Meet our team! Names are listed alphabetically.
K-8 Administration & Support Staff
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Co-Director
Humaira Afzal (transliteration) was born in Karachi, Pakistan. She completed her primary and secondary schooling in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. While attending Georgia State University for her Bachelor’s of Science in Education, she was placed in Mrs. Nickey Hardon’s class as a resident teacher in the Fall of 2014 where she fell in love with ANCS. After graduation, she took on the role of mathematics instructor for sixth and seventh grades where she shared her love of algebra while bringing in mindfulness and meaningful local and global connections with the lens of race and equity. In 2019, Ms. Afzal graduated with her Master’s in Mathematics Education from the University of Georgia.
In her current role as the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Co-Director, Ms. Afzal is committed to centering anti-racist work with all stakeholders of our school community, elevating the stories of all students and their unique current experiences, and focusing on our school’s strategic mission.
Besides her important work with ANCS, Ms. Afzal spends most of her time with her large, close-knit family. Ms. Afzal is a globe trekker, book nerd, international epicure, multi-lingual, and a data purist.
K-8 Technology Specialist
Michael Boardman has been at ANCS since 2010. Previously, he was an advanced math teacher at Inman Middle School who used technology in his classroom. He also provided tech support at the school including training. As systems administrator and digital learning specialist, Mr. Boardman developed best practices for teachers to most effectively use technology to enrich their curriculum.
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Since joining the ANCS community, Mr. Boardman has updated the school-wide technology resources of dedicated lab, library and classroom computers and maintains the ANCS fleet of mobile student computer resources.
Mr. Boardman loves the ANCS community and its focus on the entire development of children, not only as students but as growing members of the community.
Mr. Boardman has a lifelong love of technology and high commitment to public service and education. He lives in Candler Park with his family. When not supporting ANCS technology, he enjoys renovating his house (circa 1920), carpentry, ultimate Frisbee, and creating traditional and digital artwork.
Mr. Boardman has a B.S. in Computer Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology. He also has an M.Ed. in Mathematics Education from Georgia State University.
Chef / Nutrition Director
David Bradley joined the ANCS faculty in 2014 as Chef and Nutrition Director. He is also the sponsor of ANCS Pickleball Club at the Middle Campus. He holds a B.A. in Computer Science from Emory University and worked in Atlanta restaurants for 15 years prior to starting at ANCS, including as Executive Chef at Lure (2012-2014) and Chef de Cuisine at Ecco (2006-2012).
Chef Bradley is also a parent at ANCS whose hobbies include guitar, baking bread, and any and all racquet and paddle sports.
K-8 ESOL Teacher
Margarita earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and Sociology from Hunter College, CUNY. Also, she earned a Master in Social Work from the Fordham University School of Social Services and a Master of Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Margarita is certified as an ESOL teacher.
Margarita worked as a Social Worker in various agencies in New York City for over 20 years. Margarita’s teaching career began in 1998 for City Schools of Decatur as a Spanish teacher. She worked as a Spanish teacher in grades k-3 for 6 years and then as a Kindergarten teacher for 13 years. Margarita retired in 2017 from Glenwood Elementary, City Schools of Decatur. She joined the ANCS staff in 2018 as the ESOL teacher.
Margarita’s interest outside of the classroom include yoga, Qi gong exercises, nature walks, reading and spending time with family and friends.
Nutrition Staff
Jake has a culinary arts degree from Baltimore International Culinary College. Prior to coming to ANCS he worked at a variety of culinary and event planning establishments such as Whole Foods, Miller Union, Legendary Events Catering, Planters Garden Design, and Keystone Organics. He is the current designer and co-owner of Fundamentally Feline.
Jake has lived in Grant Park for 21 years. He enjoys gardening, skateboarding, and music – especially the guitar. He loves cats…and dogs too!
Business Manager, Personnel & Budget
Coming soon…
Media Clerk, Maintenance
David Keevers received his AA in Business management from BCC and his BA in Advertising with a minor in Marketing from UNF. He specializes in management and logistics.
Prior to joining the ANCS family, Mr. Keevers was the General Manager for a restaurant in Crested Butte, Colorado where he ran the restaurant. He also worked as a Purchasing Manager in Denali, Alaska where he ran the purchasing department servicing three hotels and many on-property bars and restaurants.
In his free time, Mr. Keevers loves snowboarding and hiking in the mountains.
Maintenance Director
Jim Kessenich has worked at ANCS since 2014. He attended one semester of junior college and then decided to get his training in the real world. He has 37 years of construction experience, both as an employee and as a business owner.
Mr. Kessenich has worked residential and commercial construction for site preparation and underground utilities to roofing the final structure. Most of Jim’s career has been as a business owner.
Mr. Kessenich was born and raised in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin metropolitan area. As a Wisconsin native, Jim spent many a brutal winter working outdoors. Finally, after a March visit to Georgia, Jim decided he too wanted to live the life of temperate weather. In 2001, Jim and his family moved to the Atlanta area and have not looked back since.
Business Manager, Accounting & Cash Management
Martha Kessenich holds a B.B.A. in Business Administration – Finance from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. She enjoys working at ANCS because she loves being surrounded by children and the school’s welcoming staff.
Before joining the ANCS family, Ms. Kessenich worked in both private and public accounting for 35 years. Originally from Wisconsin, she loves Georgia’s warm weather. She is the proud mother of five children.
Nutrition Staff
Coming soon
Dean of Student Supports
Rhiannen Laurent has worked at ANCS since 2008. She has her undergraduate degree from the University of Florida and her Master of Education degree from Georgia State University. She has been working in education for 19 years with 13 of those years at ANCS.
Prior to ANCS, Rhiannen taught 4th grade in Fulton County Schools and 5th grade in Atlanta Public Schools. She is originally from southwest Florida. However, she has been in Atlanta for 22 years and currently resides in East Atlanta Village with her two kids. In her free time she enjoys reading, bike riding, hiking, spending time with her family, and trips to the beach.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Co-Director
Cassie earned a BA in Spanish and and a BA in Communication Arts & Sciences (with a focus on intercultural communication) as well as a Master of Arts in TESOL from The Pennsylvania State University. She earned a PhD in Applied Linguistics from Georgia State University. She also holds a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University. She joined the ANCS faculty in October of 2022 and has worked in a school setting for 15 years.
Most recently Cassie served as Director of Education & Impact at the Global Village Project, a special purpose middle school for refugee girls. Prior to that she taught a variety of courses at Georgia State University and Emory University. She also taught Social Justice at SMASH Academy Morehouse. For a number of years while completing requirements for her PhD, she worked in various special international programs at GSU as well as in the nonprofit sector, specifically, supporting program creation and development in refugee serving agencies focused on community education and social adjustment.
Cassie is deeply committed to educational equity and believes all students deserve a chance to thrive and that we must acknowledge and eliminate systemic barriers in order to create inclusive and accessible learning environments. She is honored and privileged to be doing such important work at ANCS, a community that is mission-driven and that takes great care in cultivating the future of our children.
Cassie considers herself a lifelong learner and loves trying new things. She enjoys traveling, exercising and outdoor activities, listening to music, going to concerts, and spending time with her partner.
School Farm Specialist
Nichole Lupo graduated Cum Laude from Columbia College in Columbia, SC with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education. She taught music to students in K-5th grade. She has been teaching in schools and for local non-profits for the last twenty years.
Ms. Lupo’s very first job was to help her father in her family’s quarter-acre home garden. Her first paying job was in a restaurant, and she continued that work at various establishments throughout high school, college, and even on the weekends when she began her teaching career. She spent summers working on local farms, which really sparked her desire to combine her love of good food, working with children, and being outside as much as possible. Prior to joining the ANCS family as a staff member, Ms. Lupo worked as a Farm to School and environmental educator for several metro Atlanta non-profits. She spent three years in three schools with the Seeds of Nutrition Program, followed by several years creating and delivering Farm to School workshops for teachers with Georgia Organics. In 2012, she joined the staff at Wylde Center as the Farm to School Manager, where she taught students in City Schools of Decatur in their garden classrooms, implemented two district-wide taste tests each year, and managed high school summer interns at farms, restaurants, and farmers markets around Decatur and Atlanta. She also supervised FoodCorps service members in their work in four APS elementary schools.
When she’s not eating delicious meals at home with her chef husband Robert and 5th grader Cora, Ms. Lupo can be found hiking, camping, watching movies, reading books, snuggling her two dogs, and spending time with friends. She is thrilled to join the faculty at ANCS!
Sous Chef / Assistant Nutrition Director
Robert Lupo received his Bachelor’s of Arts in Journalism & Mass Communications from the University of South Carolina. He specializes in the culinary arts.
Prior to coming to ANCS, Mr. Lupo opened Leon’s Full Service as Sous Chef, consulted for Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall, and was the Recipe Writer/Consultant for a local Atlanta startup, PeachDish.
In his free time, Mr. Lupo is an avid music fan, enjoys reading, watching movies, exercising and traveling and spending time with wife, Nichole, and daughter, Cora.
Nutrition Staff
Coming soon
Executive Director
Alastair Pullen joined ANCS as Executive Director in 2023. His educational journey began with a Bachelor of Arts degree from Colby College in 2002, where he developed a solid foundation for his academic pursuits. He went on to earn a Master of Theological Studies from Harvard University in 2005 and a Doctorate in Philosophy from Emory University in 2012.
With an impressive 15 years of experience in the education field, Alastair has held various roles in esteemed institutions. He served as the Principal at the International Community School and held positions as the Dean and Assistant Principal at Wesley International Academy. Alastair’s teaching journey began in Atlanta Public Schools, where he made a difference as an English Language Arts and Special Education teacher. Beyond the school setting, Alastair has contributed to the educational community in numerous capacities. He worked as an Academic Advisor and Admissions Reader at Emory University and served as a Teaching Fellow at Emory University.
Outside of his professional pursuits, Alastair enjoys engaging in a variety of personal interests. He finds solace in kayaking and hiking. A lifelong learner, he enjoys reading and watching documentaries, always seeking to broaden his knowledge and perspectives. Above all, Alastair cherishes spending quality time with his wife, Sara, and their three children, Chatham, Winthrop, and Leyden.
Nutrition Staff
Bio Coming Soon!
School Farmer
Zoë Spencer (Farmer Z) grew up in Atlanta and got her start in urban farming at Maynard Jackson High School, creating a rooftop garden. She has a background in farm to cafeteria work and holds a B.A. in French with a minor in Horticulture from the University of Georgia. This is her first year working at a K-8 school.
Prior to working at ANCS, Farmer Z has worked in a variety of growing spaces. Some of these include a small organic garden in the South of France, the University of Georgia’s organic fruit and vegetable farm, a specialty clematis nursery, and the UGA horticulture research farm. She moved back to Atlanta in 2021 and has since worked at Trees Atlanta as a Youth Tree Team coordinator, as a seasonal fruit vendor at the local farmers market circuit, and in the food service industry. She is so excited to be able to nourish her community in this role at the school farm.
Zoë’s interests span across music, languages, and all things related to food—whether it’s growing, foraging, cooking, eating, or sharing with loved ones. She cherishes quality time with her cat and finds delight in exploring Atlanta’s abundant farmers’ markets and picturesque parks.
Business Manager, Advancement & Marketing
Paige joined the ANCS faculty and staff in 2020, assuming the role of Business Manager of Advancement & Marketing. Drawing upon her extensive background in marketing, communications, and graphic design, Paige brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to ANCS, contributing to the school’s ongoing growth and expanding its reach.
As the Business Manager of Advancement & Marketing, Paige is entrusted with the crucial task of spearheading strategic communications and fundraising initiatives to enhance awareness and garner financial support for ANCS. Her responsibilities encompass overseeing the management of the school’s website, donor database, social media platforms, and various digital marketing endeavors.
