Our Team - Valor Collegiate Academies

Our Team

Our talented educators drive our mission forward.

We’re proud of our team and the dedicated, innovative individuals it’s comprised of.  It takes all of us, working together, to help our scholars reach their full potential and live inspired, purposeful lives.

Valor | Flagship Team

Alyssa Dumond

Assistant Principal, Academics

Bio

Alyssa Dumond

Assistant Principal, Academics

Amelia Bradshaw

5th and 6th Grade Writing

Bio

Amelia Bradshaw

5th and 6th Grade Writing

Ms. Klug, a native of Florida, received her undergraduate degree in Public Administration with minors in Education and Non-Profit Management from the University of Central Florida. Passionate about serving her university, she was inducted into the Order of Pegasus–the highest honor given to a UCF student. She served on the Teach For America recruitment team for two years in college, working to bring the best and the brightest campus leaders into the field of education.

Ms. Klug joined the Valor Team as a 5th grade Social Studies teacher last year after began her teaching career as an English Language Instructor for the New York Mets Baseball Academy in the Dominican Republic. During her time with the Mets, she prepared Dominican professional baseball players for life and culture in the United States.

Ms. Klug has a strong interest in global education systems, focusing her UCF Honors In The Major thesis on factors that affect high and low performing education systems around the world. Last year she spent time volunteering in an city orphanage and indigenous village in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, where she gained passion and drive to ensure all children are given a high quality education.

Outside of school, Ms. Klug loves live music venues, coffee shops, art, volunteering, traveling, and being outdoors. She feels incredibly lucky to be a part of the Nashville and Valor community!

Amy Attia

5th Grade English Language Arts

Bio

Amy Attia

5th Grade English Language Arts

Ariana Nance

8th Grade Special Education

Bio

Ariana Nance

8th Grade Special Education

Aubrey Collins

7th and 8th Grade Math Content Focus

Bio

Aubrey Collins

7th and 8th Grade Math Content Focus

Ben Bridgforth

5th Grade Social Studies

Bio

Ben Bridgforth

5th Grade Social Studies

Benjamin Smith

7th Grade Social Studies

Bio

Benjamin Smith

7th Grade Social Studies

Carl Lane

Compass Coach

Bio

Carl Lane

Compass Coach

Carlyn Chrislu

Assistant Principal, Culture

Bio

Carlyn Chrislu

Assistant Principal, Culture

Ms. Chrislu moved to Nashville 30 years ago from Boston, Massachusetts. Ms.Chrislu graduated from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville with a Bachelor of Science in Communications. Ms.Chrislu worked as the Assistant Director of Fundraising for Big Brother Big Sisters, Nashville for three years. In 2004, Ms.Chrislu and her family moved to Michigan for two years, where Ms.Chrislu was the Development Director for Spectrum; a non-profit helping children and adults with addiction. Ms.Chrislu moved back to Nashville in 2006 and stayed at home to raise her three children. Carlyn has three children, ages 22, 20 and 17. Carlyn will be sending her last child off to college next fall. Becoming an empty nester has led Carlyn to pursue a Master of Education at Lipscomb University, she will finish in May, 2017.

Carlyn’s favorite past times include: spending time with her family, walking her dogs, reading great books and traveling. Carlyn is a devout Michigan football fan….GO Blue!!

Carlyn is excited to be a part of the Valor team, and looks forward to the next year as an apprentice teacher, on the Flagship 6th grade team.

Caroline Martin

7th and 8th Grade Writing

Bio

Caroline Martin

7th and 8th Grade Writing

Chantal Bell

Learning Associate

Bio

Chantal Bell

Learning Associate

Chayla Bell

6th Grade Science

Bio

Chayla Bell

6th Grade Science

Chenera Brown

Compass Coach

Bio

Chenera Brown

Compass Coach

Dlzar Hamaamin

Paraprofessional

Bio

Dlzar Hamaamin

Paraprofessional

Edward McFeders

Paraprofessional

Bio

Edward McFeders

Paraprofessional

Elizabeth Boyd

6th Grade Special Education

Bio

Elizabeth Boyd

6th Grade Special Education

Erica Stewart

7th Grade Math

Bio

Erica Stewart

7th Grade Math

Grace Finkbeiner

5th and 6th Grade Math Content Focus

Bio

Grace Finkbeiner

5th and 6th Grade Math Content Focus

Hannah Smith

Paraprofessional

Bio

Hannah Smith

Paraprofessional

Jace Beasley

Learning Associate

Bio

Jace Beasley

Learning Associate

Jacob Huxley

Office & Operations Manager

Bio

Jacob Huxley

Office & Operations Manager

Jasmine Morrissette

8th Grade Science

Bio

Jasmine Morrissette

8th Grade Science

Jennie Crum

Visual Art

Bio

Jennie Crum

Visual Art

Originally from a small town in Ohio, Jennie has been living and teaching in Bowling Green, Kentucky for 11 years. Jennie is the third of six children and found her love of teaching art to her talented little brothers and sisters. She is overcome with joy at the opportunity to move to Nashville, and work at Valor!

Jennie is a dedicated art teacher who is excited about the opportunity to learn, grow and lead. This upcoming year will be her 12 year of teaching art. Along with her love of teaching art she also enjoys creating herself! She currently explores watercolor, painting, pottery, sewing, and relish the experience of attending live concerts. She is a graduate from Ohio University with a Bachelors of Fine Arts and Art Education and holds a Masters Degree in Education from the University of the Cumberlands.

Teaching takes passion, and her passion is teaching, particularly art. Jennie is an artist, always exploring new mediums and methods of artistic expression that push the boundaries of her ability. As a teacher, she remains fixed on continual development as a professional educator and development of her students.
Jennie is beyond excited to join the Valor Community and cannot wait to instil the love of the Visual Arts in our scholars!

