Chris Pennington - Principal
Years in Education: 29
Dream Vacation: Fiji Islands
Favorite Quote/Saying: "Do or do not; there is no try!"
Something Surprising: I was chewed out by Kirby Smart, defensive coordinator for the University of Alabama at the time, on the sideline at the BCS national championship game in New Orleans in 2012. 

Andy Carpenter – Assistant Principal of Student and Facility Management
Years in Education: 22 total; 17 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Family trip to Monterey, CA (and me playing Pebble Beach again)
Theme Song for Self or Class: Party in the USA
Best Thing about Pizitz: The kids
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œJust stop…seriously, just stop.”
Something Surprising: I know the words to more Jonas Brothers songs than you do.
In my Free Time, I like to...  play golf, go to concerts, and spend time with my family.

Donna Morgan - Assistant Principal of Curriculum
Years in Education: 20
Dream Vacation: Train through the Canadian Rockies
Favorite Quote/Saying: Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love. -Mother Teresa
Something Surprising: I like to dance
In my Free Time, I like to... walk and spend time with my family

Amy Barber â€“ Registrar
Years in Education: 11, all at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Truly anywhere with family or friends
Best Thing about Pizitz: Co-workers and the kids!
Favorite Quote/Saying: Trying to stay positive, I’ll say, “Well, at least…”
In my Free Time, I like to...  watch Blue Bloods and shop at TJMaxx!

Luanne Carter – Office Secretary
Years in Education: 4 total; 2 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Italy or Greece – I’m not picky.
Theme Song for Front Desk: Hello? Is it me you’re looking for?
Best Thing about Pizitz: Amazing kids and co-workers and wonderful parent volunteers
Favorite Quote/Saying: “Pizitz Middle School – How may I help you?”
Something Surprising: I was a waitress in Yellowstone National Park one summer.
In my Free Time, I like to...  be with my family, go to the beach, and read.

Darcy Champion â€“ School Resource Officer

Dream Vacation: Middle East and Africa

Favorite Quote/Saying: "Be Great."

Something Surprising: I like to ride horses.

In my Free Time, I like to spend time with family.

Helen Hickman â€“ Bookkeeper
Years in Education: 20, all at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Touring across America
Best Thing about Pizitz: The people I work with are awesome.
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œTreat others the way you want to be treated.”
In my Free Time, I like to read or enjoy the great outdoors.

John Penrose– School Resource Officer
Years in Education: SRO for 17 total; 8 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: A beach with lots of sun and white sand
Theme Song for Self or Class: Changes in Attitudes by Jimmy Buffett
Best Thing about Pizitz: The staff and students
Favorite Quote/Saying: “In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing, the next best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst thing you can do is nothing.”  -T. Roosevelt
Something Surprising: I used to be extremely shy.
In my Free Time, I like to...  be outdoors doing something, anything!

Terrie Wiglesworth â€“ Payroll

Years in Education: 12

Dream Vacation: Baltic River cruise

Favorite Quote/Saying: "I can do all things through Christ, who strengthens me."

Something Surprising: I'm working on my private pilot's license. Formerly worked in aviation management. Got to tour Air Force One in 1996.

In my Free Time, I like to travel, work out, read, and play with my dogs.

Sotonia Williams – School Nurse
Years in Education: 31 total; 14 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Time on a tropical island with family
Best Thing about Pizitz: The students, staff, and community
Favorite Quote/Saying: “If winter comes, can spring be far behind?”
Something Surprising: I’m the 7th child of 10.
In my Free Time, I like to work in my yard, read, and fish.

Amber Payne – 6th grade Counselor
Years in Education: 10 total; 6 at Pizitz
Best Thing about Pizitz: The opportunity to teach students lifelong skills for learning, working, and healthy relationships
Favorite Quote/Saying: “When something goes wrong in your life just yell ‘PLOT TWIST!’ and move on.”  -Molly Weis
Something Surprising: I was once chased by a panther.
In my Free Time, I like to...  go to estate sales and spend time with my family!

Susie Rich – 7th grade Counselor
Years in Education: 23 total; 21 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Anywhere there is an ocean and beach!
Theme Song for Self or Class: I’ll Be There for You! –theme song from Friends
Best Thing about Pizitz: great teachers, great staff members, and great students!
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œIt’s all good.”
Something Surprising: I have completed a half-marathon, a Tough Mudder, and a Spartan Challenge.
In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my husband and son traveling.

Chase Hodge – 8th grade Counselor
Years in Education: 5 total; 3 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Going to the beach or Disney
Theme Song for Self or Class: Build My Life by Housefires
Best Thing about Pizitz: The people! I love that I work with people who care about each other so much.
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œThere is power in your words.”
Something Surprising: I work out 4-5 times a week at the kickboxing gym.
In my Free Time, I like to...  cook!!

Ann Whitehurst – Counselors’ Secretary
Years in Education: 9 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Sitting on a beach in the Caribbean!
Best Thing about Pizitz: I love seeing all the students’ smiling faces!
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œNothing is impossible; the word itself says ‘I’m possible’”!
In my Free Time, I like to...  hang out with my family and go on weekend getaways!

Button Smith – Librarian
Years in Education: 21, all at Pizitz (6 years in the library, 15 years teaching 8th grade History)
Dream Vacation: Traveling to Italy and Sicily with my family to see where my ancestors are from
Theme Song for Self or Class: Blessed by Martina McBride
Best Thing about Pizitz: We truly treat one another like family.
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œBe who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”  -Dr. Seuss
Something Surprising: I was a gymnast in high school.
In my Free Time, I like to...  cook, bake, and READ, READ, READ!!

