1st Grade / Meet the Teachers

	Leslie Butler
	Welcome to another exciting school year! My name is Leslie Butler, and this will be my 15th year at Chestatee Elementary School. I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Southern Polytechnic State University and My Master’s Degree from North Georgia College and State University. My experience ranges from teaching First Grade, Early Intervention Program, and most recently Kindergarten. I truly feel my strength lies in developing strong foundational skills for young learners. As I begin my 20th year as a teacher, I am excited to help students build a love for learning as I return to First Grade.
	Ext. 722232			lbutler@forsyth.k12.ga.us

	Jessica Giraldo

		Ext. 722238

Diana Gore

Diana Gore is excited to be joining the first grade team this year! Mrs. Gore obtained her bachelor’s degree with honors from Kennesaw State University and her master’s degree in education from Mercer University. She has taught kindergarten, first grade, and second grade, and taught summer school (and long term subbed) in third through fifth grade. She has served as science chair, math expert, and as an EIP teacher. Diana’s gifts to teaching are developing positive relationships and helping all students to feel loved, valued, and safe. Her love for learning is contagious. Diana is proud and thankful to be a Chestatee Eagle!

Ext. 722248

f37921@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Bonnie Lee
Mrs. Lee is excited to begin another fantastic year in First grade. After teaching preschool for many years, she obtained her Masters in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University, and begin her career as an elementary teacher. Mrs. Lee has taught Kindergarten and First Grade. She and her husband have two children who are both graduates of Chestatee. Chestatee is Mrs. Lee's home away from home!
	Ext. 722239	bolee@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Erin Rickett
This will be Erin Rickett's 14th year of teaching. She taught one year of 5th grade. The remainder of her teaching career has been in 1st grade! She has her Bachelor's degree from Toccoa Falls College. She also has her endorsement for teaching gifted learners. She loves teaching and is so proud to be a Chestatee Eagle!
	Ext. 722225	erickett@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Amanda Schwartz
It’s going to be a great year in 1st grade! Mrs. Schwartz graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She also received her Master's in Educational Technology from Lesley University and her Specialist's in Curriculum and Instruction from Piedmont College. She has taught 4th, 1st, and 2nd grades. Mrs. Schwartz and her husband have 3 children, Matthew, Tucker, and Evelynne.
	Ext. 722213	aschwartz@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Amy Triche
This is Amy Triche's 21st year teaching. She has been teaching at Chestatee for 10 years. Of all the grades she has taught she loves teaching 1st grade the most. Mrs. Triche earned her Bachelor's degree from Southeastern Louisiana University. She is married and has 2 daughters in college. Although Mrs. Triche is from Louisiana she calls Georgia home.
	Ext. 722231	atriche@forsyth.k12.ga.us

	Penny Wade
	This will be Penny Wade's 19th year at Chestatee Elementary. She has previously taught at Chattahoochee Elementary and Matt Elementary. Mrs. Wade attended Auburn University and North Georgia College and State University. She has a bachelor's of science in Special Education and a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Wade has taught kindergarten for 19 years, first grade for 5 years, and second grade for 4 years. She will be teaching first grade for the upcoming 2021-2022 school year and she loves being a part of the Chestatee Elementary family!
		Ext. 722217