Brittany Alexander

Role:   Teacher                                                                 *Pre-K Classroom J*

Related Experience:  I worked as an auxiliary Pre-K teacher at Reeltown Elementary for 2 years and lead Pre-K teacher at V. Robinson Headstart for 2 years.  Ten years total experience in childcare including an internship at Auburn University Early Learning Center.

Education: Bachelors Degree in Early Childhood Education and Child Development from the University of Alabama. Currently working towards a Masters Degree in Elementary Education at Western Governors University.

Family and Interests:  I have been married to my wonderful husband Seth for 3 years.  We have a 2-year-old daughter, Avery, and our 2^nd daughter Olivia is due in December.  I grew up around Lake Martin, graduating from Reeltown High in 2008.  I love being at the lake and beach, traveling to new places, baking, and Alabama Football.

Bradley Argo

Role

Floating Teacher                                                           *Pre-K Classrooms J&K*

Related Experience

While obtaining my bachelors at the University of Alabama, I worked in the Child Development Research Center where I worked with young children ages 2 and 3. I also did a mentorship program at Matthews Elementary in Tuscaloosa where I mentored 2^nd graders and helped them with their reading, writing, and math skills.

Education

I graduated in 2018 from the University of Alabama with a degree in Human Development Family Studies.

Family and Interests

I am originally from a small town outside of Birmingham called McCalla but now I live in Auburn! I have four dogs at home along with my five chickens. I love anything to do with art or crafting. I also enjoy gardening as well as reading a good book. On my off days I take my dogs to Chewacla State Park to walk or I visit my niece in Birmingham.

Savannah Asmus

Role: Lead Teacher                                                                *Pre-K Classroom I*

Related Experience: I worked at the Auburn University Early Learning Center as an assistant teacher, art studio director, and NAEYC Accreditation Assistant.  I wore many hats which allowed me to learn the ins and outs of a Pre-K both in and outside of the classroom.

Education: Bachelors in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in Infancy and Preschool from Auburn University

Family and Interests: I have been married to Aubrey Asmus since 2016, and had my first child, Lincoln, in January 2019. I have two cats, Mishka and Artemis.  I love houseplants, gardening, and cooking.  My favorite place to visit is Charleston, SC where my entire family lives.

Megan Austin

Role: Co-Teacher                                                                    *Infant 1*

Related Experience: I previously worked for a mental and behavioral health center for children in Texas.  I also have a year experience as a nanny.

Education: I have an AS in Oil and Gas Technology from Coastal Bend College in Victoria, Texas in 2013.

Family and Interests: I am engaged to James Bernal.  We plant to marry in April 2020.  We have one dog named Tyrion that keeps us busy since we have no kids yet.  We moved to Auburn from Texas in February 2019 and love it here.  My hobbies include painting and thrifting!

Amanda Baker

Role

Front Desk                                                                     *Front Office*

Related Experience

I have taught grades 1^st, 4^th, 5^th, and 6^th in Etowah County schools from 2008-2015, and preschool ages for the last 4 years. I have also worked in After School care for 4 years.

Education

Bachelors in Elementary Education, Jacksonville State University

Associates in Science, Snead State Community College

Family and Interests

I am from Altoona, AL.  I have been married to my best friend for the last 3 years.  We live in Opelika with our sweet pup, Zoey.  We love to travel when we can and enjoy spending time with family and friends.  In my spare time, I love to go to the movies and play games (board, card, and video).

Haley Barrett

Role

Teacher Assistant Older 2’s                                             *2 Year Olds*

Related Experience

I worked at Mrs. Deanna’s as a teacher assistant.

Education

I have my high school diploma and have some college.

Family and Interests

I like to babysit and take dogs to the park.

Kimberly Battle

Role

Teacher Assistant                                                           *Infant 2*

Related Experience

No related experiences other than babysitting.  I am a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA).  I have worked in the medical field for over 20 years.  I enjoy helping and taking care of others.

Education

High School Diploma

Some College

Family and Interests

I have two daughters, Alexandria and Jada, and I also have two grandchildren.  I enjoy spending time with family.  I love traveling!

Gabby Burton

Role

Teacher                                                                            *Pre-K*

Related Experience

I did volunteer hours at Wrights Mill Road Afterschool Program, worked Summer Blast (summer camp for kids), and Auburn Early Learning Center on campus.

Education

I am a graduate from Auburn University with a major in Human Development and Family Studies (Human Sciences).

Family and Interests

I am a mom of two young boys (2 and 4).  I love to sing and I am on a worship team at the Church of the Highlands.  I am also a part of motivational small groups.