Betsy Wilson – Library Assistant
Years in Education: 14, all at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Mediterranean Cruise
Theme Song for Self or Class: I Can Only Imagine by Mercy Me and Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey
Best Thing about Pizitz: The wonderful people that I get to work with everyday
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œIf you don’t use your head, you have to use your feet.”  -my great-grandmother
Something Surprising: I really, really don’t like belly buttons.
In my Free Time, I like to...  read.

Tiffany Preston - Manager
Anthony Krontiras - Assistant Manager
Renuka Patel
Angela Taylor

Extended Day Program

Jordan Robbins

Rex Short - Day Crew Leader
Dyllan Bates
Nick Cvetetic
Michael Fox
Angela Pope
Cathy Stovall
Quita Webb

Keith Beard –8th grade English Team 3
Years in Education: 11 total; 2nd at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Spending a week hiking through the Alps and then a second week perusing through Europe
Theme Song for Self or Class: My Oh My by Punch Brothers
Best Thing about Pizitz: I’ve really enjoyed the community feel of the school. Everyone has been so nice and generous!
Favorite Quote/Saying: “It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to have tried to succeed.” -Theodore Roosevelt
Something Surprising: I’m training for a marathon!
In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my son and daughter!

Stratton Brock –7th grade Gifted English
Years in Education: Total – 13 fantastic years (started in 2006) all at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Something involving my family and escape rooms. Paris is nice. The Musee Pompidou is almost like an escape room. 
Theme Song for Self or Class: We are Jung by Fun Need
Best Thing about Pizitz: I have wonderful students who challenge me, entertain me and generally make me feel very blessed and privileged to be their teacher
Favorite Quote/Saying: Such is Life

Christa Brogan –7th grade English Team 3
Years in Education: 17 total; 12 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Back to Italy!
Theme Song for Self or Class: Fix My Eyes by For King and Country
Best Thing about Pizitz: The safe, supportive environment and the best students and families in the world
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œWhy, sometimes I've believed as many as six impossible things before breakfast.” Alice's Adventures in Wonderland
Something Surprising: I have eight tattoos.
In my Free Time, I like to...  make art.

Rachel Brown â€“6th grade English Team 3
Years in Education: 12, all at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Anywhere tropical – I love warm weather and the beach! It is my happy place!
Theme Song for Self or Class: The Preposition Song – My students learn it during the year, and they never forget it!
Best Thing about Pizitz: Pizitz is a FUN and supportive school. Everyone gets involved and encourages each other. It is truly a FAMILY!
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œSo often you find that the students you’re trying to inspire are the ones that end up inspiring you.”  -Sean Junkins
Something Surprising: I am an introvert. I have extreme anxiety about standing up and speaking in front of anyone (except my students).
In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my husband and daughter

Brad Carpenter –7th grade English Team 1
Years in Education: 11 total; 8 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: An isolated log cabin far from the hustle and noise of civilization
Best Thing about Pizitz: Each day brings new challenges with fantastic rewards.
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œBooks can only reveal us to ourselves, and as often as they do us this service we lay them aside.”  -Henry David Thoreau
Something Surprising: I served in the US Coast Guard for 6 years before becoming a teacher.
In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my family, work outside, kayak, and build furniture and other items out of wood.

Kristin Coppock –8th grade English Team 1
Years in Education: 17 total; 4 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: A cruise and land tour of all countries on the Mediterranean Sea (especially Italy and Greece)
Best Thing about Pizitz: Caring faculty and staff, and fun kids
Favorite Quote/Saying: “Stay gold, Ponyboy.” –Johnny, The Outsiders
Something Surprising: I am an open book.  No surprises here.
In my Free Time, I like to...  read, exercise, and sit on a beach.

Rebecca Harrell - 6th Grade English Team 1; Assistant Cross Country; Assistant Track & Field

Years in Education: 1st year teacher

Dream Vacation: Iceland.

Favorite Quote/Saying: “I believe in Education, which gives me the knowledge to work wisely and trains my mind and my hands to work skillfully” - Favorite line from the Auburn University creed

Something surprising: I have been snow skiing since I was 3 years old. 

Scott McClellan - 8th Grade English Team 2
Years in Education: 10
Dream Vacation: Scotland/Ireland (again)
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œAll generalizations are false, including this one.” - Mark Twain
Something Surprising: In the 6th grade, I met Ray Bradbury, and he autographed a copy of The Martian Chronicles.
In my Free Time, I like to read, a lot.

Leslie Pair- 8th grade English Team 4
Years in Education: 15
Dream Vacation: I would love to go to England because my grandparents immigrated from there when they were newlyweds. I'd like to meet my extended family!
Favorite Quote/Saying: Saying: War Eagle! Quote: “I wanted you to see what real courage is.... It's when you know you're licked before you begin, but you begin anyway and see it through no matter what.” - Atticus Finch, To Kill A Mockingbird
Something Surprising: I lived in East Asia for two-and-a-half years after college graduation.
In my Free time, I like to...  When I'm not parenting and/or working, I try to spend time with friends that I don't see often.

Ashley Perry â€“6th grade English Team 4

Years in Education: 9

Dream Vacation: A tour of Italy and Greece. 

Favorite Quote/Saying:  "Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all" - Aristotle

Something Surprising: I enjoy classical choral music, and still sing with choirs. 

