About Us.

Anthea: 

Anthea strongly believes in the transformative power of education, a belief that stems from her childhood, with cherished memories of spending time at Achievement Unlimited with her dad, Michael Zizzamia.  Anthea remembers what those days felt like, driving in beat-up cars with way too many kids, hot and sweaty but filled with laughter and so much love. That feeling surrounded Anthea through most of her childhood. This has been a driving force in Anthea’s career, along with knowing how hard her grandmother and mother worked to make sure Anthea and her siblings were well cared for and educated.  “I had seen the impact; I had felt the love. I thought to myself, “This is what I want to do. I want to make a difference in students’ lives.”

Anthea has been an elementary educator for over 23 years. She is a two-time Teacher of the Year recipient, as Mansfield’s 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year and Tolland’s 2014-15 Teacher of the Year. Anthea is certified with the Institute of Multi-Sensory Education and is co-chair of her town's Ad-Hoc Committee for Diversity and Inclusion. Her diverse family, which consists of many incredible educators, is a huge influence on her work and brings her joy and laughter. Anthea has been called a “master sea glass finder,” and she loves the beach,  laughing with family and friends, and dancing!

Rosanna:

“As a child, Achievement Unlimited was simply a fun and safe space where I spent time with my dad and siblings after school—reading, playing basketball, and building friendships. I didn’t fully understand its impact until years later, while pursuing graduate studies in psychology and education. Over time, I witnessed former students—some returning after decades—reconnecting with my father, often sharing how those afternoons at Achievement Unlimited had shaped their lives. What I once saw as play, I now recognize as powerful early learning: fostering literacy, confidence, connection, and joy.”

“Today, at AU2, we are honored to continue that legacy. Our mission is to create safe, supportive environments where children build academic skills, social-emotional growth, and a sense of belonging through hands-on learning, collaboration, and play. More than just an after-school program, AU2 is a community where every child knows they are seen, valued, and loved.”

Rosanna is a Nationally Certified School Psychologist and a Licensed Professional Counselor with the State of Connecticut Department of Public Health. She has been a School Psychologist for over 23 years in various schools across CT, but spent the majority of her career in an urban elementary school setting. Rosanna’s professional career interests include early childhood intervention, mental/behavioral health, and educational advocacy.