We are excited to announce that we have hired Elizabeth Owen as a first grade teacher. Elizabeth earned a B.A. in psychology and sociology from Mary Baldwin College, from which she also received her master’s in teaching. Previously, she taught second grade at Tomahawk Elementary School from 2015-2020. Prior to that, Elizabeth taught first grade for four years at George Mason Elementary School in Richmond, VA.
Rachel Harvey has graciously agreed to fill the open third grade position. She “moves up” with the kids she taught last year in second grade, and she has prior experience teaching third grade.
We are delighted to announce the hiring of Cheryl Middleton to teach second grade. Cheryl earned a B.A. in Early Childhood Education, as well as a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, from Lynchburg College (now University of Lynchburg). Cheryl has been a star teacher in Bedford County Schools for nearly thirty years, where she has taught kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. She also served as an assistant principal for several years. She is a Google Certified Educator (Level 1). Prior to teaching in Bedford, Cheryl taught in Lynchburg City Schools for four years.
Lindsay Klein has enthusiastically agreed to serve as the K-1 Aide for reading. She is transitioning from her role as the lower school technology teacher.That experience will help her as she helps implement one-to-one iPads in the K-1 classrooms. We are pleased to continue partnering with Lindsay.
Meghan Crowther has held a variety of positions and taught various subjects in her years at James River. This year, she will combine teaching library and research skills with teaching technology skills in K-4 and continue to teach seventh grade writing.
To our delight, Rob Woods has accepted the lower school P.E. teaching position. Rob has not only served as a James River parent volunteer and soccer coach, but he was also our Sub Coordinator last year. Rob’s two children attend James River. Rob earned a B.A. in Education from the University of Wales Trinity College.
We are happy to share that Erica Lemasters has agreed to come on board as Sub Coordinator. Erica has a B.S. from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Over the past ten years, she has served as a teaching assistant, substitute teacher, and preschool teacher. Both her children attend James River, and Erica volunteers at the school regularly.
We are also happy to announce the appointment of Tamara (Tammy) Mason as our Technology Coordinator. Tammy has a B.S. in mathematics from Wake Forest University and received her Masters in Curriculum and Instruction in Secondary Education from the University of Lynchburg. Tammy brings years of experience from Lynchburg City Schools, where she served as an Academic Technology Coordinator and taught math. Tammy is a Google Certified Educator (Levels 1 & 2).
Please welcome our newest team members and many thanks go to all our faculty and staff, who have stepped up to take on the challenges of this year.