In my Free Time, I like to... Read, practice calligraphy, and spend time outdoors. 

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Lera Wade- 6th grade English Team 2
Years in Education: 25
Dream Vacation: 30 teams in 30 days- going to every MLB park back to back for 30 days straight.
Favorite Quote/Saying: "There may be people that have more talent than you, but there's no excuse for anyone to work harder than you do."
Something Surprising: I had an internship at Walt Disney World.
In my Free Time, I like to... go out to eat with my husband, read, and take my dogs for walks.

Jill Wiggins –7th grade English Team 2
Years in Education: 2½ yrs at Pizitz (Many years in public and private schools and home school cooperatives prior to Pizitz)
Dream Vacation: Central coast of California – Its proximity to the mountains and beach make it the perfect spot.
Theme Song for Self or Class: You Will Be Found from Dear Evan Hansen
Best Thing about Pizitz: It is a fun place to work! Teachers have as much fun as students. We work hard, but we know how to dance and celebrate, too!
Favorite Quote/Saying:  “Life is too short to read bad books.” and “Character. Excellence. Family. Don’t sell your soul for a 7th grade English quiz.” and “Don’t make me step on your toes and pretend it’s an accident.” and “…and that’s why you are my favorite!”
Something Surprising: I have held the Olympic torch.
In my Free Time, I like to...  garden, watch funny cat videos, and shop at T. J. Maxx.

Michelle Binder –6th grade Math Team 2
Years in Education: 11 total; 4 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Hawaii
Best Thing about Pizitz: Pirates’ Day
Something Surprising: I played in the band from middle school through high school.
In my Free Time, I like to...  travel.

Becky Boykin –6th grade Math Team 4
Years in Education: 24 total; 7 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Stay at a villa in Italy for a couple of months with a maid and chef!
Theme Song for Self or Class: for my class…Hall of Fame by The Script
Best Thing about Pizitz: The kids!
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œIt’s okay to not know, but it’s not okay to not try.”
Something Surprising: If I told you all, then it wouldn’t be surprising!!
In my Free Time, I like to travel, cook, and shop for shoes!

Vicki Cato –8th grade Math Team 4
Years in Education: 31 total; 21 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: A summer in Europe
Theme Song for Self or Class: I Will Survive
Best Thing about Pizitz: We have the best teachers and students, and that makes it a great place to teach.
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œMy mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.”  -Maya Angelou
Something Surprising: I have twin boys.
In my Free Time, I like to...  walk, practice yoga, sing at church, and shop.

Shannon Fulton –6th grade Math Team 1
Years in Education: 17 total; 2 at Pizitz
Dream Vacations: Anywhere I can relax and enjoy peace and quiet, the beach, and Scotland/Ireland
Theme Song for Self or Class: Hall of Fame, Man in the Mirror, and a little Welcome to the Jungle
Best Thing about Pizitz: This faculty is so welcoming and like a family. They are very positive!!! I absolutely love teaching here!!! 
Favorite Quote/Saying: “Be the change you want to see in the world.”  -Gandhi
Something Surprising: I seem to fall down all the time. I am not very graceful.
In my Free Time, I like to...  cook, read books, and watch movies.

Virginia Jordan –8th grade Math Team 1
Years in Education: 2 years at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: My growing list right now includes Australia, Ireland, Dubai, The Ryder Cup, and, of course, endless trips to Disney!
Theme Song for Self or Class: I’ll Be There for You by The Rembrandts- Friends is my favorite TV show! I also want students to know I will always be there for them, and I want them to be there for each other.
Best Thing about Pizitz: The colleagues I have met – I am amazed by the encouragement and support. Parents, your kids have some pretty incredible teachers here at Pizitz!
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œRoll Tide!”
In my Free Time, I like to...  exercise...partly because I have to balance my other favorite thing to do which is eat good food at fun restaurants!

Hope Levio –7th grade Math Team 2
Years in Education: 15 total; 6 at Pizitz (9 at VHHS)
Dream Vacation: Anywhere on a beach
Theme Song for Self or Class: It’s My Life by Bon Jovi
Best Thing about Pizitz: The students!
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œFailing to prepare is preparing to fail.”  -Ben Franklin
Something Surprising: I played in the 2005 World Series of Poker.
In my Free Time, I like to...  read, watch movies, and be outside.

Jackie Mills –7th grade Math Team 3
Years in Education: 21, all at Pizitz
Dream Vacation:  Spain!
Best Thing about Pizitz: Helping amazing students learn not only math but life lessons
Favorite Quote/Saying: “Nothing is ever as bad as it seems, and nothing is ever as good as it seems.”
Something Surprising: I’ve lived in Pearl Harbor and Key West. (Navy brat)
In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my 4 grandkids!!

Laura Morrison –8th grade Math Team 2

Years in Education: 12 total; 5 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Greece

Theme Song for Self or Class: Don’t Stop Believin’ by Journey

Best Thing about Pizitz: The people (students & faculty)

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œIf it was easy, everyone would do it.”  -my father

Something Surprising: I won 2 cars my senior year in high school from a radio station - Magic 96.

In my Free Time, I like to go to the lake with my family.

Linda Spain –6th grade Math Team 3

Years in Education: 18 total; 11 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: An all-inclusive Carribean resort!

Theme Song for Self or Class: Don’t Stop Believin’

Best Thing about Pizitz: The students…by a mile! Oh, and the teachers…by another mile!!

