Meet Mr. Chad

I’m Mr. Chad, and before I talk about me. I would like to thank our previous owners Ralph and Adel for this amazing opportunity. Without them, we would not be here today. We are incredibly happy to continue our partnership as “sister” schools with Discovery Academy of DeLand.

I grew up in a small town called Silver Creek, NY about 30 miles south of Buffalo. I grew up on Lake Erie and loved fishing, water sports, sports and especially hockey. After High School, I went to a local community college and earned a spot on the hockey team. Unfortunately, my career was cut short due to my grades (your grades do matter students). I was lost and unsure where to go with my life as my dream of playing hockey in the NHL came to an end. My only back up plan was the military and shortly after I joined the United States Marine Corps.

My enlistment was the best decision I ever made in my life. The Marine Corps gave me discipline, education, mentorship, and most importantly my wife Ms. Heather and our two amazing kids Dylan and Jordyn. During my time in the Marine Corps I attended numerous leadership and instructional courses. I also kept a promise to my Mom that I would earn a college degree (BSBA).

After 20 years of service, I retired from the Marine Corps as a Chief Warrant Office-3. Ms. Heather had to make many sacrifices to her professional dreams during my service, and upon retiring I made another promise. I promised her that “she would drive the bus,” and her professional dreams would come first. We moved to Florida and found our footing in civilian life. I have had the honor to support my community and the Veterans of Volusia County as a Veterans Service Officer for several years after retirement.

Also, a few years ago Ms. Heather called in her promise and asked me to apply to be the Discovery Academy Middle School Math and Geography teacher. I believe this was all part of her plan. I was hired and worked at Discovery for a year.

This summer Ms. Heather and I jumped at the opportunity to become owners of Discovery Academy.

I know that was a lot about me, but in the future if you hear from me it will be to praise the amazing team we are building, our amazing students and their parents/guardians/family members.