Jumana Snan

EL Teacher

Bio

Jumana Snan

EL Teacher

Keana Dixon

Assistant Principal, Academics

Bio

Keana Dixon

Assistant Principal, Academics

Lauren Marchioni

6th Grade Social Studies

Bio

Lauren Marchioni

6th Grade Social Studies

Lesley Kelly

7th Grade Science

Bio

Lesley Kelly

7th Grade Science

Matt Curtis

7th Grade English Language Arts

Bio

Matt Curtis

7th Grade English Language Arts

McKenzie Whitaker

Paraprofessional

Bio

McKenzie Whitaker

Paraprofessional

Meredith Ridgely

8th Grade English Language Arts

Bio

Meredith Ridgely

8th Grade English Language Arts

Mike Elko

Director of Operations

Bio

Mike Elko

Director of Operations

Michael joins the Valor team after working in multiple roles for RePublic Schools including, Assistant Principal of RePublic High School, Director of Extracurricular Activities for all Nashville based RePublic Schools, and Literacy Coordinator at Liberty Collegiate Academy. Prior to working for RePublic Schools, Michael taught 7th grade literacy in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Michael graduated summa cum laude from the University of South Carolina with a B.A. in Experimental Psychology and Political Science. He is an avid sports fan and enjoys working out and reading in his spare time.

Miranda Fisher

Physical Education

Bio

Miranda Fisher

Physical Education

Naomi Merchant

7th and 8th Grade Math Content Focus

Bio

Naomi Merchant

7th and 8th Grade Math Content Focus

Nina Dyson-Hill

7th/8th Grade Math Content Focus

Bio

Nina Dyson-Hill

7th/8th Grade Math Content Focus

Patricia Gerbic

5th-8th Math RTI

Bio

Patricia Gerbic

5th-8th Math RTI

Rebecca Zarrow

8th Grade English Language Arts

Bio

Rebecca Zarrow

8th Grade English Language Arts

Rose Remington

5th Grade Math

Bio

Rose Remington

5th Grade Math

Sadie Marvel

EL Teacher

Bio

Sadie Marvel

EL Teacher

Sarah Leach

Principal

Bio

Sarah Leach

Principal

Sarah Leach is an Alabama native who moved to Nashville in 2014 to pursue a career in education. She completed her bachelor’s degrees in English and Communication Studies at The University of Alabama. Upon graduating, Mrs. Leach joined the Teach For America Nashville Corp. She has spent the last three years teaching fifth and sixth grade English Language Arts and has served as the English Language Learners Teacher at a small charter school in south Nashville. Additionally, she completed her Masters of Instructional Practice at Lipscomb University in 2015. Mrs. Leach is excited to be joining the Valor Team this year!

At home, Mrs. Leach enjoys spending time with her husband, Tyler, and their two rescue dogs. They can often be found exploring the nature trails around Nashville, cheering on Alabama Football, or trying a new recipe at home.

Shalen Espinoza

5th-8th Theatre

Bio

Shalen Espinoza

5th-8th Theatre

Shannon Larkins

8th Grade Social Studies

Bio

Shannon Larkins

8th Grade Social Studies

Steve Nelson

5th Grade Science

Bio

Steve Nelson

5th Grade Science

Mr. Nelson was born and raised in Texas. As a young man, he played bass guitar in a garage band and earned a varsity letter for football. After high school, Mr. Nelson spent two years volunteering for his church in the Philippines. Years later, he would again volunteer, this time as an infantry soldier in the 101st Airborne Division, where he served with distinction from 2006 – 2010, deploying to Iraq and Afghanistan. After his enlistment, Mr. Nelson used the GI Bill to graduate cum laude from Texas State University with a History degree. The years Mr. Nelson spent as a missionary and a soldier instilled a deep commitment to social justice and education. He loves teaching and serving the scholars at Flagship.

In his free time, Mr. Nelson enjoys tennis, jogging, reading, NPR, and live music.

Taylor Omweg

6th Grade Math

Bio

Taylor Omweg

6th Grade Math

Tori Ahrens

8th Grade Math & Algebra 1

Bio

Tori Ahrens

8th Grade Math & Algebra 1

Ty Brown

Math RTI Instructional Support

Bio

Ty Brown

Math RTI Instructional Support

Veronika Jones

5th Grade Special Education

Bio

Veronika Jones

5th Grade Special Education

Victoria Cuen

Paraprofessional

Bio

Victoria Cuen

Paraprofessional

Winston Ly

5th-8th Compass

Bio

Winston Ly

5th-8th Compass

Zacarra Heath

Learning Associate

Bio

Zacarra Heath

Learning Associate

Valor | Voyager Team

Allison Beckwith

Paraprofessional

Bio

Allison Beckwith

Paraprofessional

Alyssa Telang

7th Grade Special Education

Bio

Alyssa Telang

7th Grade Special Education

Ms. Telang is a proud Michigan native. She attended the University of Kentucky, where she studied Kinesiology and also played on the women’s soccer team (GO WILDCATS!!) for four years. She then moved to Nashville to be an assistant coach for the women’s soccer team at Lipscomb University for two years. Her most recent adventure was the fulfillment of a childhood dream, spending a year overseas in Iceland playing professional soccer. Teach for America has brought her back to Nashville in 2017, and looks forward to joining the Valor Team this year!

Ms. Telang is passionate about mentoring and building fun, trusted relationships. She enjoys spending time with people (over tea, riding bikes, rollerblading, or anything outdoors), reading, or playing sports. Music is her love language; she also loves laughter, pancakes, peanut butter, and a good oatmeal chocolate chip cookie. She’s stoked to join in the joy of being a part of the Valor community!

Amber Whittle

5th-8th Compass

Bio

Amber Whittle

5th-8th Compass

Mrs. Buchanan is a native Nashvillian. She earned her Bachelor’s in social welfare and creative writing from Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois in 2014. While in college, Mrs. Buchanan spent her summers working for a non-profit called Mountain TOP located in Grundy County, Tennessee. She helped develop and run a day camp program for 6-11 year olds in the community which focused on developing perseverance while breaking the cycle of poverty. After graduating, Mrs. Buchanan moved back to Nashville to be an Americorps service member at the Martha O’Bryan Center. She loved the work she did with young people in diverse communities and decided to pursue this passion at Valor in 2015.

Mrs. Buchanan recently attained her Master’s in Elementary Education with an ELL certification at Lipscomb University.  When not at Valor, she enjoys hiking with her best friend Ms. Landry, visiting new countries with her husband, and cheering on the Tennessee Volunteers.

