Meet Our Team

Melanie Barkley

Executive Director

334.689.5059 ext: 1005

[email protected]

Candace Doak

Operations Manager

334.689.5059 ext: 3004

[email protected]

Stephanie Hood

Operations Assistant Manager

334.689.5059 ext: 2030

[email protected]

Chuck Yeager

Elementary Principal

334.689.5059 ext: 2001

[email protected]

Merrill Dotson

Middle School Principal

334.689.5059 ext: 3006

[email protected]

Lanier Pearce

High School Principal

334.689.5059 ext: 3040

[email protected]

Carol Taylor

Elementary Assitant Principal

334.689.5059 ext: 2011

[email protected]

Ellen Henry

Middle School Assistant Principal

334.689.5059 ext: 5007

[email protected]

Carla Bates

High School Assistant Principal

334.689.5059 ext: 4030

[email protected]

Kyle Altier

Special Programs Manager

334.689.5059 ext: 5003

[email protected]

Cindy Cates

CTE Administrator

334.689.5059 ext: 6002

[email protected]

Carley Scanlan

Community Engagement Specialist

334.689.5059 ext: 2031

[email protected]

Tripp Beatty

6th - 8th Grade Registrar

334.689.5059 ext: 1015

[email protected]

Sandi McKinney

Operations Specialist - Student, LC, and Parent Contact

334.689.5059 ext: 1002

[email protected]

Taylor Cornelius

Operations Specialist - Attendance Contact

334.689.5059 ext: 1006

[email protected]

Katt Boxley

Operations Specialist - McKinney Vento, Foster, Migrant POC

334.689.5059 ext: 1012

[email protected]

Pamala Lynn

3rd - 5th Grade Registrar

334.689.5059 ext: 1008

[email protected]

Elizabeth Wittner

11th - 12th Grade Registrar

334.689.5059 ext: 91006

[email protected]

Donnetta Jaye

Testing Coordinator

334.689.5059 ext: 3001

[email protected]

Amber Noffke

School Nurse

334.689.5059 ext: 7006

[email protected]

Amber Brannan

School Data Analysts

[email protected]

Amber Brannan

School Data Analysts

[email protected]

Amber graduated from Troy University with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.  Years later, she received a Library Science degree from the University of West Alabama.  She has 29 years of teaching and media specialist experience and has recently retired from Eufaula City Schools.  Amber lives in Clopton, AL with her husband of 29 years and has two grown children, Bailey and Trey.  She is expecting her first grandchild in December.  She is thrilled to join ALVA as a student data analyst.

Anna Parmer

Operations Specialist - Phone Operator & Staff Support

334.689.5059 ext: 1004

[email protected]

Sarenthian Smith

K - 2nd Grade Registrar

334.689.5059 ext: 1000

[email protected]

Paige Garrison

9th - 10th Grade Registrar

Leslie Godwin

Operations Specialist

Keaghan Hinson

Operations Specialist - Human Resources Contact

Kathryn Jimenez

Assistant Testing Coordinator

334.689.5059 ext: 6006

[email protected]

Annie Fitzgerlad

K - 2nd Grade Counselor

334.689.5059 ext: 4028

[email protected]

Amy Buckner

3rd - 5th Grade Counselor

334.689.5059 ext: 2046

[email protected]

Kimberly Glenn-Foster

Middle School Counselor -- 6th Grade

334.689.5059 ext: 3065

[email protected]

Leigh Stovall

7th Grade Counselor

[email protected]

Leigh Stovall

7th Grade Counselor

[email protected]

For the past 25 years, Leigh has dedicated her career to working with middle school students as a teacher and school counselor. She has earned degrees from UAB in Social Science Education and Special Education, and a degree in School Counseling from UWA. She is dedicated to helping students recognize their strengths, navigate challenges, and develop the confidence and skills they need to succeed both in school and in life.