Before joining ANCS, Paige lent her expertise to numerous organizations within the communications and marketing domains. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Georgia and a Master of Arts degree in Teaching from Oglethorpe University. Notably, Paige has a unique connection to ANCS, having become part of the school family as an educator while completing her graduate degree back in 2012. This experience provided her with an insider’s perspective on the school, fostering a deep appreciation for its constructivist approach to learning and the vibrant, nurturing environment it cultivates.
Paige and her husband, Eric, made Grant Park their home in 2005, where they have raised their two children, Everett (7th grade) and Cora (4th grade), who also attend ANCS. In addition to her dedication to ANCS, Paige has actively contributed to the community as a former board member of the Grant Park Cooperative Preschool and Grant Park Conservancy. She has also taken on leadership roles, serving as the president of both the ANCS PTCA and the Grant Park Parents Network. Among her notable volunteer experiences, Paige cherishes her co-chairing of the Grant Park Summer Shade Festival. During her leisure time, Paige enjoys traveling with her family, passionately cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs, and actively engaging in community service.
Business Manager, Purchasing & Procurement
Elizabeth Wilke is a passionate and dedicated educator with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Ohio University. Her journey in the school setting commenced in 2002, and since then, she has wholeheartedly devoted herself to the field. With a remarkable tenure at ANCS, she shined as a kindergarten teacher from 2002 to 2016. Following a brief interlude, she joyfully returned to ANCS in 2019, ready to apply her wealth of experience to various aspects of the school.
Elizabeth’s personal life is filled with love and companionship, as she is happily married and shares her home with two delightful Labradors, Sir Clyde & Lady Florence. Apart from her professional commitments, she finds fulfillment in gardening, floral arranging, cooking delightful meals for loved ones, and planning exciting new adventures.
Director of Finance & Operations
Chiquetta West joined ANCS as Director of Finance & Operations in December of 2022. Prior to coming to ANCS, Chiquetta worked as Associate Director of Finance and Manager of Administration and Finance for the Morehouse School of Medicine. She also worked for the City of Atlanta as Budget Manager and Project Manager. She has worked in higher education for four and a half years.
Chiquetta holds a BA from Florida A&M University and a Masters of Public Administration from Georgia State University. She is an Atlanta native, loves to travel, and considers herself a foodie.
Elementary Campus Faculty & Staff
3rd Grade Teacher
Nicole Agadoni began her teaching experience at ANCS as a resident in the school’s teacher residency program during the 2014-2015 school year before moving into the role of 3rd grade lead teacher.Ms. Agadoni has a Bachelor of Science in Education with an ESOL endorsement and a Master of Arts in Creative and Innovative Education from Georgia State University. As an educator, she is passionate about building strong classroom and school community.
In her free time, Ms. Agadoni enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, and trying new restaurants.
Learning Lab Specialist
Rachel Alsher began teaching at ANCS in 2011. Ms. Alsher is impressed by the tight-knit community and unique learning environment at ANCS. She has taught 4th and 5th grade, and is excited to work in the Learning Lab this year.
Ms. Alsher says, “I love working with the children at ANCS and am so glad I chose a career in teaching.” Her area of expertise is building a safe and positive learning environment where students feel comfortable taking risks but are also held to high expectations. Ms. Alsher graduated from the University of Georgia where she earned an A.B.J. in Journalism and Mass Communication, with a major in Advertising and a minor in Spanish. She has a Master of Arts in Teaching from Emory University.
Before beginning her career in education, Ms. Alsher worked in commercial and residential real estate as a marketing coordinator. She also worked at an I.T. staffing firm as a sales coordinator before returning to school to pursue her teaching degree.
Outside of school, Ms. Alsher enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and friends, exploring Atlanta’s restaurants and festivals, and supporting UGA football.
3rd Grade Teacher
DeIvory Armstead joined the ANCS family in 2014. She received her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of West Georgia. Over the course of her career, she has taught second, third, and fourth grade. She enjoys teaching reading and writing workshops, and science. She enjoys building relationships with students and a positive class community.
In her free time, Ms. Armstead loves spending time with her family and friends, as well as finding new places to visit in Atlanta. Her hobbies include traveling, exercising, decorating, attending sporting events, and watching college football.
2nd Grade Teacher
Monica Arrington joined the ANCS faculty in the 2015-2016 school year. Ms. Arrington earned a B.A. in Music from Auburn University, and she completed post-baccalaureate studies in Music at Georgia State University. She has also completed graduate studies in teaching at Western Governors University in Salt Lake City, Utah. Ms. Arrington became a certified teacher in 2007, then began teaching in Clayton County Public Schools. She moved on to teach in Dekalb County and City Schools of Decatur. She has several areas of instructional expertise, including technology integration, differentiated instruction, parent-teacher communication, and working with children with special needs.
In her free time, Ms. Arrington enjoys teaching music, playing music, crafting and the performing arts.
Kindergarten Teacher
Caroline Berney received a Bachelor of Arts in English with an emphasis in Creative Writing from the University of Oregon. She has been teaching for over twelve years. Previously, Ms. Berney worked as a lead educator for five years at The Nest Nursery School and for three years at The Grant Park Cooperative Preschool – Cabbagetown. In her pre-child life, she was a proofreader at various accounting firms in downtown Atlanta.
After graduating from college in Eugene, Oregon, Ms. Berney has called Atlanta home sweet home since 1997. She is a mother to two lovely teenagers, Ava and Lillian. They both love insects and animals of all kinds, playing video games and watching movies, hanging out with friends, and drawing. They share their space with two cats, Cricket and Beetle.
Things that make Ms. Berney curiouser and curiouser: insects, typography, empowered childbirth (she’s also a doula!), running, reading, flower-tending, new wave 80s and goth/industrial music, and finding the sweet simplicity in life. She looks forward to being inquisitive, imaginative, and insightful with the students at ANCS.
5th Grade Teacher
Kevin Breakstone is an experienced educator with a passion for teaching and a diverse background. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of California Santa Cruz and his teaching credential from Sonoma State University. With over a decade of teaching experience, Mr. Breakstone is now in his 11th year in a school setting. This is his first year at ANCS.
Before joining ANCS, Mr. Breakstone worked as an art instructor at a studio catering to children aged 4 to 14. There, he taught a wide range of artistic disciplines, including ceramics, sculpture, drawing, painting, sewing, and mosaic. Additionally, he imparted his creative knowledge at a summer camp, focusing on ceramics and sculpture. Prior to his teaching career, Kevin spent some time in the corporate world, working in various office jobs.
Outside of the classroom, Mr. Breakstone’s interests are just as diverse as his career. Having recently relocated to Atlanta with his wife and baby in 2022, he enjoys engaging in pottery and sculpture. When not crafting in the studio, Kevin can be found baking delicious pies, indulging in reading and writing, hiking through nature, or cycling along scenic paths. As a testament to his dedication and discipline, he holds a black belt in Kenpo Karate.
With a zest for creativity, a love for teaching, and a well-rounded set of interests, Mr. Kevin Breakstone brings a unique perspective to ANCS and enriches the educational experience for his students.
ESS Department Chair
Natalie graduated in 2000 from the University of Texas in Austin with a degree in Psychology and Biology, then earned an M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State in 2002. She did her student teaching and then started my teaching career at Hamilton Holmes E.S. in East Point, GA.
Natalie is a native of San Antonio, Texas but has lived in Colorado, Arizona, Houston, Austin, Atlanta, and Seattle! She began her teaching career in a Kindergarten classroom in Atlanta, then took a year off after her first daughter was born before relocating to Seattle, WA. There she taught Pre-K for a few years. Her family moved back to Atlanta just after her second daughter was born, and she took another year off. While her girls were little, she taught in a private Pre-K setting, during which time she earned her Special Education certification. She returned to public school teacher life in 2014, this time in upper grades and working in Exceptional Education in Fulton County. She loved it, but not the commute! She found her happy medium working at Sagamore Hills E.S. (Dekalb) from 2015 until 2021, working in every single grade, occasionally 3 at a time! The pandemic and closures made her realize it was time to expand beyond her neighborhood and beyond focusing on standardized testing as a way of teaching. Discovering ANCS was the perfect fit at the right time!
4th & 5th Grade EIP
Noel Christy started at ANCS in 2006. Ms. Christy has always worked in education. She has been involved in museum education, regular classroom teaching, and tutoring and academic assistance.
For Ms. Christy, ANCS is a great place to work because of the amazing community of teachers, students, and families.
In her free time, Ms. Christy enjoys roller skating, reading, and attending concerts.
Ms. Christy received a B.S. in Elementary Education from William Jennings Bryan College in December 1995. She has expertise in reading education.
4th Grade Teacher
Yuqi graduated with the highest honors in Elementary Education with ESOL and Urban Education endorsements at Georgia State University. She also received the “Outstanding Undergraduate in Elementary and Early Childhood Education Award” from Georgia State University.
Her philosophy of education is that all children are capable of learning and deserve a safe space to be treated equally. She wants to make a positive difference in the future of children. She wants students to know that they have people who really believe in them. She hopes to create a supportive learning environment for the children in her classroom, where teamwork and empathy are rewarded just as enthusiastically as a good test score. Through love and understanding, she strives to help students achieve their highest potential.
Yuqi worked as a senior supplemental instructor at Georgia State University to support college students to develop effective study strategies and stay motivated to complete math courses such as College Algebra. She also worked as a research assistant for IDEAL to support college students with disabilities to understand and complete college-level courses. In order to achieve her Elementary Education degree, she served as an intern in a Georgia public elementary school, an APS charter school, and a private school. Seeing how children were impacted by COVID-19, she worked with a non-profit organization and founded a free one-on-one online tutoring program to support elementary students in Georgia. She is now continually volunteering as the tutoring program coordinator to recruit and train volunteers from Emory University and the Georgia Institute of Technology. She is a current CREATE resident, which has allowed her to advance skills related to self-reflection, communication, collaboration, adaptability, empathy, and patience.
She spends most of her free time volunteering. She believes that the more she contributes, the more insights she attains. Her volunteer efforts include a wide range of areas, such as One-on-one free online tutoring, Covid-19 medical supplies distribution, Asian Art demonstration, disaster relief, environmental protection, fundraising, international cultural festivals, homeless projects, and senior center outreach. She loves traveling, painting, calligraphy, gardening, and cooking.
2nd Grade Teacher
Erin Collins joined ANCS in 2017. She has taught both first and second grade at ANCS. She is passionate about teaching SEL, hands-on learning, inclusive history, confidence-building, nature conservancy, gardening and writing. Prior to teaching at ANCS, she taught pre-k at the Ormewood School for 5 years, The Howard School for 4 years as well as Druid-Hills United Methodist preschool. She has a bachelors in studio art and a minor in sociology from Georgia State University. Orton-Gillinghan trained.
When she isn’t teaching, doing art camps or tutoring, she runs a small vintage business at a popular antique store called Highland Row Antiques.
Her interests are drinking oat milk lattes, seeing bands, kayaking, collecting treasures, thrifting, crafting, road-trips, patio weather and gardening.
Come visit her ever-growing bug, shell, minerals/rock, bone and artifacts collection. Ms. Collins’ door is always open.
4th Grade Teacher
Emily Conners (formally Ms. Egan) joined the ANCS staff for the 2019-2020 school year. She has been teaching for ten years. She holds a Bachelor of Education degree from the University of Georgia and a Master of Literacy Education from Georgia State University.
Prior to arriving at ANCS, Ms. Conners was a lead pre-K teacher for four years in Jackson, Wyoming. Next, she served as a reading teacher for pre-K and kindergarten students at a private school in Atlanta.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her husband, John, her son, Jack, and her dog, June. She also loves hiking, traveling, and trying new restaurants around Atlanta.