Andre Williams

Compass Coach

Bio

Andre Williams

Compass Coach

Andrew Arp

7th Grade Science

Bio

Andrew Arp

7th Grade Science

Annie Phillips-McConkey

5th Grade Social Studies

Bio

Annie Phillips-McConkey

5th Grade Social Studies

Ariana Winton

Math RTI Instructional Support

Bio

Ariana Winton

Math RTI Instructional Support

Ashley Haasch

6th Grade Social Studies

Bio

Ashley Haasch

6th Grade Social Studies

Barbara Lee

6th Grade Special Education

Bio

Barbara Lee

6th Grade Special Education

Brianna Diederich

Paraprofessional

Bio

Brianna Diederich

Paraprofessional

Brynnan Cuen

EL Teacher

Bio

Brynnan Cuen

EL Teacher

Casey Hall

Special Education Case Manager

Bio

Casey Hall

Special Education Case Manager

Chantal Stewart

Paraprofessional

Bio

Chantal Stewart

Paraprofessional

Christina Naramore

Assistant Principal, Academics

Bio

Christina Naramore

Assistant Principal, Academics

Connor Halm

7th Grade Social Studies

Bio

Connor Halm

7th Grade Social Studies

Diamond Benjamin

Assistant Principal, Academics

Bio

Diamond Benjamin

Assistant Principal, Academics

Eileen Sanderson

EL Teacher

Bio

Eileen Sanderson

EL Teacher

Eliana Marks

6th Grade Math

Bio

Eliana Marks

6th Grade Math

Eliana Yonan

7th Grade English Language Arts

Bio

Eliana Yonan

7th Grade English Language Arts

Emily Peterson

Director of Operations

Bio

Emily Peterson

Director of Operations

Ms. Peterson is entering her second year at Valor and is excited to be joining the Voyager team as the Director of Operations. Previously, she was the Operations Coordinator supporting both Valor schools. Ms. Peterson joined Valor Collegiate Academies after spending 2 years as the Central Operations and Data Manager at Match Education in Boston. At Match Education, she supported in-district high school math tutoring programs, including a gold-standard study by the University of Chicago Urban Education Lab on the efficacy of 2:1 tutoring in improving outcomes and reducing violence in at-risk youth. Prior to that, she was a Match Corps Fellow at Match Middle School, where she tutored 6th through 8th graders and supported new school development.

Ms. Peterson graduated from the University of Oregon in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. Following graduation, she taught English to small groups of 7th through 12th grade students in rural Spain.

In her free time, Ms. Peterson enjoys traveling and exploring new places, diving into a good book, and riding horses.

Eric Sandow

6th Grade English Language Arts

Bio

Eric Sandow

6th Grade English Language Arts

Felicia Whitman

Office & Operations Coordinator

Bio

Felicia Whitman

Office & Operations Coordinator

Frank Glover

Physical Education

Bio

Frank Glover

Physical Education

Haleigh Jones

8th Grade Science

Bio

Haleigh Jones

8th Grade Science

Ja’Mille Donaldson

5-8 Math RTI

Bio

Ja’Mille Donaldson

5-8 Math RTI

Jasmine Finger

Paraprofessional

Bio

Jasmine Finger

Paraprofessional

Jessica Figueroa

6th Grade Science

Bio

Jessica Figueroa

6th Grade Science

Jill Hoyt

7th Grade Math

Bio

Jill Hoyt

7th Grade Math

Jorian Johnson

Paraprofessional

Bio

Jorian Johnson

Paraprofessional

Jose Espinoza

7th and 8th Grade Math Content Focus

Bio

Jose Espinoza

7th and 8th Grade Math Content Focus

Joya Transley

Paraprofessional

Bio

Joya Transley

Paraprofessional

Kathleen Cucci

5th and 6th Grade Writing

Bio

Kathleen Cucci

5th and 6th Grade Writing

Kayla White

Paraprofessional

Bio

Kayla White

Paraprofessional

Kevin Hritz

8th Grade Math & Algebra I

Bio

Kevin Hritz

8th Grade Math & Algebra I

Kylie Harvey

Special Education Life Skills

Bio

Kylie Harvey

Special Education Life Skills

Kyrah Harris

Learning Associate

Bio

Kyrah Harris

Learning Associate

Lacey Peterson

Visual Art

Bio

Lacey Peterson

Visual Art

LaToya Long

8th Grade Special Education

Bio

LaToya Long

8th Grade Special Education

Lauren Woodard

Learning Associate

Bio

Lauren Woodard

Learning Associate

Leah Shorb

8th Grade Social Studies

Bio

Leah Shorb

8th Grade Social Studies

Maddy Smith

7th and 8th Grade Writing

Bio

Maddy Smith

7th and 8th Grade Writing

Madeline Dadd

Occupational Therapist

Bio

Madeline Dadd

Occupational Therapist

Madeline Frohrip

Special Education Life Skills

Bio

Madeline Frohrip

Special Education Life Skills

Meredith Mitchell

8th Grade English Language Arts

Bio

Meredith Mitchell

8th Grade English Language Arts

Natalie Pendley

Assistant Principal, Culture

Bio

Natalie Pendley

Assistant Principal, Culture

Natalie Pendley is a Texas native, who is excited about living in Nashville! She earned her B.S. in Youth and Community Studies from The University of Texas at Austin and has been working at Yes Prep North Central in Houston for the past six years. At North Central over six years, she taught 6th, 7th, and 8th grade and served as the Dean of Students for the Middle School for three years.

In her free time, Natalie loves to be outside, and play sports like flag football and basketball. When she is not playing sports, she is probably reading or spending time with her two dogs Molly and Monroe. Ms. Pendley is STOKED about coming to Valor and meeting all of the parents and students! She is also excited about exploring Nashville and would love any recommendations!

Noah Moreno

Learning Associate

Bio

Noah Moreno

Learning Associate

Raegan Quinn

Theatre Teacher

Bio

Raegan Quinn

Theatre Teacher

Sam Burns

5th Grade Math

Bio

Sam Burns

5th Grade Math

Shana Ward

Compass Coach

Bio

Shana Ward

Compass Coach

Shara Harris

5th and 6th Grade Math Content Focus

Bio

Shara Harris

5th and 6th Grade Math Content Focus

Stephanie Rafla

Paraprofessional

Bio

Stephanie Rafla

Paraprofessional

Steven Palmer

Principal

Bio

Steven Palmer

Principal

A Middle Tennessee native, Mr. Palmer grew up just outside of Nashville in Coopertown, TN. From there, he attended the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where he earned his B.S. in Political Science with a minor in English Literature. While completing his academic work, Mr. Palmer held many leadership roles at UTC including Vice President of the Student Body and two-time Social Issues, Equity, and Diversity Chairperson for the Student Government Association.

