MERRITT ACADEMY - Key Persons
Ariadne Allan Autor brings over 15 years of experience in private school advancement. She graduated with a bachelor's degree in Government from Smith College where she served as an admissions office guide and has continued as an active alumna volunteer. An award-winning journalist and two-time National Emmy nominee, Ari covered stories for CBS News/60 Minutes and PBS. A photographer and writer, she has also produced videos as a Communications Specialist for the Falls Church City Public Schools. Ari also enjoys supporting STEAM experiences for children from teaching dance and leading band boosters, to coaching student Odyssey of the Mind and First Lego League teams.
Job Titles:
- Executive Director
- Member of the Leadership Team
Christin Soly originally attended Merritt Academy as a student. She graduated from Eastern University's Templeton Honors College with a bachelor's degree in Business Administration. Since graduating, she has served Merritt Academy's community in a variety of roles including: Afternoon Assistant, Music Teacher, Summer Camp Director and Director in Training. She spent seven years as Director of First Steps Academy (sister school to Merritt). She is the proud mother of four beautiful girls that have all attended Merritt Academy. Christin loves traveling, volunteering with development organizations and playing the piano.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Director of Early Childhood Education
Genie O'Hara has spent more than 30 years as a local educator. After growing up in Falls Church City, Genie received her degree in Early Childhood Education from James Madison University. Her educational career has included extensive teaching experience in both public and private school settings, writing and editing for educational publications, serving as Curriculum Coordinator for a Preschool-6 independent school, and later as the Director of a childcare center before joining the Merritt leadership team in 2015. Her educational philosophy includes a highly child-centered approach with a focus on utilizing differentiated learning models and fostering positive self-esteem in students. She is passionate about creating learning environments that allow hands-on exploration, problem-solving and logical reasoning growth that build creativity, curiosity and a love of learning. Genie is the proud mother of three adult children, and is the owner and director of Every Body Dance, a venture that brings her love of dance and her passion for children together.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- Infant and Toddler Program Director
Latoya Jones is originally from Raleigh, NC. Latoya moved to the DC Metro are in 2011. She has nearly 20 years of experience working with children 6 week-13 years of age. Latoya earned a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from St. Augustine's University and a Master's in Early Education from Ashford University. A member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Latoya brings her passion for children and community service.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Leadership Team
- School Principal
Linda Potts has enjoyed being an educator for many years. She brings over 15 years of experience working at Merritt Academy. She received her bachelor's degree in sociology/anthropology from Gettysburg College and holds a master's degree in education administration and supervision. She has held several positions at Merritt including Director of Education, middle school teacher (of multiple subjects), and Curriculum Director.