Mr. Jerry Seeger | 

Speech & Debate

Mr. Jerry Seeger has been teaching for 22 years, but his first love was acting—and he still finds time to perform whenever he can. “Teaching is a lot like acting,” he said. “You’re on stage, you’re engaging an audience, and you’re telling a story.”

His theatrical background gives his classroom a lively, unpredictable energy. “The most effective way to get students’ attention is not letting them know what’s coming,” he explained. His lessons are full of surprises, humor, and moments that challenge students to think in new ways. Mr. Seeger believes that teaching is about more than academics—it’s about guiding students toward maturity and self-awareness. He’s known for his advice, including one memorable mantra: “Don’t say ‘um!’” It’s part of his effort to help students communicate clearly and confidently.

“Don’t say ‘um!’” —Mr. Jerry Seeger

Ms. Maritza Cosano | Journalism

“Chase the news, but seek the truth.”—Ms. Maritza Cosano

Maritza Cosano’s journey to teaching is as compelling as her lessons. With 40 years of experience as a journalist and 13 years as an educator, she brings storytelling, curiosity, and a global perspective to her classroom.

Her transition into education began unexpectedly. In 2004, while working for Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale as a Managing Editor in the communications department, something interesting happened. 

“I managed our monthly magazine and saw something that was missing—a youth voice. So, I pitched the idea to my team to add a spread written by teens for teens.” That moment sparked a new passion—teaching high school journalism at Calvary Christian Academy, and now here at BAK MSOA, while continuing to work as a journalist. Her classroom is a hub of discussion, creativity, and critical thinking. She tells her students, “Chase the news, but seek the truth.”

Ms. Kim Pirtle | Math 

“I want students to understand math and not be afraid of it.” —Mrs. Kim Pirtle

With over 11 years of teaching experience, Ms. Kim Pirtle has developed a reputation for turning math from a source of anxiety into a subject of curiosity and confidence. Her teaching philosophy centers on making math accessible and enjoyable for all students.

“I want students to understand math and not be afraid of it,” she said. 

To achieve this, she incorporates hands-on activities, such as foldables—interactive paper tools that help students visualize concepts and organize their thoughts. “We fold paper to make boxes and shapes. It’s more visually appealing and helps students grasp 

Mr. Nesty Nuñez | Math 

“I teach math because there are hundreds of ways to get to an answer.”

—Mr. Nesty Nuñez

With two decades of teaching experience, Mr. Nesty Nunez brings wisdom, warmth, and a deep understanding of how students learn. 

“I teach math because there are hundreds of ways to get to an answer,” he explained. “In other subjects, a verb is a verb. But in math, there are multiple ways to get to an answer.”

Mr. Nunez sees teaching as a way to be part of something bigger—his students’ journeys toward success. “Teaching gives you a way to be in the life of someone amazing. You get to be part of their growth, their victories, and their future.”