After completing university, Mr. Palmer joined the Teach for America Appalachia Corps and was placed at Harlan Independent in Harlan, KY. During his tenure at Harlan Independent, Mr. Palmer taught courses in 8th Grade ELA and Writing, 9th Grade ELA, 11th Grade ACT Prep, and 12th Grade Writing Seminar. As Director of the Harlan High Drama program, Mr. Palmer directed both The Odd Couple and The Mind of Ray Bradbury. Furthermore, he served as both the Harlan Elementary Academic Team Coach and the Harlan High School Assistant Academic Team Coach.

In 2016, he was able to share his experiences of teaching in rural Appalachia back to Chattanooga by being a keynote speaker in the TEDX Chattanooga event. Mr. Palmer’s TEDX speech, entitled “Learning Appalachia: My Time Teaching in Coal Country” detailed the need for the region to invest in retaining the most creative and brightest young minds to spur economic and cultural development.

When not teaching, you can find him drinking way too much coffee with his nose in a book, trying out new restaurants around Nashville, and playing Pokemon GO with his niece.

Sydney Omweg

5th Grade Science

Bio

Sydney Omweg

5th Grade Science

Ms. Omweg was born and raised in Yorktown, VA. She was drawn to Nashville in 2012 when she was recruited to play soccer for Belmont University, and soon fell in love with the city. While at Belmont, she obtained a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology, and she obtained a Master of Arts degree in Teaching. This will be Ms. Omweg’s second year at Valor, and she is very excited to return here. Outside of school, Ms. Omweg enjoys coaching soccer, going to country music concerts, and watching football.

Torie Davidson

5th Grade English Language Arts

Bio

Torie Davidson

5th Grade English Language Arts

Valor | College Prep Team

Adrienne Wilson

10th Grade Compass Coach

Bio

Adrienne Wilson

10th Grade Compass Coach

Amanda Modloff

Postsecondary Success Teacher & Counselor amodloff@valorcollegiate.org

Bio

Amanda Modloff

Postsecondary Success Teacher & Counselor amodloff@valorcollegiate.org

Amber Conway

Manager of Inspired, Purposeful Lives & Postsecondary Success Counselor aconway@valorcollegiate.org

Bio

Amber Conway

Manager of Inspired, Purposeful Lives & Postsecondary Success Counselor aconway@valorcollegiate.org

Andrew Koch

English III & Creative Writing

Bio

Andrew Koch

English III & Creative Writing

Andrew Wardle

Learning Associate

Bio

Andrew Wardle

Learning Associate

Anthony Benvenuto

9th Grade Special Education

Bio

Anthony Benvenuto

9th Grade Special Education

Ashley Misner

10th Grade Special Education

Bio

Ashley Misner

10th Grade Special Education

Ayesha Nawaz

U.S. Government & Economics

Bio

Ayesha Nawaz

U.S. Government & Economics

Beatriz Prestes-Gonzalez

Office & Operations Coordinator

Bio

Beatriz Prestes-Gonzalez

Office & Operations Coordinator

Becky Livingston

Biology

Bio

Becky Livingston

Biology

Brad Gill

Upper School Principal

Bio

Brad Gill

Upper School Principal

Bret Carson

English IV

Bio

Bret Carson

English IV

Brooke Troyer

Paraprofessional

Bio

Brooke Troyer

Paraprofessional

Brynna Shepard

Special Education Life Skills

Bio

Brynna Shepard

Special Education Life Skills

Callie Atkins

Special Education Case Manager

Bio

Callie Atkins

Special Education Case Manager

Cara Martin

Academic Operations Manager

Bio

Cara Martin

Academic Operations Manager

Carla Martinez

Paraprofessional

Bio

Carla Martinez

Paraprofessional

Chase Larson

World History

Bio

Chase Larson

World History

Chelsea Nevil

Theatre I & II

Bio

Chelsea Nevil

Theatre I & II

Christopher Keller

Learning Associate

Bio

Christopher Keller

Learning Associate

Christopher Siever

Learning Associate

Bio

Christopher Siever

Learning Associate

Dameca Primm

Paraprofessional

Bio

Dameca Primm

Paraprofessional

Daniel Koger

EL Teacher

Bio

Daniel Koger

EL Teacher

David Kennedy

9th Grade Special Education

Bio

David Kennedy

9th Grade Special Education

Donna Dudek

AP Statistics & Statistics

Bio

Donna Dudek

AP Statistics & Statistics

Elizabeth Ponce

Spanish III & AP Spanish

Bio

Elizabeth Ponce

Spanish III & AP Spanish

Ms. Ponce is originally from New Orleans, La. She lived in Ecuador, for her middle school and high school years. This experience of growing up in her father’s home country, shaped her into the person she is today. She earned her undergraduate degree in Studio Art from Georgia State University, and earned her Master of Science in Education from Johns Hopkins University. Ms. Ponce taught Spanish at Grassland Middle School in Williamson County, for 6 years. She also produced the daily morning announcements broadcast for 4 years. She was also the set director for the school play, for 5 years in a row.

In her spare time, she enjoys drawing, painting, photography, reading, and cooking. She loves spending time with family and friends. Ms Ponce is very excited to join the Valor Collegiate Academy team in the 2017-2018 school year!