Learning Lab Specialist
Coming Soon
1st Grade Teacher
Kristen (German) Datus joined the ANCS faculty in the 2015-2016 school year after a year of working at ANCS through the New Teacher Residency Project (now known as CREATE). During that time she student taught in 4th grade and Kindergarten. She then taught Kindergarten for 3 years, taught as a Learning lab Specialist for 1 year, and two years 3rd grade.
Kristen has a degree in Early Childhood Education with a certification in Special Education K-12 from Georgia State University. Along with a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and an endorsement in Mathematics.
Kristen previously worked as a Girl Scout Counselor for Camp Timber Ridge, an Upward Bound Tutor Counselor, and as a Resident Assistant for Georgia State University Housing.
In her free time, Kristen enjoys hiking, reading, running, Lyra, traveling, and spending with family.
Physical Education Teacher
Kristen Daniel joined the ANCS faculty for the 2011-2012 school year. She spent her first 8 years at ANCS teaching third and fourth grades and made the switch to PE for the 2019/2020 school year. Prior to teaching at ANCS, Ms. Daniel traveled the globe for 5 years working at a summer camp for seriously ill children, as a ski resort lifty, and as a teacher at an educational farm in Boston.
Ms. Daniel says that the best part of working at ANCS is the open and supportive environment. “I can honestly say that I have a personal relationship with the majority of our administration, fellow teachers, parents, and students. It’s amazing to be a part of such a wonderful school family.”
In her free time, Ms. Daniel enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband, Jess, and their two mutts, Annabelle and Walter. She also can be found running, swimming, reading, traveling, cooking, gardening, and singing with her band, False Hearted Lovers.
Ms. Daniel has a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education with a minor in Reading from North Georgia College and State University where she also received her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a Reading endorsement. She is certified to teach Health and PE in grades P-12, and has recently obtained an endorsement to teach ESOL.
Student Information Specialist, Elementary Campus
Kelly Dennis has worked at the ANCS elementary campus since it’s opening in 2002. She has a degree in Fashion Merchandising and Buying from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Before coming to work at ANCS, Ms. Dennis was a personal shopper in NYC as well as a manager in several retail establishments. This is where she learned the fine art of listening to people!
According to Ms. Dennis, the best part of working at ANCS is “all those smiling faces and the hugs that I get from our students.” She also enjoys working where she lives and being a real part of our community.
Ms. Dennis is a native New Yorker who moved to Atlanta in 1995. She has lived in Grant Park since 1996 with her husband and son, now a college student, who attended K-8 at ANCS.
5th Grade Teacher
Katie Derichsweiler received a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with a Minor in Child Development from California State University, Chico. This is also where she completed her teaching credentials, with a specialization in cross-cultural language and academic development. Her areas of expertise include literacy, especially reading.
Ms. Derichsweiler has been a teacher for seventeen years with nine of those years at ANCS. Prior to joining the ANCS school family, she taught 5th grade at an international school in Amsterdam, The Netherlands for six years. She has also taught 4th grade in Fayette County, Georgia.
Ms. Derichsweiler’s hobbies include running, CrossFit, cooking, baking sourdough bread, traveling and gardening. She enjoys outdoor activities with her husband and dogs such as camping and hiking. Being outdoors has been an important part of her life, because she grew up helping her family with their olive ranch in California. On rainy days, her favorite indoor games include shooting pool, tossing darts in the basement game room, card games and Yahtzee.
2nd Grade Teacher
Evie began working at ANCS during the 2020-2021 school year as part of the hybrid support team during the COVID pandemic. Her original role was an adjunct faculty member supporting the first grade. This year she will be working in the 2nd grade as an associate teacher. She plans to continue her education by pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
Before starting her career at ANCS, Evie was serving, bartending and managing in restaurants across the metro Atlanta area for the last 10 years. She also worked as a salon assistant and apprentice prior to the pandemic. In her free time, she loves to read, spend time with her cat and dog, visit the beach, and catch up with friends over coffee.
5th Grade Teacher
Adrian Douglas has a Bachelor of Science in Education in Early Childhood Education and a Master of Arts in Creative and Innovative Education (concentrated in Nonprofit Educational Leadership). This is his first year at ANCS, but he has worked in the school setting for five years.
Adrian’s professional experience is centered around education and community engagement (organizing, outreach, and service). During his undergraduate experience, he worked in various leadership roles in Jumpstart at GSU and supported the development of the Tiles for Social Justice Project, a creative project that integrates reading, writing, art, social justice education, and more. He has been serving his community as a classroom teacher and mentor teacher while balancing multiple fellowships for the past several years. He has supported teachers, new teachers in particular, in growing their capacity to lead within and beyond the classroom.
Adrian enjoys learning about policy and politics, listening to music, going out to eat, and talking to people.
K-1st EIP
Kelly (McKenzie) Dressler has a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University. She is a certified Special Education teacher for grades K-12. In 2016, she earned an AA degree in Psychology from the College of Coastal Georgia. With this degree, she fell in love with child behavior and development. Most recently, she earned an Endorsement to teach ESOL and finished her Coaching Endorsement in December of 2022.
This is Kelly’s 6th year teaching at ANCS (7th if you include her student teaching year through the CREATE program teaching in 4th Grade). She taught Kindergarten for 4 years, worked as a Learning Lab Specialist last year and this year is returning to Kindergarten (and First Grade). Prior to teaching she was a UPS Store Manager and served at various restaurants.
Kelly grew up on St. Simons Island, GA and has now lived in Atlanta for 7 years. She enjoys traveling and has visited four continents. She is an adventurous eater who loves to cook and try new foods, especially spicy foods (like to the point of tears). Kelly enjoys spending time with her niece and three nephews. A few of her other interests include hiking, kayaking, reading, going to the beach, and being creative.
Kelly got married in Savannah in November of 2022. She and her husband live in Decatur and spend a lot of their free time gardening and working on home improvements.
Year 1 CREATE Resident - 4th Grade
Eriana Ellis is a dedicated Year 1 CREATE Resident and Teacher Candidate at Georgia State University. Currently a Senior, she is pursuing her passion for Early Elementary Education, with a focus on Special Education.
With around two years of experience in the school setting, Eriana has been actively engaged as a student teacher, honing her teaching skills and gaining valuable insights. Prior to joining ANCS, she served as a student teacher at West Manor Elementary, Huntley Hills Elementary, and Dunbar Elementary. In these roles, Eriana closely observed and learned from her mentors while also actively leading lessons, centers, and small group activities with students. Her previous experiences working at summer camps, daycares, and after-school programs further enriched her understanding of education.
Eriana is thrilled to become a part of the ANCS family. Her enthusiasm for teaching and fostering a supportive learning environment shines through as she embarks on this new chapter in her educational journey.
Adjunct Faculty Member
Christina Erickson is an enthusiastic and creative educator, serving as an Adjunct Faculty Member. Her educational background includes a BA from Agnes Scott College, where she studied Visual Art and Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, with a minor in Religious Studies.
This marks Christina’s first year teaching and working in a school setting, bringing fresh perspectives and a passion for education to ANCS. Prior to joining the faculty, she spent eight years working with children in various roles, including coaching, tutoring, daycare, and nannying. Her love for working with kids stems from the joy of witnessing their growth, and she cherishes the valuable lessons they teach her in return.
Originally from Chicago, Christina made the decision to remain in Atlanta after college due to her newfound love for the city’s sunshine, natural beauty, and vibrant energy. As an abstract artist, she finds deep inspiration in nature, and her passion for art seamlessly blends into her teaching style.
You’ll often spot Christina with a cup of coffee in hand or nearby, reflecting her love for this energizing beverage. With her warm and creative personality, she brings a sense of excitement to the classroom, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment for her students.
Kindergarten Teacher
Maya Ferguson is a lifelong resident of Atlanta. She attended ANCS as a student from K-8. She returned to ANCS in 2021 and worked as an aftercare teacher, then as an adjunct on the farm, and she is excited to now be working in the classroom. She has a strong connection to the school and loves continuing to be a part of the ANCS community as an educator.
Maya has a B.S. in Ecology with a minor in Anthropology from the University of Georgia. Prior to working at ANCS, Maya participated in a variety of projects in the fields of farming, food, conservation and education. She loves getting to combine so many of her interests in her work with the students. Outside of ANCS, Maya loves cooking, farming, foraging and spending time outdoors with her community.
Learning Lab Specialist
Shamier has a Bachelors in Educational Studies from Clark Atlanta University and Masters in Curriculum & Instruction from Capella University. She has been working in a preschool setting for six years.
Prior to coming to ANCS, she worked at Sheltering Arms Educare. In 2016, she served as an Assistant teacher for Preschool. In 2018, she became Lead in Pre-K and later transitioned to the STEAM coordinator for both Preschool and Pre-K classes.
Shamier grew up in Baltimore. She is the first of her immediate family to obtain a Masters degree. She has a motherlike caring personality.
3rd Grade Teacher
Mallory Godicheau(Go-dee-show) earned a dual degree in early childhood education from Georgia State University. She has been teaching for seven years. Prior to ANCS, Ms. Godicheau taught 3rd, 4th and 5th grade at The GLOBE Academy in Atlanta.
Ms. Godicheau enjoys leading “See Beautiful” clubs which inspires students to see the beauty in themselves, help others see the beauty within, so that they in turn can create more beautiful in the world through service projects. She strives to build deep and strong connections with her students and looks for the opportunities to participate in service learning projects outside of school with them.
Ms. Godicheau loves traveling —She recently eloped in Iceland and took a year off to travel around New Zealand in a campervan while also doing a variety of jobs. She longs to be outside — hiking, laying in a hammock, rock climbing, kayaking, and exploring. She loves reading, writing, and social studies as well as a good farmer’s market, spending time with friends, and catching an improv show at Dad’s Garage!
K-2nd Grade Instructional Coach
Veleta Greer began working at ANCS in 2005. Before she came to work at the school, Ms. Greer worked for the DeKalb County School System at Marbut Theme School. While at Marbut, she taught 2nd grade, 3rd grade, and was an Early Intervention Reading teacher.
For Ms. Greer, the best part of working at ANCS is the strength of the community. “Whether it’s a staff member, student, or parent, I trust that we are all committed to helping our school and community continue to grow and provide the best education and support we can.”
Ms. Greer is originally from a suburb of Atlanta. She and her husband, Matt moved to Ormewood Park in 2001. They have one son, Dylan, that has been a student at ANCS since 2012. They enjoy being out and about in the neighborhood.
In 1999, Ms. Greer graduated from Brenau University with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. She received an M.Ed. with a specialization in Elementary Reading and Literacy from Walden University in 2003. According to Ms. Greer, “Earning a Master’s Degree with a Specialization in Elementary Reading and Literacy provided me with a more in depth study of best practices when teaching literacy.”
Art Teacher
Julie Griffith will be starting her first year at ANCS during the 2023-24 school year. Julie graduated with a BFA in Graphic Design in 2016 from the University of Southern Mississippi. Once realizing a life of sitting at the computer was not for her, she went back to school to receive her Masters in Library and Information Sciences with youth services certification and school licensure track with the ultimate goal to one day teach elementary art.
After graduating and moving to Atlanta in 2020, she worked for three years as a media specialist at Trinity School before learning that ANCS was hiring an art teacher. She is so excited to get started living her dream of teaching art and being a bike commuter!
4th Grade Teacher
Allyson Hage earned a Bachelor of Arts in French and also a Master of Education in Foreign Language Education from The Ohio State University. She holds additional certifications in Elementary Education and Gifted Education.
Allyson’s teaching career began in 1999 at Sarah Smith Elementary School in the Atlanta Public Schools district where she served as a K-5 French teacher for sixteen years and three years as a 3rd-5th Gifted Resource Teacher. Allyson joined the ANCS family in 2018 as a 4th grade teacher.
