tega cay Center

Christina is an honor graduate of the University of North Carolina Charlotte College of Education. Originally from NY, she has worked as a mentor, teacher, coach, and advocate for children for over 25 years. With the support of her former school, parents of students, and colleagues, Christina opened The Lazar Center of Charlotte in 2007. Since then, she has supported hundreds of students as they grow equally in confidence and academic achievement. Her favorite thing about her work is finding that unique key that allows her team to unlock each student’s potential.

Julia graduated from UNC-Chapel Hill with a bachelor’s in English Literature. After receiving her MFA in Creative writing at the University of Tennessee, she joined the English Department as an adjunct professor. She quickly noticed that many of her freshman students lacked confidence and experience when it came to reading, writing, and executive functioning skills. In 2021, she transitioned into teaching 7th-8th language arts, with the goal of providing a stronger reading and writing foundation to help students of every ability and learning style succeed. After moving to Charlotte, she was thrilled to discover the Lazar Center and is looking forward to working with students one-on-one! 

Alicia graduated from the  Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science in Education and certification in Middle School Math. She moved to Charlotte in 2011 and secured a position as a math teacher at Southwest Middle School. During her time at SWMS, she pioneered the Builder’s Club, a community service organization for middle school students. Alicia’s favorite thing about teaching is the opportunity to be part of her student’s lives forever. While she no longer teaches in the traditional classroom, she enjoys working at The Lazar Center.

Gabriella is passionate about empowering students to reach their full academic potential. Her journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health (2020), followed by a Master of Science in Community Health Education (2021). For many years, she has honed her skills in various roles in education while fostering a safe and enriching space for students of diverse ages and learning needs. She focuses on delivering individualized instruction based on each student’s learning style and habits, to help students build confidence and overcome challenges.

Brian earned his Master’s degree in Pure Mathematics from California State University, San Bernardino, where he was honored as Graduate Student of the Year. Throughout his time as a student, he worked as a tutor and department grader, which deepened his passion for teaching. He spent ten years teaching mathematics at the university level, and in 2019, he was recognized as Lecturer of the Year.

Brian has had the opportunity to teach math to students of all ages and levels, from elementary school through college. He was excited to discover the Lazar Center in his community and joined the team in early 2024. He is eager to help students develop their mathematical skills and confidence and looks forward to supporting each student’s success both in the classroom and beyond.

Destiny graduated from Western Carolina University with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 2017. She has five years of experience teaching third grade. During her experience, she delivered engaging lessons and fostered a love for learning. She strives to build strong relationships with the students she teaches and loves to hike, be outdoors, and spend time with her friends and family!

Madison is a student at Western Governors University attending the Teachers College. She is an instructional assistant for special education in the Fort Mill School District. Madison has also been a substitute teacher for all grades, a classroom teacher, and a nanny. She has a passion for teaching children and creating lasting bonds that help them grow academically, and she looks forward to sharing that passion with the students at Lazar!