IT IS NEVER LATE TO LEARN GREEK...
Meet our instructors:
Aglaia (Agi) Kouti
Preschool Teacher Assistant – Modern and Ancient Greek Language Instructor (children and adults)
“With kindness, language, and love, we raise minds that wonder and hearts that care.”
At the Academy of Hellenic Paideia, Aglaia Kouti nurtures students of all ages—from preschoolers discovering the world around them, to young learners in the Saturday program, to adults deepening their knowledge of Modern Greek. She provides private tutoring in Modern and Ancient Greek and leads adult Modern Greek classes, guiding every student with patience, inspiration, and a love for language.
Her dedication to education is enriched by a distinguished professional journey. Aglaia holds a Law degree from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and practiced law for 24 years, serving as a member of the Thessaloniki and Serres Bar Associations. From 2011 to 2014, she was President of the Municipal Council of the Municipality of Amphipolis and a member of the adjudication committee of the Decentralized Administration of Macedonia and Thrace.
Alongside her legal and civic work, Aglaia has been a literary editor and a devoted instructor of the Greek language, with deep knowledge of both Modern and Ancient Greek.
She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, further strengthening her ability to guide and inspire young learners. Through her many roles, Aglaia blends expertise, heart, and creativity—helping every student discover their potential and fostering a lifelong love for the richness of Greek language and culture.
Kelly Demetra Varsami
Founder and Principal of the Hellenic Program Executive Director Hellenic Curriculum Coordinator Language Teacher DOE Certifications: Childhood Education: Grades 1-6 Early Childhood Education: Birth-2nd
Kelly Demetra Varsami's educational journey is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge and the pursuit of excellence. With a foundation laid at Pantion University of Athens, where she majored in Public Administration, Demetra's thirst for learning knew no bounds. She continued her academic odyssey at the prestigious Zicklin School of Business at Baruch College, CUNY, delving into the realms of Business Administration and Computer Information Systems.
Undeterred by the complexities of her academic pursuits, Demetra's commitment to education reached new heights when she earned her Masters of Arts in Teaching from Queens College, CUNY and her Professional Certification in Grades 1-6. Yet, her insatiable hunger for knowledge did not cease there. She has also completed her second Masters in Early Childhood Education at NYIT, and obtained her Teacher Certification in Grades Birth-2, a testament to her unwavering dedication to shaping the future through the lens of education.
Demetra's impact on the educational landscape is not confined to her impressive academic journey alone. State Certified in grades 1-6, she has left an indelible mark on several elementary schools across Long Island. Her passion for instilling a love of Greek language and culture is evident in her roles as a Greek Teacher at the Cathedral School in NYC and the Greek School of Port Washington, where she devoted her expertise for a considerable number of years.
Not content with merely being an educator, Demetra took on leadership roles that showcased her visionary approach to education. From 2010 to 2015, she served as the Principal of the Hellenic Education and Language Program, donning the hats of Head of Curriculum and Director of the educating staff. Her leadership not only steered the ship but also laid the groundwork for a legacy of inspired learning.
Kelly Demetra Varsami stands as a beacon of inspiration, not just as an educator, but as THE FOUNDER of the Academy of Hellenic Paideia Inc. This non-profit organization embodies her vision of education rooted in the classic Hellenic tradition, a testament to her belief in the enduring power of ancient wisdom to shape contemporary minds.
Her journey is more than a collection of degrees and certificates; it's a symphony of commitment, passion, and a relentless pursuit of educational excellence. Demetra's story inspires us to see education not as a destination but as an ever-evolving journey that transcends disciplines and empowers individuals to shape a brighter future. Through her tireless efforts, she has not only educated minds but sowed the seeds of inspiration that will continue to flourish for generations to come.