Interests outside of the classroom include yoga, knitting, hiking, nature photography, cooking, and travel.
School Nurse
Leigh Hicks holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Georgia State University and an Associate of Science degree from North Georgia University (in Dahlonega). Her areas of expertise are Pediatric Nursing and Critical Care Nursing. She has been teaching for 14 years.
Prior to joining the ANCS family, she worked as a Pediatric Intensive Care Nurse at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston.
An Atlanta native, Ms. Hicks lives in Grant Park with husband Dave and daughter Amelia, along with one goofy dog and one crazy kitten.
Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Holmes earned her Associate in Applied Science in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Piedmont Technical College. She recently completed her Bachelor of Science in Elementary/Special Education from Mercer University. This is Ms. Holmes 4th year teaching kindergarten at ANCS.
Before ANCS, Ms. Holmes taught Georgia Pre-K for three years in Decatur. She worked alongside her teaching partner by ensuring that each student was given an equal opportunity to learn. She provided meaningful and real-life, connection-based learning. While exploring together, she helped students solve their own problems and become active and independent learners.
In her personal time, she enjoys cooking and trying new and interesting recipes. She is very family-oriented and enjoys spending quality time with her family. She also enjoys teaching dance, listening to encouraging music and reading.
3rd Grade Long Term Substitute
Zoe Iatridis is an experienced educator and artist, currently serving as a Long Term Substitute. With a passion for both education and the arts, she brings a unique perspective to the classroom. Zoe holds a Bachelor of Arts in Art History and Studio Art (painting) from Oberlin College, where she honed her skills and developed a deep appreciation for the creative process.
Zoe previously taught in the Half Day program at The Paideia School, fostering an environment of curiosity and exploration. Additionally, she worked as a Curatorial Assistant in Education at the Allen Memorial Art Museum in Oberlin, Ohio.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Zoe enjoys indulging in various personal interests. An avid reader and art enthusiast, she finds solace in the pages of a good book and the strokes of a paintbrush. In her free time, you can often find her immersed in her creative endeavors, be it painting or drawing. She also cherishes the time spent outdoors, taking long walks with her dog.
Front Desk Receptionist
Coming Soon
3rd Grade Teacher
Camron has a BSEd elementary education and special education with a minor in psychology from Georgia State University. This will be his second year of teaching.
Prior to coming to ANCS, he worked as a tutor for Bespoke tutoring. While there he tutored elementary math, writing and reading, along with algebra and english for middle and high school students. He also worked as a tutor for Buford Elementary. While there he tutored reading for kindergarten and first grade students.
He is a current year 3 CREATE resident and proud alumni of Georgia State, a university that did so much for him, 2021-2022 Mr. Georgia State University, and undergraduate of the year. He is big on community outreach, giving back, and is inspired by working with children. He recently began working with and mentoring at-risk youth in the metro Atlanta area. He is an advanced baker who enjoys being creative with food and researching various cultures learning more about their desserts. He enjoys collecting model cars and currently has around 200.
Adjunct Faculty Member
Coming Soon
1st Grade Teacher
Christine Kellum holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with an emphasis in Educational Studies and a concentration in Psychology from Chicago State University. She later completed the requirements for Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Early Childhood Education from Concordia University.
Christine has been teaching for eight years. Prior to joining ANCS, she was employed as a Kindergarten teacher for two years at Trinity School in Atlanta. During the two years at Trinity, she served as a member of the Literacy and Diversity committee. She also taught at The Wesley School located in North Hollywood, CA for three years where she coached a cheerleading team, planned and chaperoned school parties and other events, and served as an active member of the Diversity Committee.
As a lifelong learner, Christine enjoys visiting museums and historic sites. She also enjoys working out, reading and watching a good TV show. In an effort to explore, she branches out by trying new restaurants around town. Most importantly, spending time dancing, singing Karaoke and playing board games with her family is what she finds extremely rewarding.
Assistant Principal, Elementary Campus
Nicole King re-joined the ANCS faculty in 2017 as a 1st Grade Teacher. Ms. King received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Agnes Scott College (in 2005) and Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from University of Massachusetts Lowell (in 2012).
Ms. King is very passionate about curriculum development and implementation (specifically in reading and writing), classroom management and work surrounding all areas of diversity.
Prior to coming to ANCS, Ms. King was a Kindergarten Teacher at Trinity School in Atlanta, Georgia for 5 years (2012-1017), a Kindergarten Teacher at Billingsville Elementary School in Charlotte, North Carolina for 3 years (2009-2012), and a 1st Grade Teacher at Neighborhood Charter School (2006-2009).
Nicole King enjoys spending time with her family, taking little getaways (especially to the beach) and decorating and planning family events and celebrations. Christmas and birthdays are her favorite things to celebrate! …And she LOVES her Trinidadian and Guyanese culture. Lastly, she enjoys and cannot live without…the art of dance.
1st Grade Teacher
Heidi Lance has been a member of the Grant Park community since 1998 when she moved there with her husband and beloved dog, Stella. She is also the proud mother of two beautifully spirited girls who bring love and light into her life. She is a fan of rescued animals, her dog and rabbit, a boy named Sue and Schwarz. She loves teaching but finds rejuvenation doing yoga and attending live music shows.
Heidi was a part of the original group of educators at ANCS who worked together to create a school environment designed for each child to thrive. From the start, she helped to create curriculum, mentored new teachers, and lead professional development sessions particularly related to literacy. She has continued working with her peers on a variety of committees to continually update the school’s curriculum as best practices have emerged and evolved in the field of education. To keep herself abreast of these practices she went back and obtained a Masters degree in Education with a specialization in Reading and Literacy from Walden University. Heidi considers it a great honor to be a part of all that ANCS has achieved through the years.
Occupational Therapist
Coming Soon
4th Grade Teacher
In 2017, Dakota Lobban started her journey at ANCS as a substitute teacher. Her passion for teaching quickly blossomed, leading her to transition into a full-time teaching role in 2018. Dakota’s educational background includes studies at Georgia State University. Before joining ANCS, she spent four years as a veterinarian tech assistant.
Beyond her dedication to teaching, Dakota nurtures a profound love for plants. She firmly believes that, like plants thrive under care and attention, young minds flourish when nurtured with knowledge and encouragement. Apart from her professional life, Dakota cherishes moments with her wife and dog, often enjoying leisurely walks in the park or playful activities in her backyard.
2nd-3rd EIP
Shari Lobban received her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education and Leadership through Grand Canyon University.
Shari’s thirteen years of teaching included working as an EIP teacher for ESL students in grades 2, 3, and 5. She was also an Associate teacher at ANCS from 2012-2017 in grades 3 and 4. She has worked as a full-time homeschool teacher for one family with students aged 5,8, and 12. Previously, she worked as a Site Coordinator with high school students for a nonprofit organization, The Great Promise Partnership. She has managed a group of high school students, helping them to prepare resumes, apply for college, and gain life skills to be successful in the working world. She currently has a small business offering vegan and gluten free baked goods for a small cafe in Atlanta.
Shari loves living and working near ANCS as it makes her feel more connected to the community. Her daughter is a former ANCS student from kindergarten through 8th grade, and has made lifelong friendships. She loves to read, as well as cook. Some of her other hobbies include photography and book making. She hopes to incorporate some of her hobbies into her teaching.
5th Grade Teacher
Nicole Love has been teaching for 11 years, and she has taught three years at Neighborhood Charter School. Prior to ANCS she taught 7th grade in Savannah, Ga for three years, and she taught 4-5th grade at Kindezi for 5 years. She was a CREATE mentor teacher from 2019-2020 and was honored to be a member of the 2020-2021 Create Equity Facilitation Fellowship. As an educator, she is passionate about helping all students feel welcomed enough to thrive both academically and within their classroom community.
Ms. Love has earned an Associate degree in Pre-Science from Mount Aloysius College, a Bachelor of Arts in English from Jacksonville University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Armstrong Atlantic State University, a reading endorsement from the University of North Georgia, and learned a lot about customer service from her 9 proud years as a Starbucks barista.
In her free time, Ms. Love enjoys time with her partner and her family, trips to the beach, playing guitar, listening to mysteries and thrillers on Audible, playing basketball, looking at shoes online, binge watching good shows, playing chess, writing song parodies for her cat Ferris, and gushing about her amazing students to anyone who will listen.
1st Grade Teacher
Molly Maland rejoined the ANCS faculty in the 2016-2017 school year after previously teaching at the school. She has taught for 13 years. Ms. Maland received her B.A. in Human Studies (The Individual and Society) from Warren Wilson College.
Ms. Maland is a creative, artistic, and adventurous person. She has loved various forms of art since she was a child. She especially enjoys projects that incorporate art and artistic expression in the classroom. She is patient, flexible, and positive in her teaching practice. Prior to ANCS, she taught at The Friends School of Atlanta in the 4/5 year old class. She has also worked as an Associate teacher in the K-5 Special Education program at an elementary school outside of Asheville, North Carolina. Her first experience teaching was through an AmeriCorps program at a drop-out prevention high school in Massachusetts. Aside from teaching and assisting other teachers, Ms. Maland ran the community volunteer program with students, was a student advisor, and organized a community mural project. She has also worked in various group homes, an Artists Craft Guild in Asheville, North Carolina, and the Admissions Office, while a student attending Warren Wilson College.
A nature and music lover, Ms. Maland enjoys cooking, swimming, family reunions, and quality time with family and friends in her free time. She and her husband have two wonderful daughters. Her daughters spice up her life every day with their playfulness, humor, inquisitive minds, and daily singing and dancing!
Adjunct Faculty Member
Coming soon
K-1st EIP
Brooke McGhee began her career as an educator at ANCS in 2004. Before working here, she was a Head Start social worker where she helped families get connected with systems that would help them in meeting their basic needs. She was also an alcoholism counselor.
For Ms. McGhee, ANCS is a great place to teach because it is a community filled with dedicated, fun-loving, and interesting parents, teachers, and students. She says, “It is a wonderful group of people to spend my days with.”
Ms. McGhee received a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work in 1983, her teaching certificate in Elementary Education in 1996, and her M.Ed. in Elementary Education in 2006. She also has Reading Recovery training.
This year, Ms. McGhee will mentor one of the new teachers at ANCS. This means she will provide support in areas where the new teacher would like help. Ms. McGhee feels that new teachers are often not given the support they need and she is excited to be involved and a part of addressing this issue.
Year 1 CREATE Resident - 5th Grade
Coming soon
3rd-5th Grade Instructional Coach
Lesley Michaels attended Cortland College where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She also has a Master’s degree in Education with a specialization in Reading and Literacy from Walden University. Ms. Michaels is the 3rd-5th Grade Instructional Coach at ANCS. Previously she taught 4th and 5th grades at ANCS, and 4th and 5th grades in the DeKalb County School System.
Ms. Michaels’ has spent much of her life working with children. From her babysitting days, to her time as a camp counselor, to work as a substitute teacher and classroom teacher, Ms. Michaels has enjoyed all of her time instructing and having an impact on kids’ lives.
Ms. Michaels grew up in Syracuse, New York. In her free time, she enjoys reading, cheering on the Syracuse University basketball team, riding her bike, practicing yoga and attempting to surf.
2nd Grade Teacher
Antonia is currently a student at Lynn University majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Psychology. This is her first year working in a school setting. Prior to becoming a 1st grade Associate Teacher at ANCS, she was a Baker and Cake Decorator for 7 years.
She has one daughter, a baby boy on the way, and a goldendoodle puppy that wears a pretty pink bow named Bella. She is looking forward to her first year of teaching and can not wait to meet her students.
Kindergarten Teacher
Kim Moran earned a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education and English Literature from Rowan University. Additionally, she received a Master of Education in Educational Leadership at Kennesaw State University.
