Leadership Team
Biographies and Contact Information
Executive Director - Carol Edelstein
Carol Edelstein has served as the Executive Director and VP of Sunrise Senior Living Education Foundation (SSLEF) since December 2006. She received her bachelor’s degree in health services management from LaSalle University preceded by undergraduate studies in early childhood education at the University of Maryland. Carol served as the assistant director at The Talent House Private School (now Merritt Academy) in 1986–1987, managed an infant & toddler center for 3 years, and taught preschool for 7 years.
Email: carole@merrittacademy.org. Phone: 703-273-8000 Shutterfly Page
School Principal - Linda Potts
Linda Potts has enjoyed being an educator for many years. She brings over 15 years of experience working at Merritt Academy. She received her bachelor's degree in sociology/anthropology from Gettysburg College and holds a master's degree in education administration and supervision. She has held several positions at Merritt including Director of Education, middle school teacher (of multiple subjects),and Curriculum Director.
Email: lindap@merrittacademy.org Phone: 703-273-2209 Shutterfly Page
Preschool Director - Bev Linning
Beverly Linning brings over ten years of experience in the field of education including teaching preschool and elementary school; design, program and development and set-up of a new school in Pakistan; and extensive work in the area of staff training.
Email: beverlyl@merrittacademy.org Phone: 703-273-4980 Shutterfly Page
School Counselor - Kris Sanchez
Kris Sanchez worked for 16 years in the Pierre, SD, public school system as a middle school counselor conducting classes in careers, social skills, and strategies to help students make positive life choices. Kris worked with classroom teachers and administrators on student issues and curriculum, and consulted with parents, teachers, and other professionals to help students succeed academically. Kris graduated from South Dakota State University and received her master’s degree in education, with a major in guidance and counseling.
Email: kriss@merrittacademy.org Phone: (703) 273-8000, ext. 132 or (703) 273-9289
Director of Admissions - Amy Pernick
Amy Pernick joined Merritt Academy in March, 2009, as the Director of Admissions. She is a graduate of Virginia Tech, having earned a bachelor’s degree in English with a minor in Business Leadership. Amy has prior experience in college admissions at High Point University in High Point, NC, where she gained an appreciation for helping families find the school that is the right “fit” for their child. She feels that the most rewarding part of her job iswatching the students she enrolled thrive and grow as they progress through the academy.
Email: amyp@merrittacademy.org Phone: (703) 539-8394 Shutterfly Page
Merritt AcademyI have been at this school since I was very young and I have grown close to everyone here. They are really friendly and nice.
8th Grade Student