Meagan Turner

Middle School Counselor -- 8th Grade

334.689.5059 ext: 3066

[email protected]

Adrianne Dodgen

9th Grade Counselor - AP Coordinator

334.689.5059 ext: 2024

[email protected]

Dionne Vandiber

10th Grade Counselor - Dual Enrollment Coordinator

334.689.5059 ext: 4039

[email protected]

Tracey Gulledge

11th Grade Counselor - CTE Support

334.689.5059 ext: 4007

[email protected]

Stephanie Williams

12th Grade Counselor - College and Career

334.689.5059 ext: 3002

[email protected]

Jamie Kubik

High School Counselor

[email protected]

Jamie Kubik

High School Counselor

[email protected]

I am excited to join the ALVA team after retiring from the Madison County School System with 31 years of service in education. During my career, I taught middle and high school mathematics before serving as an elementary, middle, and high school counselor. I earned my master’s degrees in Secondary Mathematics and School Guidance and Counseling from Alabama A & M University. I am a devoted Christian and attend Willowbrook Baptist Church. I am married, have two great sons, two wonderful daughters-in-law, and six amazing grandchildren, who are the joy of my life. In my free time, I enjoy hiking, swimming, gardening, and spending time outdoors with my family. I look forward to serving ALVA students and families and I’m eager to begin this new chapter.

Amanda Brown

Kindergarten Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2081

[email protected]

Christy Cooper

Kindergarten Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2043

[email protected]

Claire Cribbs

Kindergarten Teacher

[email protected]

Claire Cribbs

Kindergarten Teacher

[email protected]

Claire graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She later received a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Alabama. She comes to us with 30 years of teaching experience. After beginning her career in Cincinnati, she soon moved to Gulf Shores, where she taught PreK, Kindergarten, 2nd, and 3rd grades at Gulf Shores Elementary for 20 years. Claire then moved to Troy City Schools, teaching PreK and Kindergarten for another 5 years before retiring from the brick-and-mortar classroom. Claire lives in Troy and has 3 adult children, Cameron, Maddie, and Ben. She is also ‘LaLa’ to two grandsons, Thomas (2) and Callum (5 months). She has 2 fur babies, Goose and Scout. 

Kristy Gay

Kindergarten Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5045

[email protected]

Jennifer Mitchell

Kindergarten Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5009

[email protected]

Rachel New

Kindergarten Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2015

[email protected]

Mary Catherine Nolan

Kindergarten Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2057

[email protected]

Lyndsey Oliu

Kindergarten Teacher

[email protected]

Lyndsey Oliu

Kindergarten Teacher

[email protected]

Lyndsey graduated from Florida State University in 2016 with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education. She began her career in central Florida teaching pre-kindergarten. There she became licensed in teaching students with exceptionalities as well as students with English as a second language. Lyndsey returned to Tallahassee, FL to continue teaching in kindergarten, pre-kindergarten, and 1^st grade for an additional 6 years. She became LETRS certified and taught digitally throughout the pandemic. Lyndsey and her husband now live in Troy, Alabama.

Liza Ray

Kindergarten Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2060

[email protected]

JoAnne Atwood

1st Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2013

[email protected]

Jennifer Bensko

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Jennifer Bensko

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Jennifer received both her Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Elementary Education from UAB. She comes to us with 28 years of experience; 23 of those years were teaching first grade. She recently retired from the Jefferson County School System. She taught for 8 years at Brookville Elementary and 20 years at Gardendale Elementary. Jennifer and her husband Jamie live in Gardendale and have three children, Griffin (Anna), Caroline, and Blair.

Christy Gillies

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Landi Gilliland

1st Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext:2059

[email protected]

Trish Hawkey

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Trish Hawkey

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Trish graduated from Florida Atlantic University with a BA in Elementary Education and a MA in Educational Leadership. This marks her 35th year in education. Trish retired from St. Lucie County Public Schools in 2025, where she taught at the elementary level for 20 years, worked in Professional Development at the district level for 5 years, and served her final 8 years as a testing coordinator. Following her retirement, Trish and her husband, David, moved to Heflin. She returned to the classroom to teach second grade in Calhoun County for the 2025-2026 school year. Trish has two adult children, Trevor and Jada, who still live in Florida. In their spare time, Trish and her husband love to travel and spoil their four beloved dogs.

Katherine Jackson

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Katherine Jackson

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Katherine Jackson graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Elementary Education. She has four years of experience teaching in 5^th and 6^th grade in Opelika City Schools. She is passionate about early literacy and creating a welcoming environment for all students to succeed. Katherine and her husband live in Opelika.

Sarah Posey

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Sarah Posey

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Sarah graduated from Athens State University with a degree in Elementary Education. She later received her Masters in Instructional Leadership from Samford University.  She is a National Board Certified Teacher in Early and Middle Childhood Literacy.  She comes to us with over 19 years of experience. She comes to us from Jefferson and Madison Counties where she taught 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grades. Sarah and her husband live in Hartselle and have one grown child, Ginavee.  She is the proud GiGi of two grandsons, Xavier and Aaron.

