Our Story

Family of four smiling and wearing matching T-shirts that say 'Get Joy,' standing against a white background.

Sara

brings a wealth of educational expertise to our team. She holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary and Special Education from East Stroudsburg University, a Master’s in Instructional Technology from Lehigh University, and a Ph.D. in Educational Sciences from the University of Kentucky. Since 2009, she has also been a special educator in a variety of roles at Centennial School of Lehigh University. She also teaches graduate courses at Lehigh University in the College of Education.

Michael

graduated in 2008 with a degree in Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education and Secondary Mathematics and Science. He taught mathematics to middle school students for 18 years in public school. Michael founded Varsity Summer Academy, a STEM-based summer camp for K-8 students, in New Jersey in 2015. Building on that success, he recently expanded the program by opening a second active location at Lehigh University in 2025.

Together, Sara and Michael are looking forward to creating a environment where families can come together to eat ice cream, drink coffee, and share joy together. Every decision we make is grounded in how we can create opportunities for individuals with different abilities while sharing joy with the community.