Today we’d like to introduce you to Stacy Dalberiste.
Hi Stacy, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started my career in education with a strong passion for working with students who need additional support, especially those in self-contained and intensive support settings. Early on, I quickly realized that my purpose wasn’t just about teaching academics—it was about helping students build confidence, communication skills, and independence that would carry over into every part of their lives. Over time, I grew into leadership roles within my school community, working closely with paraprofessionals, families, and other educators to create consistent, supportive environments where students could thrive.
As I continued to grow professionally, I also took on the role of camp director for HOPE Summer Camp, a STEM-focused program for students in grades K–8. That experience allowed me to extend my work beyond the school year and into a hands-on, engaging environment where students can explore science, technology, engineering, and math in fun and meaningful ways. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see students build confidence through creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration in a setting that feels both structured and joyful.
Along the way, I began to see a gap in opportunities for meaningful social-emotional learning and authentic communication practice, especially for students with more significant needs. That’s where the idea for The Conversation Lab came from. I wanted to create a space—both physically and through programming—that intentionally focuses on helping students build real-world communication skills, confidence, and connection with others.
Today, I continue to work in education, lead HOPE Summer Camp, and build The Conversation Lab alongside my school-based work. My goal is to bridge classroom learning, enrichment experiences, and life skills to create more opportunities for students to be seen, heard, and empowered. Everything I do is rooted in the belief that every student deserves access to spaces where their voice matters and their growth is celebrated.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road, and I think that’s been a big part of my growth. In college, I struggled with time management, which ultimately impacted my progress and led to me graduating later than I had originally planned. During that time, I also faced financial challenges that required me to balance school, responsibilities, and work in ways that were often overwhelming. Those experiences taught me a lot about resilience and the importance of structure, planning, and asking for support when needed.
Even after college, I’ve continued to navigate challenges such as imposter syndrome, which is something I still work through at times, especially as I’ve taken on leadership roles and new initiatives like HOPE Summer Camp and The Conversation Lab. There are moments where I’ve had to remind myself that I am capable and that I’ve earned my place in these spaces through hard work and dedication.
Looking back, while those struggles were difficult, they shaped me into a more self-aware and determined educator and leader. They’ve helped me better understand my students, especially those who are navigating their own challenges, and they’ve strengthened my commitment to creating supportive environments where growth is always possible.
We’ve been impressed with The Conversation Lab, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
By day, I wear several hats in the field of education that all connect back to my passion for supporting and empowering students. I am an Exceptional Student Education (ESE) teacher, a tutor, a higher education student, a camp director, and a Zumba instructor. Each of these roles allows me to work closely with children and families in different settings, but they are all grounded in the same mission: helping students build confidence, strengthen academic and communication skills, and discover their potential in meaningful, hands-on ways.
Alongside this work, I am also in the process of launching The Conversation Lab, an initiative that I am truly excited about and actively building toward full launch. The Conversation Lab is designed to create intentional spaces where students can develop real-world communication skills, social confidence, and connection with others through structured yet engaging experiences. I am currently gathering interest forms from families and participants who are eager to be part of the program as it prepares to open.
What sets my work apart is the intentional blend of academic support, social-emotional learning, movement, and real-life skill development across all of my roles. Whether I am in the classroom, leading camp activities, teaching a Zumba class, or working one-on-one with a student, I focus on meeting learners where they are and helping them grow beyond academics into confident communicators, problem-solvers, and well-rounded individuals. I am most proud of the way I have been able to create and support spaces where people feel seen, supported, and capable of success. With The Conversation Lab, my goal is to expand that impact even further and offer families a program that truly prioritizes student voice, confidence, connection, and joy in learning.
Do you have any memories from childhood that you can share with us?
One of my favorite childhood memories is making “epis” with my grandmother. Epis is a traditional Haitian spice blend used to marinate meats and add flavor to many meals. I remember my grandma calling me into the kitchen whenever she was getting ready to cook and asking me to “pile (pee-lay) the epis.” She would have all of the vegetables and herbs already washed and prepared, and I would carefully place them into the “pilon” (mortar and pestle). From there, I would mash and grind the ingredients until they formed the perfect paste that would bring so much flavor to our traditional Haitian dishes. Those moments in the kitchen are very special to me because they connected me to my culture, my family, and the joy of learning through simple, hands-on experiences with someone I love.
Pricing:
- $50/Session – 8 Week Social Communication Program
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.conversationlab
- Email: theconversationlab.info@gmail.com
