Ms. Cumberland is originally from Queens NY but came to sunny Florida to attend the University of Miami.   She is extremely excited to start her 24^th year of teaching at MCA. She has two master’s degrees one in-Educational Leadership and the other in Theology.  She is also a Licensed Minister. She has two children both in college and is happily married to Hilton Guilliam. Most of all Ms. Cumberland makes learning English fun, exciting and meaningful for every Scholar at MCA and she does it all with a great big smile.  

Mary (Marie) Cumberland M.Ed.

#Stronger Together​

English Dept. Chairperson

FFEA Sponsor​

Phone: (754) 323-1200

It's a Great day to be a Mustang! 

My name is Mrs. Bembanaste and I am a graduate of Nova Southeastern University, with a degree in education and a Masters in Reading.  I have been a part of the McArthur family for the past 12yrs, and as a matter of fact, am a proud MUSTANG, alumni.  I have been teaching Developmental Language Arts and Intensive Reading to our scholars for as long as I have been teaching and am the lead teacher for our International Mustang Academy (IMA), which is an academy within our school for Newcomers. 

As I begin my 49th year in the education, I still get excited about beginning the new school year. Being a "Seasoned/Veteran" teacher, I understand that this year will be another challenging one. I have been married for 48 years to a wonderful man, we have three children and three grandchildren. I have taught many levels of English, Reading, Mass Media, Speech Education and was a Literacy Coach, an Academic Advisor, Teacher of the Year, and a Principal.   

All of us - parents, scholars, teachers, and administrators have an enormous responsibility to adjust and feel comfortable in the learning process. It will take all of us time to adjust. I have no doubt that we will by taking it slow and understanding that each positive step taken is a step towards success. 

Paula Coffman

English II Honors

English II

Sophia L. Gelsey is a sixth-year teacher who is passionate about education and creative arts. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and an Associates of Arts studying Music Performance. She is inspired by the unique gifts and talents that she encounters in students and believes that every individual can reach their highest potential. Her favorite quote is, “Sooner or later, those who win are those who think they can.” — Richard Bach 

Hello, my name is Mrs. Henderson, and I teach Intensive Reading.  I'm looking forward to a great, healthy, and peaceful school year.  Wishing all the success to my scholars.

A native of South Florida, Ms. Rochelle Rio has been an English teacher at McArthur High School for 21 years.  A graduate with a master’s degree from the University of Florida, she spent her first two years following graduation teaching in Italy and Japan.  After her time abroad, she worked at William Dandy Middle School where she enjoyed teaching 8^th grade, as well as drama and Italian.  Her interests include traveling, singing, and playing the flute. 

Ms. Beverly Thomas a native of Dominica West Indies. She is an accomplished author of several works but most famous for her book The Card.  She has worked as an educator for over 20 years.   She has worked in Boston, Massachusetts and Hollywood, Florida.   She is well loved and respected by her students and colleagues. Ms. Thomas believes that all students can accomplish great things if given the proper encouragement and motivation.   

Beverly Thomas

AICE English Lang

English IV (honors)

My name is Mr. Tremblay and I’m a teacher in the English department!  I’m a former Mustang (c/o 2008!) of Brazilian and Lithuanian descent and grew up in, and around, Hollywood, Florida.  I attended the University of Florida, graduating with a major in English Literature, and spend a lot of my free time reading, listening to music, and watching all sorts of films. 

David Tremblay

English III

McArthur High School

email: david.tremblay@browardschools.com