Kristin Rambo

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Kristin Rambo

1st Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Kristin graduated from Troy University in 2016 with her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. She later received her Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from The University of West Alabama. Kristin taught in the Covington County School System for seven years, before taking a break from public education to establish a childcare center in her hometown. In 2025, Kristin returned to the school she taught at previously and served students by providing reading and math intervention. She is looking forward to teaching her students virtually this year. Kristin resides in her hometown of Andalusia, Al with her husband of ten years and their three children; Rosemary (8), Molly (5), and Jack Thomas (3).

Roxy Rose

1st Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2073

Angela Stewart

1st Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2080

[email protected]

Casi Wilson

1st Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2017

[email protected]

Monica Clark

2nd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Monica Clark

2nd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Monica is first and foremost a disciple of Jesus Christ. She attends Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Winfield, Alabama. She has been married for almost 27 years with three sons ages 24, 21, and 18, and a daughter, 9 years old. She has three granddaughters and one on the way. They all currently reside in Hamilton, Alabama. Monica graduated from Athens State with a degree in Elementary Education and has been working in a brick and mortar setting for the past 12 years. She has received many trainings during this time including LETRS, Phonics First, AMSTI Science and Math, Orton Gillingham, and others. Much of her grade level experience is in K-2 as this is where her heart lies.   

Sarah Faulkner

2nd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2041

[email protected]

Amy Harris

2nd Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2056

[email protected]

Rebecca Harrison

2nd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Rebecca Harrison

2nd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Rebecca Harrison brings 14 years of experience in education, with a passion for supporting students and creating positive learning experiences. She began her career with the Boys & Girls Club before becoming a classroom teacher and later serving as Assistant Director of a private early education center. Rebecca holds a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Louisiana State University and an M.A. in Teaching from Nicholls State University. She lives in Madison, Alabama, with her husband and daughter and enjoys supporting students and families in her virtual learning community.

Holly Mehaffie

2nd Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5004

[email protected]

Heather Messer

2nd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2038

[email protected]

Valerie Powell

2nd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2065

[email protected]

Heather Teague

2nd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2061

[email protected]

Hannah Wates

2nd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Hannah Wates

2nd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Hannah graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Rehabilitation and Disability Studies. She later received a master’s in special education from the University of West Georgia. She comes to us with 6 years of experience teaching 1^st and 2^nd grade. Hannah and her husband live in Huntsville and have two little girls, Holland and Harper. She is thrilled to join the ALVA team!

Melanie Wood

2nd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Amy Bates

3rd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Amy Bates

3rd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Amy graduated from Athens State University with a degree in Elementary Education and went on to receive her MA in Elementary Education from the University of North Alabama. She comes to us with 25 years of teaching experience. She retired from Madison County, Alabama in 2021 where she taught 2^nd and 5^th grades, as well as Adapted PE. She then taught 2^nd grade for two years at Westminster Christian Academy in Huntsville, Alabama. Amy and her husband, Stacy, moved to Tennessee where she taught 2^nd grade for another two years in Lincoln County, Tennessee. She is excited to join the ALVA Tigers as a 3^rd grade teacher. They currently live in Ardmore, Tennessee and have two grown children, Drew and Maryanna.

Emily Byrd

3rd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2050

[email protected]

Michelle Cheney

3rd Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2052

[email protected]

Stephanie Duckworth

3rd Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2008

[email protected]

Torie Hopkins

3rd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2067

[email protected]

Greg Kimbel

3rd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2002

[email protected]

Madison Kuykendall

3rd Grade Teacher

Madison Kuykendall

3rd Grade Teacher

Madison graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She comes to us with three years of teaching experience, having taught Pre-K and 3rd grade in the Decatur City School System. Madison and her husband, Jordan, live in Toney, Alabama, with their two fur babies, Stella and Nova.

Tammy Pennington

3rd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2014

[email protected]

Misti Rains

3rd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2042

[email protected]

Miranda Riley

3rd Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2034

Emma Robinson

3rd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Emma Robinson

3rd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Emma Robinson graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in education and later earned a master’s degree in Elementary Education. Go Gators!! This is her second year of teaching. During her first year, she taught third grade in Baldwin County, Alabama. This year, she is excited to continue teaching third grade in a virtual learning environment and looks forward to building meaningful relationships with her students and families. Emma currently lives in Pensacola, Florida, with her fiancé, Jake, their cat, Juno, and their puppy, Kiwi.

