Hello Miners! My name is Amanda Barnett, and I am so excited to be teaching 1st grade at Coal Mountain Elementary. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education at Midwestern State University and have been an educator since 2010. I have experience teaching Pre-K - 2nd grade in other Forsyth County schools. I grew up in Dallas, Texas, and my husband and I moved to Georgia in 2011. We love it here! We have two young daughters, who are also part of the Coal Mountain family. In my free time, I enjoy hiking with my family and gardening. I am looking forward to teaching 1st grade at CMES and creating a warm and welcoming environment for all my new students!

My name is Alyssa Collins, and I am so excited to be joining the first grade team at Coal Mountain! I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Kennesaw State University, as well as an ESOL endorsement. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I am looking forward to my first year at Coal Mountain!

My name is Jessica Plouff and I am so excited to begin my 18th year of teaching in first grade! I earned my bachelor's degree from UNG and my master's and specialist degree from Piedmont University. I have an amazing husband, Ryan, and two beautiful daughters, Addi and Ella. Together we enjoy hiking, exploring nature, and spending time with our sweet pups, Luna and Laika. Each year, I look forward to nurturing a classroom of learners that are confident, kind, and compassionate. In first grade, we have tons of fun, learn from our mistakes, and build lasting friendships! I am looking forward to another amazing year on the mountain! 

My name is Aquila Reyes, I am so excited to be part of first grade team again this year. I graduated North Georgia with a B.S. dual certificate in Elementary and Special Education, along with a Reading Endorsement. I also have an associate in Biology and Kinesiology because of my love for the STEM field. I have a passion for learning new languages and exploring other cultures and their history. Outside of school, I love to spend time with my family (all 5 dogs included!) and friends outdoors. I look forward to a wonderful year at CMES with my first grade miners!