Mercedes Calloway

Role

Lead Teacher                                                                *2 Yr Olds*

Related Experience

I previously worked at the Growing Room in Opelika and Auburn, Dandyland, and God’s Glory.

Education

I graduated from Opelika High School and I attended SUCC where I plan on going back in January for fashion or nursing.

Family and Interests

I am the youngest of 3.  I have two adorable nephews and I love spending time with family and shopping.

Faith Candlin

Role

Teacher                                                                          *After School*

Related Experience

I have worked with kids since I was in middle school.  I worked with special education kids and taught sign language in seventh grade.  I taught 1^st-5^th grade after schoolers and worked and taught K-5^th grade throughout high school.

Education

I graduated from Central High School in Phenix City.  I now attend Southern Union on a scholarship getting my basics to transfer to Auburn.  My major is in Early Childhood Special Education with a minor in Sign Language.

Family and Interests

I am from Columbus, Georgia.  I live with my parents Billy and Lisa Candlin who are my very best friends.  I have a brother who is 36 and a sister who is 23.  I have one niece that I adore, Kennedy, who just started Kindergarten, and I have another niece on the way.  I have a passion for kids, teaching, and sign language.  I love laying by the pool, riding four wheelers, and hanging out with my boyfriend and best friend.

Amber Derozier

Role

Teacher Younger 2’s                                                       *2 Yr Olds *

Related Experience

I have worked as a nanny, babysat, and worked in church childcare for several years.

Education

I have my high school diploma.

Family and Interests

I’m the second of 5 children, raised in Wisconsin and moved to Alabama in 2018.  I love spending time with my friends, church family, and being outdoors.  I love to learn new things so my life is always pretty busy, but I love it like that.  If I’m not with friends and family, I love reading, music, and exploring.

Joy Dowdy

Role

Co-Teacher                                                                   *Infant 1*

Related Experience

I have been a babysitter since I was 14 and I nannied in college.

Education

B.S. from Auburn University in Human Development and Family Studies. 2018.

Family and Interests

I am married to Jeremy Dowdy and we will celebrate our first anniversary this November.  I have a four-year-old stepdaughter and the three of us live in Phenix City with our three dogs, one cat, and one turtle.

Madi Duncan

Role

Teacher                                                                           *Infant 3*

Related Experience

I worked at Lakewood Primary School with Kindergarteners.

Education

I am attending Southern Union State Community College.

Family and Interests

I have one sister and a lot of grandparents.  I have three sets of grandparents and I have been living with one set since I was 12 years old.  Me and my sister are also very close.  I enjoy hanging out with friends and catching up on school in my free time.

Kiley Faught

Role

Floating Teacher                                                  *1-2 Yr Olds *

Related Experience

I worked at Growing Room for the past year.

Education

Graduated from Smiths Station in 2018, start CVCC in January.

Family and Interests

I have 2 sisters and a brother.  I love going on adventures in my free time and living life to the fullest.

Anna Gavins

Role

Office Manager                                                                *Front Office*

Related Experience

I worked with Foster Care and adoptions at Lee County DHR for 2 years.  I also worked with a local therapeutic  foster care agency as their Team Lead for 4 years before coming to GHA.

Education

I graduated from Auburn University in 2017 with a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in Middle Childhood and Adolescents.

Family and Interests

I grew up in Auburn (War Eagle!)  I graduated from Lee Scott Academy in 2006 and from Auburn University in 2012.  I have been married to my husband, Jesse, for 6 years and we have a 1 year old son named Jonah.  I love spending time with my family and watching Auburn sports!

Yaireth L. Gomez

Role

Spanish and After School Teacher                            *After School*

Related Experience

Prior to Grove Hill, I was an intern for Auburn Housing Authority as a mentor for at-risk children and adolescents.  I was also a summer camp counselor at the Birmingham Zoo working with K-3^rd grade.

Education

Pre-Social Work at Troy University

Social Work at Auburn University – Expected Graduation is May 2020

Family and Interests

I’m Venezuelan and originally from Birmingham, AL.  I have one brother that’s 10 years younger than me and a rescue dog named Lucky!  In my free time I enjoy being outdoors, cooking, and painting.  I’m passionate about children, animals, and human rights.

Nascri Hinds

Role

Lead Teacher                                                                 *2 Yr Olds*

Related Experience

I volunteered at different schools with P.E. Classes and worked in Tot Watch and track coach at Opelika Sports Plex. I also teach Sunday School at my church.  I have been at GHA since it opened in 2018.

Education

Graduated from Auburn High in 2012.  Attended Concordia College in Selma and went to the University of Mobile for two years.  I have my Associates Degree in General Studies.

