Our Team

Ms. Shelly Gow-Sullivan, M.Ed.

Head of School/Founder and Owner of Groton Farm School and Luina Greine Farm

Shelly Sullivan received her M. Ed. from Lesley University, Cambridge, MA, with a focus in Curriculum Development and Reading. She has several years of teaching experience in both private and public schools. Shelly is a long time equestrian and lover of all animals. Together with her husband John, they built and grew Luina Greine Farm, completely on their own, beginning in 2010. This is now home to approximately 25 farm animals on their 20-acres of pasture, meadows, and apple orchards.

Shelly’s children grew up on this farm, caring for the animals and the land, in many capacities, as well as doing farm chores, every day. Caroline and Patrick are now in college and accomplishing great things! She attributes their success to having grown up on a farm!

Ms. Amy Lovell Kelly, M.P.A, Advanced Orton-Gillingham Certified

Advanced Orton-Gillingham Practitioner

Amy Lovell Kelly brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the Groton Farm School community. She holds a B.A. in International Relations from Tufts University and an M.P.A. in Education and Healthcare Policy from Harvard University. Inspired by her youngest daughter’s diagnosis with dyslexia, Amy delved into understanding language-based learning disabilities. She pursued both initial and advanced certifications in Orton-Gillingham from the Children’s Dyslexia Centers.

Amy operates a private Orton-Gillingham practice in Groton, where she supports students ranging from preschool to high school. Her commitment extends to serving on the Board of Governors for the Children’s Dyslexia Centers in Nashua, NH, and consulting for Groton Community School. Additionally, Amy has held leadership roles as President of the Parent Boards at Groton Community School and Lawrence Academy.

Outside of her professional life, Amy enjoys playing the piano, singing, and spending quality time with her family and dogs. For more information about Amy, please visit www.kellyedservices.com.

Ms. Barbara (Babs) Dasilva, B.A.

Arts Instructor and Community Liaison

Barbara comes to Groton Farm School with a B.A. in Communications and Graphic Arts from Simmons College. She worked in publishing for over 30 years as a Book Designer and Art Director. Ms. Babs has designed historical publications for many museums, such as The Newport Preservation Society, the New York Historical Society, the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, and House of Seven Gables for Applewood Books in Carlisle. Barbara is not only our amazing Arts Instructor, but also our Community Liaison. When she is not inspiring the young children of Groton Farm School, Ms. Babs enjoys photography and watercolor painting.

Ms. Zannan ‘Annie’ Masero, M.Sc.

Science Teacher

We are delighted to introduce our Science Teacher, Zannan ‘Annie’ Masero to the Groton Farm School community. Annie brings a rich and diverse background in both education and science.

Annie earned her BA in Anthropology from the University of Pittsburgh, followed by an MS in Anatomy & Neurobiology from Boston University School of Medicine. Her academic journey has been complemented by hands-on teaching experiences. At the Wagner Free Institute of Science in Philadelphia, she served as a Museum Educator, where she inspired and educated students of all ages through engaging natural science programs. In addition to her role at the museum, Annie has been a dedicated museum docent, a summer camp neuroscience teacher, and a Parent & Me yoga instructor. 

Annie’s educational philosophy centers on making science education accessible without sacrificing scientific rigor. Annie emphasizes hands-on, inquiry-based learning, where students are encouraged to ask questions, explore, and experiment. She strives to create an inclusive environment where every student feels valued and capable of understanding complex scientific concepts. Annie also integrates real-world applications and interdisciplinary approaches into her teaching, helping students see the relevance of science in everyday life. Her goal is to foster a sense of curiosity and wonder about the natural world, empowering students to become lifelong learners and critical thinkers.

Beyond the classroom, Annie and her husband are dedicated local farmers at Storybook Orchard. Here, they are creating a permaculture-inspired fruit, nut, and vegetable orchard, furthering their commitment to sustainable and community-focused living.

Ms. Amy Brewis, M.Ed.