Kim’s teaching career began in 1999 in New Jersey where she served as a kindergarten teacher for three years. When she moved to Atlanta, Kim began teaching in Cobb County where she taught 1st grade for four years. After staying home with her two boys, Kim returned to teaching in 2013 joining our ANCS family. In her 7+ years at ANCS, Kim has served as 1st grade teacher, 2nd grade teacher, and 3rd grade teacher. She even worked as the front desk receptionist for a while! She is thrilled to be returning as a kindergarten teacher, and looking forward to an amazing year!
Kim lives in the neighborhood with her husband (Mike), kids (Mychal- a junior at MJHS & Quinn- an 8th grader at ANCS), and three crazy dogs. In her spare time, she enjoys reading a good book, traveling to new places, and attending live performances (plays, music, etc.)
Kindergarten Teacher
Tawanda joined ANCS in the 2014-2015 school year as a Kindergarten Associate Teacher. She holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice Administration from Clark Atlanta University as well as a Master’s of Divinity from Emory University. She has several years of teaching experience and especially enjoys teaching writing.
Prior to joining the ANCS faculty, Ms. Morgan was an administrator of a non-profit for over three years. Before then, she worked for MARTA in both the Safety and Community/ Government Relations department.
Ms. Morgan describes herself as an active and consistent learner who is not afraid to work hard and be creative in teaching. She loves children and sees them as essential contributors to their personal learning as well her own learning. Ms. Morgan is originally from Washington, DC but settled in Atlanta twelve years ago. In her free time, she loves to travel, dance, and read.
2nd Grade Teacher
Casey Morris received her BS from the University of Florida. She enjoys helping students fall in love with reading and loves working with students as they learn how to decode words and use phonics to become stronger readers. Ms. Morris has been teaching for 11 years.
Right after college, Ms. Morris worked in Philadelphia as a program coordinator for HOPE worldwide. She helped to coordinate service projects for students in the US and internationally. She also worked for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia as a researcher. Her team worked to find better ways to help young children (birth to five) be assessed for developmental delays and connect with Early Intervention services.
Prior to coming to ANCS, Ms. Morris taught English to first through fourth grade students in Phnom Penh, Cambodia. She was able to support the creative process in starting a phonics program at the school.
Although Ms. Morris was born and raised in Florida, she really enjoys the mountains of North Georgia. She has a large family and loves being an aunt to five adventurous boys and one strong girl. Ms. Morris has traveled to many different countries and loves being able to immerse herself in different cultures. She finds herself being more comfortable outdoors than indoors- swimming, hiking, camping, picnicking, and swinging in a hammock.
Learning Lab Specialist
Coming Soon
School Psychologist
Terry Nagurney joined the Atlanta Neighborhood Charter School (ANCS) as school psychologist during the 2021-2022 school year. In addition to working with both campuses of ANCS, Mr. Nagurney also serves the Wesley International Academy as a member of the Atlanta Public Schools Psychological Services Department.
Mr. Nagurney received his undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Southern
Mississippi. After graduation, he served in the AmeriCorps*VISTA program where he coordinated
reading tutoring programs and service-learning initiatives in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Upon completing his AmeriCorps*VISTA service term, he attended graduate school at Georgia State University, where he earned Master of Education (M.Ed.) and Educational Specialist (Ed.S.) degrees in school psychology.
Mr. Nagurney has been a school psychologist since 2008. During his career, he has worked in urban and suburban school districts in Georgia and Virginia. While working in the Cobb County School District, he served as a lead school psychologist. In that same position, he also coordinated a special interest group in Specific Learning Disability (SLD) evaluation for school psychologists. While living in Virginia, Mr. Nagurney worked as a school psychologist in the Richmond Public Schools and the Charlottesville City Schools. In Charlottesville, he served as the lead school psychologist for two years.
Mr. Nagurney loves collaborating as part of a team to better understand the learning, behavior, and
emotions of students. When he’s not at school, he can often be found spending time with his wife and son. He also enjoys walking his Jack-Russell mix, playing music, drinking coffee, and riding his bike.
2nd Grade Teacher
Nancy Newton joined the ANCS faculty in 2017 and has taught both third and second grades. She earned an A.B.J. in Journalism from University of Georgia, and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Mercer University.
Ms. Newton has experience teaching literacy skills such as phonemic and phonological awareness as well as comprehension strategies. She enjoys helping children learn to read and to find and appreciate the magic of a good story. Additionally, she loves to guide children to accomplish goals they think they cannot reach and celebrate their successes!
Ms. Newton previously taught pre-school, first grade, and Pre-K at Cliff Valley School. Prior to teaching, she worked in marketing for various high-tech companies. She loves spending time with her family, going to the beach, being a member of a book group, and taking long walks. She also enjoys playing with her dog, Roo.
5th Grade Teacher
Holly Oldham is embarking on her inaugural year at ANCS during the 2023-24 school year. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in English/Language Arts Education from Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, as well as a Master’s of teaching in middle grades math and literacy from Brenau University. This marks her 18th year in the field of education.
Before joining ANCS, Holly dedicated eight years to teaching 4th grade and serving as the Gifted Coordinator at Kindezi. Additionally, she taught 8th grade English/Language Arts in Gwinnett County for nine years. During the summer months, she works part-time at MAD-learn, an educational technology company.
Originally from the outskirts of Cincinnati, OH, (go Bengals!), Holly’s interests include indulging in reading, running, Crossfit, solving puzzles, savoring iced oat milk lattes (always iced), and enjoying baking shows on TV. She resides with her wife, Katherine, and their beloved cat, Tatum, on the beltline in Capitol View.
K-5th Grade Related Arts Associate Teacher
Maria Paez began her career with ANCS in 2006. Previously she worked as a Director of Public Services and was an office manager.
For Ms. Paez, the sense of community makes ANCS a special place to work. According to Ms. Paez, “Parents and teachers work together with one simple goal: a better education for our children.”
In her free time, Ms. Paez enjoys being with her family, including her four dogs. She is the mother of 2 college students and she likes cooking, going to movies, and watching soccer (especially if Mexico is playing!).
Ms. Paez has a degree in Chemical Pharmaceuticals from Universidad Autonoma de San Luis Potosi in San Luis Potosi, Mexico.
4th Grade Teacher
Christine Price is a graduate of Georgia State University, earning a dual certification in general and special education in 2021. Her journey at ANCS began as a student teacher, and in 2022, she officially joined as a teacher.
Beyond her dedication to education, Christine is a passionate feline lover who has made a difference in the lives of numerous Atlanta kitties through rescue and rehoming efforts. In her free time, Christine finds solace in her love for plants, gardening, and immersing herself in nature. Her deep appreciation for movies, particularly in the sci-fi and adventure genres, makes her a true movie nerd. Her laughter is contagious, and she cherishes moments filled with joy and humor. She eagerly looks forward to sharing laughter and creating meaningful connections with those around her.
Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Rockmore attended Tuskegee University. A historically black university in Tuskegee, Alabama. She went on to receive her Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education Administration and a Masters in Education with a specialization in curriculum and instruction.
Ms. Rockmore loves hanging out and cooking with her son. She enjoys working out, eating, organizing, mysteries, and binge watching a good t.v. show. Ms. Rockmore’s favorite aspect of teaching is building and sustaining connections with her students. She is passionate about differentiation and ensuring an equitable learning environment for her students.
K- 5th Grade Instructional Technology Specialist
Makisha Rogers joined the ANCS faculty in 2017 as an Instructional Technology Specialist. She has been teaching for 8 years and earned her B.A. degree in Advertising/Public Relations from the University of Georgia. She also earned her Masters of Education in Instructional Design and Technology from the University of Georgia.
Ms. Rogers loves learning about different digital tools and ways to incorporate digital learning into the curriculum, developing the whole child. Her teaching background is in Language Arts and Reading, so she is particularly interested in how digital tools can support literacy instruction. She also thinks coding, tinkering, and making is going to play a critical role in developing future ready students, so she is very excited about this movement and the new possibilities it brings to education.
Prior to starting at ANCS, Ms. Rogers taught ELA/Reading at Price Middle School for 3 years. She served as Technology Integration Specialist at Atlanta Speech School for 4 where she supported both students and teachers in learning digital tools and integrating them into the curriculum.
Makisha Rogers loves being swept away by a good book. She is a huge Young Adult/Fantasy Fiction fan, Harry Potter Forever! Also, she sometimes likes to turn her music up really loud and have dance parties for one!
Kindergarten Teacher
Brittnay Sattler began working at ANCS as a Georgia State intern in 2011. She considers the years spent here as the most valuable career and personal development that she has experienced. Her areas of expertise include conscious discipline, reading/writing workshops, and relationship building.
Prior to coming to ANCS, she worked as an assistant in the primary community at Discovery Montessori Academy and the Children’s Garden. Ms. Sattler started her ANCS journey as part of the New Teacher Residency Project, which is now CREATE.
Ms. Sattler earned a B.S.E. in Early Childhood Education with an ESOL endorsement from GSU. She is planning to pursue a Master’s Degree in Social Foundations of Education. For Ms. Sattler, the best part of working at ANCS is the energy and how it feels like a big family. She enjoys teaching through the lens of constructivism and the natural world!
Ms. Sattler has traveled to over 30 countries and spent her childhood in Saudi Arabia. She loves adventures such as traveling, skydiving, meeting new people, and trying exotic foods. She is the proud mom of a rising 7th grader. She is excited to continue her teaching at a place where she loves to be!
MTSS/504 Coordinator
Lindy Settevendemie re-joined the ANCS faculty in 2021 as the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) Coordinator to assist with early, targeted interventions that support whole child development. “Ms. Sette” has been an educator for more than 17 years; she taught at ANCS’s Middle Campus from 2011-2016 and high school in Pittsboro, North Carolina from 2006-2010. Before returning to ANCS, Ms. Settevendemie was the Project Coordinator for Social, Emotional, and Ethical (SEE) Learning at Emory University’s Compassion Center. She holds a BA in English from the University of Georgia, MAT in English Education from The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and a Teacher Support Specialist certificate from Georgia State University.
In her free time, Ms. Settevendemie enjoys consulting about social-emotional learning and development, volunteering, traveling, cooking, gardening, and spending time with her friends and family, including her husband Randy, dog Pickle and cat Olive. She is thrilled to be part of the ANCS community because it is vibrant, dedicated, reflective, and loving.
K-5th Grade Teacher Librarian
Jessica Shelley earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of West Georgia and a Master’s degree in Reading and Literacy from Walden University. She also holds a Certification in School Library Media from the University of West Georgia.
Ms. Shelley has been teaching for 16 years. She began working at ANCS in 2008. Prior to working at ANCS, Ms. Shelley taught for four years at Margaret Winn Holt Elementary in Gwinnett County.
During her tenure at ANCS, she has been a third, fourth, and fifth-grade classroom teacher, Academic Assistance teacher for fourth and fifth grade, and currently loves being the elementary school teacher librarian. Ms. Shelley finds the best part of working at ANCS to be the loving community created by the faculty, students and parents.
Outside of school she enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and working in her yard.
3rd Grade Teacher
Toni Sulmers has an undergraduate degree from Smith College and Masters in Education from Piedmont College. She has been teaching for 15 years.
Toni loves to travel and has been to six continents. She has an identical twin. She loves to scuba dive and hopes to get her master diver certification one day.
Learning Lab Specialist
Born in Dallas, Texas, Susan Taylor also spent parts of her childhood in London, England and on an Arabian Horse Farm in Oklahoma.