Family and Interests

I am the oldest of 5 cousins.  I’m in a family singing group called “The Hinds Sisters”.  I love to paint, watch movies, spending time with family, and traveling.

Brooke Huey

Role

Director / Curriculum Director                                    *Front Office*

Related Experience

Worked for University Daycare for 10 years.  Worked with all ages in childcare. Pre-K for 5 years.

Education

Bachelors in Early Childhood Special Education, Auburn, 2010

Associates in Science, Southern Union, 2006

Family and Interests

Married to Brian Huey for 11 years, with two children, Ashlyn and Natalie.  My favorite team is Auburn.  I love the beach and lake life, spending time with my family and friends, and reading! Books are my weakness!

Jessica Hughley

Role

Teacher                                                                          *2 Yr Olds*

Related Experience

A full time mom, has worked in daycare before.  I was President of Board at my son’s Headstart for a year.  I strive to be a good teacher and to let parents see their child is well taken care of while in my care.

Education

High School Correspondence Diploma

Cornerstone Christian Academy

Family and Interests

I am a single mom of 5 – 4 boys and 1 girl.  My interest is to show my kids with or without someone that you can make it.  I always wanted my own daycare.  For right now, this is as close as I can get.  It is my dream to work with kids.  I love it!

Danielle Johnston

Role

Teacher                                                                     *1-2 Yr Olds

Related Experience

My first year to teach Pre-K, and I am so thrilled to start this journey.  I have been teaching 18-24 months for 7 months now.  I truly love I do and believe all children are exceptional.

Education

I obtained my Associates Degree from Jacksonville State University in 2012.  I transferred to Auburn University to continue my education and passion for Art and Design.

Family and Interests

I have a 9-month-old son named Jaxton (Jax) Lovett.  We LOVE family time.  We enjoy spending any free time anywhere on the water, whether it is the beach or Lake Martin.  I enjoy any time I have for art and design.  Of course, our family loves watching and supporting our Auburn Tigers!

Taylor Michelle Keith

Role

Lead Teacher                                                                 *1-2 Yr Olds*

Related Experience

Nothing related to childcare.  I was previously the operations manager at AMF and Goodtimes.

Education

I have a Business Management degree from Northeast Alabama Community College.

Family and Interests

I have and 8 ½ month old son named Emmett, and 2 dogs – Sadie and Bella.  I love spending time with my family and watching Auburn Athletics.

Elizabeth Kosters

Role

Teacher                                                      *1-2 Year Olds *

Related Experience

I started working with kids 7 years ago at a summer camp/after school program.  From there, I found my passion to teach/work with children.  I have had the opportunity to work with school-aged children to newborns.

Education

I started out at University of Colorado at Colorado Springs and then transferred to Louisiana State University.

Family and Interests

I am originally from Colorado and was born and raised there.  I moved to Alabama in August of 2019 to live on my family’s farm.  I love to be outside either hunting or fishing.  I love to read, and most of all, I love my family and spending as much time with them as I can.

Meagan Millican

Role

Floating Assistant Teacher                                      *2 Yr Olds*

Related Experience

I previously worked at University Daycare for 2 years and also I nannied two children for 2 years.

Education

I have my high school diploma and I am currently attending SUCC to finish my Associates Degree and then transferring to Auburn.

Family and Interests

I am an only child but have a huge family.  I love spending time with family.  I also love spending time outdoors especially with horses.  Other than that, you can find me hanging out with friends or at home watching Netflix.

Tanisha Porter

Role

Floating Teacher                                                     *Infant 1 and 2*

Related Experience

Worked as a nanny for 9 plus years and I also babysat.

Education

I attended Opelika High School and graduated in 2011.  I attended Stillman for 3 ½ years for Early Childhood Education.

Family and Interests

I am 27 years old.  I have two older brothers.  My oldest brother is a supervisor for Apple.  The middle brother is in the US Army.  His job is classified.  I stay with my grandmother (Vivian Harris) and mother (Jackie Harris).  I have two nieces and two nephews.  I am a full time nanny of my two god brothers and I also babysit for professors at Auburn University.  War Eagle!

Alexis D. Sears

Role

Floating Teacher                                                           *1-2 Yr Olds*

Related Experience

I have babysat many children at different ages.  I also worked at the YMCA in Tuskegee (now closed) as the secretary/counselor.  I have raised my son (now 30) and I help raise my grandsons who is 4 years old.

Education

I am a high school graduate and I did some college majoring in accounting then nursing.

Family and Interests

I am divorced.  I have one child (son) which is now 30.  I was a single mom.  I have one grandson which is 4 years old and is in Pre-K.  I am from New York, but now live in Tuskegee, AL since 1992.  I was a banker (FSC) at PNC Bank for 17 years until I left in 2015 to care for my mother until she passed in 2017.

