Meet Our New 2025-2026 Faculty and Staff
We are excited to welcome our new faculty and staff members to Holton-Arms School for the 2025-2026 academic year! Together, we will grow excellence throughout our halls and classrooms as we inspire our students to discover, create, and connect purposefully with their peers.
Lower School
Ali Baran
Assistant Head of Lower School
Ms. Baran holds a B.A. in English from Hobart & William Smith Colleges, an M.S. Ed. in Elementary Education from the University of Pennsylvania, and a M.Ed. in Independent School Leadership from Vanderbilt University. Ms. Baran joins us from Park School in Baltimore, where she was a fourth-grade teacher and New Faculty Coordinator for the Lower School. She was attracted to Holton because "its mission to empower girls and young women is clearly lived out every day. The authentic connections I have witnessed between community members and students solidified my desire to contribute to an institution that values holistic growth."
Fun fact: The last book she read and loved was Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Trail.
Austin Cashwell
6th Grade ELA Teacher
Mr. Cashwell holds a B.A. in Russian Literature and Economics from Middlebury College and an M.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from Middlebury Institute of International Studies. He is joining us from The Lab School of Washington, where he taught 7th and 8th grade English. Mr. Cashwell was attracted to Holton because "the philosophy focusing on the mind, soul, and spirit and by the single sex environment, having attended one myself."
Fun fact: Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go has been his favorite book over the summer.
Jen Kaufmann
3rd Grade Teacher
Ms. Kaufmann holds a B.A. from James Madison University, an M.A.T. from Trinity Washington, and a Grad. Certificate from Johns Hopkins. Ms. Kaufmann joins us from Sandy Spring Friends School, where she taught 5th grade. She was attracted to Holton because she's "met so many alumnae, who have retained a strong, positive connection to the school. That is a window into the positive culture and terrific education offered by the school. Plus, third grade is the ONLY grade I have not taught during my career, so it feels like the missing piece to my career puzzle!"
Fun fact: The last show she binged was Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy and Dept. Q.
Annie Lyon
Lower School Librarian
Ms. Lyon holds a B.A. in English from Franklin & Marshall College, an M.A. in Literature (with distinction) from The American University, and an M.L.I.S. from The Catholic University of America. Ms. Lyon joins us from The Langley School, where she was the Head Librarian and taught primary students. She also taught middle school students about research and documentation. She was attracted to Holton because she's "excited to get back to my all-girls school roots, given that I was a 13-year-old girl at the Bryn Mawr School in Baltimore. I love how girls think and work together. "
Fun fact: She has a cat, Lincoln, who is a scoundrel. He sat with her this summer while she read American Story.
Alyssa Reich
5th Grade Teacher
Ms. Reich holds a B.S. in Human Development & Family Studies from Indiana University and an M.A.T. in Elementary Education from National Louis University. Ms. Reich joins us from Bullis School, where she taught first grade. She was attracted to Holton because she's "deeply drawn to Holton-Arms' commitment to cultivating the unique potential of young women through the education of the mind, soul, and spirit. With a strong foundation in student-centered, developmentally appropriate practices, and a deep commitment to social-emotional learning. Earlier in my career, I had the privilege of teaching third grade for six years at an all-girls independent school in Bethesda, MD. This formative experience deeply shaped my understanding of how to empower young learners and support their growth as confident, curious, and compassionate individuals. Holton-Arms' mission resonates deeply with my own teaching philosophy—one that places joyful learning, reflective practice, and purposeful connection at its core. "
Fun fact: The last show she binged was America's Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Her family are huge sports fans, especially the Washington Commanders. Her daughter does competitive cheerleading, so she's a "cheer mom" and the biggest sideline cheerleader for both her son and daughter, while they are out on the field playing lacrosse, on the court playing basketball, or during a wrestling match!
Louise Vinsonhaler
General Music and Chorus Teacher and Performing Arts Department Chair
Ms. Vinsonhaler holds a B.Ed. in Music from Melbourne University in Australia. Ms. Vinsonhaler joins us from Le Jardin Academy in Kaneohe, Hawaii. She was drawn to Holton "by its warm, welcoming environment, beautiful campus, friendly faculty and staff. And the school's reputation and its deep appreciation for both academics and the arts. Meeting and engaging with the students deepened my understanding of the school’s values and principles."
Fun fact: She has a passion for cooking and trying new recipes, and the last book she read was The Girl with the Pearl Earring (for the second time).