Ms. Taylor received a Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of South Carolina. During college, Ms. Taylor traveled, studied, and lived in Mexico and Europe. In 1997 she completed a Masters in Public Health with an emphasis in Maternal and Child Health. After having her own children, Ms. Taylor studied midwifery, holistic prenatal care and childbirth, and served as the President of South Carolinians for Midwifery for several years. In addition, she home-schooled her own children until moving to Toronto, Ontario, where they attended a small neighborhood school.
Ms. Taylor began teaching at the Atlanta Neighborhood Charter School in 2004. For her, the best part of working at ANCS is the small, family-like community. Committed to intown living and neighborhood schools, Ms. Taylor and her family live in Ormewood Park.
Security Supervisor
In February of 2023, Tadejia Thomas assumed the role of Security Supervisor at ANCS. Originally hailing from the Bronx, New York, she has a deep connection to her roots. With 8 years of experience in the security field, including 2 years as an armed security supervisor, Tadejia brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her position.
Her primary focus and commitment revolve around ensuring the safety and security of the school community. Tadejia is dedicated to safeguarding her school family, making it her top priority.
Kindergarten Teacher
Heather Tomlinson has a B.A. in Liberal Studies from the University of Notre Dame, an M.A. in Cultural Perspectives of Education from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and an M.A.T. in Elementary Education from the University of Georgia. This is Ms. Tomlinson’s second year at ANCS.
Ms. Tomlinson was a medical editor for Medscape Education for 11 years before going back to school for a Master of Arts in Teaching. She is originally from San Diego, CA, but has lived in Atlanta for about 20 years. She loves spending time with children, and is a mom of two girls in elementary school. She enjoys playing roller derby, hiking, camping, and getting lost in a good book.
1st Grade Teacher
Jessie Turton earned a BA in Environmental Studies from Emory University in 2003 and received a Graduate Certificate in Environmental Management and Policy from USF in 2004. She was enrolled in Nursing School at Emory when the COVID pandemic hit in 2020.
This is Jessie’s third year working in a school setting; it is her second year teaching at ANCS. Prior to coming to ANCS, she worked as an environmental consultant for 14 years. She loves to travel and hike with her kids. She makes pottery and is a resident artist at Arts Beacon in Grant Park.
School Counselor & Test Coordinator (K-5)
Leslie Jo Tottenham has worked at ANCS since 2007. Prior to coming to ANCS, she was a school social worker in DeKalb County Schools for nine years.
For Ms. Tottenham, the intelligent and dedicated professionals at ANCS make it a great place to work. “The teachers at ANCS have a true passion for education and care for their students.”
Ms. Tottenham is originally from Texas. She and her husband enjoy trying to keep up with their twin boys! She also loves travel, yoga, reading, and watching college football.
Ms. Tottenham has a B.A. in philosophy and political science from Vanderbilt University. She also has an M.S.W. from the University of Georgia. She is a licensed clinical social worker. As a school guidance counselor, Ms. Tottenham has experience with individual and group counseling as well as classroom guidance. She serves at the ANCS School Test Coordinator.
4th Grade Teacher
Christian Wade attended Piedmont College to play college tennis before transferring to Georgia State University where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Education (B.S.Ed.) in Early Childhood Education. She is also a certified Special Education Teacher.
Ms. Wade has been teaching for two years. For six years, she has been coaching tennis to a range of ages from tots to adults at the Sweetwater Tennis Center.
When not in the classroom, she loves to cook, go on walks with her family, try new restaurants, and play tennis with her ALTA team.
K-5 Music Teacher
Annette Wawerna began her career as an educator at ANCS in 2010; however, she has been involved with the school as a parent and community member since before the school opened. Ms. Wawerna has been teaching in one form or another since 1989. Prior to working at ANCS, Ms. Wawerna was a music teacher with The Music Class, an early learning music program for children and their parents/caregivers. She was a 2nd grade teacher at Knollwood Elementary School in DeKalb County. She began her career in education as the Outreach Coordinator in the Education Department at the Center for Puppetry Arts. In this position, Ms. Wawerna traveled around the country doing puppetry workshops or longer “Artist in Residency” programs creating puppet productions with students.
According to Ms. Wawerna, “ANCS is filled with the most talented, professional, dedicated teachers I have ever had the privileged to work with. The wonderful families of this community are deeply committed to being involved in daily, demanding operations of the school. Everyone who comes into our school feels what a special place this is. But of course the very best part of ANCS is the children, the children, the children!” Because she has worked with ANCS since its beginnings, Ms. Wawerna has a unique perspective on this history of the school. She says, “After watching the school rise-up after the fire, I became convinced that the story of our school needed to be preserved and shared. I spent several years making the documentary, From Acorn, to Oak, The Story of the Neighborhood Charter School that premiered at the school in February of 2010.”
Ms. Wawerna lives in Grant Park with husband Michael, son Asher, daughter Dorothy Ava, and their dog George Bailey. She is passionate about music and likes to incorporate music whenever possible into the classroom. She is thrilled to be teaching Kindergarten with Kole Camp and is looking forward to a year filled with exploration, discovery, and collaborative learning with our school family.
Ms. Wawerna received a B.A. with a Theater major and Music minor from the University of the South at Sewanee. In 1996, she completed her M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education at Georgia State University where she was the recipient of the Robert I. Blainey and Joe C. White Scholarship Award which is presented to a student in Early Childhood Education who exhibits the highest potential for excellence in teaching and who pursues knowledge beyond required coursework.
Adjunct Faculty Member
Coming soon
1st Grade Teacher
Coming soon
5th Grade ESS Teacher
Lesley Wood has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Georgia. She has been a Special Education teacher for 9 years and is beginning her 6th year at ANCS. After 4 years at the ANCS middle campus, she’s excited to begin her second year as a 5th-grade teacher at the elementary campus.
Prior to her becoming an education professional, Lesley was a medical editor working for both Emory University and the American Cancer Society for over 15 years.
Lesley is the proud mom of two boys, ages 17 and 15. Her older son is on the autism spectrum and it’s through her journey with him and his experience that she became interested in special education and working with these amazing kids. She feels rewarded every day by making connections and supporting the individual needs of every student. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her boys, traveling, live music, and attempting to solve true crime mysteries.
Principal, Elementary Campus
Lara Zelski has been at ANCS since 2007. Previously, she worked at the Howard School and taught art, Spanish, reading and math. She taught 6th, 4th, and 2nd in DeKalb County. She taught 4th and 5th grade in Decatur and then moved to Title One reading and math instruction for 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. She taught 5th grade at the ANCS elementary campus for two years. She then became the school’s Curriculum and Assessment Specialist and served in that role for two years before being named principal of the elementary campus in 2011.
For Ms. Zelski, the best part of working at ANCS is the community. “Everyone here is invested in doing what is best for our students and the school. Working with the outstanding teachers and staff brings me tremendous joy as well.”
When she is not at school, Ms. Zelski loves camping and hiking, and being outdoors. She also enjoys running, baking, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.
Ms. Zelski has a B.A. in Sociology and Anthropology from Agnes Scott College where she also received her Elementary Education certification. She has her Master’s in Reading and Literacy from Walden University, her Ed.S. in Curriculum and Instruction from Capella University and an Ed.S. in Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University. Ms. Zelski’s area of expertise is leading teachers in understanding and developing age-appropriate curriculum in their classrooms.
Middle Campus Faculty & Staff
6th/7th Grade Mathematics ESS Teacher
Originally from the great city of Chicago, Desireé Bennett completed her undergraduate studies at Clark Atlanta University, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She received her teacher certification through University of Georgia, and obtained an ESOL endorsement and two Master’s degrees from Georgia State University in Urban Teacher Leadership and in Reading, Language and Literacy. She says, “Working with middle schoolers has been an incredible journey. This developmental period is such a special time, because our young scholars are just beginning to make sense of the world in their own way, and being part of that process has been really rewarding. Whether it’s in Math or Language and Literature, it’s amazing to see a student build the confidence to meet challenges in ways they never thought they could.”
Before coming to ANCS, Desireé taught at the elementary level for eight years. Prior to that, she taught preschool for three years, and taught her two daughters at home for as long as she can remember. She worked as a manager for a local day spa before her first daughter was born, teaching clients about the benefits of holistic healthcare. She also worked at Emory’s School of Public Health, teaching a wellness curriculum in a community outreach program called Go Girls!
Desireé loves to learn about other cultures, and now that her two daughters are off to college, she’s looking forward to traveling to these far off places. She loves the water, is a dance enthusiast and has an appreciation for many different genres of music (although Soul House, Afrobeat and Reggae are some of her favorite styles). Desireé is also a proud cat mom!
7th/8th Grade Visual Arts Teacher
Nathan Bubes has been an educator at ANCS since 2009. Previously he has been an Art Instructor for various summer camps in Atlanta and a Production Manager for two mural and faux finishing companies. He also taught graphic design at the South West Fulton Arts Council and was a graphic designer/print specialist for BlackSheep Printing.
Mr. Bubes describes the best part of working at ANCS as being the staff, the principal, and “the trust and respect between the two!”
Mr. Bubes is from Washington, D.C. He is married and is the father of two sons and one daughter. He loves skateboarding. A favorite quote of Mr. Bubes is “Chance favors the prepared mind.”
Mr. Bubes has a degree in Studio Art with a focus on Africana Studies and Philosophy from University of Maryland, Baltimore County. He also graduated from the Suitland Center for the Arts and was the recipient of the Maryland Distinguished Scholar in Art Award in 1994.
6th/7th Grade Individuals & Societies Teacher; MC AfterCare Director
Ms. Cambor earned B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Sociology from Georgia State University. Previously she worked at the Supreme Court of Georgia for 14 years as an Administrative Clerk.
Santina Cambor, “Ms. Santina” to the ANCS family, has worked at ANCS since 2009. Previously, she held the Office Manager, ANCS-Middle Campus position. She is looking forward to her second year of teaching. Ms. Santina loves working at ANCS because of the supporting staff, wonderful parents, and awesome students.
When not cheering on the Atlanta Falcons or the Georgia State Panthers, you can catch Ms. Santina hanging out with family, trying new recipes, or enjoying criminal investigation/reality shows.
7th/8th Grade Design Teacher
Coming Soon
Adjunct Faculty Member
Coming soon
Middle Campus Security Officer
In February of 2023, Corey Chisholm became the Middle Campus Security Officer at ANCS. Before joining ANCS, Corey had an extensive background as a certified medical assistant, working in diverse settings like jails, hospitals, and doctor’s offices for over a decade. However, in early 2018, Corey decided to pursue a career change and shifted to armed security, where he found a new path to contribute his skills and expertise.
7th/8th Grade Mathematics Teacher
Aleah Clemmons joined the ANCS faculty in the 2016-2017 school year. Ms. Clemmons holds a B.S.E. in Middle Level Education and a M.Ed in Mathematics Education from Georgia State University.
Ms. Clemmons’ areas of expertise are in mathematics and language arts. She has worked in the ANCS after school program, as a humanities and math teacher in ANCS’s Saturday school, and the CREATE teacher residency program. She fell in love with ANCS’ close-knit, family-oriented space. She loves all things MATH!
In her spare time, Ms. Clemmons loves to stay active by being a cheer coach and playing kickball. She is exploring new ways to step out of her comfort zone and find new hobbies.
6th/8th Performing Arts Teacher
Jacob joined the ANCS faculty as the performing arts teacher in the Fall of 2021. Mr. Dewey has a degree in Chemistry from The College of New Jersey. Mr. Dewey has been a pianist, piano teacher, opera singer, voice teacher, and accompanist professionally for over 20 years. He coaches and teaches musicians regularly.
Prior to coming to ANCS, he spent many years in retail operations and HR focusing on training and development.
Mr. Dewey has over 20 years working in the performing arts as a pianist, singer, opera singer, and accompanist. He has multiple years experience teaching children’s theater and stage tech. In his spare time, you find see him riding roller coasters at an amusement park somewhere in America or hiking a trail somewhere in Georgia.