Katy Sund

3rd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Katy Sund

3rd Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Mrs. Sund graduated from the University of Pheonix with her Elementary Education degree. She later received her MA in Elementary Education from Montevallo University and later her MS in Library and Information Studies from the University of Alabama. She has been teaching for the past 5 years and has taught 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th grade and is excited to begin teaching at Alva. Mrs. Sund and her husband live in Helena, Al and have three grown children, Tristan, Taylor, and Allie, and a beautiful granddaughter, Evelyn.  

Danielle Thomas

3rd Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2005

[email protected]

AnnaLee West

4th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2007

[email protected]

Julie Bicknell

4th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4024

[email protected]

Jordan Dyer

4th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2071

[email protected]

Angela Elward

4th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2012

[email protected]

Heather Hulsey

4th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2026

[email protected]

Sarah Jones

4th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2039

[email protected]

Nicole Latragna

4th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Jonathan Lowell

4th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2074

[email protected]

Ann Thomas

4th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2054

[email protected]

Raine Walton

4th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2004

[email protected]

Emily Woodham

4th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Emily Woodham

4th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Emily Woodham earned her BS and MA degrees in Early Childhood/Elementary Education from Jacksonville State University. Emily taught first grade for three years at Albertville Primary School. Emily lives in Albertville, Alabama with her husband and their two-year-old son. Emily took two years away from the classroom to be at home with their child, and is now excited to return to education with ALVA. 

Emma Young

4th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2025

[email protected]

Heather Bethune

5th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2021

[email protected]

Rebecca Calvert

5th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2079

[email protected]

Ashley Campbell

5th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Ashley Campbell

5th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Ashley graduated from Auburn University at Montgomery with a degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education. She plans to further her education by pursuing a master’s degree. This is the beginning of her sixth year as an elementary teacher. Her most recent teaching experience was teaching math in grades 4–6. Ashley and her husband live in Deatsville with their three children: Riley, Caleb, and Cooper.

Betsy Childress

5th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2064

[email protected]

Anna Cochrane

5th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2036

[email protected]

Lauryn Malone

5th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Lauryn Malone

5th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Lauryn Malone earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Jacksonville State University and is currently completing her Master’s degree in Learning, Design, and Technology. Over the past five years, she has taught students from Pre-K through 4th grade and loves helping children discover confidence in themselves as readers and learners. She believes the best classrooms are filled with curiosity, encouragement, laughter, and a love of learning. Outside of school, you’ll usually find her with her husband and three boys, curled up with a good book, or serving on the worship team at her church. She is thrilled to be part of the ALVA family and looks forward to partnering with parents to make this a memorable year of growth, learning, and lots of great stories!

Ginger McGraw

5th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2062

[email protected]

Allison Neivel

5th Grade Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2029

[email protected]

Haley Smith

5th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Sonya Walker

5th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Sonya Walker

5th Grade Teacher

[email protected]

Sonya graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a degree in Elementary Education. She later received her MA and AA in Elementary Education from UAB.  She comes to us with 30 years of experience in the classroom. She retired from the Jefferson County School system where she spent most of her career teaching 5th, 6th, and 7th grade.  Sonya and her husband Layne live in Gardendale and have two grown sons, Gavin and Presley. 

Russell Wilhite

5th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2051

[email protected]

Jenni Clark

3rd - 5th Gifted Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2055

[email protected]

Calley Davis

Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

Calley Davis

Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

Calley graduated from the University of South Alabama in 2018 with a degree in K-6 Elementary and Special Education. She later received her master’s degree in Special Education from the University of South Alabama in 2024. Calley brings nearly 10 years of teaching experience, including three years in Mobile County and six years in Baldwin County, where she taught students across all grade levels K-12. Calley and fiancé live in Elberta, Alabama, with their two young sons, Cooper and Tate, and bonus daughter, Lennon.

