Our Team

Maria is a graduate of Alverno College where she received a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education. In 2009, Maria received her Special Education certification from Rockford College. Prior to coming to HOPE Via, Maria taught in Milwaukee Public Schools for 13 years as a regular education and special education teacher.

Maria demonstrates a passion for high quality academics and character development and has a strong belief that all children should receive the best quality education possible. Her passion for teaching and serving her students was exemplified in the classroom and now brings that same passion to her new role as Principal.

Ashley graduated with a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction with distinction from National University in 2023. Prior to becoming a DOI, Ashley served as a 4^th grade teacher, 5/6th grade math teacher, and a 7th/8th grade math teacher at HOPE Via, where she played a key role in improving instructional practices and increasing student achievement.

Ashley Pias has a deep commitment to academic excellence and a passion for student success. Known for her collaborative leadership style, Ashley enjoys working closely with educators to support data-driven instruction and cultivate a culture of continuous improvement.

As Dean of Instruction, Ashley will oversee curriculum implementation, lead professional development initiatives, and ensure that every classroom is equipped to meet the diverse needs of our students. 

My name is Miroslava, and I welcome every smile and question with heart.

Being the face of the front office fills me with so much joy, there’s nothing better than creating a warm, helpful space for everyone who walks through our doors. I take pride in building genuine connections, knowing every student by name, and making each one feel seen and cared for. I truly love what I do, and I’m so passionate about being part of a place that feels like home.

Every day, I look forward to greeting students, supporting families, and being a reliable helping hand for staff. I love the energy, the stories, and even the small moments because they all matter. Getting to know each student personally is one of the best parts of my job. I believe in creating a front office that’s not only organized and efficient, but also full of kindness, laughter, and a sense of belonging for everyone who enters. 

As School Operations Manager, Meagan oversees the school's daily operations,
coordinates administrative processes, manages logistics and campus systems,
Meagan graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Counseling from Bob Jones
University. Prior to becoming the School Operations Manager, Meagan served
as a 3rd grade teacher and a 6th–8th grade ELA teacher at HOPE Via, where she
played a key role in supporting student growth and fostering a positive,
well-structured learning environment.

Meagan Neal has a strong commitment to operational excellence and a passion
for creating efficient systems that support student success. Known for her
exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and collaborative
leadership style, Meagan enjoys working closely with staff and families to
ensure the school's daily operations run smoothly and effectively.
and ensures that staff and students have the resources and support needed to
maintain a safe, organized, and welcoming learning environment

Kurtesha Pittman serves as the Dean of Students Assistant (DOSA) at HOPE Via,
where she is dedicated to creating a positive, supportive, and structured school culture. In her
role, she works closely with students, families, and staff to promote student success, encourage
personal growth, and help maintain a safe and welcoming learning environment where every
student has the opportunity to thrive.

After graduating from high school in 2009, Kurtesha began her career in education
working in early childhood education at a daycare and 4K program. Her passion for helping
children learn and grow inspired her to continue serving students in new ways. In 2020, she
joined the Racine Unified School District (RUSD) as an Educational Assistant Teacher, a role
she held until 2025.

In December 2025, Kurtesha became a member of the HOPE Via team as a Teacher
Assistant. Through her dedication, strong leadership, and unwavering commitment to student
achievement and character development, she was promoted to the position of Dean of
Students Assistant (DOSA).

While serving the HOPE Via community, Kurtesha is also pursuing her teaching degree
at Gracelyn University. She is passionate about building meaningful relationships with students,
partnering with families, and collaborating with colleagues to create a learning environment
where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Outside of her professional life, Kurtesha is a proud mother of three amazing children
KeLein, Kehlanii, and Jream who are the heart of everything she does. They are her greatest
inspiration and motivation, reminding her daily of the importance of love, patience,
perseverance, and leading by example. Her experiences as both a mother and an educator
strengthen her commitment to helping every child feel seen, valued, and capable of achieving
success.

Guided by a heart for service and a commitment to educational excellence, Kurtesha strives to
make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the students and families she serves