Favorite Quote/Saying: “More of Him, less of me.”

Something Surprising: I knew in 4th grade that I wanted to be a teacher.

In my Free Time, I like to...  hang with family, friends, and neighbors!

Kadylyn Wallace - 8th grade Math Team 3; 7th grade Assistant Basketball Coach

Years in Education: This is my first year teaching.

Dream Vacation: Paris, France at Christmas 

Favorite Quote/Saying: Mathematics may not teach us how to add love or subtract hate, but it gives us every reason to believe that every problem has a solution. ~Unknown

Something Surprising: Math was not my favorite subject in middle and high school

In my free time...I like to hang out with my friends and swim laps. 

Mark Woodruff –7th grade Math Team 1

Years in Education: 21 total; 17 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Hawaii

Best Thing about Pizitz: The people

Favorite Quote/Saying: “I would rather live my life as if there is a God and die to find out there isn’t, than live my life as if there isn’t and die to find out there is.”

Something Surprising: I like things to be neat, orderly, and organized.

In my Free Time, I like to...  play basketball, watch my girls play soccer, watch Auburn play any sport but especially football, and watch movies.

Susan Castleberry–6th grade Gifted Science

Years in Education: 28 total; 23 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Fiji in one of the over the water bungalows

Theme Song for Self or Class: Happy by Pharrell Williams

Best Thing about Pizitz: Our Creed – Character, Excellence, Family – Where Pirates Lead, Others Follow!

Favorite Quote/Saying: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”  -Maya Angelou

Something Surprising: I attended Pizitz for 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grades.

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my family, friends, and my two dogs, Midnight and Mercedes.

Tracie Edwards –7th grade Science Team 1

Years in Education: 16 total; 5 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Hawaii

Theme Song for Self or Class: Sit Next to Me by Foster the People

Best Thing about Pizitz: We have the best kids and very supportive parents.

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good.  His love endures forever.” Psalm 107:1

In my Free Time, I like to...  have quiet time!!

Aimee Farrar –7th grade Science Team 2;  Ambassador Sponsor

Years in Education: 15, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: To travel around the world experiencing new cultures and seeing the beautiful natural sights

Theme Song for Self or Class: R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Best Thing about Pizitz: It’s like a family – we all love each other and look out for one another!

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œTreat others the way that you want to be treated.”

Something Surprising: I have been skydiving.
In my Free Time, I like to...  enjoy the outdoors with my husband and two boys.

Kelly Gurosky –8th grade Science Team 1

Years in Education: 12, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Any place with my family

Theme Song for Self or Class: Weird Science by Oingo Boingo

Best Thing about Pizitz: Great kids and WONDERFUL, AMAZING faculty and staff!

Favorite Quote/Saying:  “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”  -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Something Surprising: I am an angry driver!

In my Free Time, I like to...  READ!!!

Erin Hunter –6th grade Science Team 4

Years in Education: 4 years

Theme Song for Self or Class: Try Everything by Shakira (Zootopia movie)

Best Thing about Pizitz: The people at Pizitz are the best!  I love the Pirate family!

Favorite Quote/Saying:  “In a world where you can be anything, be kind.”

Something Surprising:  I once biked down a volcano in Maui!

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time and travel with my family

Diane McAliley –6th grade Science Team 1

Years in Education: 23 total; 5 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: A week on a ranch in Montana on the way to Napa!

Theme Song for Self or Class: I Wonder, Wonder, Wonder, Wonder WHY

Best Thing about Pizitz: The freedom to be creative, the resources to implement ideas, and students who love to learn, express, and create

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œI think we learn more from failure than from success. Don’t be afraid to fail. Learn from it and GROW!”

Something Surprising: I graduated in electrical engineering from Auburn. After working with a tutoring program I realized I was a teacher at heart, so I went back to school so I could teach!

In my Free Time, I like to...  enjoy a day on the lake or a great meal with friends and family.

Kelci McCaleb –8th grade Science Team 2

Years in Education: 8, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Hawaii

Theme Song for Self or Class: Any sort of epic theme song from a movie – Lord of the Rings, Pirates of the Caribbean, Enders Game, Tron, …

Best Thing about Pizitz: Being able to explore and learn with the students! Pizitz teachers are so supported to try new lessons and be bold and creative. Many times the students have the ability to drive what we do and in doing so, I am able to not only teach them what I know but learn more because of their curiosity!

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œThe Lord will provide.”

Something Surprising: I like video games, watch anime, and love to read!

In my Free Time, I like to...  stay busy with my 2.5 year old and 1 year old boys. There’s no free time anymore. I can’t imagine it any other way though!

Angie Olvey –8th grade Science Team 3

Years in Education: 10 total; 4 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Bora Bora in one of those bungalows over the water

Theme Song for Self or Class: Float On by Modest Mouse

Best Thing about Pizitz: The family! I work with the best team members, the best faculty, and the best kids!

Favorite Quote/Saying: “It’s a good day for a good day.”

Something Surprising: I don’t have a favorite athletic team. War Tide! Roll Eagle!  

In my Free Time, I like to...  be out and about with my two daughters, shop at TJ Maxx, watch Netflix with my husband, and craft.

Michaela Spence –8th grade Science Team 4

Years in Education: 3rd year teaching; 2nd at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Touring Europe

Theme Song for Self or Class: FRIENDS theme song

Best Thing about Pizitz: Creating memories with students and impacting the future generation

Favorite Quote/Saying: “I won’t spoon feed you, but I will help you find the spoon.”  -One of my favorite college professors

Something Surprising: I still have two baby teeth!

