Meet the Administrators

Welcome to Forest Hills Elementary

Welcome to Forest Hills, where we are exceptionally proud to be an "A" rated school by the Florida Department of Education. Our commitment to academic excellence is matched only by our dedication to developing well-rounded, responsible citizens who will make a positive impact on the world.

Our Mission and Core Values

At Forest Hills, we keep three core tenets at the forefront of everything we do: Care for Self, Care for Others, and Care for the Environment. These guiding principles help our students become responsible scholars who place academics at the forefront while developing the character and integrity needed to succeed in life.

Each year, we strive to boost academic achievement while teaching students how to make responsible decisions. We understand the importance of mastering problem-solving skills and fostering strong communication abilities. Our school does not tolerate bullying of any kind and emphasizes open dialogue as a necessary means to work through difficult situations. Our dedicated staff closely monitors student interactions to promote a safe, nurturing learning environment for all.

Leadership with Heart and Experience

Our Assistant Principal, Mr. Derrick L. Huff, Ed.S., brings 12 years of exceptional leadership to Forest Hills. With a rich educational background that includes degrees from Tuskegee University, Alabama State University, and Barry University, Mr. Huff combines academic expertise with real-world leadership experience gained as a U.S. Army officer. Coming from a family of educators including both parents who served as school principals. Mr. Huff understands the profound impact that quality education has on young lives.

Visit Us

Should you have any questions or are looking for a top-rated, nurturing environment for your child to thrive, please stop in for a tour—we would love to show you around. Feel free to give us a call at (754) 322-6400. Have a great 2026-27 school year!

Educationally Yours,
Derrick L. Huff, Ed.S.
Assistant Principal

Mrs. Antonini is proud to have spent 8 years at FHE and 29 years in education, helping students discover their strengths, build confidence, find their voices, and reach their fullest potential. She holds a Doctorate in Speech-Language Pathology from Nova Southeastern University, a Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders from the University of Texas at Austin, and dual Bachelor’s degrees in Forensics and Abnormal Psychology from Florida State University. She also holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC), certifications in Exceptional Student Education (ESE), ESOL, Professional Crisis Management, and Speech-Language Pathology, as well as an Autism Endorsement. Mrs. Antonini is passionate about never underestimating children or what they are capable of achieving; she believes that with high expectations, the right support, encouragement, and someone who truly believes in them, students can accomplish amazing things. Outside of school, she is a proud mom of both dogs and twins, a devoted FSU Seminole, and a big fan of travel, Disney, and of course, pizza!

As a dedicated member of the FHE family for 14 years, she is grateful to be a leader within the school, taking on many roles that allow her to support students, educators, and families and contribute to the growth and success of every student. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education (K–6) and certifications in Exceptional Student Education (K–12), along with Reading and ESOL Endorsements. Her passion for ESE is rooted in advocating for students with exceptional educational needs and ensuring they receive the services, accommodations, and support they are entitled to. As an ESE Specialist, she is committed to ensuring compliance with ESE laws, policies, and requirements while collaborating with teachers, families, and staff to create meaningful opportunities for student success. She especially enjoys supporting and guiding educators by helping them understand the unique needs of ESE students and providing practical strategies to make their classrooms more inclusive and supportive. Outside of school, she is a proud mom to a teenager, a dog mom to two pups, and a horse mom. When she isn’t advocating for her students, she enjoys all things Disney and cheering her daughter on as she pursues her equestrian dreams.

Welcome, FHE families, to the 2026–2027 school year. Ms. Bitton is beginning her sixth year as the school counselor at FHE and brings 16 years of experience in education. She earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and specialist degrees from Florida Atlantic University in Early Childhood Education and School Counseling. In her free time, Ms. Bitton enjoys traveling and shopping. She has always had a passion for working with children and is proud to be a Ranger Bear.

Gabriela Genov is proud to call Forest Hills Elementary home, where she has been an Instructional Coach for the past eight years and also serves as the school's Response to Intervention Coordinator and New Teacher Mentor Liaison. With 25 years in education, including five years as a middle school science teacher in Europe and 20 years with Broward County Public Schools teaching students in kindergarten through fifth grade, she is passionate about supporting both students and teachers. Ms. Genov holds a Master's Degree in Environmental Science and a Bachelor's Degree in Education. She is K-6 Certified, Gifted Certified, Reading Endorsed, ESOL Certified, and holds Math and Reading Coach Credentials, as well as a Professional Learning Facilitator Credential. Fluent in English and Bulgarian, she also has knowledge of several other Slavic languages. Above all, she leads with heart, believes in the potential of every child, and loves working alongside teachers to foster learning and growth. Supporting, encouraging, and connecting with families completes the circle of what she values most as an educator. A firm believer that learning never stops; she is currently working toward earning her Florida Literacy Coach Endorsement. When she is not at school, she cherishes spending time with her husband and their two boys, who inspire her every day.

Katherine Rzeczycki is entering her fifth year at Forest Hills Elementary and brings a decade of education experience. After teaching 1st through 3rd grades, she now works as the school's Math Coach, ESOL Coordinator, and In-Service Facilitator. She earned her bachelor's in Special Education and her master's in Early Childhood Education from the University of Florida and is currently pursuing her specialist degree in Educational Leadership through FAU's PROPEL program. Katherine holds a Professional Certificate in Elementary Education (K-3) and endorsements in Reading, ESOL, and Gifted education. She believes every child can grow and succeed when they are supported, encouraged, and given opportunities to shine. She is bilingual, fluent in both English and Polish.

Phyllis Loss, Clerical, Attendance Clerk

Attendance Phone Number: 754-322-6419

Fax Number: 754-322-6440

Jennifer Cassara, Bookkeeper

Main Office Number: 754-322-6404

Fax: 754-322-6440

Ana Ziade, General Clerk II

Main Office Number: 754-322-6400

Fax: 754-322-6440

Anne Pekrol, FHE Office Manager

Main Office Number: 754-322-6408

Fax Number: 754-322-6440

Cristina Martinez, Registrar

Main Office Number:754-322-6407

Fax Number: 754-322-6440

Sarah Clark, Technology Support Specialist II

Main Office Number: 754-322-6415

Fax: 754-322-6440