Middle School
Sanjana Gopinath
Science Teacher
Ms. Gopinath holds a B.A. from Mount Holyoke College and an M.S.Ed. from the University of Pennsylvania. Ms. Gopinath joins us from The Tatnall School, where she taught middle school science. She was attracted to Holton because
"after going to a women's college, I have always wanted to teach at an all-girls school. Holton's warmth and focus on not only educating girls but also making them global citizens really drew me in. I'm so excited to be a part of this community!
Fun fact: Her favorite book is The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue. She also went on a spontaneous 17-day solo trip to Europe this summer! It was her first time in Europe, her first solo trip, and she booked it five days before she left for two and a half weeks!
Luc Hotaling
Middle School Advisor; Theater Manager, Technical Director, and Production Tech Teacher
Mr. Hotaling holds a B.A. from Tufts University. Mr. Hotaling joins us from Sandy Springs Friends School, where he taught grades 6-12. He was attracted to Holton because
of the "commitment to girls' education."
Fun fact: His favorite musical was A Wrinkle in Time from the Arena Stage.
Emily Knaub
Math Teacher
Ms. Knaub holds a B.A. in Mathematics and a B.S. in Middle/Secondary Education from Butler University and an M.A. in Principal Preparation. Ms. Knaub joins us from McClure Junior High School in Western Springs, Illinois, where she taught middle school math. When asked about why she was attracted to Holton, she said: "When searching for a new teaching position, I was seeking a place that fostered collaboration and community. I value working within a team of skilled educators, and I believe a thriving sense of community is the foundation of a quality school. I found both at Holton, and my interactions with the students during my final interview impressed upon me that Holton was a place where girls were given the space to thrive in every aspect. I look forward to working at a school that pushes the bounds of education in exciting new directions."
Fun fact: Her favorite hobby is rock climbing. Her experience thus far has been at indoor climbing gyms, but she's hoping to try outdoor climbing now that she lives in a place with some elevation!
Yujie Peng
Chinese Teacher
Ms. Peng holds a B.A. in Foreign Language and Literature from Wuhan Polytechnic University in Wuhan, China, and an M.Ed. in Secondary Education from Towson University. Ms. Peng joins us from the Defense Language Institute, where she taught adult learners in an intensive Chinese language immersion program. Prior to that, she taught elementary and middle school students at The New Century School in Baltimore and D.C. public schools. She was attracted to Holton because of Holton's "mission of educating the whole person and its commitment to girls’ leadership, global learning, and academic excellence. I’m excited to join a community that values joy in learning and empowers students to find their voices—both in Chinese and beyond."
Fun fact: Ms. Peng loves traveling and exploring new cuisines! This summer, she went on a road trip to Boston, where she enjoyed some of the best lobster she's ever had. She finds that trying food from different places is a fun (and delicious) way to learn about culture.
Upper School
James Barnes
Math Teacher
Mr. Barnes holds a B.S. in Mathematics & Philosophy from Warwick University, an M.S.C.S. from Cornell University, and a Ph.D. in Mathematics from Cornell University. Mr. Barnes joins us from Trinity Washington University. He was attracted to Holton because of the "opportunity to work closely with students over a long period in a supportive environment."
Fun fact: The last book he enjoyed was A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik.
Brooke Depelteau
Head of Upper School
Mrs. Depelteau holds a B.A. from Presbyterian College, an M.P.A. from the University of Georgia, and an Ed.S. from George Washington University. Ms. Depelteau joins us from the Berkshire School in Massachusetts, where she served as the Dean of Academics. She was attracted to Holton because "the school’s commitment to educating, empowering, and emboldening young women to make a difference in the world resonates strongly with me."
Fun fact: Her favorite hobby is spending time with her family. As a new DMV family, they're really enjoying exploring the area, and have leaned in to eating at a new restaurant each weekend (they're low-key foodies).
Rich Green
Latin Teacher
Mr. Green holds a B.A. in Classics from Drew University and an M.A. in Classics from Vanderbilt University. Mr. Green joins us from Bullis School, where he taught grades 9-12. He was attracted to Holton because "as a father of three daughters, I appreciate the work that Holton does with young women and want to contribute to that mission. I also appreciate Holton's identity and its clear sense of who and what it is as an institution."
Fun fact: This summer, he did his annual re-reading of Tolkien, baked a great deal, and enjoyed some video games in his free time.