Julie Wessler

Student/Family Interventionists 4th-5th Grade

334.689.5059 ext: 3018

[email protected]

Bobbie Beasley

Student/Family Interventionists K-1st Grade

334.689.5059 ext: 2032

[email protected]

Leigh Aaron

Math Coach

334.689.5059 ext: 7001

[email protected]

Amanda Attaway

ARI Interventionist

334.689.5059 ext: 2023

[email protected]

Angie Austin

Dyslexia Interventionist

334.689.5059 ext: 2035

[email protected]

Susie Baeder

Interventionist

[email protected]

Susie Baeder

Interventionist

[email protected]

Susie graduated from Freed-Hardeman University with a degree in Elementary Education. She later received her MA in Elementary Education from the University of Alabama. She comes to us with 27 years of experience. She retired from the Madison County School System where she taught kindergarten for one year, 3^rd grade for 22 years and was a Reading Coach for 4 years. Susie and her husband live in Meridianville with their three children, Landon, Reagan, and Lauren.

Kimberly Baker

Interventionist

[email protected]

Amy Bru

RTI Coordinator

334.689.5059 ext: 2016

[email protected]

Lee Buntin

Math Coach

334.689.5059 ext: 7007

[email protected]

Julianna Doak

Student/Family Interventionists 2nd-3rd Grade

334.689.5059 ext: 2045

[email protected]

Kara Dykes

Lead Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5031

[email protected]

Deborah Edler

ARI Reading Specialist

334.689.5059 ext: 5013

[email protected]

Susan Franklin

Reading Interventionist

334.689.5059 ext: 2019

[email protected]

Elizabeth Grimes

Interventionist

[email protected]

Elizabeth James

RTI Support

334.689.5059 ext: 5006

[email protected]

Anna Stewart

Lead Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 2047

[email protected]

Shatia Varnado

Math Interventionist

334.689.5059 ext: 2058

[email protected]

Emily Duerring

Lead Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3005

[email protected]

Sara Brown

6th Grade Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3041

[email protected]

Jyrah Campbell

6th Grade English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3048

[email protected]

Bonnie Cobb

6th Grade History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3050

[email protected]

Bonnie Gaudet

6th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5026

[email protected]

Laura Grant

6th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3046

[email protected]

Laura Pagano

6th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5023

[email protected]

Carla Swinford

6th Grade Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3008

[email protected]

Jason Thompson

6th Grade Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3042

[email protected]

Keisha Wickham

6th Grade History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3016

[email protected]

Amanda Woerner

6th Grade Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5042

[email protected]

Mindy Black

7th Grade Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3038

[email protected]

Darrian Brown

7th Grade Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5021

[email protected]

Ashley Earnest

7th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3023

[email protected]

Amber Giddens

7th Grade Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3011

[email protected]

Taylor Green

7th Grade History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3056

[email protected]

Connie Hambey

7th Grade Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4010

[email protected]

Kylie Johnson

7th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 1003

[email protected]

Jennifer Kapellas

7th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3027

[email protected]

Tammy Lafoon

7th Grade Math Teacher

[email protected]

Candice Lawrence

7th Grade English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3034

[email protected]

Cady Patrick

7th Grade History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3010

[email protected]

Amanda Pearlstein

7th Grade English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3037

[email protected]

April Recob

7th Grade English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4027

[email protected]

Teresa Roe

7th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5010

[email protected]

Ashley Saunders

7th Grade Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3015

[email protected]

Jaclyn Wilson

7th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3055

[email protected]

Elizabeth Alderson

8th Grade Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3039

[email protected]

Rebecca Gideon

8th Grade English Teacher

[email protected]

Alicia Johnson

8th Grade Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3025

[email protected]

Kathy Jollit

8th Grade Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3060

[email protected]

Brieanna Keaton

8th Grade Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3030

[email protected]

Debbie Kenyon

8th Grade History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4029

[email protected]

Carrie Lieberstein

8th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5016

[email protected]

Kayla Lipich

8th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3063

Jamie Martin

8th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3058

[email protected]

Marissa Mitchell

8th Grade Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4031

[email protected]

Mandi Morrison

8th Grade History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3061

[email protected]

Alexandria Riggs

8th Grade History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 1011

[email protected]

Katlyn Sutton

8th Grade English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3032

[email protected]

Ramsey Wagoner

8th Grade Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3051

[email protected]

Jessica Wilson

8th Grade English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3045

[email protected]

Ashlee Womack

8th Grade Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3052

[email protected]

Taylor Brown

8th Grade Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

Taylor Brown

8th Grade Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

My name is Taylor Brown, and I am so excited to start the upcoming school year as a Special Programs teacher at ALVA. I graduated from Athens State University in the Fall of 2021 and received a degree in Special Education K-6 and Special Education 6-12. I have worked as Resource Teacher in Cullman County for the past four and half years. I had the opportunity to work with and learn from wonderful faculty, teachers, and students. My husband and I reside in Cullman, Al and we have one little boy, Henry Hollis. 

