Shrewsbury - West
Our Teachers
Ann Marie Liseno
Ann Marie Liseno is a passionate educator, instructional leader, and lifelong advocate for children’s learning with over 30 years of experience in education. She previously served as the K–4 Mathematics Coordinator for Worcester Public Schools, where she worked closely with students, teachers, and school leaders to strengthen elementary mathematics instruction and foster a love of learning in young learners.
Throughout her distinguished career, Ann Marie has dedicated 30 years to classroom teaching and 15 years in educational leadership and administration, where she supported both student achievement and teacher development. In addition to her work in public education, she has served for over 20 years as an adjunct professor at Worcester State University, where she has helped prepare and inspire future educators.
Ann Marie holds a Bachelor of Science in Education, a Master of Science in Elementary Education, and a minor in Psychology—an academic foundation that has shaped her student-centered approach to teaching and leadership.
What brings Ann Marie the greatest joy is seeing the smile on a child’s face when they discover something new. She believes deeply in hands-on, engaging learning experiences and is known for using manipulatives, encouragement, and positive reinforcement to help students build both confidence and understanding.
Outside of education, Ann Marie enjoys reading, exploring mathematics, spending treasured time with her grandchildren, and staying active. She brings energy, warmth, and a sense of fun to everything she does, making a lasting impact on the lives of students, families, and fellow educators.
Cathy Stefanides
Catherine Stefanides is a dedicated and compassionate educator with 38 years of teaching experience and a lifelong passion for helping students grow, learn, and succeed. She currently teaches in the GED program at Quinsigamond Community College in Worcester, where she works to empower learners of all backgrounds as they pursue their educational goals and build brighter futures.
Catherine holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and Psychology, along with a Master’s degree in Elementary Education. Her strong academic background, combined with nearly four decades of classroom experience, has shaped her student-centered teaching philosophy.
For Catherine, teaching is more than a profession—it is truly her passion. She finds great joy in helping students discover their potential, build confidence, and achieve success that will positively impact their futures. She believes in creating strong, meaningful relationships with her students and is known for fostering a warm, supportive classroom environment through engaging, hands-on learning experiences.
When she’s not teaching, Catherine enjoys spending time with her 2-year-old puggle, Charlie, who never says no to his favorite dog treats. Her caring nature, enthusiasm for learning, and commitment to student success make her a valued educator and mentor.
Katie Gould
Hi, I’m Katie Gould—an educator, musician, mentor, and passionate advocate for helping children discover their confidence through learning.
For over 22 years, I have dedicated my career to education, serving as an elementary classroom teacher, science teacher, art educator, early child-hood and pre-school music & movement educator, and an elementary and middle school music and instrumental music educator. Throughout my journey in both private and public education, I have had the privilege of teaching students of all ages, helping them grow not only academically, but also creatively, emotionally, and socially. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Music and a Master's Degree in Music Education. My career has taught me that true learning goes far beyond memorization—it requires discipline, confidence, creativity, perseverance, and the courage to take risks.
As the proud owner and Center Director of Best Brain Learning Center - Shrewsbury-West, I bring that same philosophy into everything we do. I believe every child is capable of success when given the right guidance, encouragement, and individualized support.
My background in both academics and the arts has shaped my approach to teaching: helping students build strong foundational skills while also developing critical thinking, confidence, self-expression, and a lifelong love of learning.
As both an educator and a mom, I understand how important it is for families to find a learning environment that feels safe, inspiring, and truly invested in their child’s growth. It is an honor to serve our community and to help students discover just how capable they really are.
I look forward to welcoming your family into our learning community.
— Katie Gould, Center Director
Erin DAgostino
We are proud to shine the spotlight on Erin D’Agostino!
Erin brings heart, experience, and a true love of teaching to our Best Brains family. She earned her teaching license from Framingham State University and later completed her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education at Worcester State University.
With experience as an ABA tutor, instructional assistant, and first grade teacher, Erin has dedicated her career to helping children grow academically, socially, and emotionally. After six wonderful years in the classroom, she took time to focus on raising her daughter—bringing even more compassion, patience, and perspective to her work with students.
Erin believes that the best learning happens when students feel connected, supported, and engaged through hands-on experiences.
Fun fact: When she’s not teaching, Erin loves exploring new food spots with her family… especially if donuts are involved!
We are so grateful to have Erin inspiring and empowering our students every week. Welcome to the Best Brains family, Erin!
Chuck Picht
Chuck Picht is an experienced educator currently teaching abacus at Best Brains Learning Centers in Shrewsbury. He earned his teaching certifications in both New Jersey and Florida and began his classroom career teaching General Science and Biology at Elmwood Park Jr.-Sr. High School. Throughout his career, he has also tutored students in geometry, algebra, and trigonometry, helping learners build strong mathematical confidence and critical thinking skills.
Chuck’s professional journey later expanded into the biotechnology industry, where he led sales training programs for three different biotech companies specializing in general laboratory science, cancer research, and genetics. This unique blend of education and real-world scientific experience allows him to bring practical knowledge and enthusiasm into every lesson.
Chuck believes teaching is magical because of the moment when a student truly understands a concept — “you can see it in their eyes,” he says, “and it’s incredibly joyful.” His teaching style is eclectic and student-centered; he adapts his methods to do whatever it takes to help each learner succeed. He also enjoys challenging students with higher-level questions that encourage critical thinking and deeper understanding.
One of Chuck’s favorite areas of study is nutrigenomics — the science of how food influences gene function to optimize health. His passion for lifelong learning and discovery continues to inspire the students he teaches every day.
