Mrs. Mullen

Hello! My name is Jenny Mullen, and I am a dedicated teacher with a passion for STEAM education. I have taught students from pre-kindergarten through 6th grade at Melrose Elementary, where I inspired young minds and fostered a love for science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. I am a certified teacher, and hold a Bachelor's degree in Biology and a Master's degree in Education from the University of Florida. Before becoming an educator, I served my country as a veteran and worked as a nurse, experiences that have shaped my approach to teaching with empathy and dedication. I am excited to continue my journey in education and make a positive impact in the lives of my students.

I have two children, Tyler and Emily. They attended public school until 5th and 3rd grade until I made the decision to homeschool them. This choice was driven by my desire to provide a more tailored educational experience that aligns with their unique learning styles. I am passionate about enriching their education through various classes and activities outside the traditional classroom setting. I understand the importance of nurturing curiosity and creativity in every child. I strive to create an engaging and inclusive classroom environment where students feel empowered to explore, ask questions, and develop a lifelong love of learning in science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics.

Mrs. Thompson

Hi, I’m Sarah Thompson, a proud homeschooling mom and step-mom to Halle, Jack, and Adaline. Teaching has been a lifelong journey I’m excited to return to, not only for my own children, but also for others in our community. My experience spans roles as a lead teacher in a private preschool and a paraprofessional at a charter school. I hold an Associate’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Management from Saint Leo University. After completing my education, I began my career in Human Resources. For over a decade, I led several teams in HR, gaining insights into the real-world applications of STEAM principles. This experience enables me to bring practical, hands-on knowledge to my students, helping them see how classroom concepts can solve real-world problems.

At Brighten Learning Center, we are dedicated to fostering a safe, positive, and enjoyable environment that sparks curiosity and learning. My approach is personalized to meet each student's unique needs, leveraging my homeschooling experiences with my own children. I am committed to nurturing the next generation of resilient, resourceful leaders, helping them develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for their future success.

Halle Thompson

Halle, a dynamic 13-year-old, finds joy in a variety of activities. She loves cooking, especially when it involves whipping up tasty treats for her family. At home, she occasionally enjoys challenging herself with 1000-piece puzzles. Recently, Halle took her building skills to a new level by constructing raised garden beds, showcasing her creativity and handiwork. In school, math stands out as her favorite subject and on the soccer field, she’s known for her dedication and team spirit. Halle thrives on a good challenge, whether it’s building for fun or working on a school project.

Tyler Mullen

Tyler is a bright 12-year-old with a passion for baseball, coding, and video games. His enthusiasm for technology shines through as he has become our expert coder, often impressing others with his skills. Tyler takes great joy in sharing his knowledge, making him an invaluable asset in our STEM classes. Whether he’s helping younger students grasp the basics of programming or collaborating on a challenging project, he always manages to inspire those around him. His ability to blend fun and learning ensures that his peers not only understand coding concepts but also develop a love for it.

Emily Mullen

Emily is a vibrant 10-year-old with a passion for animals, crafting, and art. Her creativity knows no bounds, as she spends hours making beautiful crafts and experimenting with different art techniques. Among her many talents, she has earned the title of "slime expert" among her friends, delighting them with her unique slime recipes and colorful creations. Whether it's mixing textures or incorporating fun add-ins like glitter and charms, Emily approaches her slime-making with enthusiasm and precision. Her love for animals also shines through in her artwork, where she often draws and paints her favorite furry friends. Emily’s joyful spirit and artistic flair make her a delight to be around, inspiring others to explore their own creative abilities.

Jack Thompson

Jack, an energetic 8-year-old, thrives on outdoor activities and sports. Jack embodies all things lake life, whether he’s fishing in hopes of catching a big one, collecting and taking care of minnows, or wakeboarding. He also enjoys playing baseball and loves practicing and spending time with his buddies. In his neighborhood, Jack runs an unofficial landscaping business, helping neighbors with yard work and earning some pocket money. Math is his favorite subject, where he enjoys solving problems. Jack is always ready for the next adventure.

Adaline Thompson

Adaline, a vibrant 7-year-old, radiates joy through her love for dance, music, and performing. Whether she's twirling to her favorite tunes or putting on a show for her family, her passion for the arts shines brightly. Adaline also takes pride in nurturing her own little garden and enjoys writing stories filled with imagination. When she’s not dancing or gardening, she loves playing with her collection of Barbies and baby dolls, creating imaginative adventures. With her creativity and nurturing spirit, Adaline embodies the magic of childhood.