Morgan McCracken

8th Grade Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

Morgan McCracken

8th Grade Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

I graduated from Jacksonville State University with a degree in Secondary Education in General Science. I am currently working towards my MA in Secondary Education with the University of Alabama. My first year of teaching included teaching 8^th grade physical science. The past 3 years I have been in Special Education at the HS level teaching Environmental Science and Physical Science (grades 9-12). I currently reside in Jasper, GA with my husband Lakota and my daughter Ronnie Jean, with plans to relocate to Hayden, AL this fall.

Jennifer Pinkerton

Interventionist

[email protected]

Austin Marsh

Physical Education Teacher

[email protected]

Melany Champagne

Gifted and Enrichment Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 6013

[email protected]

Bethany Franklin

Advanced Math and Project Based Learning

334.689.5059 ext: 3021

[email protected]

Jennifer Lee

CTE Teacher - Middle School Career Explorations

[email protected]

Jennifer Luker

Computer Science & Electives Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4042

[email protected]

Benjamin Kocian

Interventionist

[email protected]

Leland Pease

Reading Interventionist Lead

334.689.5059 ext: 3026

[email protected]

Tanya Smith

Interventionist

[email protected]

Tanya Smith

Interventionist

[email protected]

Tanya Smith brings more than 30 years of professional experience, including 10 years in healthcare administration and 20 years in education in Alabama. She holds a master’s degree from Auburn University Montgomery in Collaborative Education and a master’s degree from Troy University in School Psychometry. Tanya most recently worked as a School Psychometrist with Jefferson County Schools in Birmingham before relocating to Tennessee to be closer to family. She now splits time between Tennessee and Cullman, AL (Smith Lake), where she is also a realtor. She is the proud mother of three adult children, grandmother to two grandsons, three bonus grandsons, one bonus granddaughter, and is excited to welcome a new granddaughter soon. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends. Tanya is excited to join the Alabama Virtual Academy team and looks forward to this new chapter and the opportunity to support students and collaborate with her colleagues.

Barbara Von Gal

Instructional Coach

334.689.5059 ext: 5008

[email protected]

Lauren Wilbanks

Interventionist

[email protected]

Abby McKay

HS Lead Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3024

[email protected]

Kristina Andrews

English Teacher

[email protected]

Chris Bond

English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4038

[email protected]

Shayla Carter

English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4020

[email protected]

Megan Cosby

English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4016

[email protected]

Chelsea Holston

English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3029

[email protected]

Alexandra Jones

English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4004

[email protected]

Ashley Lovelace

English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4047

[email protected]

Casey McLemore

English Teacher

[email protected]

Casey McLemore

English Teacher

[email protected]

My name is Mrs. Casey McLemore! I teach high school English Language Arts! This is my 14^th year teaching, and I am beyond excited to be joining the ALVA team! I have earned 3 degrees from the following schools: Auburn University (Bachelor’s degree), University of Montevallo (Master’s degree), and University of North Alabama (Education Specialist). I have 5 children that keep me quite busy. In my free time I enjoy watching sport events, reading, writing, and cooking new recipes! I am looking forward to working closely with students to make a difference in their lives!

Olivia Thomas

English Teacher

[email protected]

Olivia Thomas

English Teacher

[email protected]

Olivia graduated from Jacksonville State University with a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education – English Language Arts. She is from Mobile, Alabama but moved to Anniston, Alabama a few years ago. She enjoys crafting, reading, and traveling. She shared that she is excited to build relationships with her students and make literature engaging.

Allison Weaver

English Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4057

[email protected]

Becky Chapman

Math Teacher

[email protected]

Franklin Gowins

Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4008

[email protected]

Brandon Hensley

Math Teacher

[email protected]

Harriett Johnson

Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4048

[email protected]

Liz Loegler

Math Teacher

[email protected]

JoBeth O'Shea

Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4051

[email protected]

Ashley Peters

Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4005

[email protected]

Julie Prater

Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ex: 4035

[email protected]

Jessica Rosen

Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4055

[email protected]

Courtney Wenzel

Math Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3033

[email protected]

Dana Brumbelow

Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4033

[email protected]

Doris Gladen

Science Teacher

[email protected]

Doris Gladen

Science Teacher

[email protected]

Doris Gladen graduated from the University of South Alabama with a degree in General Science Education for grades 4^th through 12th. This marks her 32^nd year in education. She loves teaching and is happy and excited to be a part of the ALVA team. Doris retired from Mobile County Public School System in 2026, where she taught high school science including biology, zoology, marine biology, physical science, and Earth & space science for 31 years. She also worked at Dauphin Island Sea Lab for several summers, wrote science curriculum for MCPSS and taught summer school. Doris has been married to the love of her life, her sweet husband, Johnathan since 2007. They love the water and live on the Alabama and Mississippi state line near Mobile, Alabama. They love and enjoy spending time with family especially their nieces and nephews who are so special to them. Doris feels blessed to be teaching Earth science at ALVA and helping students be successful.

