I absolutely love being part of the SBE Star family. This will be my 24th year as a teacher, having served Kindergarten through Fifth Grades in different roles, including both general education and special education.

I hold a Bachelors degree in Education and a Masters degree in Curriculum and Instruction from The University of Kansas. I have taught in Kansas, Arizona, and Georgia, with the past 16 years in Forsyth County Schools.

When not at school, I love to spend time with my family. I am married and have 2 boys, 2 dogs and two cats. As a family, we love to spend time outside. We enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring new parts of the United States during our vacation time.

I graduated from the University of Georgia with a B.A. in Special Education. This is my 22nd year teaching Special Education. I taught in Cobb County for my first 5 years out of college, and have been teaching in Forsyth county ever since. Through the years, I have enjoyed teaching students with special needs in Pre- k through 5th grade. When I am not teaching, I love being outside taking walks or hikes, hanging out with my family and dogs, watching movies and TV series, and reading. I am very lucky to have a job I love and to be part of such a wonderful program at SBE.

I am excited about beginning my ninth year as a member of the SBE team for the 2024-25 school year. My Early Childhood/Special Education degree is from Radford University in Virginia. I began my teaching career in West Virginia in 1983 and in 1985 relocated to Georgia to begin my journey as a special education teacher. My experience includes teaching self-contained special education, general education, and interrelated resource. I am the proud mom of two adult children who are both following their own passions, and using their talents in organic farming, theater and TV. My heart is in the classroom and with the exceptional children that I have the opportunity to serve each day.  I am so very grateful for days and years that I've been, and continue to be a SBE Star! 

I am excited about continuing my teaching career at Settles Bridge. Previously, I had been in education for 11 years teaching at a private preschool before joining SBE in 2023. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood/Special Education from North Georgia and then continued on at North Georgia to earn a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education. My husband and I have 2 children- Annie (5) and Lucas (4). When I'm not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family and relaxing with a good book. I can't wait to see what this year holds and am looking forward to getting to know everyone at SBE!

This will be my eighth year here at Settles Bridge Elementary! I graduated from the University of North Georgia with a dual degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education with an endorsement in reading. When I'm not teaching, I enjoy traveling, cooking and spending time with my family and friends. I look forward to starting the new school year and meeting all of my students!

My name is Melanie Mercogliano, and I joined the SBE family in 2023. I was born and raised in Germany, then resided in the NYC area for a long time and finally settled here in Suwanee, GA with my family of 6. My hobbies include scuba diving, traveling and spending time outside with my kids and pets. One of my passions as an educator is to be inclusive of all learners and to meet my students were they are at emotionally, physically and academically. I was given the opportunity to teach Special Education several years ago and found my happy place as a teacher. I am beyond grateful to be able to do what I love the most every day.

Hello! My name is Kelsey Rivera, and I am thrilled to be back at Settles Bridge this year! I graduated from University of North Georgia with degrees in elementary and special education. I had been a kindergarten teacher for the past three years, and have also taught Georgia Pre-K and primary Montessori. My husband, Wesley, and I have a dog named Sully and a cat named Ms. Darcy. In my free time, I enjoy playing video games, hosting board game nights, and reading (especially graphic novels!).

I am a 1993 graduate of the University of California at Santa Barbara. I also hold a Masters degree from Brenau University. My husband and I have lived in the area since 1993 and we have two children. I have been teaching at Settles Bridge since 2011. I am gifted and teacher leader endorsed, as well as certified in Special Education. I am honored to be an SBE STAR where I can build relationships with students and families.