Teresa Woods
Executive Director
BA, Social Work, Oakland University; MSEd, Administration, Management & Leadership, Walden University; Michigan K–12 Administrator Certification
Teresa Woods is the executive director at Lighthouse Connections Academy (LCA) and joined Connections Academy® in 2022. Ms. Woods shares her story below:
“I arrive[d] at Lighthouse as a seasoned administrator and K–12 superintendent, with more than 25 years of experience serving children and families. I began my career as an at-risk school social worker before transitioning into the role of a mental health clinician and manager of a large child welfare agency.
Through these experiences, I saw how social and emotional issues impacted students’ and families’ abilities to learn, and I wanted to bring awareness to these issues in education and provide children with safe and nurturing learning environments.”
Ms. Woods went on to establish and run a PreK–8 aftercare program that partnered with 15 charter schools across five states. She then held leadership positions in both private and public charter school districts before joining the Connections Academy team. Here, she hopes to continue to make a difference in children’s lives.
“I believe that every child deserves to learn in an environment that best serves their learning style and family needs. I am extremely honored to join the Lighthouse Connections Academy team and build on the extraordinary work already in place! My vision for Lighthouse Connections Academy is for each child to develop a curiosity for learning, discover their interests, and grow in their love of learning.
My conversations with district staff have brought me privileged insights into the core beliefs and values that underlie the LCA. With my goal of continuing the tradition of excellence here at Lighthouse Connections Academy, I am committed to always exploring new ways to meet the needs of all students and to communicate with parents and community members more effectively.”