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(803) 356 2232
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Mon-Fri 7:30 A.M - 5:30 PM
Our Staff
Our Staff
Joy Huyck
Center Director and Co-founder
I earned a BA in Christian Education from Columbia International University and studied Spanish abroad in Flamingo, Costa Rica and Bogotá, Colombia. Being bilingual has provided so many great opportunities to meet new people and serve the community. Early childhood education and learning about other cultures are my passions. I have worked with children of all ages for over 20 years, including 18 years in administration. In my free time, I enjoy participating in activities with the church, getting out in nature and taking trips with friends and family.
Luz Giraldo
Business Director and Co-founder
I’m a fully bilingual native from Colombia and have a Bachelor’s Degree in System Engineering with a Minor in Business and Information Technology, also a Master’s Degree in Management of Information Systems from University ICESI.
As an immigrant, I believe it is my duty to help create bridges between cultures and plant a seed in children about the importance loving their neighbor. Children don’t have any bigotry or prejudice in them, they are the future of this society and we have to educate them in empathy and give them the tools to make a positive impact on the world.
Michalle Class
Senior Teacher / English Teacher
Since I was a little girl, I have wanted to be a teacher. In high school, I took my first early childhood education course, then I earned my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Columbia College. I have worked at My Amigos since 2013 and have loved every minute! In recent years, with the help of my coworkers at My Amigos, I have become bilingual. I hope to be able to use my new skill soon when I visit Puerto Rico again to see family. In 2020 I became the mother of an amazing little boy named Rowan. I can’t wait for the day he can come to My Amigos with me!
Ruth Newby
Office Assistant
Originally from Raleigh, NC, Ruth earned a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and English at Union University before completing a Masters in Spanish at Middlebury College Language Schools. She has lived abroad in Madrid, Spain and Santiago, Chile. She has experience teaching, translating and working with study abroad students. Outside of work, Ruth enjoys outdoor activities--especially horseback riding or playing with her pet goats--as well as reading, painting or crocheting.
Keila Reyes-Lopes
Spanish Teacher
I was born and raised in Puerto Rico. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education and I am bilingual. I enjoy developing gross motor skills activities, Zumba kids and athletic events for my students. I love to dance, listen to music and I am passionate about everything related to cinematography and video production. I am a mother of two wonderful children, and I love playing with them and watching them grow. My life motto is: “It’s not how you fall; it’s how you get up and don’t give up.” My life is about God, my Family and believing that I can make a difference every day in the lives of the people around me.
Yanet Morales
English Teacher
I was born and raised in SC from a family who knew little to no English. Struggling with the language barrier at a young age and not understanding a single thing at school, I now am amazed on how I can easily switch from one language to another. I know that the kids that come to My Amigos will learn to do that as well. In high school, I participated in ThriveRichland, where I completed courses and earned certificates from the University of Florida Lastinger Center, but I plan on furthering my career. Graduating from high school in 2020, I had a plan of my own but God already had a plan. I thank him for allowing me to work at My Amigos. I hope the kids that come here learn to love people who speak and look different from them because we are all God's Children.
Norma Medina
Spanish Teacher
I am from Colombia and have lived in South Carolina for 3 years. I earned my degree in Accounting and Commercial Administration. I believe that the future of our world is children and quality education for them, so I am very proud to be a part of the family at My Amigos where I can live out my values of sincerity, love and kindness. I am married with a daughter who is a medical professional. I enjoy exercising in the morning and growing bonsai trees with my husband.
Dori Rios
Spanish Teacher
I have been a teacher for many years, in Peru, Belize and the United States. Currently I am a preschool teacher for My Amigos. Each day it is my privilege to promote, stimulate, and develop the intellectual, physical and emotional growth of my students. I am also a pastor’s wife and the mother of three wonderful children. I am from Peru. When I visit my country, I enjoy my beautiful family, delicious foods and landscapes, etc. I am happy, every day with fun and enthusiasm. God bless everyone.
Lorencia Jules
English Teacher
I am from Florida, and also of Haitian descent. I received my Bachelors of Science in Early Childhood Education through Florida International University. I enjoy planning arts and crafts activities for the children at My Amigos.