Curriculum Enhancement and Technology Specialist

Amy Brewis joins Groton Farm School with a rich and varied background in education, technology, and neurodevelopment. She earned her B.S. in Elementary Education from Elmira College and an M.Ed. in Educational Technology from Framingham State College. Additionally, she is a licensed Brain Gym® Instructor/Consultant.

With over 18 years of experience in the public school system, Amy transitioned from teaching in 2021 to follow her passion for neurodevelopment. She founded Brain FUNdamentals LLC in Westboro, MA, where she uses a movement-based approach to support children with learning challenges, including ADD/ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, and sensory processing issues. Amy continually expands her expertise in early brain development and the critical role of movement in fostering brain and body growth, all of which contribute to learning readiness. She also shares her insights through classes and workshops for educators and other professionals.

Amy is thrilled to join Groton Farm School, where she appreciates the school’s commitment to movement, play, nature, and individualized learning.

Outside of work, Amy enjoys hiking with her dog, spending time with her family, and connecting with friends.

Ms. Barbara Hamilton, M.Ed.

Math Teacher

Barbara Hamilton brings extensive experience and enthusiasm to her role as a dedicated Math Teacher at Groton Farm School. She earned her M.Ed. from Salem State University and has accumulated several years of experience in public schools, where she developed a strong foundation in educational practices. Beyond the classroom, Barbara ran her own successful tutoring business, specializing in Math. She believes that making math enjoyable and accessible through games and hands-on activities is key to engaging students and fostering a love for learning.

In addition to her educational background, Barbara has an extensive career in Finance, having worked in various corporate roles. This unique blend of expertise in both education and finance allows her to bring real-world applications into her teaching, helping students understand the practical importance of math in everyday life.

Barbara’s love for travel recently took her and her family on an exciting adventure through Tanzania, Holland, France, and Iceland. When she’s not traveling or teaching, Barbara enjoys reading and dining out with friends. She is also the proud owner of an English bulldog named Hazel, who is very much a spoiled and beloved member of her family.

Ms. Avery Rockwell Adam, M.Sc., Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist

Curriculum Enhancement Specialist

Avery Rockwell Adam is passionate about the transformative power of education. With a deep commitment to nurturing diverse learners and fostering a lifelong love of learning, Avery brings her unique expertise to Groton Farm School. She holds a Master of Science in Health Promotion/Wellness Management from Springfield College and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology & Women’s Studies from Ohio Wesleyan University. Avery is also a licensed Wildlife Rehabilitation Specialist.

As the owner of Dandelions Wildlife Rescue, Avery dedicates herself to rescuing and rehabilitating orphaned and injured wildlife, ultimately returning them to their natural habitats. Her dedication to nature conservation and education is something she enthusiastically shares with her students.

Avery held key roles at Children’s Hospital Boston, including Operations Manager of the Regional Center for Poison Control and a member of the transplant team at the New England Organ Bank. Her public service also extends to her time on the Westford School Committee, where she worked to enhance educational policies and support services. Avery’s experience with 4-H highlights her commitment to experiential learning and youth development, helping young people gain the skills and confidence needed for success.

Outside of her professional life, Avery enjoys time with her family, which includes two dogs, two chickens, a cat, a horse, and a snake.

Ms. Nan AK Gibbons, M.Ed., M.A.

Music Teacher

Nan AK Gibbons is passionate about building musical communities that foster support, learning, artistic excellence, and a sense of belonging. She is an accomplished composer and arranger, as well as a storyteller, visual artist, and spiritual director. She holds an M.Ed. in Music from Lesley University and an M.A. in Theology and the Arts from Andover Newton Theological School, with a concentration in Pastoral Care. Recently, Ms. Gibbons completed a two-year teaching fellowship with the Massachusetts Cultural Council, focusing on accessible musical instruction and developing a collaborative resource website.