Emily Elchos

Special Education Life Skills

Bio

Emily Elchos

Special Education Life Skills

Grace Campbell

Director of High School Special Education

Bio

Grace Campbell

Director of High School Special Education

Grace Spriggs

Director of Operations

Bio

Grace Spriggs

Director of Operations

Henry Bradford

Lower School Principal

Bio

Henry Bradford

Lower School Principal

Ian Norris

Algebra II

Bio

Ian Norris

Algebra II

Jackie Gross

Paraprofessional

Bio

Jackie Gross

Paraprofessional

Jacob Waid

Lower School Assistant Principal, Culture

Bio

Jacob Waid

Lower School Assistant Principal, Culture

Jacques Beasley

Physics

Bio

Jacques Beasley

Physics

Jalycia Martin

Chemistry

Bio

Jalycia Martin

Chemistry

Jennifer Daniel

AP Seminar

Bio

Jennifer Daniel

AP Seminar

Jennifer York

11th Grade Compass Coach

Bio

Jennifer York

11th Grade Compass Coach

Jenny May

Academic Seminar

Bio

Jenny May

Academic Seminar

Jeremy Summitt

AP Research

Bio

Jeremy Summitt

AP Research

Born and raised in a small, rural town in southeast Michigan, Jeremy grew up a lover of music, sports, and literature. Those interests took him through high school and onto college where he earned a B.A. in English and Film from the University of Michigan. Shortly thereafter, Jeremy moved from Ann Arbor, MI to Nashville after joining Teach For America in the summer of 2015. The past two years, he has spent ample time teaching literacy at Rocketship, an elementary school in East Nashville. When he isn’t doing novel studies and digging into books with kids in the classroom, he’s reading somewhere in a hammock or catching one of his favorite bands somewhere within driving distance of his home.

On fall Saturdays, Jeremy can always be caught watching Michigan football and singing the best college fight song in the nation. During winter months, he stays glued to the TV whenever the Detroit Red Wings take the ice. While music, sports, and literature have remained constant passions over the years, Jeremy’s energy and motivation is rooted deeply in education and the kids that walk into his classroom every day. He is looking forward to meeting the Valor scholars and their families as we work together to realize how literature can push us to make positive change in our lives and our communities.

Jessica Rozell

AP U.S. Government

Bio

Jessica Rozell

AP U.S. Government

Jordan Ramos

Sociology & Contemporary Issues

Bio

Jordan Ramos

Sociology & Contemporary Issues

Jordan Runions

Postsecondary Success Teacher & Counselor jrunions@valorcollegiate.org

Bio

Jordan Runions

Postsecondary Success Teacher & Counselor jrunions@valorcollegiate.org

Kaela Allen

Learning Associate

Bio

Kaela Allen

Learning Associate

Kaleigh McRoberts

Upper School Assistant Principal, Academics

Bio

Kaleigh McRoberts

Upper School Assistant Principal, Academics

Kara Passialis

U.S. History and Geography

Bio

Kara Passialis

U.S. History and Geography

Kari Finkle

10th Grade Special Education

Bio

Kari Finkle

10th Grade Special Education

Katie Marshall

12th Grade Compass Coach

Bio

Katie Marshall

12th Grade Compass Coach

Katie first discovered the joy of teaching while she was in high school, when she was asked to serve as a tutor in a struggling Algebra 1 class. She loved helping students master something they had previously struggled with. From there she went to Oklahoma Christian University, where she graduated with a B.F.A. in 2007. After her college training, Katie moved to Yichang, China, where she taught English for two years at the China Three Gorges University. Living in China deepened her appreciation for different perspectives and for strong community.
Katie moved back to the U.S. in 2010 to manage a small law firm in Oklahoma City, while she prepared for graduate school. During that time, Katie’s passion for literacy led her to volunteer with the Oklahoma City Literacy Center, helping adults learn to read and write. She then moved to Chicago and earned her M.A. in English from Loyola University Chicago in 2012, where she continued to volunteer, this time with the Loyola Literacy Center. After earning her master’s degree, Katie taught writing and literature courses at both the City Colleges of Chicago and Prairie State College in Chicago. She also worked as a tutor in the college’s writing center. Teaching in Chicago increased Katie’s passion for diversity in education, and her desire to give every student access to outstanding instruction. Katie moved to Nashville in 2014 to teach English at Nashville Prep Charter School in northwest Nashville. She taught 7th grade literacy and global lit to an amazing group of students before joining Valor’s team in 2015.
Aside from her love of literacy, Katie also enjoys running, biking, and mountain-climbing. She reads voraciously in her free time and can’t wait to share many of her favorite books with her students.

Kellen Cuen

Geometry

Bio

Kellen Cuen

Geometry

Kelly Suckow

Algebra I

Bio

Kelly Suckow

Algebra I

Kevin Santana-Rodriguez

Paraprofessional

Bio

Kevin Santana-Rodriguez

Paraprofessional

Kim Worley

Paraprofessional

Bio

Kim Worley

Paraprofessional

Mrs. Worley is a native of Nashville, Tn. Graduated from Antioch High School in 1988. Worked in the Metro School System for 10 years as a paraprofessional and 10 years as a private ABA therapist. She is very passionate about special needs children and helping them reach their fullest potential.

In her free time she loves spending time gardening, grilling out, spending time with her husband of 28 years, 3 children, 5 grandchildren and friends.

