At Trinity Preparatory School, our educators are dedicated to inspiring creativity and engagement in and out of the classroom. These talented teachers not only impart knowledge but also actively participate in the community, showcasing their skills and encouraging students to explore their own passions. This involvement illustrates the idea that creativity is timeless and everyone can embrace their artistic pursuits.
For example, Dr. Mauricio Cespedes conducted the beloved Christmas Pops concert on December 8 in Winter Park Central Park. This annual event combines holiday cheer with musical talent, inviting both students and community members to celebrate the arts together. Dr. Cespedes emphasizes the universal nature of music: “Music has always been an important part of my life. It follows me everywhere I go. What I love about music is that it is universal and speaks to everyone, regardless of nationality or personal beliefs.”
The collaborative spirit among faculty members is particularly evident in the participation of World Language Chair Vanessa Pelletier Spallone, Choral Director Charles Carroll, and French teacher Elisabeth Johar, who performed at the Bach Festival Society of Winter Park Christmas Concert on December 5, also held in Winter Park Central Park.
Creativity also thrives on stage, where Janine Papin, Trinity Prep’s fine arts, theater, and dance teacher, is currently taking on the iconic role of Scrooge in a local production of “A Christmas Carol” with The Ensemble Company in Oviedo. She was recently awarded Best of Orlando 2024 Lead Actor for her role in “Appropriate.” Ms. Papin’s transformation with each performance serves as a reminder to her students year after year that the stage is a place where passion can truly come alive.
In the visual arts, Jolie Spelman, the new chair of the Fine Arts Department, is making her mark by exhibiting at the Studio ArtFarm Gallery in Mount Dora this month. In addition to her exhibition, she is illustrating a book series for a local author and publisher, all while serving as the Mennello Museum of American Art Board of Trustees Co-Chair for the second year.
Fine arts teacher Vadim Malkin also contributes to the artistic community as a guest artist at the Tampa Tour De Clay in Lutz, Florida. His participation provides students with insight into a career in the arts, showcasing the opportunities to share one’s work and connect with fellow artists.
Irina Ashcraft, a fine arts teacher, recently took her AP Art and Photo students on an exciting two-day journey to Miami. During their trip, they attended Art Basel Miami, the largest art fair in North America. The students also explored the Vizcaya Museum and the vibrant Wynwood neighborhood, participated in a graffiti painting workshop, and left inspired to create their own artworks. Additionally, Ms. Ashcraft is preparing for the Paint Out Art Festival, which will be held in April 2025 at the Polasek Museum in Winter Park, where she will continue to showcase her artistic talents in the community.
Fine Arts teacher and yearbook adviser Caberbe Joseph is not just a remarkable educator but also an inspiring visionary, as a proud co-founder of the Lumiere D’Education Foundation in Haiti, serving approximately 100 students alongside faculty and staff. He also serves on the Executive Board of the Pinehills Performing Arts Center, where he is responsible for programming quality and funding. His profound impact and dedication to education help students think beyond conventional boundaries.
Last, Sarai Goley, Interim Director of Forensics, serves as a prop designer for Opera Orlando and embodies the creativity and versatility that our faculty members instill in their students.
As we celebrate the talents of our faculty, it is evident they are not just educators but essential role models guiding students in strengthening and sharing their artistic gifts. Their dedication to creativity continues to support an environment of exploration and encourages students to embrace their passions confidently bringing lifelong joy and inspiring passions beyond the classroom.