- Matt Elementary
- Meet the Teachers

Phone: 280915
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Dee Cooper
I taught 3rd grade for almost 30 years and this will be my seventh 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: 280912
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Audrey Garner
This year I start my 30th year of 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 24 years. I am looking forward to year 30 teaching Math, Science, and Social Studies!

Phone: 280903
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Heather Gomez
I am so excited to be a part of the 5th grade team as a Matt Mariner! This will be my 23rd year in education, and I have taught all grades in elementary, but the upper grades hold a special place in my heart. I was born and raised in central and northern California, and I moved to Georgia in 2007. I have a BA degree in Liberal Studies (education) from Fresno State, a MA degree in Educational Leadership, and an EdS degree in Curriculum and Instruction. In addition to my degrees, I hold endorsements in teacher leadership, administration, gifted, teacher leadership, and ESOL. My goal and passion is to provide hands-on, project-based learning opportunities for students to take chances to be innovative and creative, challenging their minds to their full potential while building a strong classroom community and family.
My husband and I love to spend time with our children, Isa (8th grade at OMS) and Daniel (4th grade at Matt), usually at a swimming pool or ballpark. We enjoy traveling, and my favorite place is anywhere Disney or the ocean! I also spend my time training my therapy dog, Max, who cannot wait to meet the students at Matt.

Phone: 280919
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Candy Joiner

Phone: 280918
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Corey Lostetter
Hello! My name is Corey Lostetter and I am excited to be joining the Matt Mariners! This will be my 11th year of teaching, and fourth year teaching 5th grade in Forsyth County. I obtained a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Southern University, and a Master’s degree in Educational Technology from the University of West Georgia, as well as an endorsement in K-5 Mathematics. My husband and I have four children, three dogs, and there is never a dull moment! When I’m not teaching or watching one of my children’s sporting events, I enjoy reading, yoga, gardening and being outdoors, preferably near a large body of water. I absolutely love 5th grade and love watching my student’s knowledge of number sense grow!

Phone: 280908
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Megan Morrison
Hi! I cannot wait to continue my teaching adventures at Matt Elementary in 5th grade! I am a graduate of Forsyth County Schools and I love being back here as a teacher. This upcoming year will be my 11th year teaching and I have taught Kindergarten through 2nd grade. I have my Specialist’s Degree in Early Childhood Education and I truly enjoy being a lifelong learner! I live in West Forsyth with my husband, sons, our dog and our two cats. My oldest son, Reed, is also part of the Matt family as a 4th grader! Aside from teaching, I love to play tennis, craft, cook and spend time with family and friends. I am looking forward to a wonderful 2023 - 2024 school year!

Phone: 280914
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!