Kree Kelly

Paraprofessional

Bio

Kree Kelly

Paraprofessional

LaToya Lewis

Lower School Assistant Principal, Academics

Bio

LaToya Lewis

Lower School Assistant Principal, Academics

Lauren Wilenski

Spanish II

Bio

Lauren Wilenski

Spanish II

Levi Lee

9th Grade Compass Coach

Bio

Levi Lee

9th Grade Compass Coach

Lisa Ladd

Director of Academic Operations

Bio

Lisa Ladd

Director of Academic Operations

Louise DiMarco

AP Calculus

Bio

Louise DiMarco

AP Calculus

Luke McClung

Visual Art I

Bio

Luke McClung

Visual Art I

Lydia Wright

AP Environmental Science

Bio

Lydia Wright

AP Environmental Science

Maddie Todd

Journalism

Bio

Maddie Todd

Journalism

Madi Reeb

English III

Bio

Madi Reeb

English III

Madison Leathers

AP Literature & Personal Finance

Bio

Madison Leathers

AP Literature & Personal Finance

Mark Strazzeri

Physical Education

Bio

Mark Strazzeri

Physical Education

Marley McAden

Paraprofessional

Bio

Marley McAden

Paraprofessional

McKahl English

English I

Bio

McKahl English

English I

Melissa Campbell

English II

Bio

Melissa Campbell

English II

Melquisedec Lozano

Algebra II

Bio

Melquisedec Lozano

Algebra II

Michael Simon

Paraprofessional

Bio

Michael Simon

Paraprofessional

Mike Brown

Postsecondary Success Teacher & Counselor mbrown@valorcollegiate.org

Bio

Mike Brown

Postsecondary Success Teacher & Counselor mbrown@valorcollegiate.org

Natalie Nikitas

AP U.S. History

Bio

Natalie Nikitas

AP U.S. History

Nico Lopez

Algebra I

Bio

Nico Lopez

Algebra I

Nicole Koutsunis

Director of Postsecondary Success nkoutsunis@valorcollegiate.org

Bio

Nicole Koutsunis

Director of Postsecondary Success nkoutsunis@valorcollegiate.org

Nigel Tharpe

Learning Associate

Bio

Nigel Tharpe

Learning Associate

Patricia Montgomery

EL Teacher

Bio

Patricia Montgomery

EL Teacher

Paul Elkins

Lifetime Wellness

Bio

Paul Elkins

Lifetime Wellness

Rebecca Zanolini

Heritage Spanish

Bio

Rebecca Zanolini

Heritage Spanish

Reggie Whatley

Paraprofessional

Bio

Reggie Whatley

Paraprofessional

Regina Coley

English II

Bio

Regina Coley

English II

Renee Clifford

EL Teacher

Bio

Renee Clifford

EL Teacher

Sa’Mariah Harding

Geometry

Bio

Sa’Mariah Harding

Geometry

Sachaye Walker

Math RTI

Bio

Sachaye Walker

Math RTI

Sam Rodgers

Paraprofessional

Bio

Sam Rodgers

Paraprofessional

Sam Rosenberg

AP Biology

Bio

Sam Rosenberg

AP Biology

Samantha Pappalau

Spanish I and II

Bio

Samantha Pappalau

Spanish I and II

Savannah Elrod

Learning Associate

Bio

Savannah Elrod

Learning Associate

Shannon Massey

Upper School Assistant Principal, Academics

Bio

Shannon Massey

Upper School Assistant Principal, Academics

Tabby Mays

Paraprofessional

Bio

Tabby Mays

Paraprofessional

Taylor Colgan

Pre-Calculus

Bio

Taylor Colgan

Pre-Calculus

Tonya Stewart

Special Education Life Skills

Bio

Tonya Stewart

Special Education Life Skills

Trisha Serpa

AP Human Geography

Bio

Trisha Serpa

AP Human Geography

Troy Rexilius

Visual Art 1 and Advanced Visual Art

Bio

Troy Rexilius

Visual Art 1 and Advanced Visual Art

Valerie Green

Physics

Bio

Valerie Green

Physics

Victoria Boyd

Learning Associate

Bio

Victoria Boyd

Learning Associate

Vincent Alexander

Upper School Assistant Principal, Culture

Bio

Vincent Alexander

Upper School Assistant Principal, Culture

William Oakes

Spanish I

Bio

William Oakes

Spanish I

Wyatt May

Lower School Assistant Principal, Academics

Bio

Wyatt May

Lower School Assistant Principal, Academics

Valor | Network Team

Aaron Miller

Director of Fine Arts and Enrichments

Bio

Aaron Miller

Director of Fine Arts and Enrichments

Alexis Morris

Family Engagement Manager

Bio

Alexis Morris

Family Engagement Manager

Alyssa Campbell

Finance Coordinator

Bio

Alyssa Campbell

Finance Coordinator

Angela Poteete

Compass Care Team Family Partner

Bio

Angela Poteete

Compass Care Team Family Partner

Asenat Gonzalez

Managing Director of Talent

Bio

Asenat Gonzalez

Managing Director of Talent

Ashley Smith

Managing Director of Culture

Bio

Ashley Smith

Managing Director of Culture

Ayda Doski

Family Engagement Assistant

Bio

Ayda Doski

Family Engagement Assistant

Brittany Johnk

Director of Data & Strategy Analytics

Bio

Brittany Johnk

Director of Data & Strategy Analytics

Cameron Hill

Managing Director of Athletics

Bio

Cameron Hill

Managing Director of Athletics

Charlene Sevilla

Director of History

Bio

Charlene Sevilla

Director of History

Cherisna Jean-Marie

Family Engagement Assistant

Bio

Cherisna Jean-Marie

Family Engagement Assistant

Claire Anderson

Speech Language Pathologist

Bio

Claire Anderson

Speech Language Pathologist

Dameneke Charles

Enrollment & Outreach Coordinator

Bio

Dameneke Charles

Enrollment & Outreach Coordinator

Daren Dickson

Chief Culture Officer

Bio

Daren Dickson

Chief Culture Officer

Mr. Dickson joins Valor after spending 16 years developing his skills as a therapist, social worker, clinical and program director, and social justice advocate. He is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and has spent much of his career working with vulnerable youth and communities through Seneca Center, a non-profit agency in the Bay Area, California. At Seneca, Mr. Dickson helped to envision, build, and implement a range of programs, including schools, aimed at empowering youth, families, and communities to create more satisfying lives for themselves.

Mr. Dickson has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Denver University and Stanford University) and a Master’s degree in Integral Counseling (California Institute of Integral Studies). Having studied traditionally left-brain and right-brain disciplines, he finds great value in striking a balance between them and in helping young people develop this capacity in their own lives.

In his free time, he likes to revel in his twin three-year-olds who remind him to be present, wild, and embodied. He also loves spending time with his wife, Lauren, who is his rock and partner in social work, and with his dog, Jetsan, who reminds him daily what it means to give goodwill freely to the world. He’s also Founder and CEO Todd Dickson’s identical twin brother and plans to have fun confusing everyone.

Deonte Wroten

Enrollment & Outreach Manager

Bio

Deonte Wroten

Enrollment & Outreach Manager

Dr. Alesha Harmon

Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer

Bio

Dr. Alesha Harmon

Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer

Alesha is the mother of Michael Jeremiah, a young man of Valor Flagship, and Ava Marie, a vivacious two-year-old. Although both of her children have been born and raised in Nashville, Alesha is originally from Chicago, IL. She moved to Antioch, TN as a high school junior and is a graduate of Metro Nashville Public Schools.

Alesha received her Bachelors of Journalism from the University of Missouri- Columbia. She went on to obtain her M.Ed in Instructional Practice as well as her Educational Specialist degree from Lipscomb University. Over the past 6 years, Alesha has had the pleasure of teaching 6th and 7th-grade students as well as coaching teachers leading 2nd-11th grade STEM classrooms.