In my Free Time, I like to...  read, travel, play with my dog Loxxi, and be outdoors.

Tyler Tidmore –6th grade Science Team 3

Years in Education: 2, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Extended vacation in Skagway, Alaska – hiking, fishing, being outdoors

Theme Song for Self or Class: Should’ve Been a Cowboy by Toby Keith

Best Thing about Pizitz: I love the people here. I love the students. I love how we are just one big family.

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Success is no accident.  It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice, and most of all, love of what you are doing.”

Something Surprising: I love to cook.

In my Free Time, I like to...  cook and spend time with my wife!

Pam Weaver –7th grade Science Team 3

Years in Education: 14 total; 4 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: A month to travel Europe

Theme Song for Self or Class: Walking on Sunshine

Best Thing about Pizitz: The staff is phenomenal! I love coming to work each day.

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Be the change you want to see in the world.”  -Gandhi

Something Surprising: I hate spiders and eggs.

In my Free Time, I like to...  read.

Samantha Baulch- 7th grade Social Studies Team 2; Assistant Softball Coach

Years in Education: 7 total

Dream Vacation:  All inclusive resort at Turks and Caicos 

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œYou must be the change you wish to see in the world.” Ghandi

Something Surprising: Certified Pure Barre Instructor

In my Free Time, I like to...  travel, workout, and cook

Keri Eitzen - 6th Grade Social Studies Team 4

Years in Education: Forever (I was born a teacher!) I've been in a school for 10 years.

Dream Vacation: Italy or France

Favorite Quote/Saying: In life, we are judged by our actions, not our good intentions.

Something Surprising: I have been para-sailing

In my free time I like to: Garden, go on adventures, visit with loved ones

Brian Elmore –8th grade Social Studies Team 2

Years in Education: 4, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: To spend a summer touring Europe

Theme Song for Self or Class: Star Wars or Rocky theme song

Best Thing about Pizitz: The family atmosphere – we treat each other like family.

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œIt’s not the will to win but the will to prepare to win that makes the difference.”  –Bear Bryant

Something Surprising: I have hitchhiked, and I like woodworking.

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend it outdoors or building furniture.

Kathie Knickrehm –8th grade Social Studies Team 3

Years in Education: 15, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: A trip to one of the South Pacific Islands where you can have a private hut over the water - I would love to relax and explore the sea with my husband!

Theme Song for Self or Class: Class theme Songs- Home by Phillip Phillips and History by One Direction (I love music and use it almost every day in my classroom.)

Best Thing about Pizitz: I get to work with my closest friends and a wonderful group of students. The love and laughter that fill the halls makes this a fantastic place to work and grow.

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œYou are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.”  -Winnie the Pooh

Something Surprising: I love lychee but can’t stand grits.

In my Free Time, I like to read a great book, plant beautiful flowers, play with my wonderful grandbabies, go to the beach, and spend time with friends and family.

Bill Mann –6th grade Social Studies Team 2

Years in Education: 11 total; 5 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: A backpack, a tent, a kayak, and a view

Theme Song for Self or Class: Take Me Home, Country Roads

Best Thing about Pizitz: Always feeling supported – whether it’s coworkers, administrators, or parents, there’s always someone to help you out.

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads.”  -Henry David Thoreau

Something Surprising: I iron my own clothes...well.

In my Free Time, I like to...  Free time?!?  What’s that? Just kidding. I like to hang out with my wife, play with my kids, fish, read a book, build something, or just get outside.

Beth Neighbors –7th grade Social Studies Team 1

Years in Education: 22, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Travel around the world!

Best Thing about Pizitz: The challenge and joy from teaching 7th graders

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œThis too shall pass.”

Something Surprising: I worked on the NCL Cruise Ships while in college. I was the first female to complete the management training program at Regions Bank.

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my children and grandchildren!

Malcolm Prewitt –7th grade Social Studies Team 3

Years in Education: 31, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: A tour of Civil War battlesites

Best Thing about Pizitz: The people you get to work with on a daily basis and the children you are molding into great Pirates

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œDo the best you can all the time.”

Something Surprising: I love to watch musicals.

In my Free Time, I like to...  relax, read, play golf, and spend time with family.

Kelly Sorrell –6th grade Social Studies Team 3

Years in Education: 20 total; 17 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Walking and biking tour in Europe

Theme Song for Self or Class: Every Little Thing Is Gonna Be Alright by Bob Marley

Best Thing about Pizitz: I love that Pizitz students are interested in learning!

Favorite Quote/Saying: “American History is not something dead and over. It is always alive, always growing, always unfinished.” and “Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other.”  -JFK

Something Surprising: I am a Master Gardener who can’t keep a houseplant alive! My maiden name is Ms. Frizzle, but I don’t have a Magic School Bus!

In my Free Time, I like to...  read, garden, and visit family.

Phil Vanderkamp –6th grade Social Studies Team 1

Years in Education: 19 total; 15 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Kayaking the rivers of Alabama with a biologist, botanist, entomologist, ornithologist, herpetologist, and geologist

Theme Song for Self or Class: Home by Greg Holden

Best Thing about Teaching/Working at Pizitz:  Knowing the future is in good hands

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Be kind…for everyone you meet is carrying a great burden.”

Something Surprising: People mistake me for George Clooney.

