Our Mentors and Alumni
Using a developed curriculum, the Young Journalists Mentors help grow writers, and through their writing help grow readers. It emphasizes reading to support writing and writing to support reading. Reading, be it through research or absorbing other journalist’s writings, and each other’s writings, supports further writing.
The Young Journalist helps students prepare for both FSA Reading and Writing Florida Standards Assessments (FSA) English Language Arts (ELA) Reading and Writing Assessments. Additionally, The Young Journalist prepares students for The Florida Assessment of Student Thinking (FAST) system administered three times per year tracking out student's progress in learning the Benchmarks of Excellent Student Thinking (B.E.S.T.) Standards throughout this school year. Our goal is to help students graduate from reading at grade level to proficient or master.
Bonnie Bramwell
Bonnie Bramwell is a senior at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, FL. She graduated from Indian River Charter High School and currently lives in Vero Beach. Her major is Strategic Communications, with a minor in literature. She is a columnist and the social media manager for The Crimson- Florida Tech’s student-run newspaper. She is also President of Lambda Pi Eta, Florida Tech’s National Communication Association’s official honor society. Once she graduates, she aspires to become a Science or English teacher.
Caroline Jakubik
Caroline graduated from Villanova University in 2024 with a B.A. in History. She is passionate about working with children, having previously interned and worked with the Make-a-Wish Foundation and the Andrew McDonough B+ Foundation. Caroline has loved reading and writing from a young age and is currently pursuing a degree in Nursing.
Thomas Hardy
B. S. Government, Nasson College. Publisher, Vero Communiqué. Software systems owner (now retired). Founder, The Young Journalist. Memberships: National Press Club, Columbia Journalism Review, Society of Professional Journalists, LIONS (Local Independent News Society) and Pulitzer Center K – 12. Children’s book author, “The Exclusive Life of Reba K. Williams, a Parakeet.”
Rachel Smith
With 19 years of experience in education, Rachel is a dedicated and passionate educator committed to helping students reach their fullest potential. She holds a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on Technology and has worked with students across elementary, middle, and high school settings throughout five counties in Florida. Her diverse experience has given her a broad understanding of student learning needs, instructional strategies, and the importance of creating supportive, engaging, and individualized learning environments.
A self-proclaimed lifelong learner, she believes that education is an ongoing journey for both teachers and students. Her commitment to professional growth and innovative teaching practices reflects her desire to continually learn, adapt, and provide meaningful educational experiences for every student. In addition to her classroom experience, she has provided private tutoring, with a special focus on homebound students and students with special needs. She is passionate about meeting learners where they are, recognizing their individual strengths, and helping them build confidence, independence, and academic success.
Her dedication to service extends well beyond the classroom. Over several years, she volunteered with Cub Scouts and the Boy Scouts of America, progressing into leadership roles and guiding Scouts on their journeys toward the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. She has also served as a Little League team mom, supporting young athletes and fostering teamwork, sportsmanship, and personal growth. Additionally, she has generously donated her time to support American veterans, reflecting her deep appreciation for community service and those who have served our country.
Whether teaching in a classroom, tutoring a student one-on-one, mentoring young people, or volunteering in her community, she strives to make a lasting, positive difference in the lives of others. Her career and service reflect a steadfast belief that every individual deserves encouragement, opportunity, and the support needed to succeed.
Sasha Martell
Sasha is a recent graduate from the University of South Florida with a B.A. in English and a B.A. in Performing Arts. She has a love for working with children and is excited to be teaching journalism to the new generation. Sasha has been a mentor and camp counselor at Riverside Children's Theatre and has worked as an intern at Gluten-Free and More Magazine. She often spends her time either writing or volunteering at the Vero Beach Theater Guild.