In addition to her passion for education, she has a heart for the arts. She has been involved in dozens of musical theater productions across the country, teaches Zumba classes, and is a former cheerleading coach (hoping to dust off her pom poms in the near future). She enjoys merging her passions, so you are likely to hear our students singing and chanting about the rules of adding/subtracting positive and negative numbers.

Evelyn Abbott Salazar

School Psychologist

Bio

Evelyn Abbott Salazar

School Psychologist

Heather Dickson

Enrollment & Outreach Coordinator

Bio

Heather Dickson

Enrollment & Outreach Coordinator

Holland White

Director of EL Programming

Bio

Holland White

Director of EL Programming

Jabari Sellers

School Psychologist

Bio

Jabari Sellers

School Psychologist

Jackson Sprayberry

Compass Diploma Designer

Bio

Jackson Sprayberry

Compass Diploma Designer

Jamie Gutter

Managing Director of Schools

Bio

Jamie Gutter

Managing Director of Schools

Mr. Gutter currently serves as principal at Valor Flagship Academy. Part of the founding team, Mr. Gutter previously taught math for two years, led the math department, and served as assistant principal. Prior to joining the team at Valor, Mr. Gutter worked at Glenview Elementary School, where he first became passionate about helping a diverse community of learners to reach their full potential through hard work and collaboration. Mr. Gutter began his career in education as a Teach For America corps member. Originally hailing from the Tar Heel state, Mr. Gutter has a bachelor of arts in economics and public policy from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a master’s degree in education from Lipscomb University. In his spare time, you can find Mr. Gutter playing basketball at the YMCA, reading non-fiction books about history and politics, or spending quality time with his wife.

Jessica Ong

Talent & Branding Manager

Bio

Jessica Ong

Talent & Branding Manager

Jihan Abdulla

Network Operations Leader Resident

Bio

Jihan Abdulla

Network Operations Leader Resident

Joe Bellingeri

Director of Finance

Bio

Joe Bellingeri

Director of Finance

Jordan Tate

Network Office & Operations Coordinator

Bio

Jordan Tate

Network Office & Operations Coordinator

Kait Troy

Managing Director of Sharing and Learning

Bio

Kait Troy

Managing Director of Sharing and Learning

Katie Fullan

Associate Director of Data & Software

Bio

Katie Fullan

Associate Director of Data & Software

Kendra Stein

Director of Leadership Development

Bio

Kendra Stein

Director of Leadership Development

Ms. Shirey was born and raised in Sparta, MI. She attended Michigan State University, where she  double majored in Arts & Humanities and Professional Writing and spent time volunteering with organizations dedicated to underserved students. After graduation, Ms. Shirey moved to Nashville as a 2012 Nashville Teach for America corps member and spent two years teaching 5th grade ELA and Social Studies while also earning her Master’s in Education from Lipscomb University. Ms. Shirey continued teaching middle school English for an additional two years and developed leadership and coaching skills through her role as a grade team leader. Ms. Shirey’s passions for creating positive classroom cultures and supporting all scholars to meet high expectations led her to the Compass Coach role at Valor in 2016. She is honored to serve the Voyager community as an Assistant Principal this year, and looks forward to the many memories and moments of joy to come!

Kylea Weir

Compass Counselor

Bio

Kylea Weir

Compass Counselor

Kylea moved from California to Nashville in July of 2015. Days after her move, she joined the Voyager team as they prepared for their founding year.  Kylea came to Voyager with 6 years of behavioral support experience, working for a mental health agency as a behavior counselor for at-risk youth. She graduated in 2014 from Pepperdine University with a Master’s in Psychology.  Kylea just got married this past May and is super excited to start her 3rd year at Voyager as Mrs. Weir (formerly Ms. H

Leslie Mitchell

Compass Care Team Facilitator

Bio

Leslie Mitchell

Compass Care Team Facilitator

Lisa Stone

Director of Leadership Development

Bio

Lisa Stone

Director of Leadership Development

Lucie Rhoads

Managing Director of Development & Strategic Initiatives

Bio

Lucie Rhoads

Managing Director of Development & Strategic Initiatives

Lucie is excited to enter into her role Valor Collegiate Academies as the Director of External Affairs, where she works on talent recruitment and hiring, development and external partnerships.

Lucie received her bachelor’s degree in Human & Organizational Development from Vanderbilt University in 2011, where she served as President of Manna Project International. After completing her degree, Lucie was a 2011 Teach for America corps member in Memphis, TN, where she taught Kindergarten and 7th Grade ELA. Lucie found her passion for school startup, and was a member of the founding team at KIPP Infinity Elementary School in Harlem as well as Grizzlies Preparatory Charter School in Memphis. After completing her commitment with Teach for America, Lucie moved back to Nashville and started Nashville Classical Charter School as the Founding Director of Operations, serving there for its first 3 years.

When not at Valor, Lucie loves to spent time with her dog, check out new restaurants in Nashville, watch SEC football, and spend time with family and friends.

Meghan Mitchell

Chief Academic Officer

Bio

Meghan Mitchell

Chief Academic Officer

Melinda Zuniga

Compass Care Team Family Partner

Bio

Melinda Zuniga

Compass Care Team Family Partner

Michelle Bancroft

Director of Middle School Special Education

Bio

Michelle Bancroft

Director of Middle School Special Education

Natalie Tita

School Nurse

Bio

Natalie Tita

School Nurse

Pashion Wofford

After School Programs Manager

Bio

Pashion Wofford

After School Programs Manager

Rebecca White

Compass Counselor & Lead School Psychologist

Bio

Rebecca White

Compass Counselor & Lead School Psychologist

Born in California and raised in Texas, Rebecca attended Texas A&M University for her undergraduate education, majoring in Psychology. She did her graduate work at Trinity University in San Antonio, Texas for her Masters in School Psychology.

Rebecca has worked in both the Houston and San Antonio areas as a school psychologist, and moved to Tennessee in 2008. In her time in Tennessee, Rebecca has served as school psychologist for Franklin Special School District and several charter schools in the greater Nashville area. Additionally, Rebecca is a registered yoga teacher through Yoga Alliance (RYT-200) and has been teaching over 8 years.

Over her years in the school system, Rebecca continued to see increased need for enhanced social-emotional supports for students. Drawing upon her experience and expertise, she developed a thoughtful approach to providing counseling services to students in the school setting. Integrating elements of yoga and mindfulness with both creative and traditional therapeutic approaches, she delights in leading individual and group sessions tailored to individualized student needs.

