HOLLYWOOD – The Seminole Tribe’s Education Department has hired seven new employees over the past several months. Some of the positions are tribalwide while others are specific to particular reservations.

The Tribune asked each new employee to answer a few questions as a way of introduction to the tribal community. Answers have been edited for length and clarity.

Jan Bishop – tribalwide tutoring supervisor

First day on the job: May 22

Have you previously worked for the tribe?

This is my first opportunity with the tribe.

What is your job experience?

I was a student adviser at a post-secondary school for eight years.

Describe what you do.

I am dedicated to ensuring that students achieve positive enrichment outcomes. I achieve this by meticulously addressing the unique needs of each reservation and collaborating with multiple team members to proactively address and resolve any challenges they may encounter.

Tell us about your personal background.

I’m a native of Long Beach, California. I find immense joy not only in my professional commitments, but also in the cherished moments spent with my husband and children. Exploring the natural splendors of California is a source of endless inspiration. I eagerly anticipate the privilege of wholeheartedly serving the students of the Seminole Tribe of Florida as I embark on this new chapter.

Leslie Brown – tribalwide higher education academic and career adviser

First day on the job: July 31

Have you previously worked for the tribe? 

No, this is my first position with the tribe and I love it.

What is your job experience?  

I have seven years of experience in post-secondary education. I have a background in college advising and adult education with GED certificate students and English as a second language (ESL) students.

Describe what you do.

I assist students and adult learners with their post-secondary educational needs, whether it is a state college, university, certificate or technical program. 

Tell us about your personal background. 

I grew up outside of Memphis, Tennessee, and I moved to Florida when I was 22. I have a degree in information technology and cybersecurity, but prefer working with people to working with computers. Helping people is my superpower.

Chris Paul Etienne – tribalwide student success specialist

First day on the job: Early September

Have you previously worked for the tribe?

I worked for the Boys & Girls Club in Hollywood for seven and a half years as a counselor. People ask me, ‘Chris why do all the kids know you?’ It’s because I know them. I know their names and I always say hi first.

What is your job experience?

Prior to the Boys & Girls Club I worked at the Everglades Re-Entry Center in Miami. (Editor’s note: The facility provides educational and vocational programs for eligible inmates, including GED, substance abuse and institutional betterment programs). It was for those who had three years or less on their sentence and good behavior. We were trying to reenter them into the world again.

Describe what you do.

I’m working with any tribal student who is in school – whoever needs help. I see some of the same kids I knew in the Boys & Girls Club, but now they’re older. I give them the same attention, as well as to their parents. It’s hard work but I like it.

Tell us about your personal background.

Growing up I had a lot of grownups on my team that never let me go – no matter what I did or what I said. So as I got older, I had to give back – and for me to give back I wanted to work with kids.

Jeri Joiner – Big Cypress K-12 adviser

First day on the job: March 13

Have you previously worked for the tribe?

This is my first time working for the tribe directly.

What is your job experience?

Describe what you do.

I am here to service all tribal families with their student’s educational needs, to ensure that they are receiving the best education possible. I provide guidance to our students to help them plan for future endeavors. My goal is to ensure that all my students earn their high school diploma. I believe that education is the key to success and I believe this role allows me to help students achieve this success.

I have worked in the education field since 2004. I am certified to teach math, social studies, and science. I started off as a teacher and then I transitioned to an instructional coach. I was also a curriculum support specialist for Miami-Dade County Public Schools and a school assessment coordinator.

Tell us about your personal background.

I am a native of Florida from Daytona Beach. I moved to South Florida in 2004. I am the youngest child of three. I am a recent newlywed; I got married on July 21. I attended Florida State University where I earned a degree in political science and a master’s degree in public administration. I also have a master’s degree in education from the University of Phoenix, with an emphasis on curriculum and instruction. I am a proud parent of a wonderful daughter who is a senior in high school.

Cyntheria Jones – Hollywood K-12 adviser

First day on the job: Sept. 18

Have you previously worked for the tribe?

No.

What is your job experience?

I worked for Broward County Public Schools for 32 years. I started as a copy clerk and worked my way up through many different positions and departments including my last position as principal of Broward Estates Elementary School in Fort Lauderdale.

Describe what you do.

I wanted to come back into education because I have a passion for helping others. I still have a lot to offer our scholars. An education is the passport to everything.

Tell us about your personal background.

I spend a lot of my personal time as a ‘Glam-Ma’ (glamorous grandmother).

Maggie Leon – Big Cypress K-12 adviser assistant

First day on the job: June 20

Have you previously worked for the tribe?

Yes, I worked at Ahfachkee School from June 2022 to June 2023 as a secretary in the front office.

What is your job experience?

Since high school, I’ve been working in Broward County Public Schools as an aftercare counselor and a teacher assistant. My interest in working with children with impairments evolved over time. I had the pleasure of working at JAFCO Children’s Ability Center for approximately four years and at the YMCA of South Florida with children with disabilities for five years.

Describe what you do.

I provide services to the families as a second voice in the schools. I also pay invoices, set up events and order supplies. I assist parents with any problems they may have and renew scholarship applications.

Tell us about your personal background.

I was born and raised in South Florida, although my family is originally from Colombia.
I graduated from Monarch High School and attended the Art Institute of Florida for web design. At Broward College I earned a [workforce degree] in early childhood education. I’m now at Florida Gulf Coast University pursuing a degree in communications with a focus on public relations.

Luis Viveros – tribalwide ESE (exceptional student education) case manager

First day on the job: Sept. 5

Have you previously worked for the tribe?

I was a K-5 adviser from 2021 to 2022.

What is your job experience?

I have experience at St. Colman Catholic School in Pompano Beach as an ESE case manager. I’ve also worked in Albuquerque and Rio Rancho (New Mexico) as a lead teacher for behavior, socio-emotional and academic programs for students who are being reintegrated into classrooms – teaching skills and strategies for them to get back on track.

Describe what you do.

When a student identifies as having a learning disability, whether cognitive or physical, I help design an individual education plan. I provide assistance to the family and identify the proper school that will address their needs. I’ll also go with the parent to the school to get their input and see if it’s a fit.

Tell us about your personal background.

I’m from Miami and my wife is tribal member Davina Motlow. She’s the sister of Tomasina Chupco.