Hello families!

This will be my third year as the librarian at ACS, and my seventh year as a public librarian; when I am not at the library here I am the director of the John Woodruff Simpson Memorial Library in East Craftsbury. I live with my family on a sheep farm in South Albany. We raise sheep and make hay. I have four children, three of them will be juniors at Lake Region this year. I love being outside, gardening, singing, reading and making art. I am excited to share my love of stories and learning with your students, and I hope to inspire and support their curiosity, inquiry, and creativity.  

Hello! My name is Ilana Feinstein, and I am thrilled to be joining Albany Community School as your School Counselor! I’m originally from New York City but spent over five years in Buffalo while studying at the University at Buffalo.

I’ve had the opportunity to work with students from PreK through 12th grade, supporting their academic, social, and emotional development. My goal as your school counselor is to create an inclusive environment where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to thrive.

When I’m not fulfilling my school counselor duties, you can find me frolicking in nature or spending time with my three beloved cats. I’m so excited to be part of the wonderful team here at Albany and encourage you to reach out with any questions or concerns about my role or your child.

Here’s to a fantastic year ahead!

My name is Talisa Zayas and I am the new Art Teacher for Lake Region Union Elementary-Middle. As a professional artist specializing in painting, sculpture, drawing, and ceramics, I am thrilled to bring my passion for art to the classroom this 2025/2026 school year. 

I have a background in working with children of all ages. I love introducing them to new art mediums and exploring the fascinating world of art history. 

My hope is to lead students to discover the joy that art can bring into their lives and to inspire them to experiment with new methods of creating art.

Hello! I’m Mrs. Holmes and I am delighted to be your music teacher this coming year! I live in St Johnsbury with my husband and our golden retriever Wally. My three children are all grown up and married and off doing great things in the world! This year will be my 30th year teaching music!!! I love what I do and I hope you are excited to come make some great music with me! See you this fall!!