Hi, my name is Olivia Currie, and I'll be on the second grade team at New Hope!

I graduated from Georgia Southern University with a bachelor's in Elementary Education and Special Education, as well as a master's in Curriculum and Instruction. I most recently taught 3rd grade at Mashburn Elementary.

I grew up in Cumming and graduated from Forsyth Central High School. I enjoy reading, traveling and spending time with my family and friends.

I'm looking forward to meeting all of my new 2nd grade Nighthawks!

Hi, my name is Shelby Pearl and I'll be teaching 2nd grade at New Hope!

I graduated from Reinhardt University with a degree in Early Childhood Education and a Reading endorsement. I also have a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) Certificate. I taught 1st grade for 3 years at Reedley International School in Manila, Philippines. Prior to that, I taught English to 6th graders in a public school in a province of the Philippines as a member of the U.S. Peace Corps. I did my student teaching in 2016 in 2nd grade and absolutely loved it!

I was born in Lexington, KY (Go Wildcats!) but grew up in different parts of Georgia. I am the oldest of 4 girls, and I am very close with my sisters. I just moved back to the U.S. after living in the Philippines for a few years. My husband Garvo and I are thrilled to be here in Cumming! I love being outdoors, hiking, traveling, and am currently learning about gardening. I also love all things Disney and go every chance I get.

As I was most recently teaching virtually, I am so excited to be back in the classroom with students in person! I am looking forward to starting a new year together with my class as the first Nighthawks!

Hi, I'm Jennifer Poitevint, and I can't wait to be a Nighthawk!

I have a bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Kennesaw State University. I also have endorsements in Reading (K-5) and Math (K-8). I will be completing my master's in Early Childhood Education this June through Piedmont University. Last year, I taught virtual 3rd grade at Vickery Creek Elementary.

I grew up in Suwanee, and my husband Tait and I have two daughters, Ellie and Sadie. I love to spend time with my family, watch sports, hike and work out. My husband coaches softball and baseball so we go to his games as well!

I am looking forward to meeting my new students and making new friends!

Hi, I'm Mandy Schmadl, and I'll be teaching 2nd grade at New Hope!

I attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, TX. I have a bachelor's of science in Psychology. I'm certified in Early Childhood Education with an endorsement in ESOL. Last year, I taught 2nd grade at Whitlow Elementary School.

I'm originally from Houston, and I've been married to my best friend, Mike, for the past 17 years. We have two amazing children, Caden (16) and Owen (13). We have two naughty little dogs, Olivia (6) and Ellie (3). I enjoy traveling, hiking and watching my boys play sports!

I look forward to meeting my future Nighthawks!

Hello, Nighthawks! My name is Emma Thomason, and I'll be teaching 2nd grade.

I earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a master's degree in Early Childhood Education both from Furman University. I also am endorsed in ESOL and Gifted. I most recently taught 3rd Grade at Camp Creek Elementary in Gwinnett County.

I grew up in Snellville, GA and attended Gwinnett County Schools. After living in Greenville, SC for college, I returned to Atlanta and have been living in Brookhaven ever since. My husband, Nick, and I have two kids that will also attend New Hope next year. Reid will be in 3rd grade and Lilly Cate will be in kindergarten. We also have a very large 2-yr old golden retriever named Bogey.

In my free time, I like to shop and spend time with my friends.

I am looking forward to meeting my new students and building a strong new community of learners.

Hello, Nighthawks! I'm Carey Upchuch, and I'll be teaching 2nd grade at New Hope!

I have my bachelor's of science in Psychology from Vanderbilt University and my master's in Education from Washington University. I also have my Gifted endorsement. I've most recently taught kindergarten at Big Creek Elementary.

I grew up in St.Louis, MO, where my parents still live. I moved to Atlanta and started teaching here more than 25 years ago after graduating from college. I have two children. My son will be a sophomore in college. My daughter will be a sophomore in high school, and we have one cat named Corby. I enjoy exploring the north Georgia mountains as well as running and walking on the Greenway. I love spending time with my family whenever I can!

I am looking forward to creating new friendships and real connections here at New Hope!

Hi, I'm Ally Welch, and I'll be teaching our 2nd grade Nighthawks!

I was born in Wisconsin but moved south really young. I grew up going to Forsyth County schools and graduated from South Forsyth High. I continued my athletic and educational pursuits at Mercer University where I earned a bachelor's degree in Childhood Education. Last year, I taught 2nd grade at Midway Elementary.

I still live here in Forsyth County, and I share my home with a few dogs and my pet snake. I enjoy being outside, playing sports and eating good food!

I look forward to meeting new people at New Hope. I value getting to know others, their different backgrounds and their experiences. I can't wait to be a Nighthawk!