Meet the Team

Mark Schaetzlein

Principal

Joining the Bethesda International Academy family in 2023, I am honored to lead a community that embodies “Transformational Learning, Anchored in Faith.” With over 30 years of experience in education, including two decades as Assistant Principal for Activities and Operations at Buffalo Grove High School, I bring a wealth of leadership to my role as Principal.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in the Teaching of Mathematics from the University of Illinois and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Aurora University. Answering God’s call to serve at BIA allows me to blend my love for Christ with my passion for education, creating a nurturing and faith-filled environment for our students, staff, and families.

As I embark on my second year, I am committed to fostering academic success and spiritual growth in every member of our community. Outside of school, I am a proud “girl dad” to my two incredible daughters, Maddie and Abby.

Together, let’s make this school year one of growth, faith, and love. And always remember—today, like every day, is a great day to be a Bobcat!

Judith Acosta

Pre-K & Early Childhood Director

For 24 years, I’ve been a proud member of the BIA family, first as a parent of BIA students and now as an Early Childhood teacher for the past 15 years. I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of a BIA education, and it’s a privilege to be part of continuing this incredible legacy.

Teaching in a Christian school allows me to share God’s love openly with my students and see the profound impact it has on their lives. If my students take away just one thing, it’s that they are deeply loved by God. My greatest hope is that our students grow in their love for Him, feel safe and valued in our community, and develop a lifelong love for learning. I believe sparking curiosity and joy in learning at a young age lays the foundation for future academic success.

Outside the classroom, I find rejuvenation in camping, exploring nature, and experiencing the tranquility of the outdoors. My passion for travel also enriches my life, as discovering new cultures and meeting people brings fresh perspectives that inspire my teaching. Each day at BIA is a gift, and I’m excited to share this journey of growth and faith with my students.

Andrea Oliva

Pre-K 3

Hello, I’m Andrea Oliva, and I’m thrilled to continue my journey at Bethesda International Academy! With over 14 years of experience in Early Childhood Education, including roles as a lead teacher and running my own home daycare, I joined the BIA family in January 2023.

What drew me to Bethesda was its close-knit, supportive environment and strong sense of community. As an Early Childhood teacher, my mission is to create a safe and loving space where students feel valued and supported as they tackle academic challenges.

In my free time, I enjoy traveling, camping, beach days, and dancing—activities that refresh and inspire me. Looking ahead, I’m committed to growing as an educator and continuing my faith-driven journey at BIA. I’m excited for another incredible school year filled with learning, growth, and joy!

Laurie Mauga

Kindergarten

Hello, I’m Laurie Mauga, and I bring over 44 years of experience in education to Bethesda International Academy. Throughout my career, I’ve served as a teacher and director in daycare settings, led a private church preschool for 19 years, and most recently, taught Pre-K through 4th grade at Grace Lutheran for 8 years.

My greatest passion is teaching children about God and helping them grow in their faith. I find immense joy in watching their development throughout the school year, witnessing their academic and spiritual growth. My goal is to create a happy, active classroom where children feel supported, inspired, and develop a lifelong love for learning.

I’m excited to bring my experience and enthusiasm to BIA, where every day is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on my students' lives!

Ronica Hicks

1st Grade

I’m thrilled to join the Bethesda International Academy team as the 1st-grade teacher! With over 14 years of experience in education, including four years as a certified Dyslexia Practitioner and Literacy Intervention Specialist, I am passionate about advocating for high-quality literacy education and supporting children with diverse learning needs.

What drew me to BIA is the combination of fun, engaging learning and the ability to openly share the love of Christ. Hearing so many wonderful things from families about the supportive staff and enriching academic environment confirmed that this is the place I’m meant to be.

This school year, I look forward to helping students connect with God’s love, respond to it with joy, and find meaning and excitement in learning. Outside the classroom, I enjoy tending to my plants, singing, reading, creating art, cooking, and spending time with my friends and family. I’m excited for an incredible year ahead!

Melissa Hernandez

2nd & 3rd Grade

This is my fifth year at Bethesda International Academy and my third year teaching in the classroom! I’ve always loved BIA’s diversity and the way it instills values of faith, respect, and responsibility while providing a strong academic foundation.

My goal as an educator is to create a supportive and nurturing environment where students can thrive academically and grow into the best version of themselves. Helping students discover their potential and witnessing their progress throughout the year is truly rewarding.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time in the kitchen, baking treats or trying new recipes. Cooking allows me to unwind and share joy with family and friends. I also cherish quiet moments with a good book, enjoying stories that inspire and spark creativity.

I’m excited to continue my journey at BIA, helping students grow in faith and knowledge while preparing them for future success. It’s going to be another wonderful year!

Delaney Bonacquisti

4th, 5th & 6th

This is my third year teaching at BIA, where I lead the 4/5/6 ELA classes and teach upper grades art. I grew up in Rockford, IL, but chose to stay in Chicago after graduating from college because I value the city’s incredible cultural diversity, which mirrors the diversity I cherish at BIA. I love hearing from students about their cultural backgrounds, family traditions, and unique perspectives on the world.

As a follower of Jesus, I embrace God’s values of love, care, and stewardship of His creation. At BIA, I am blessed with the opportunity to discuss with students what it means to walk in the Way of Jesus and how we can embody God’s love in our daily lives.

This year, I hope to inspire students to grow as readers, writers, and public speakers, use their imaginations to explore the past and better understand the present, and appreciate various forms of art. Most importantly, I hope to see students encourage one another to love God and their neighbors, creating a supportive, faith-filled learning environment where everyone can thrive.

It’s a privilege to guide our students as they develop their talents, deepen their faith, and explore their creativity.

Joe Dembowski

7th & 8th

I’m entering my 12th year of teaching at Bethesda International Academy, where I primarily teach upper-grade science, math, and social studies, while also taking on coaching and in-house technology responsibilities. Over the years, I’ve witnessed Bethesda’s unique ability to serve the diverse communities of West Ridge and Rogers Park. Our student body reflects this diversity, creating a learning environment where cultural and familial backgrounds are honored and respected.

Bethesda’s staff has always embodied compassion, care, and acceptance. I deeply value the trust they placed in me years ago and their openness to new ideas and challenges. These qualities inspire me daily to give back and lead with a servant’s heart.

Having grown up and studied in Lutheran institutions, I understand the profound impact of nurturing faith from an early age. I strive to help my students grow in their faith, maximize their potential, and develop a Christ-centered mindset that prepares them for success far beyond their time at Bethesda.

Outside of teaching, I enjoy running, swimming, team sports (go Sox, Bulls, Bears), playing guitar, reading, fishing, and exploring the great outdoors. Currently, I’m training for the Chicago Marathon, a challenge that keeps me motivated and focused.