7th/8th Language & Literature Teacher
Monday has a Bachelors of Art in Environmental Studies with a concentration in Education from Seattle University and a Masters of Arts in Teaching for Special Education at the University of West Georgia. Monday has been in the classroom setting for three years, one of those being at Atlanta Neighborhood Charter School.
Monday’s background with young people started in food justice work, specifically growing and cooking food with 4th-8th grade students in Seattle, WA. Monday has worked at various food education nonprofits in and out of schools. Their passion for accessible education and disability justice led them to the classroom. Before joining Atlanta Neighborhood Charter School in 2022, Monday worked in Clayton County Public Schools as a middle school teacher in Special Education. They enjoy teaching through the intersections of food, art, and storytelling.
As a neurodivergent and disabled person, Monday loves creating accessible learning spaces that are full of love and advocating for the infinite ways of being in this world. Their work in education is also deeply tied to their identity as a queer, trans and nonbinary person. This is the lens that they come into the classroom with and is very meaningful to them. As a white educator, they are committed to anti-racism work in their personal and professional life. Learning is for life.
Monday’s big loves include laughing over shared meals with loved ones, swimming whenever they can, and dancing to house music in the trees. Monday’s closest people would say that their bouncy and welcoming energy brings warmth into the classroom.
7th/8th Individuals & Societies Teacher
Joshua Feng attended high school at Phillips Academy in Andover, MA and earned Bachelor’s degrees (as a double-major) in Educational Studies and in Sociology from Emory University. He succeeded in earning a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Leadership and Organizational Performance from Vanderbilt University.
Mr. Feng has been teaching for several years in various roles at schools and universities across the country including as a teaching assistant, project coordinator, strategic planning intern, and dormitory counselor. This is his fourth full year at ANCS teaching Individuals and Societies.
Mr. Feng is originally from the Boston area and of course is a big fan of the Boston Celtics and New England Patriots. He enjoys traveling, cooking, playing sports, and the outdoors. He is a high-level ultimate frisbee player and coach. His favorite TV show is Avatar the Last Airbender, he has a cat named Momo.
6th/7th Spanish Teacher
Rebekah Ghaly is a dedicated Spanish teacher with a strong educational background. She holds a degree in Spanish Education with a minor in music from Bob Jones University. Ms. Ghaly is currently in her 10th year in a school setting, and 2nd year at ANCS.
Prior to coming to ANCS, she taught everything from 5th grade to 12th grade. She has always taught Spanish, but (has) also taught ELA, Math, Reading, and Finance. She coached varsity basketball and volleyball for many years and has taught violin lessons for 10 years.
Rebekah was born in Pennsylvania and is a Steelers fan, but was raised in northern Virginia. She has lived in Atlanta for three years. She enjoys spending time outdoors, spending time with family, playing and listening to music, and studying other languages and cultures.
Adjunct Faculty Member
Coming Soon
7th/8th Grade Language & Literature Teacher
Heidi Goodwin has taught at the ANCS middle campus since 2012. Ms. Goodwin has a Master’s Degree in English/Critical Theory, as well as more than 30 additional hours in Education. She taught one year on Austria as a Fulbright Teaching Assistant at two middle/secondary schools there. Her B.A. is in both English and German.
Before coming to ANCS, Ms. Goodwin was a professor of English at Georgia Perimeter College, and an Adjunct Professor before that. She has also taught at Grady High School, where she worked in 9th and 10th grade English studies, in addition to her years teaching overseas. Her areas of expertise include English studies, literature and the teaching of any kind of writing.
The best part of working at ANCS for Ms. Goodwin is the community – at every level. Ms. Goodwin says, “The professional team is cooperative and respectful and enormously helpful and positive. The students are engaged, curious, and willing. Our leadership is inspired and seemingly tireless. And our parents and caretakers are supportive. The contributions of all working together make ANCS the success it is, and it makes me excited to become a larger part of all it will continue to become.”
Ms. Goodwin loves being outside and enjoys everything from biking to backyard chicken farming. She loves to read and does it as much as she can. Ms. Goodwin’s children Graham and Quinn attended/attend ANCS.
ESS Lead Teacher
Leslie has a B.A in History with a Minor in Psychology and an M.A. in History, with a concentration in European History (specializing in Crime and Gender in Early Modern Britain) from Georgia State University. She has worked in the school setting for four years.
Prior to coming to ANCS, she was a writing consultant at Georgia State University where she collaborated with professors to provide assistance to students to improve their skills in researching, academic writing, and editing. She also worked at several local food establishments, including Moe’s & Joe’s and Euclid Avenue Yacht Club.
Leslie was born and raised in Michigan but has been a resident of Atlanta since 2004. She has practiced yoga for over 10 years. She spends most of her time in the Fall watching football, and the Spring and Summer hiking, camping, and backpacking.
Middle Campus Operations Manager
Jenelle Hanes was born, raised and educated in North Carolina schools. She is a proud graduate of North Carolina A & T State University and East Carolina University. She holds a B.S. in Recreation Administration and M.S. in Recreational Therapy Administration. She was an apprentice preschool teacher in her grandmother’s preschool and later became a substitute teacher and summer camp leader.
With more than ten years of experience in education, Mrs. Hanes has worked with children as young as infants up to adolescence age groups. Most recently, she has become a GA School Age approved trainer for teachers and young adults. In addition, she has provided professional development and on-site training for Early Childhood Educators at Local Conferences and Bright Horizons Family Solutions. She first began her professional teaching career as a middle school teacher in North Carolina and has happily returned to the middle school setting.
Mrs. Hanes enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She is also a fan of live concerts, a good movie, working out, and sweets!
Instructional Coach
Nickey Hardon joined the ANCS family in 2013. She loves being a part of an open, friendly collaborative community. She received her B.A. in Physics from Emory University and her M.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction from Georgia Southern University. Her areas of expertise include science and math instruction, International Baccalaureate Leadership and coaching/mentoring novice educators. Since arriving at ANCS, Nickey has worked extensively with CREATE and Georgia State to support teaching residents from all over APS. Previously, Ms. Hardon was a lead teacher in several independent and public charter schools, as well as an MYP Coordinator.
In her free time, Ms. Hardon is an avid reader. She also enjoys line dancing, musical theater, sci-fi movies, and superheroes. She also loves her dog Covu, and two granddogs, Lollipop and Loki!
6th/7th Grade Mathematics Teacher
Andrew Heacock is a passionate 6th/7th Math Teacher at ANCS. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Middle Grades Mathematics Education from Ashland University and a Masters of Math Education from The University of Northern Iowa. This will be his first year teaching at ANCS.
With an impressive 13 years of experience in the education field, Andrew has honed his skills and expertise. Prior to joining ANCS, he served as an 8th-grade math teacher at Pace Academy, where he also took on additional responsibilities such as coaching volleyball, basketball, and track & field. He taught Robotics and Programming, served as the faculty supervisor of the MS newspaper, and held the position of 8th-grade boys dean. Andrew’s dedication to teaching also led him to The Lovett School, where he taught 7th and 8th-grade math.
On a personal note, Andrew resides in Woodland Hills with his amazing wife Molly and two wonderful young children, Dallas and Mara. A year spent in Nairobi, Kenya for his wife’s work left a lasting impact, and the family continues to visit almost every summer. Outside of teaching, Andrew’s interests include traveling, reading, cooking, and savoring delicious meals. He is thrilled to be a part of the ANCS team and looks forward to making a positive impact in the school community.
7th/8th Physical & Health Education Teacher
Alina Matthews has taught at ANCS since 2008. Previously she was a Student Support Services Coordinator in the Department of Counseling Services at Georgia Southwestern State University and a Teaching Artist for Moving in the Spirit. She was also the Chief of Staff at the Midtown Art Cinema.
Mrs. Matthews enjoy working with the faculty, staff and students at ANCS. Working at ANCS allows Mrs. Matthews to be very creative and flexible. She enjoys teaching health & fitness skills to the students.
Mrs. Matthews enjoys teaching dance at Moving in the Spirit. During her free time, she enjoys reading, dancing and volunteering. She is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. She is an active member of Sigma Omega Zeta of Clayton County. She serves as the Community Service Chairperson in the chapter.
Mrs. Matthews has a B.S. in Sociology and Psychology from Georgia Southwestern State University. She also has a M.S. in Human Services with a specialization in Social & Community Services from Capella University. She has expertise in conflict resolution, peer education/mediation, and modern/lyrical dance.
6th/7th Grade Sciences ESS Teacher
Trey has a Bachelors of Art in Mass Communication from Savannah State University, an Masters of Art in Teaching from Georgia State University, and currently is enrolled in my doctoral program for an Educational Doctorate in Instructional Design from Northcentral University.
This is his 4th year in teaching all of which have been at ANCS. Prior to teaching he was a Polo Ralph Lauren Specialist at Macy’s. He loves traveling and experiencing different foods and cultures from all over the world.
ESS Lead Teacher
Coming Soon
6th/7th Sciences Teacher
Christina Jones has a Bachelor of Science in Middle Level Education from Georgia State University. This is her third year of teaching.
Ms. Jones has held a multitude of jobs in her life that have all led her to education. One of her first jobs was with Mitchell’s Place, a summer camp in Birmingham, Alabama specifically designed for students with neurodiversities. She moved to Georgia to gain residency for school and worked on a farm for two years managing the greenhouse and the production of thousands of seedlings. When Ms. Jones moved to Atlanta to begin her time at Georgia State University, she worked for a small company making circus fire props until graduation.
On the weekend, you can usually find Ms. Jones outside – hiking, kayaking, fishing, and camping – as often as possible. She also loves crafts of any kind and usually has many projects she is working on concurrently. Her favorite time of year is fall, so you may find her decorating her classroom at least a month early for Halloween!
Middle Campus Counselor & High School Transition Coordinator
Kristin Lee has worked at ANCS since 2007. Previously she worked as a Night Shelter Supervisor at the Hospitality House, a Recreational Therapist at Hillside Hospital, and as a School Social Worker with DeKalb County Schools.
For Ms. Lee, the best part of her experience at ANCS is working with the students and seeing their hard efforts to overcome the various challenges that they face.
Ms. Lee is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and has been a school social worker and counselor since 2000. She has a B.A. in Psychology from Berry College and a Masters of Social Work from Georgia State University.
Ms. Lee is a mom of 2 active boys and loves playing tennis in her free time.
Middle Campus Media Center Specialist
Terri Linahan joined ANCS in 2011. Ms. Linahan earned a B.A. in Sociology from Valdosta State University and a Master of Library Media from Georgia State University’s College of Education. Her mission is to keep up with great literature for kids and young adults. As an avid reader, she tries to stay abreast of new releases, while examining classics with a modern critical lens. She loves connecting with our students and finding a book with which they can connect. In addition, Ms. Linahan tries to stay on top of current media, technology and cultural trends to better understand and guide our students.
Ms. Linahan has enjoyed a variety of work experiences including: a university bookstore, an archaeology lab and a number of years in corporate business as a software tester and finance associate. When Ms. Linahan was in graduate school, she became a small business owner, serving neighborhood clients in various domestic services such as pet sitting and child care. This allowed her flexibility to volunteer in local schools – including ANCS.
Ms. Linahan knows she has found her true calling and is passionate about coming to work every day. She says, “I am fortunate to be part of such a close-knit, positive learning community. My co-workers are inspiring, and I learn so much from the middle-grade students. It is such an endearing, transformative age, and I thrive on our conversations.”
She enjoys yoga, cooking, road trips, mysteries and the company of her friends, family and pets.