Candice Goff

Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4006

[email protected]

Nadia Hudson

Science Teacher

[email protected]

Cloe Malone

Science Teacher

[email protected]

Erica Martella

Science Teacher

[email protected]

Erica Martella

Science Teacher

[email protected]

Erica earned her BS in Secondary Science Education (Biological Sciences) from Western Governors University. She is also STEM Certified through the National Institute for STEM Education.

 

This school year marks Erica’s fourth year in education. Prior to joining Alabama Virtual Academy, she taught Biology and Physical Science in Shelby County Schools. She is excited to teach Biology in a virtual setting and looks forward to helping students develop a deeper understanding of the world around them through engaging, real-world learning.

 

Erica lives in Calera with her husband, Brandon, and their three children, Adrian, Julian, and Lexi. She is excited to be part of the ALVA community and looks forward to a great school year with her students.

Tynell Mitchell

Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4019

[email protected]

Mary Motes

Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4052

[email protected]

Angela Saunders

Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4009

[email protected]

Tyler Winfrey

Science Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4041

[email protected]

Seth Armstrong

History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4026

[email protected]

Kalie Harvin

History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4018

[email protected]

Julie Long

History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4011

[email protected]

Donald Puig

History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4003

[email protected]

Brent Reeves

History Teacher

[email protected]

Elizabeth Roughton

History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 3031

[email protected]

Jay Townsend

History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4040

[email protected]

Kristin Weaver

History Teacher

[email protected]

Kyle Wilkerson

History Teacher

[email protected]

Ghada Yahya

History Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4050

[email protected]

RJ Farrell

Physical Education Teacher

[email protected]

Ansley Gwin

Electives Teacher - Fine Arts

334.689.5059 ext: 4021

[email protected]

Caryn Hairell

Electives Teacher - Foreign Language

334.689.5059 ext: 4013

[email protected]

Brian McGuire

Electives Teacher - Health and PE

334.689.5059 ext: 4014

[email protected]

Kevin Montgomery

Electives Teacher - Health and PE

334.689.5059 ext: 4017

[email protected]

Amber Saunders

Electives Teacher - Career Prep

334.689.5059 ext: 4032

[email protected]

Kristi Shaw-Saleh

Electives Teacher

334.689.5059 ext:4012

[email protected]

Nancy Blackwood

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5034

[email protected]

Sandra Bost

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4043

[email protected]

Brittany Brown

Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

Hester Burdett

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5029

[email protected]

Raniece Canady

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5014

[email protected]

Jeff Davis

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4053

[email protected]

Mary Dennison

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 6001

[email protected]

Gabriele Guillot

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4022

[email protected]

Devan Hines

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4045

[email protected]

Haden Horton

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5020

[email protected]

Jennifer Howard

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5015

[email protected]

Kristi Martin

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4049

[email protected]

Jessica Minton

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 4054

[email protected]

Jasmine Webb

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5049

[email protected]

Donya Ligon

Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

Kristina Marcus

Special Education Teacher

334.689.5059 ext: 5032

[email protected]

Shanna Bohrer

CTE Teacher - Business Management Administration & Health Science

334.689.5059 ext: 6003

[email protected]

Stacy Ester

CTE Teacher - Business Management Administration

334.689.5059 ext: 4036

[email protected]

Shantika Jackson

CTE Teacher - Business Management Administration

334.689.5059 ext: 4023

[email protected]

LaDara Lee

CTE Teacher - Business Management Administration

334.689.5059 ext: 6011

[email protected]

Tricia Beverly

CTE Teacher - Early Childhood Education

334.689.5059 ext: 6009

[email protected]

Paquita Reedy

CTE Teacher - Early Childhood Education

334.689.5059 ext: 2033

[email protected]

Ida Graham

CTE Teacher - Health Science

334.689.5059 ext: 6007

[email protected]