In her free time, Rebecca enjoys spending time with family, practicing and teaching yoga, cooking, being outdoors, and painting. She is thrilled to be a part of the Valor team, and excited for the upcoming school year!

Richard Blakey

Head Custodian & School Facilities Manager

Bio

Richard Blakey

Head Custodian & School Facilities Manager

Ryane Reandeau

Associate Director of Operations, Powered by Compass

Bio

Ryane Reandeau

Associate Director of Operations, Powered by Compass

Sahara Evans

Director of Compass Care Team

Bio

Sahara Evans

Director of Compass Care Team

Sahara Evans is a native of Pittsburgh, PA., and has lived in Nashville since 2000. Her appreciation for numerous cultural backgrounds and her focus on community collaboration has led her to study abroad in Egypt and Spain, as well as a number of volunteer opportunities. Sahara is a strong advocate of hands-on, inquiry-based learning. She involves youth in a variety of community service, and problem-solving infused activities that provide them with opportunities to use their strengths to help others. Since 2002 Sahara has spent many years working in the nonprofit sector. She also worked at the YMCA of Middle Tennessee, where she received the Strong Woman award. Sahara enjoys traveling with her family, reading and spending time with her French Bulldog who has been described as a “lazy diva”.  Sahara received both her Bachelor of Science and Master’s Degree from Tennessee State University, in the field(s) of Speech Pathology and Audiology, and Public Administration

Sandra Santiago

Family Engagement Coordinator

Bio

Sandra Santiago

Family Engagement Coordinator

Sara Carlson Striegel

Director of Leadership Development

Bio

Sara Carlson Striegel

Director of Leadership Development

Sarah Mohammad

Compass Care Team Family Partner

Bio

Sarah Mohammad

Compass Care Team Family Partner

Sarah Silverii

Speech Language Pathologist

Bio

Sarah Silverii

Speech Language Pathologist

Shahed Hadden

After School Programs Coordinator

Bio

Shahed Hadden

After School Programs Coordinator

Shaymora Blanks

Director of Leadership Development

Bio

Shaymora Blanks

Director of Leadership Development

Sipel Ibrahim

Family Engagement Assistant

Bio

Sipel Ibrahim

Family Engagement Assistant

Tara Austin

Athletic Administrative Assistant

Bio

Tara Austin

Athletic Administrative Assistant

Taryn Sprayberry

Director of Strategic Partnerships, Powered by Compass

Bio

Taryn Sprayberry

Director of Strategic Partnerships, Powered by Compass

Tawana Harper

Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Bio

Tawana Harper

Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Tess Lantos

Director of Literacy

Bio

Tess Lantos

Director of Literacy

Thomas Branch

Chief Operating Officer

Bio

Thomas Branch

Chief Operating Officer

Thomas recently joined the Valor after serving for 7+ years in several financial and operational roles at KIPP Nashville. Thomas has been responsible for facilities management, human resources, transportation, food services, and technology support. Thomas helped to lay the operational foundation for the growth strategy the school is currently implementing. Prior to his time at KIPP Nashville, Thomas served as a highly successful Vice President and Financial Center Manager at Wells Fargo Bank. Thomas has nearly over eight years of experience in the banking industry, and he holds a degree in Finance and Economics from The Florida State University.

Thomas is a Florida State Football alum and college football fanatic. In his free-time you can find him hosting large BBQ events, and attending FSU football games in the fall. His role at Valor is Chief Operating Officer, and he will lead the operational strategy and policy work for both all Valor schools. His interests include college football, music, and learning golf.

Todd Dickson

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Bio

Todd Dickson

Founder & Chief Executive Officer

Mr. Dickson came to the field of education as a second career in 2000 after successfully building the Melton Group, a residential real estate company in Colorado, from 1995-2000. After attending Stanford for a Master’s degree in education, he taught physics for five years at the nationally acclaimed public Hillsdale High School, the private International School of Lisbon, and Summit Preparatory Charter School (Summit Prep) before taking the role of Executive Director at Summit Prep. Under his leadership, Summit Prep was named the #118 best public high school in America for the first time in 2008, and the #76 best public high school in 2009. In 2010, Summit Prep was named one of the top 10 Transformational Schools in the country by Newsweek (using comparative graduation rates, SAT scores, AP performance, and number of low-income students).

Mr. Dickson holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Denver where he was named the Colorado Engineering Student of the Year amongst all Colorado colleges. He was also was an All-American lacrosse player and team captain. In addition, he holds a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Cornell University. When not thinking about how to transform public education, Mr. Dickson enjoys spending time with his wife of 14 years and their three young children. He also enjoys running, surfing, and watching all things Colorado sports.

Travis Commons

Managing Director of Sharing and Learning

Bio

Travis Commons

Managing Director of Sharing and Learning

Dr. Commons began his lifelong career of working with and for children as a Child Care Specialist in his home state of Indiana. Humbled by this important, but under-appreciated work, he began to explore the ways in which children learn, grow, and are often misunderstood. After his teacher training at Ball State University Teachers College, he worked as an elementary school teacher and then migrated from his Indiana roots to Chicago to take on the challenge of clinical special education in an urban hospital setting. His deep work with children and their families piqued his curiosity about how to prepare teachers to be influential in the lives of their students, and he left the classroom to pursue academia. While acquiring his Ph.D. at UIC, he had the opportunity to coordinate an alternative certification program for urban special education teachers in Chicago and to teach as part of the College of Education faculty. This work provided Dr. Commons with a valuable perspective on the complexity of the teaching profession and inspired him to return to the classroom and teach in the charter schools in Chicago.

As Dean of Scholars at Rowe Elementary, Dr. Commons revamped and oversaw the implementation of the scholar culture program at the school, creating significant measurable improvements in the school’s climate. As he transitioned to Assistant Principal at Rowe, his leadership work was recognized by the Illinois Network of Charter Schools, who recognized him as the state’s Charter Innovator of the Year in 2012.

Dr. Commons has been honored and privileged to be a part of the founding team at Valor. Outside of Valor, he loves all things culinary (especially the eating part!), reading a great piece of fiction, and playing with his Great Dane, Wyatt.