In my Free Time, I like to...  garden, cook, pickle, play music, hike, and kayak.

Christopher Wilder - 8th Grade History Team 4; Assistant Track and Field Coach

Years in Education: 4 years

Dream Vacation: Australia 

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Sometimes you need a little rain to make the garden grow”.

Something Surprising: I want to own a food truck to make and sell hot wings

In my free time I like to play video games, go hunting/fishing, and spend time with family.

Jason Williams – Athletic Director; 8th grade Social Studies Team 1; Cross Country/Track and Field Coach

Years in Education: 18, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Backpacking Europe – have been before, am going again

Theme Song for Self or Class: Smells like Teen Spirit

Best Thing about Pizitz: The students – I get to discuss my favorite subject and coach my favorite sport with people I like.

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œAll you touch and all you see is all your life will ever be.”

In my Free Time, I like to...  cook and travel.

Kim Bain – Band Director

Years in Education: 29 total; 13 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Belaggio, Italy

Theme Song for Self or Class: We Are Champions by Queen

Best Thing about Pizitz: Our wonderful students, parents, and faculty!

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Seek first to understand; then to be understood.”

Something Surprising: I was a saxophonist at Disneyland during college.

In my Free Time, I like to...  play saxophone and golf.

Melissa Bonds – Choral Director

Years in Education: 11, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Traveling to Ireland and Switzerland (or just the beach for a month!)

Theme Song for Self or Class: We Got the Beat

Best Thing about Pizitz: The people – the awesome teachers we work with and the amazing kids we teach!
Something Surprising: I survived the classes of Mrs. Smith, Coach Prewitt, Mr. Coleman, Mrs. Moss, and Mrs. Mills at Pizitz! (And my husband survived Mr. Andy Carpenter’s class!)

In my Free Time, I like to...  hang out with my kiddos (ages 7 and 5).

Brent Coleman – Choral Director

Years in Education: 25, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: A month at the beach with no interruptions

Theme Song for Self or Class: The Greatest Show

Best Thing about Pizitz: I love working with the students, helping them develop as singers and helping them accomplish something they did not know they could do.

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œTwo words separate Success and Failure...TimeSpent.”

Something Surprising: I love woodworking.

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my family, read, watch Netflix, and woodwork.

Larry Gibson – Art

Years in Education: 35, all at Pizitz! And did my student teaching here!

Dream Vacation: the North Carolina mountains

Best Thing about Pizitz: The high value of education shown by the community

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œI have high hopes for this class. I have high hopes for you.”

Monica Horton – Family and Consumer Science

Years in Education: 13 total; 2 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: 2 weeks in Disney World, staying in the castle!

Theme Song for Self or Class: Treasure by Bruno Mars

Best Thing about Pizitz: It’s the best middle school in America. Vestavia Hills is an awesome community, and the Pizitz family is great!

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œIf you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”

In my Free Time, I like to...  read, sew, paint, and cook.

Kim Hunton – Spanish; Cross Country/Track and Field Coach

Years in Education: 25, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Road trip with my family

Theme Song for Self or Class: Run the World

Best Thing about Pizitz: My students – I love being able to teach kids all three years and really get to know them. I love that I have a front row seat to watch them grow into young men and women.

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œYou’re killing me, Smalls!”

Something Surprising: I went to Auburn all the way from South Florida to become a veterinarian and graduated a Spanish teacher.

In my Free Time, I like to...  play Trivia Crack and Candy Crush, read, and shop.

Frau Kathy Rogers – German & “Creating with Code”

Years in Education: 25 total; 19 at Pizitz

Best Thing about Pizitz: Meeting my students as 6th graders and guiding them through 7th and 8th grade German is the best thing because we form life-long relationships. (Having to say “auf wiedersehen” to my students each spring is the worst!) I'd also have to say that designing and facilitating the Creating with Code class continues to be a wonderfully rewarding experience because my Coder-Kids teach ME something new every day!

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œWhen one teaches, two learn.”  -Robert Heinlein

Something Surprising: I worked as a Pan Am flight attendant in the 80’s and traveled the world.

In my Free Time, I like to...  hike, read, travel, and watch German TV and movies.

Leah Seng – Band Director

Years in Education: 17 total; 9 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Cinque Terre, Italy

Theme Song for Self or Class: I’ll Be There For You from Friends

Best Thing about Pizitz: What could be better than walking into The Best Middle School in America each morning?!
Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œas much as talent counts, effort counts twice.”   Angela Duckworth, Grit

Something Surprising:  When I was a kid, I broke my collarbone trying to avoid a hug!

In my Free Time, I like to...  go to yoga, go for a run, enjoy great food, and spend time with my family and friends.

Josh Wade – French

Years in Education: 20 total; 19 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Wandering the amazing national parks of the western United States in early fall, camera in hand

Theme Song for Self or Class: Aux Champs Elysees by Joe Dassin

Best Thing about Pizitz: The opportunity and support we have to provide all kinds of experiences to our students

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Our life is frittered away by detail. Simplify, simplify, simplify!” -Henry David Thoreau

Something Surprising: I am often shy and uncomfortable in large groups.

In my Free Time, I like to run, hike, take photos, “plan” to build things in my workshop, and spend time in my yard.

John Brown - Boys PE

Years in Education: starting my 22nd year

Dream Vacation: Golf in Scotland

Favorite Quote/Saying: Why only give 99% effort when you still have so much more to give.