Whitfield Mastin
Spanish Teacher
Ms. Mastin holds a B.A. in Spanish from Davidson College and an M.A. in Spanish from the University of Connecticut. Ms. Mastin joins us from Bullis School, where she taught Middle School Spanish. She was attracted to Holton because "I've always found my interactions with Holton students and faculty through various sporting events and activities to be impressive. I'm excited to be working at one of the most highly respected institutions focused on girls' education."
Fun fact: She read The Searcher and The Hunter by Tana French this summer and loved them!
Mia Minguela
Upper School Administrative Assistant
Ms. Minguela holds a B.A. in Comparative Literature and East Asian Studies. Ms. Minguela joins us from Walter Johnson High School. She was attracted to Holton because of "
Holton-Arms’ mission to cultivate a service- and leadership-oriented mindset in the young women of the school."
Fun fact: The last book she read was Black in Blues: How a Color Tells the Story of My People.
Erin O'Malley
Upper School Counselor for Grades 9-10; Advisory Coordinator and Seminar Teacher
Mrs. O'Malley holds a B.A. in Secondary Education and English from the University of Scranton, an M.S. in School Counseling from the University of Scranton, and a Post-Masters Certificate in Educational Leadership & School Administration from George Washington University. Mrs. O'Malley joins us from Saint Theresa School. She was attracted to Holton because she was "drawn by the mission, motto, professionalism of the faculty, and the emphasis on supporting the social, emotional, physical, academic, and developmental growth of every student."
Fun fact: She's in a book club with a group of wonderful women, and most of the books they read have a female protagonist, and many are historical fiction. She loves all of Kristin Hannah's books that she's read. She also started playing mahjong with a group of moms from her son's school. She also loves to bake healthy foods and travel with her husband and son, although most of their traveling is to lacrosse tournaments!
Ian Palmer
Math Teacher and JV tennis head coach
Mr. Palmer holds a B.S. in Mathematics and Statistics from Brunel University in London and an M.Ed. in Education Leadership from the Open University in Middlesex. Mr. Palmer joins us from the Madeira School, where he taught grades 9-12. He was attracted to Holton because he "loves the ethos of the school, that it is proud to support young women in education and not afraid to tackle challenging topics and times. I have also noted how valued athletics is at Holton-Arms and am a huge fan of tennis, volleyball, and other sports."
Fun fact: The last book he read was The First Gentleman by Patterson and Bill Clinton. The last show he binged was The Recruit. His favorite hobbies are tennis and fitness. Also, his daughter attends the University of Richmond and is spending this semester in Rome!
Maggie Schlichter
French Teacher
Ms. Schlichter holds a B.A. in French and Italian from the University of Wisconsin, Bloomington, and an M.A. in French Language and Literature from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Ms. Schlichter joins us from Walter Johnson High School, where she taught French to all grade levels. She was attracted to Holton because she's "excited to teach in a private school environment that allows me to teach to the uniqueness of each child while still fostering rigorous academic discourse for an ever-global world."
Fun fact: She has been blowing through the Louise Penny Series, Inspector Gamache, and was hoping to read all 12 of her books this summer.
Madeline Taghon
P.E. Teacher and Head Varsity Lacrosse Coach
Ms. Taghon holds a B.A. in Art History from Presbyterian College and an M.S. in Sport's Management from Southern New Hampshire University. Ms. Taghon joins us from the University of Mary Washington, where she taught undergrad sports management classes and coached the women's lacrosse team. She was attracted to Holton because it's an "environment where girls are getting a great education, and can truly grow into leaders."
Fun fact: She's currently loving Red Handed, a British true-crime podcast!
Kristian Whipple
Photography Teacher
Mr. Whipple holds a B.A. in Art with a Concentration in Photography from New England College. Mr. Whipple joins us from the Siena School in Silver Spring, where he taught a Maker Class to 4th and 5th grade students, as well as Middle and High School Photography. He was first drawn to Holton "after seeing the darkroom-based photography entered in a group show at Glen Echo Photoworks three years ago, where I also had my own students’ work on display. I was impressed by the confidence with which the girls spoke about their work and interacted with both their peers and the community. And they were working in a darkroom, something so few schools still have one in use. The more I learned about Holton, the more I wanted to be part of the community. Once I visited, saw the students interacting with each other and the staff, met with faculty and administration, and most importantly, taught a class and met some students, the move to Holton felt right. I was struck by the quality of the artwork displayed throughout the school and the warmth that radiated from every corner, from the first greeting at the front door, to the laughter in the hallways between classes, to the way students engaged with me as a visiting teacher."
Fun fact: The last book he read was American Dirt, his favorite hobby is gardening, his favorite show at the moment is Shrinking, and his favorite podcast to listen to is Pivot.