Allyson Shipps

Role

Assistant Teacher                                                         *Pre-K Classroom J*

Related Experience

I have worked at Grove Hill Academy since it opened.  I also worked at a church daycare for 4 years where I worked with all ages of children.

Education

Graduated high school at Handley High, Roanoke, AL.

Associates Degree in Business Management and Supervision

Family and Interests

I lived in Roanoke for most of my life, but was born in Parsons, Kansas.  Most of my family still lives there.  In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family.  I also enjoy watching Auburn Football.  War Eagle!

Beth Shortal

Role

Lead Teacher                                                                 *3 Yr Olds*

Related Experience

I have been at Grove Hill Academy since it opened and I have also babysat/nannied for 2 years.

Education

I graduated from Auburn High School and I am currently enrolled in Liberty University’s online school for a Bachelors in Early Childhood Education.

Family and Interests

I live in Auburn, AL and I am currently expecting a little girl in January 2020.  I enjoy spending time with family and friends on the weekends as well as going to the lake.

Roberta Simmons

Role

Floating Teacher                                                          *Infant 1 & 2*

Related Experience

I worked as a teacher assistant at Alabama Council on Human Relations for 4 years.

Education

High School Diploma

Child Development Associate

Family and Interests

I am the mother of 2 – boy and girl – who I love dearly.  They are the light of my life.  When I’m not working, I spend most of my time with my kids.

Brittney Singleton

Role

Teacher                                                                           *Pre-K Classroom K*

Related Experience

After graduating high school in 2009, I started working in childcare.  Years later, I decided to get a degree in Elementary Education.

Education

Associate Degree from Southern Union State Community College.  Currently attend Auburn University Montgomery getting my Bachelors in Elementary Education with a Minor in Psychology.

Family and Interests

I love church, singing, and mentoring young people.

Holly Sinquefield

Role

Owner                                                                              *Front Office*

Related Experience

I interned for DHR foster care unit in college and worked for an elderly and disabled program for four years.  I taught preschool for two years after my son was born.

Education

I graduated from Auburn University with my degree in social work.

Family and Interests

I am married with two children.  Bram is four years old and Dawsie is one and a half years old.  We enjoy being outside – fishing and swimming.  We love going on adventures and to the beach!

Brittany Stiles

Role

Floating Teacher                                                           *Floater*

Related Experience

I baby sat children and volunteered at church.

Education

I am a Junior at Auburn University for Human Development and Family Studies.

Family and Interests

I am single.  I love to eat, travel, and doing anything outdoors.

Quaneasha Taylor

Role

Teacher                                                                          *Pre-K Classroom I*

Related Experience

I have been in childcare for 8 years on and off, also working as a dental assistant.  I have worked at Childcare Network and Growing Smiles in Huntsville, Alabama.

Education

I went to the Montgomery Dental School and also attended Calhan Community College.

Family and Interests

I’m 36 with 3 children.  My oldest just graduated from the College for Cosmetology, one is in Elementary School, and the other is in Middle School.  I am from Tallassee and I’m a huge Alabama fam.  I love to travel.

Nancy Thomas

Role

Floating Teacher                                                          *Floater*

Related Experience

I previously worked at Enota Elementary as a Kindergarten teacher aid, Sarah Rawson Smith as a Para Professional in Kindergarten, The Lovett School in First Grade, and at Peachtree Presbyterian Preschool Teacher for 15 years.

Education

Brenall College – Early Childhood Education 1979-1983

Family and Interests

I love running with my dogs, working out at Moores Mill Gym, gardening, cooking, and spending time with my family.

Rachel Tolliver

Role

Teacher                                                                          *Infant 2*

Related Experience

I have been a babysitter, baby Bible class teacher, and have worked at GHA for over a year.

Education

I graduated from Auburn University in 2017 with a B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies.

Family and Interests

I have a boyfriend, Nathan, and my parents and grandmother live nearby so I see them often.  I also have a cat named Huck.  I love to read, crochet, and knit in my spare time.  I also like to go to the movies and travel.

Addison Traylor

Role

Assistant Teacher                                                         *3 Yr Olds & Pre-K*

Related Experience

I have nannied since sophomore year in high school.  I also interned at Clemson Elementary, Kindergarten and Preschool.  I also was a nanny for the Clemson football coaches.

Education

Auburn University

Clemson University

Tri County Tech (Online)

Early Childhood Education Degree and Certification

Family and Interests

I love traveling the world – I’ve been to Costa Rica and ziplining through the rain forest! I also love spending time with family and friends, and watching Alabama and Clemson football games.