Something Surprising: I used to be cool

In my Free Time, I like to… Be outside doing almost anything

Mandy Burgess – Girls PE

Years in Education: 20 total; 10 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Going to Australia and snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef

Theme Song for Self or Class: Like a Champion

Best Thing about Pizitz: The students, of course

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œWhat you do speaks so loudly that I cannot hear what you say.”  -Ralph Waldo Emerson

Something Surprising: I am one of 7 children.

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my family and travel!

Katie Matchen – Girls PE; 7th grade Volleyball and Basketball Coach; JV Softball Coach

Years in Education: 5 total; 4 at Pizitz
Dream Vacation: Going to Australia

Theme Song for Self or Class: Hakuna Matata

Best Thing about Pizitz: The atmosphere is so positive, and the staff is wonderful. It is a special place.

Favorite Quote/Saying: “It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. The hard…is what makes it great.”  -Jimmy Dugan

Something Surprising: I played softball at Jacksonville State University. I also have rheumatoid arthritis.

In my Free Time, I like to...  run!

David McKenzie – Boys PE; 8th grade Football; 8th grade Girls Basketball

Years in Education: 10 total; 4 at Pizitz (13 as coach/ athletic trainer)

Dream Vacation: Fishing trip to Brazil or Alaska

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œSuccess is peace of mind, which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you made the effort to become the best of which you are capable.”  -John Wooden

Something Surprising: I worked in an orthopedic surgeon’s office for 4 years before I started teaching, working with acute injury and post-op patients in clinic. I also covered inner city school football games on Friday nights.

In my Free Time, I like to spend time with family and friends, watch college football and basketball (GO DAWGS!), fish, hunt, camp, pretty much anything outdoors.

Beth Uhlman – Girls PE

Years in Education: 24 total; 4 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Without a second thought, I would return to Palm Island.

Theme Song for Self or Class:  Class- Girls Just Want to Have Fun

Best Thing about Pizitz: Coworkers and the opportunity to impact young lives

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Do the right thing!” and “Quitters never win, and winners never quit...Win in Life.”

Something Surprising: I have a collection of Precious Moments figurines.

In my Free Time, I like to...  run, mountain bike, hang with family and friends, and take my foster children to have new experiences.

John Wyman – Boys PE

Years in Education: 29 total; 26 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Anywhere near water, preferably the beach

Best Thing about Pizitz: Front office staff!

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Unbelievable.”

Something Surprising: I was one of 9 kids growing up in Chicago.

In my Free Time, I like to...  sleep.

Jill Clark – Exceptional Education, 6th grade

Years in Education: 41 total; 32 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Going to Greece with my family (Really a vacation to nowhere would be great!)

Best Thing about Pizitz: The best thing is teaching the student’s mind but also their heart; their laughter, their smiles, and the moment when they learn something new – being a part of that is an honor.

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œFear knocked at the door. Faith answered. No one was there.” and “What you permit, you promote.”

In my Free Time, I like to...  hang with my furry friends and take walks.

Lisa Cross – 8th grade Academic Support

Years in Education: 21 total; 6 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Hawaii

Theme Song for Self or Class: Best Day of My Life

Best Thing about Pizitz: It is “The Best Middle School in America,” and the students and teachers are like family.

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Proverbs 4:23

Something Surprising: I once caught a tarpon weighing 150 pounds in Key West.

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my family and exercise.

Madison Escue – Life Skills

Years in Education: 2, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Bora Bora

Theme Song for Self or Class: Juju on that Beat(Teacher Edition)

Best Thing about Pizitz: One of my favorite things about teaching is recognizing and celebrating big and small accomplishments/successes. The best thing about working at Pizitz is being surrounded by a strong support group of faculty, staff, and administration. The students are respectful and extremely supportive of each other. We are one big family around here!

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œYou haven’t failed until you stop trying.”  -Jon Gordon

Something Surprising:  My family consists of 2 sets of identical twins.

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with family and friends, listen to music, and be outdoors.

Melinda Fagin – Speech-Language Pathologist 

Years in Education: 20 total; 10 at Pizitz

Theme Song for Self or Class: The Greatest Show

Best Thing about Pizitz: The best thing is that it is such a family environment. Everyone goes out of their way to make sure each student feels special and loved!

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Your attitude determines your direction.”

Megan Hoskin – Exceptional Education, 8th grade

Years in Education: 16 total; 11 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: A year to aimlessly travel around the world

Theme Song for Self or Class: You may say I’m a dreamer, but I’m not the only one by John Lennon

Best Thing about Pizitz: Our Pizitz family!

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Get up, stand up!  Don’t give up the fight!  -Bob Marley

Something Surprising: I was a raft guide on the Ocoee River in Tennessee, and I taught middle school in Hawaii.

In my Free Time, I like to...  camp with my family, workout, and travel to hear music.

Karen McCutcheon –Exceptional Education, 7th grade

Years in Education: 21 total; 19 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Europe

Theme Song for Self or Class: Get on Your Feet by Gloria Estefan

Best Thing about Pizitz: The people – kids, teachers, and all the staff!

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œThe most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time.”  -Thomas Edison

Something Surprising: I was a competitive figure skater when I was a child.

In my Free Time, I like to...  listen to music and attend Alabama Symphony concerts.

Danna Moss – 6th grade Academic Support

Years in Education: 24, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Italy

Theme Song for Self or Class: Hallelujah by The Canadian Tenors

Best Thing about Pizitz: Helping the kids learn something new

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.”