All-School Staff
Emily Eisner
Director of Donor Relations
Ms. Eisner holds a B.S. with Honors in Education from the University of Delaware and an M.S.Ed. in Reading Education from Towson University. Ms. Eisner will join us from the University of Maryland School of Dentistry on Monday, September 15, 2025. She was attracted to Holton because "as a former elementary and middle school teacher, I was thrilled by the opportunity to merge my two passions: education and donor relations. Having previously taught at an independent school, I deeply missed the sense of community that comes with working in such an environment, and I’m genuinely excited to be part of that again at Holton."
Fun fact: The last book she read was Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid, and her next book will be The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah. In her free time, she loves to work out, box, read, and cook/bake.
Caroline Handorf
Director of Communications
Mrs. Handorf holds a B.A. in Religion from Princeton University and an M.S.Ed. in School Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania. Ms. Handorf joins us from Georgetown Visitation. She was attracted to Holton because of the "school's vibrant community, visionary leadership, and legacy of excellence."
Fun fact: When she's not at work or spending time with her family, she loves reading cozy murder mysteries, knitting, needlepointing, hiking, biking, kayaking, or just staring out at the water.
Joleen Hyde
Advancement Administrative Assistant
Mrs. Hyde holds a Public Relations Certificate from South Africa. Ms. Hyde joins us from The Potomac School. She was attracted to Holton because the mission resonated with her: "I will find a way or make one."
Fun fact: The last book she read was The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins.
Orly Konig
Writer
Ms. Konig holds an M.A. in Journalism from the University of Maryland, College Park. Ms. Konig joins us from the corporate world although she has been freelancing for the last 18 years in marketing communications, writing and publishing fiction. She was attracted to Holton because "My first two years as an undergraduate were at a women's college and it was a transformative time. Working in an environment that nurtures that unique brand of confidence in girls was an opportunity I couldn't turn down."
Fun fact: She worked in the space industry for over 30 years and had the amazing opportunity to go to several launches at Cape Canaveral and in Kourou, French Guiana.
Sophie Krhounek
Accounting Manager
Ms. Krhounek holds a Master's of Accounting from Strayer University. Ms. Krhounek joins us from Primary Day School. She was attracted to Holton because "it's a privilege to be part of an organization like Holton."
Fun fact: The last book she read and loved was The Cliffs by J. Courtney Sullivan.
Kathleen Kuklewicz
Assistant Director of Admissions
Ms. Kuklewicz holds a B.A. from the University of Massachusetts and an M.Ed. from Lesley University. Ms. Kuklewicz joins us from Charles River School in Dover, MA, where she was a reading specialist for grades 1-3. She was attracted to Holton because she "felt pulled to join the Holton community because of its strong mission and its commitment to educating girls. "
Fun fact: The last show she binged was Somebody, Somewhere. She loved it for its celebration of friendship and chosen family!
Rachel Lee
Athletic Trainer
Ms. Lee graduated from George Mason University and Lynchburg College. She was attracted to Holton because of the "great work environment with great people!"
Fun fact: She can watch almost anything on HGTV and loves a good cup of coffee.
Dan Meadows
Groundskeeper
Mr. Meadows holds a B.A. in Environmental & Sustainability Sciences from George Mason University. Mr. Meadows joins us from Ingleside Rock Creek Retirement Community, where he was a groundskeeper. He was attracted to Holton because he's "been groundskeeping in a variety of dynamics for about a decade. I have always had the goal to do what I do for a school. It's been proven that greener spaces are more conducive for learning; maybe through my labor, I can help create a healthier environment for the students.
Fun fact: The last book he read was Tracks by Robyn Davidson.
Michael Richter
Controller
Mr. Richter holds a B.S. from Towson University. Mr. Richter joins us from Gaingels Inc. He was attracted to Holton because "
Holton's mission to educate and empower young women is the ideal professional opportunity to apply my financial management background for a noble and important cause and to professionally return to the non-profit space."
Fun fact: The last book he read was Project Hail Mary, and he's eagerly awaiting the film coming soon. Also, he adores Dan Carlin's Hardcore History podcast.
Jessica Wooten
Tier1 Tech Support Specialist
Ms. Wooten holds a CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ Certification from the Career Technical Institute. She was attracted to Holton because of "the kind spirit of Holton attracted me here. I work here because being an educator of young women is an excellent opportunity to change lives."
Fun fact: She's a recording artist in her free time and has a huge catalog of music she's written.