Nora Havard

CTE Teacher - Health Science

334.689.5059 ext: 6012

[email protected]

Janita Moravits

CTE Teacher - Information Technology & Business Management Administration

334.689.5059 ext: 6010

[email protected]

Christian Nelson

CTE Teacher - Information Technology

334.689.5059 ext: 4044

[email protected]

Tim Walker

CTE Coordinator

334.689.5059 ext: 95095

[email protected]

Marianne Bell

CTE Teacher - Health Science

Tricia Beverly

CTE Teacher - Early Childhood Education

Hayley Cox

CTE Teacher - Business Management Administration

Jolene Fretwell

CTE Teacher - Middle School Career Explorations

Ida Graham

CTE Teacher - Health Science

Andrew Lipske

CTE Teacher - Business Management Administration

[email protected]

Andrew Lipske

CTE Teacher - Business Management Administration

[email protected]

My name is Andrew Lipske and I’m ecstatic to join the incredible CTE team this year! This is my 13^th year in education. I am coming from NMDCA, the New Mexico k12 school, which I worked for last school year. Before that, I worked at my alma mater, Baker High School, here in Mobile. In my free time I love to travel, bake, and just live life to the fullest. I can’t wait to meet all my special students this year!

Kylie Mikel

CTE - Education

Rebekka Newell

CTE Teacher - Hospitality and Tourism

[email protected]

Rebekka Newell

CTE Teacher - Hospitality and Tourism

[email protected]

My name is Rebekka Newell. I have nine years of experience in education. I have many years working in Early Childhood Education K and 1st grade. I have also taught 4th grade. Before teaching I worked in restaurant management, catering, and Real Estate. I hold an Associate’s Degree in science from Enterprise state Community College, a Bachelor’s Degree in K-6 Education from Troy University, and a Master’s Degree in Education from the University of West Alabama. I am LETRS and AMSTI certified. I have multiple certifications to include middle school, physical education, and High School Family Consumer Science and Health. I also have I have two daughters (17) and (14). We reside in Enterprise, Alabama. I enjoy travel, gardening, dancing, hiking, and animals. I am excited to join the CTE team!

Sherri Perkins

CTE Teacher

Ashley Strawderman

CTE Teacher - Manufacturing

Michael Vigor

CTE Teacher - Health Science

Lynda Joy Offutt

504 Coordinator/Health Plan

334.689.5059 ext: 5028

[email protected]

Tina Sanders

Alternate and K - 3rd SPED Compliance

334.689.5059 ext: 5039

[email protected]

Alissa Roberts

4th & 5th SPED Compliance

[email protected]

Marna Reeves

6th–8th SPED Compliance

334.689.5059 ext: 5024

[email protected]

Jorden Dickerson

9th–12th SPED Compliance

334.689.5059 ext: 5012

[email protected]

Susan Goldthwaite

Transition Coordinator

334.689.5059 ext: 5046

[email protected]

Tina Melton

9th–12th Gifted/Gifted Lead

334.689.5059 ext: 2018

[email protected]

Chelsea Barkley

Speech Language Pathologist

334.689.5059 ext: 5055

[email protected]

Kelly Daspit

Speech Language Pathologist

334.689.5059 ext: 5017

[email protected]

Angel Fowler

ESOL

334.689.5059 ext: 5025

[email protected]

Dale Blackburn

AAA Special Education Teacher - Math

334.689.5059 ext: 5027

[email protected]

Cathy Brow

AAA Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

Cathy Brow

AAA Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

Cathy graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood/ Elementary Special Education.  She comes to us with 32 years of experience in the classroom.  She retired from Cobb County School District in Georgia where she worked in the Special Needs Preschool Program.  She lives in Acworth, Georgia and is excited to join the ALVA team!

Christopher Hargett

AAA Special Education Teacher - Vocational

334.689.5059 ext: 5036

[email protected]

Allison Lowery

AAA Special Education Teacher - ELA

334.689.5059 ext: 5001

[email protected]

Dannell Sirmon

AAA Special Education Teacher - ELA

334.689.5059 ext: 5047

[email protected]

Stephanie Tallant

AAA Special Education Teacher

[email protected]

Kristen Tillman

AAA Special Education Teacher - Social Studies & Science

334.689.5059 ext: 5002

[email protected]

Clark Waggoner

AAA Special Education Teacher - Math

334.689.5059 ext: 5005

[email protected]