Something Surprising: My husband and I were married in Las Vegas 18 years ago.

In my Free Time, I like to...  SHOP!

Laura Preston –7th grade Academic Support

Years in Education: 17 total; 4 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: An escape to Maldives in a private hut overlooking the ocean and anywhere near a beach!

Theme Song for Self or Class: Ain’t No Mountain High Enough

Best Thing about Pizitz: The love and support from my colleagues and administrators!

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” -Dr. Seuss

Something Surprising: I'd love to have my own food truck someday.

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my daughters, go on dates with my husband, and cook!

Jane Thornton – Life Skills

Years in Education: 2nd year at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: My favorite place to travel is New York.

Best Thing about Pizitz: The BEST faculty and staff!

Favorite Quote/Saying: The Golden Rule

Something Surprising: I danced for 16 years.

In my Free Time, I like to...  exercise and try new cooking recipes. 

Frankie Thrailkill- Exceptional Education, Behavior 

Years in Education: 3

Dream Vacation: The Maldives

Favorite Quote/Saying: "If you could only sense how important you are to the lives of those you meet; how important you can be to the people you may never even dream of.” - Mr. Fred Rodgers

Something Surprising: I have five siblings!

In my Free Time, I like to… run, read, and be with my family!

Donna Watkins – Intensive Student Support

Years in Education: 26 total; 23 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Adventure and exploration with a little relaxation

Theme Song for Self or Class: Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson and Don’t Stop Believing by Journey

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œThe credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena.”  -Theodore Roosevelt

Something Surprising: I was named after Donna Marie’s Fish Camp in Louisiana.

In my Free Time, I like to...  treasure hunt at antique/ junk stores, cook, and arts and crafts.

Connie Butts – ParaEducator 

Lisa Cheek – ParaEducator

Years in Education: 13, all at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Traveling around Europe with unlimited amounts of time and money

Best Thing about Pizitz: My amazing co-workers and students

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œDon’t promise when you’re happy, don’t reply when you’re angry, and don’t decide when you’re sad.”

In my Free Time, I like to...  exercise, stay outside, travel to new places, hang out with my children and husband, and play with my dog.

Shawn Fields – ParaEducator

Years in Education: 5 total; 4 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation:  Bora, Bora

Best Thing about Pizitz: All the unconditional love and support and helping students strive to do their best and making a difference in their lives

Favorite Quote/Saying: “The more that you read, the more things will know. The more that you learn, the more places you will go!”  -Dr. Seuss

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time with my family, arts and crafts, and shop!

Kim Ford – ParaEducator

Years in Education: 4 1/2 total; 3 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Traveling to Italy

Theme Song for Self or Class: Don’t Stop Believing by Journey

Best Thing about Pizitz: Encouraging students to reach their maximum learning potential and being a part of a family who supports each other professionally and academically

Favorite Quote/Saying: “Develop a passion for learning. If you do, you will never cease to grow.”  -Anthony J. D’Angelo

Something Surprising: I love to dance; however, I have two left feet.

In my Free Time, I like to...  spend time outdoors.

Kelly Hardwick – ParaEducator

Years in Education: 1, at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: Going to St. Thomas

Theme Song for Self or Class: Humble and Kind

Best Thing about Pizitz: The people are like family.

Favorite Quote/Saying: “If you want to make God laugh, make plans.”

Something Surprising: I am deaf in one ear.

In my Free Time, I like to...  chalk paint.

Ashley Hicks – PE ParaEducator

Years in Education: 14, all at Pizitz (10 yrs as an English teacher)

Dream Vacation: Climbing to the base camp of Mt. Everest

Best Thing about Pizitz: Making connections with the students

Favorite Quote/Saying: â€œIt takes many good deeds to build a good reputation, and only one bad one to lose it.”  -Ben Franklin

Something Surprising: I did my student teaching in Ireland.

In my Free Time, I like to...  travel to new places with my husband and two kids.

Julie Martin – ParaEducator

Years in Education: 19 total; 12 at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: It would begin with a trip to the French countryside, then to Egypt to see the pyramids, followed by an African safari, ending with a very relaxing indulgent month on a beautiful island with a yacht at my disposal and a personal chef.

Best Thing about Pizitz: Pizitz is a big family. The strong sense of family and community is amazing! The lunches are pretty good too.

Something Surprising: I’m actually quite the introvert.

In my Free Time, I like to...  do anything creative! I’m very artsy and like to paint when the mood strikes me, and I am always working on home improvement projects. I also love music, so I attend a lot of concerts. For mental health, I spend time most days spinning, weight training, or doing yoga.

Garrett West – ParaEducator, Life Skills

Years in Education: 2, at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: To spend a month in Japan

Theme Song for Self or Class: The Greatest Show

Best Thing about Pizitz: Working with the best people in the world

Favorite Quote/Saying: “The greatest journey begins with a single step.”

Something Surprising: I was in the Marine Corps for 5 years.

In my Free Time, I like to...  drive and listen to music.

Brian Willett – ParaEducator

Years in Education: over 40 total; 2nd at Pizitz

Dream Vacation: With all of my family –preferably in Sarasota, FL

Theme Song for Self or Class: Happy by Pharrell Williams

Best Thing about Pizitz: The best thing about teaching is building relationships.

Something Surprising: I have visited all states (but Alaska) and fourteen countries.

In my Free Time, I like to spend time with my family and my dog, attend athletic events, read, and watch movies.