In addition to her role at Groton Farm School, Nan teaches music and movement at Nashoba Montessori School and specializes in piano lessons for neurodiverse students at the Joy of Music program. Ms. Gibbons also directs the Shir Joy Jewish Chorus in Westborough and the Aspire Choir for neurodiverse singers with the Seven Hills Foundation. Her work extends to providing music for Children’s Music and Sunday Fellowship at West Concord Union Church, as well as leading rhythm circles for Minuteman ARC group homes. She previously spent twelve years teaching in the New York Metropolitan Opera Guild’s Urban Voices Choral Initiative.

Beyond her musical endeavors, Nan runs writing groups for Ninja Writers International and creates videos and websites for various organizations. She also enjoys painting, weaving, leading drum circles, and exploring unique musical instruments.

Ms. Reema Prakash, M.Sc., CCC-SLP

Speech Pathologist

Ms. Reema Prakash M.S., CCC-SLP is an ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist and the Founder of Resonate Therapy Solutions LLC. (American Speech-Language-Hearing Association). She earned her Master of Science degree in Speech-Language Pathology from Northeastern University. She has over 18 years of experience conducting comprehensive assessments and providing speech therapy in various medical and academic settings. Over the years, Reema recognized the importance of a client-centered therapy experience, in a fun, motivating, goal-oriented environment which inspired her to establish Resonate Therapy Solutions LLC. Through Resonate, she strives to bring quality-driven speech therapy services to a variety of settings (at-home, at-school, virtual therapy) using evidence-based practice, while promoting a growth mindset and celebrating inclusiveness and diversity every step of the way. Reema resides in Dunstable, MA with her husband and two children. She is always in pursuit of the perfect reading nook! For more information about Reema, visit www.resonatetherapysolutions.com.

Ms. Jacquie Waters (aka Strega Mama), B.A.

Interactive Storyteller

Ms. Jacquie, also known as “Strega Mama” to our students, comes to Groton Farm School with an enthusiasm for reading like no other! She earned her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Early Education and Fine Arts at Bridgewater State University. As an Interactive Storyteller, Jacquie has worked and continues to perform in a number of local libraries and schools, including The Groton Public Library (every Tuesday!). “Strega Mama” has been working with children for many years, bringing her enthusiastic energy and creativity to the classroom. Her story times are a fun-filled experience for all ages, including lively readings, interactive games, laughter yoga, sign language, and singalongs. In Jacquie’s spare time, she likes to go on adventures with her three daughters, read, and create art! If interested, follow the fun with Strega Mama at
Facebook.com/StregaMama or
Instagram.com/Stregamamastories

Ms. Holly Tonnessen, M.Ed.

School Administrator

Holly Tonnessen earned her Masters of Education in Training and Development from North Carolina State University. She comes to Groton Farm School with a background in corporate training and course development. Holly is in charge of Admissions/Enrollment and managing administrative tasks. Besides staying active outdoors with running and hiking, she loves traveling with her husband and daughter.  

Mr. John Sullivan

Director of Finance

Mr. Sullivan is a graduate of Providence College, R.I. He brings his 30 years experience in business, sales, and finance as Vice President of World Wide Sales for several software security companies. 

Hazel Sullivan, D.O.G.

Chief of Treat Security and Snuggling (CTSS)

Meet Hazel Sullivan, Chief of Treat Security and Snuggling (CTSS). With a nose for detecting treats from a mile away and a heart as big as her appetite, Hazel takes her role very seriously. She’s on constant alert, ensuring that no treat goes unaccounted for, while also providing top-tier snuggles to everyone in her domain. Her motto? “If there’s a treat to be had or a lap to be warmed, Hazel’s on the job!”

Molly Sullivan, D.O.G.

Chief Canine Officer (CCO)

Meet Molly Sullivan, Chief Canine Officer (CCO). Molly is the energetic overseer of all things fun and organized on the farm. Whether she’s sprinting through fields with boundless enthusiasm, orchestrating epic play sessions, or ensuring the kids stay corralled and on track, Molly is always on the move. Her watchful eye and playful spirit make her the ultimate farm companion, proving that a little dog can manage a lot of action. Her motto? “Run fast, play hard, and keep everyone in line—one wag at a time!”