THIS IS US
Next Gen staff understands that a quality education includes more than just books.
We focus on nurturing the WHOLE child; mind, body, and spirit.
DENISE JORDAN
DIRECTOR
Ms. Jordan has been a resident of Manatee County since 1970. She holds a B.A. in Human Development from Eckerd College, and an M.A.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Argosy University. Her professional background includes teaching at all levels of K-12, as well as the collegiate level, private consulting and training, and school administration. Her passion for academic excellence is apparent in the high expectations she holds for her students and staff, as well as herself.
OUR STAR TEACHERS
Jessica Caller
Middle School
Jessica Caller has lived in Manatee County her whole life, calling Palmetto home for 15+ years. She attended State College of Florida, and received her Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design from Full Sail University.
Ms. Caller brings her design and technology background into the classroom in order to create a colorful and modern approach to education. She has been with Next Gen for 10 years, and continues to provide a quality education for her students every day.
Marion Harbin
Grades k-2
Mrs. Harbin moved to the Bradenton area from Michigan where she taught kindergarten for over twenty years. She received her Bachelor's degree in education and a Master's degree in reading from Oakland University. She is married and has three grown children. Mrs. Harbin loves to teach and enjoys the beach, eating out, reading historical fiction, and gardening. She feels "so fortunate to be part of the Next Generation School Family."
Jacob Caller
P.E
Jacob Caller has been passionate about sports since he could first hold a football. He took every opportunity to play with friends, families, and eventually coached at the YMCA. His excitement and love of the game is infectious. Students enjoy learning a variety of regulation and self-made sports in addition to sportsmanship and effective communication.
He is well versed in adapting lessons for a diverse age group to hit all content areas for grades Kindergarten to Middle School.
Coach J enjoys video games and family vacations to Disney.
Our arts academy is devoted to making a difference in the lives of our youth and community. Our mission is to train our students in a faith-based environment, where they can express themselves freely through dance, music, drama, while gaining technique and strength , As well as learning principles, that build's good character in each students life, to become exceptional leaders.
Hanna Keddy
Grades 3-5
Hanna Keddy knew early on that teaching was the career for her. Being surrounded by experienced teachers all her life has only strengthened this belief. Hanna is currently working on her B.A in education. She brings her deep seeded love for education with her to the classroom, as well as the latest Broadway soundtrack which she and her students can be found listening to during brain break.
Maggie Nelson
Middle School
Maggie Nelson, originally from the picturesque city of Newport, Rhode Island, has called Bradenton home since 2006. She graduated with a BA in Psychology from Salve Regina College and earned her master’s degree from Simmons College in Boston, Massachusetts.
Teaching reading is Ms. Nelson’s true passion, and she loves helping students discover the joy of books and language. Outside of school, she enjoys exploring local parks, soaking up the sun at the beach, or swimming laps at GT Bray. Ms. Nelson enjoys connecting with students and families and being part of the vibrant school community.
Alexandra Buck
k-2
Alexandra Buck is excited to start this adventure of learning, laughter, creativity, friendship and growth. She has lived in Bradenton Florida for most of her life. She graduated from SCF and has been working in Early Childhood Education for the past nine years. She is looking forward to teaching Math and Science to Next Gen's little ones for the 2025/2026 school year here at Next Generation Academics!
Dedicated to enhancing handbell ringing as an art form, the Sarasota‐based group under the direction of former Navy bandleader Rick Holdsworth showcases over 200 individual handbells and handchimes rung by a large ensemble of ringers to create a symphony of sound with special effects mimicking the piccolo, percussion, trombone, and even the Tibetan singing bowl! Ring Sarasota attracts member ringers from as far north as Tampa Bay and as far south as Fort Myers.