- Matt Elementary
- Meet the Teachers

Phone: 280718
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Rikki Comella
My name is Rikki Comella, and I graduated from University of Georgia way back in 1993! My husband, Marty, and I are the proud parents of 3 children - Matthew, Derek, and Sarah. I've been blessed to be the teacher of hundreds of Comella Kids over the years in Madison, Gwinnett, and Forsyth Counties! No matter how old they get, my former Comella Kids are always a part of my extended family!

Phone: 280708
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Dee Cooper
I taught 3rd grade for almost 30 years and and this will be my sixth year teaching 5th grade. I have a BS in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University, a Masters in Creative Arts and Learning from Lesley University, and I also hold Reading and Mentor Endorsements. My husband and I have been married for over 35 years. Our daughter and her husband Chance live in Canton, and our son Shane lives and works in Athens. I enjoy being outdoors, gardening, fishing, camping, hiking, and spending time with my family. I am looking forward to another wonderful year full of adventure, learning, and fun in 5th grade.

Phone: 280714
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Audrey Garner
This year I start my 29th year teaching! I have taught 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. I obtained my Bachelor's and Master's degrees from the University of Georgia in Early Childhood Education, and my Specialist's degree in Technology in Education from Lesley University. I started my career in Richmond County, then moved to White County, and have been teaching here in Forsyth County for 23 years.

Phone: 280708
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Nicole Hamelburg
Hello everyone! My name is Nicole Hamelburg and I am so excited to become a Matt Mariner this year! This will be my sixth year teaching but only my second year in Forsyth County. I taught STEM, science, coding, and technology education in New York for 4.5 years. I received my bachelor’s degree in elementary and early childhood education and master’s in STEM from Hofstra University. While teaching technology, I went back to school to get my MA+30 in engineering! I left New York last November to come teach my dream, 5th grade, at Daves Creek Elementary. We bought a house around the corner from Matt in March and the rest is history! I have two cats but no kiddos yet. I love to travel, play sports, and work out! I can’t wait to incorporate what I love into a fun learning environment for my 5th grade students at Matt.

Phone: 280719
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Ginny Henderson
I am a native of Forsyth County and have taught here for over 20 years. I received my Bachelor's Degree from North Ga. College and my Master's Degree from Piedmont College. I love teaching 5th grade and can't wait for another fun, exciting year of learning!

Phone: 280707
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Candy Joiner

Phone: 280715
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Kendra Miller
This year will be my 27th year of teaching. I have taught all elementary grades including 2 years of HORIZONS in both Gwinnett and Forsyth counties. Most of my time has been spent teaching 1st and 5th grades. I have my undergraduate degree from Georgia State University and my master’s degree from Piedmont. I earned a math endorsement last year.

Phone: 280704
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Holly Smyre
I have been at Matt since 2003, and I'm excited to be teaching fifth grade this year! I have a degree in early childhood education from the University of Georgia, and I have a Masters degree from Walden University. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my cats (Brooklyn, Bronx, and Boris), reading, traveling, and watching the New York Yankees. I'm looking forward to an incredible year with my students!