ESS Associate Teacher
Coming soon
Middle Campus Student Information Specialist / 6th & 7th Grade Trip Coordinator
Maria McFeeley has worked at the ANCS Middle School campus since the doors opened in 2005. Before joining the ANCS staff, Ms. McFeeley worked for the State of Georgia in their Welfare Fraud and Abuse division investigating internal employee misconduct and the fraud and/or abuse of welfare benefits by the client and/or service provider.
For Ms. McFeeley, watching the students grow during their time at ANCS is the best part of working at the school.
Ms. McFeeley is a huge football fan! She says, “I have standing dates every Saturday and Sunday in fall with the Dawgs and Falcons.”
Ms. McFeeley has a Bachelor’s degree in General Studies from Armstrong Atlantic State University. In her role at ANCS, she has expertise in student registration, student information, and the Food Service program.
7th/8th Sciences Teacher
In the fall of 2021, Toccara Nelson became a valued member of the ANCS faculty. Her academic achievements include a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Communications from Bennett College and a Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in Middle Grades Education, with a focus on Mathematics and Science, from Georgia State University.
Before joining ANCS, Toccara honed her skills as a Teaching Artist and Operations Manager at Creative Art Works in New York, where she shared her creative talents and nurtured artistic expression among students. Additionally, her passion for education led her to dedicate over a decade to tutoring students in mathematics, making a positive impact on their academic success.
Outside her professional life, Toccara’s creative spirit shines through her love for arts and crafts. She finds joy in various artistic pursuits, from crafting to painting, allowing her creativity to flourish. Moreover, she embraces her musical side and delights in sharing her singing talents with others. When seeking moments of relaxation and inspiration, Toccara enjoys embarking on invigorating road trips, discovering new places and experiences.
6th/7th Grade Individuals & Societies ESS Teacher
Dottie Pettes received her Education Specialist General Education Administration from Lincoln Memorial University as well as her Masters in Learning Disabilities from Hunter College and Bachelors in Sociology and Education from Metropolitan State College. She has been teaching for 36 years and specializes in Special Education.
Prior to joining the ANCS family, she served as Counselor for the Higher Education Opportunity Program, Education Coordinator for a private agency, and Special Education Teacher for a junior high school. Additionally, she worked as a Special Education Teacher for DeKalb County and Instructional Support Teacher and Special Education Coordinator for Fulton County.
In her free time, Ms. Pettes enjoys traveling, bike riding, hiking and spending time with family and friends.
6th/7th Physical & Health Education Teacher; Athletics Director
Detric Prather earned his Bachelor of Science in Health and Fitness Management with a minor in business from Clayton State University.
This is Mr. Prather’s third year teaching. He was a student assistant at Clayton State University, working at the information desk assisting with answering questions and directing where visitors, students and parents needed to go on campus.
Mr. Prather loves working with kids. He has coached sports, mostly basketball, for about five years. He is very passionate about helping and giving back to others in his community and wants to do all he can to help students be successful in school as well as in life.
Mr. Prather was born and raised in Conyers, Georgia. He enjoys eating, watching movies, and working out.
Adjunct Faculty Member
Coming soon
8th Grade Individuals & Societies and Heritage Speakers ESS Teacher
Roberto Rios earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Kennesaw State University.
Mr. Rios joined the ANCS faculty in the 2018-2019 school year. Prior to joining ANCS, he worked at Tapestry Public Charter as a 1:1 paraprofessional supporting students in achieving academic and behavior goals
In his spare time, Mr. Rios, enjoys reading and traveling with his wife and friends.
School Nurse
Leslye holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the Georgia Baptist College of Nursing at Mercer University, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Georgia State University.
Prior to joining the ANCS staff, Leslye worked as a nurse for 10 years at the Aflac Cancer and Blood Disorders Center at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. As a pediatric oncology nurse, Leslye enjoyed the opportunity to build lasting relationships with her patients and their families. Leslye has had the opportunity to travel to Port au Prince, Haiti several times to provide medical care to both children and adults. It was through this experience that Leslye discovered the importance of, and her love for, community health.
An Atlanta native, Leslye and her husband, Chris, moved to Grant Park in 2012. She has one son, Ezra, and and pup named Zeke. She enjoys practicing yoga, biking around the neighborhood and spending time with her family.
Middle Campus Principal
Mark Sanders has been working at ANCS since 2011. Before moving to Atlanta, Mr. Sanders worked in New York City. He spent three years teaching 7th and 8th grade mathematics at Middle School 50 in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and two years at Harlem Village Academies teaching Geometry and Algebra 2/Trigonometry. At ANCS Mr. Sanders was a Math, Science, and Technology (M.S.T.) teacher for 5 years prior to serving as Assistant Principal for 4 and a half years. Mr. Sanders became the Principal of the Middle Campus in January of 2022.
Mr. Sanders has a B.A. in Public Policy from Stanford University and an M.S.T. in Secondary Mathematics from Pace University.
Facilities Manager
Coming Soon
IB Middle Years Programme Coordinator
Dale Scott has been teaching at ANCS since 2014. Prior to her current role as MYP Coordinator at the Middle Campus, for eight years she taught Math, Science, and Design at ANCS. Ms. Scott is also the 6-8 Cross Country and Track Team Coach, and has enjoyed building the program and developing lifelong runners.
Ms. Scott received her B.A. in Spanish Language from Middlebury College and her M.S. in Middle Grades Education from Hunter College.
Prior to joining the ANCS faculty, Ms. Scott taught as an 8th grade Science teacher at Achievement First Charter School in New York and at KIPP West Philadelphia Charter School.
In her free time, Ms. Scott enjoys running and hiking with her husband and young children. She also likes to cook for family and friends and to travel to new places.
6th/7th Grade Design Teacher
In the Fall of 2023, Lillie Sentell became a valued member of the ANCS faculty. Her educational background includes a bachelor’s and master’s degree in middle grades education from the University of Georgia. With this academic foundation, she brings several years of teaching experience to the school. Before joining ANCS, Lillie dedicated three years to teaching 7th grade life science.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Lillie finds joy in various hobbies during her spare time. Sewing, reading, and taking leisurely walks around her charming neighborhood of Grant Park are among her favorite activities.
6th/7th Grade Language & Literature Teacher
Talishia earned her degree from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in Tallahassee, Florida. She has four years of teaching experience in a school setting. Before starting a career in education, she worked for Aetna Insurance. During her time with this company, she was in the role of a claim specialist.
Ms. Sims is a proud member of Omicron Psi Omega, INC., a Masculine of Center fraternity she joined during her undergraduate career at FAMU. She is an active member of the Alpha Beta Chapter here in Atlanta, Ga.
Ms. Sims enjoys reading, writing, spa days, weekend ventures throughout the city, and daily workouts in her free time. She also enjoys spending time with her family, friends, partner, and fur baby. She is passionate about providing an open and comfortable space for her students to relax and enjoy acquiring knowledge from words and expressing themselves with a pen.
MIddle Campus ESS Department Chair
Emily Stapp joined the ANCS family in the 2016-2017 school year. She has taught for eleven years. Ms. Stapp received her B.S. from the University of Pittsburgh and Masters of Science in Teaching from Pace University.
Ms. Stapps’s area of teaching expertise is special education. Prior to teaching at ANCS, she was a school support team member at 2 residential treatment centers for children and adolescents in Atlanta. She also was a social worker/case manager at a special needs foster and adoption agency. Ms. Stapp was a NYC Public School teacher (special education/self-contained classroom setting) for 5 years in Brooklyn as a part of the NYC Teaching Fellow’s program. Most recently, she was a special education teacher at a DeKalb county charter school, working in resource and co-teaching models.
In her free time, Ms. Stapp enjoys reading, dining out, exploring Georgia on walks and hikes, and spending time with family and friends. She is a resident of Ormewood Park and is a proud mother to her daughter and son, Georgia.
MTSS/504 Coordinator
Samantha Struttmann, aka Ms. Sammy, is the middle campus MTSS/504 Coordinator. This will be Ms. Sammy’s 11h year in education and 10th year at ANCS. Previously, she taught 6th and 7th grade Humanities, 6th and 7th Individuals and Societies and Language and Literature at ANCS Middle. She taught 1st grade for one year at ANCS Elementary School. She took a year away from ANCS to help establish the Kindezi School at Old 4th Ward and taught 4th grade. She is now back home at ANCS where she belongs. She spent her last year in the classroom leveraging her background in video/film and creative mind as the 7th/8th Design Teacher.
Ms. Sammy received her B.S.E. in Middle Level Education with a concentration in Social Science and Language Arts from Georgia State University. She has experience with the Boys and Girls Club of Atlanta, the Metro Atlanta YMCA and working with young people as a volleyball and softball coach. She was in ANCS’s teacher residency program as a resident and a CREATE cooperating teacher in conjunction with the MLE program at Georgia State University.
In her free time, she enjoys attending local festivals and shows with her family and friends. Also, Ms. Sammy enjoys local art and frequenting local thrift stores hunting for vintage pieces that hold historical or sentimental significance. She loves being outdoors and spending time in the various dog parks throughout Atlanta with her dog Moneypenny. On the weekend you may spot her at a coffeeshop/dog park combination location. She cannot wait to get back to these hobbies, when it is safe.
Ms. Sammy also enjoys taking risks and has ridden in the front row of the tallest roller coaster in the United States and jumped out of the Stratosphere hotel in Las Vegas! She is ready for any challenge thrown her way, including finding the best way to reach all students no matter where they are, who they are, or what their circumstance may be.
7th/8th Grade Spanish Teacher
Dyan Taylor joined the ANCS faculty in 2017 as the Middle Campus Spanish Teacher. She has been teaching for more than 20 years, and received a B.A. English from Kennesaw State University.
Teaching foreign language is Ms. Taylor’s expertise, both English and Spanish. As a Venezuelan native, she taught both English and Spanish as a second language, with a stronger demand on English. Once she came to the United States, the opposite happened. Spanish became the foreign language she taught the most.
Ms. Taylor is married and a mother of two and has an eternal love of languages. Her fervent desire is to be multilingual. That same love of languages is paired by her desire to travel.
ESS Lead Teacher
Leslyn will be embarking on her first year at ANCS during the 2023-24 school year. Her educational background includes a BA in History from Georgia State University and an MBA from Devry University, Keller School of Graduate Management. While she officially started her teaching career in 2020 amidst the challenges of the pandemic, Leslyn had been gaining experience as a substitute teacher since 2016.
Before joining ANCS, Leslyn enjoyed a successful career spanning over two decades in Information Systems and telecommunications. She contributed her expertise to companies such as Siemens, where she served as a consultant for Coca-Cola for seven years. Additionally, she managed a family company in Stone Mountain for five years. Later on, after pursuing her graduate studies, Leslyn worked as a consultant for AT&T and IBM, collaborating on building the cloud for AT&T.
Beyond her professional achievements, Leslyn actively engages in community service. Since 2018, she has been a devoted member of the Stone Mountain Rotary Club, where she takes on the roles of chair for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and Foundation Treasurer. Furthermore, she holds the position of Treasurer for her High School alumni association, the Queens Alumnae Atlanta Chapter.
Originally from Jamaica, Leslyn’s love for the beach and passion for travel are deeply ingrained in her. She looks forward to sharing and hearing travel stories with others, inviting the joy of exploration and adventure into her life and the ANCS community.
Regenerate response
Assistant Principal, Middle Campus
Dr. NaTasha Woody-Wideman earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from Clark Atlanta University, a Masters of Arts in Teaching in English Education from Georgia State University, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from Clark Atlanta University. She is entering her 16th year in Education.
Dr. Woody-Wideman served as a Middle School and High School ELA teacher for the first half of her career. She also served as a middle and high school Instructional Coach and high school Assistant Principal.
NaTasha is the mom and bonus mom to five young people and fur mom to 2 adorable Shih-Tzu’s. She enjoys dance, as well as all things music.