Education in Venezuela, Angelica brings a high level of professional structure and deep pedagogical knowledge to our school community.

In the Classroom

In the Two-Year-Old program, Angelica focuses on fostering a "home away from home" environment. She is deeply committed to social-emotional and cognitive development, ensuring that every child feels respected as an individual.

Her classroom is a vibrant center for bilingual growth where:

  • Cultural Themes: Every month, Angelica introduces new themes related to food, music, and significant places in the Spanish-speaking world.

  • Reciprocal Learning: While she leads the children in their Spanish language development, she loves the daily exchange of learning new English words from her students.

  • A Flexible Environment: She maintains a warm and welcoming space that adapts to the unique needs of every toddler.

A Little More About Angelica

Maestra Angelica is incredibly active and brings that same energy to her classroom. When she isn't teaching, you can likely find her outdoors or spending quality time with her family.

  • Favorite Quote: "Providing equal opportunities for all."

  • Active Life: She is an avid runner and enjoys both mountain and road cycling.

  • Morning Ritual: A classic cup of coffee.

  • Way to Relax: Going for a run while listening to her favorite music.

"I hope my students remember that they always felt at home in my classroom."