Ms. LaFave began her career in education in 2012 after graduating from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. She taught kindergarten, first, and second grade at a charter school, where she developed a strong foundation in childhood education.

Ms. LaFave joined the ALA-Coastal team in 2020 as the Assistant Director and later earned her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction while serving in that role. As Director of the Lower School, she is committed to fostering a positive environment, promoting teamwork, and ensuring that staff, students, and families feel welcomed each time they visit campus.

Outside of school, Ms. LaFave stays busy with her two sons. She enjoys spending time with them, reading, going to the beach, and shopping.

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Driven by her passion for advocating, education and developing service-minded leaders, Tina Powell is honored to be afforded the role of Assistant Director JHHS at ALA Coastal. Drawing from over 10 years of classroom, mentoring and lead teacher experiences, her focus includes promoting a culture of shared leadership and accountability with all school stakeholders as well as implementing processes and procedures that improve the learning environment, and positively impact student academic growth. 

Tina’s educational journey began in Coral Gables, Florida, earning a Bachelor of Science in Education, from the University of Miami. Later, while living in Los Angeles, CA, Tina served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), acting in the best interest of children in the foster care system. Firmly believing that education is a life-long journey, she earned a Master’s of School Administration degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) and holds a North Carolina Association of School Administrators Principals License. 

Tina enjoys living in North Carolina’s coastal community with her husband, Jason and daughter, Elizabeth. For leisure she enjoys reading and going to the beach with her family. Tina’s experience working with diverse student populations has motivated her to find meaningful ways to serve the community. Tina prioritizes building trusting relationships, nurturing and building cultural norms, and finding new ways to make a positive impact.

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Mrs. Olczak is thrilled to serve our students and families as Assistant Director for Pre-K - 6th grade. Mrs. Olczak has been a part of the ALA Coastal family since 2021, beginning as a third grade teacher, and more recently as the school's beginning teacher support coordinator/instructional coach. Her journey in education began in 2017 after graduating from North Carolina State University (Go Wolfpack!). Since then, she has had the privilege of teaching elementary  in Charlotte and High Point North Carolina, before joining ALA Coastal.

Outside of school, you can find Mrs. Olczak exploring Wilmington with her husband and their dog, Grady. She is also getting ready to welcome a very special addition to her family this October – a baby on the way!

Mrs. Olczak looks forward to getting to know all of you and working together to make this a fantastic year for our school!  

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