Abess Park Elementary

Hi my name is Michelle Arcuri- Fondo. I have been at Abess Park for 5 years. I teach 5th grade Math, Science and Social Studies.

You can contact Ms. Arcuri at: arcurim@duvalschools.org

I am a native Floridian. I have worked in the Duval County Schools for 35 years. I began my career at Ramona Elementary in 1974, in 1980-1986 at Loretto Elementary, 1986-1989 at Corinne Scott Elementary, Andrew Robinson in 1989-1993, at Mandarin Oaks from 1993-1997, and here at Abess since the school opened in 1997. I am a UNF alumni. I graduated in the first graduating class there. I love teaching. Even after 35 years the children still give me so much pleasure, which makes it easy to come here to work every day.

I’m a native Floridian having been born and raised on my Father’s cattle ranch in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. I attended Daytona Beach Junior College receiving a two year degree in business. After moving to Jacksonville, the University of North Florida opened its doors for upper level students. I was proud to be among the first UNF Charter class graduating with honors. I went on to receive two master’s degrees from UNF. My teaching career began at Woodland Acres teaching second grade and then first. I then moved to Lake Lucina for a number of years teaching fourth and third grades. Next was Lone Star and then Abess Park to teach fifth grade. Since I had a pilots license, I applied for the Teacher in Space Program. I was the only woman among the five finalists considered in Duval County. This is my 35th and last year of teaching. I look forward to spending time with my husband, my daughter who is a police officer with JSO, my darling 3 year old grandson, and my son and daughter in law.

My name is Courtney Miller. This is my second year at Abess Park and I currently teach 5th grade Reading and Language Arts. Prior to Abess, I taught for five years at Biltmore. I taught 3rd and 4th grade and served as the school's Standards Coach for two years.

My name is Karla Utley and I am a fifth grade teacher at Abess. I have taught 5th grade in room 202 since the school opened in 1997. I love teaching Math, Science and Social Studies to my fifth graders. This is my 19th year of teaching, all of which have been in the 4th or 5th grade.

I graduated from Florida State University with my Bachleor’s Degree. At F.S.U. I was a member of Chi Omega and played on the Women’s Soccer Team. A few years ago I went back to school at the University of North Florida to earn my Master’s Degree.

My children, Skyla and Janie, attend Abess Park Elementary. My youngest daughter, Kendyll goes to preschool. On the weekend we enjoy watching the Seminoles play football. We like to shop and scrapbook too.

My name is Kelly Werst and I have been teaching at Abess since 2005. I am currently teaching my third year of 5th grade, but have also taught 4th grade. I am very thankful to be teaching at such a great school with an awesome group of teachers, administration, and students. I grew up in south Florida and made my way to Jacksonville after high school to attend the University of North Florida, where I obtained my degree in Elementary Education. I have the cutest pug in the world, Riley, who keeps me on my toes constantly and I love the FLORIDA GATORS!!!!!!

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