Dimitris Schaeffer Akel
CIS Headmistress
Ms. Dimitris Akel began her academic journey by earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Bethune-Cookman University. She later obtained a Master of Education Degree in Educational Leadership from Pennsylvania State University and is currently pursuing an Educational Doctorate (Ed.D.) Degree at Nova Southeastern University, with an anticipated completion date of December 2026.
Following the completion of her bachelor’s degree, Ms. Akel began her professional career with the Department of Corrections in Miami-Dade County, serving as a Probation Officer. Although she enjoyed working within the criminal justice system, education had always been deeply rooted in her life. Growing up in a family that owned and operated early childhood education centers, she developed a passion for teaching and learning at an early age.
Recognizing her calling in education, Ms. Akel resigned from the Department of Corrections and began working as a substitute teacher in Broward County Public Schools. She was subsequently hired as a classroom teacher in Palm Beach County, where she faithfully served for three years. Having spent much of her childhood immersed in an educational environment—living on the same property as Schaeffer’s Preschool Academy, which was owned and operated by her mother—becoming a school owner herself seemed destined from the very beginning.
When her mother relocated to Augusta, Georgia, she entrusted Ms. Akel with the leadership of Schaeffer’s Preschool Academy. Accepting the responsibility with humility and faith, Ms. Akel dedicated herself to expanding the school’s impact and reputation. Under her leadership, Schaeffer’s Preschool Academy earned accreditation through the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), while also implementing innovative educational programs that enhanced the school’s marketability and academic excellence. Enrollment increased dramatically, establishing Schaeffer’s as one of the premier preschool programs in the City of Pompano Beach.
Throughout her journey, Ms. Akel remained steadfast in her belief that God had placed a vision in her heart to one day establish a school of her own. With determination, perseverance, and unwavering faith, she pursued that vision relentlessly.
In 2006, her dream became a reality when she founded Children In the Spirit Preschool. Through God’s grace and her commitment to educational excellence, the preschool flourished and eventually expanded into Children In the Spirit Christian School, serving students from Kindergarten through 10th grade. Today, Ms. Akel continues to lead with a passion for Christian education, empowering students academically, spiritually, and socially while inspiring future generations to reach their God-given potential.
Dalia Tepper
CIS Administrative Assistant
Ms. Dalia Tepper has been a cherished and dedicated member of the Children In the Spirit family since November 2009. As Administrative Assistant and Ms. D. Akel’s ‘Right Hand”, she consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty, serving our school community with unwavering dedication, creativity, and a heart for both children and families. Her years of faithful service reflect her deep commitment to the mission and vision of Children In the Spirit Christian School.
Ms. Dalia has a unique gift for inspiring both students and staff to think beyond the classroom walls, encouraging exploration, imagination, and meaningful learning experiences. Through her love of reading, storytelling, creative enrichment, and exposure to new ideas, she has helped countless students discover the beauty of God’s world and expand their understanding of the possibilities around them. Her passion for literacy and student engagement has made a lasting impact on our school culture.
In recognition of her remarkable contributions and enduring legacy, the Dalia Tepper CIS Library at our Tamarac campus was dedicated in her honor—a testament to the countless lives she has touched through her service, compassion, and commitment to nurturing young minds. Ms. Dalia’s work is a reflection of the heart of CIS: fostering academic growth, creativity, and Christ-centered learning in a loving community.
Marisa Mills
CIS Lead Administrator / Principal
With nearly two decades in education since beginning her teaching journey in 2007, Marisa Mills is a passionate educator committed to nurturing the whole child—academically, spiritually, and emotionally. A proud veteran with a military background, she brings discipline, leadership, and a heart for service into every aspect of her work.
Ms. Mills earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Barry University and her Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. Her educational philosophy is rooted in the belief that true success comes through wholesome education, strong character development, and a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Dedicated to empowering students to reach their fullest potential, Ms. Mills believes that combining academic excellence with faith-based principles creates a strong foundation for lifelong success.
Mrs. Kirys Pena Lopez
Preschool Administrator
Mrs. Kirys Pena Lopez has been a dedicated and valued member of the Children In the Spirit family since 2012. Her journey with CIS is a true testament to faith, perseverance, and a genuine calling to serve children. Beginning in the two-year-old classroom, Mrs. Pena’s passion for nurturing young learners and her unwavering commitment to God’s children quickly became evident. Through hard work and determination, she advanced her professional development by earning her Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, followed by her Director’s Credentials, ultimately stepping into her leadership role as Preschool Administrator.
Mrs. Pena believes that early childhood education should be joyful, engaging, and rooted in meaningful experiences that inspire curiosity and wonder. She is especially passionate about exposing students to God’s world through enriching real-life experiences, educational field trips, and hands-on learning opportunities that bring classroom concepts to life. Her creative approach to education encourages children to explore, imagine, problem-solve, and develop a love for learning in a fun-filled and nurturing environment.
With a heart for both children and families, Mrs. Pena is committed to creating a safe, loving, and Christ-centered preschool experience where every child feels seen, valued, and encouraged to grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Her leadership reflects her belief that the early years are foundational, and she works diligently to ensure each child at CIS Preschool receives the care, guidance, and educational experiences needed to thrive.