Our Faculty and Staff

Years at NGFS: 20

Education: A.A., Western Piedmont Community College; B.A. in Sociology and Psychology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro; M.A. in Sociology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Deana Allman has been a part of the New Garden family for many years. Beginning in 1999 as a Summer Camp Counselor and Program Director, Deana has since taken on many roles, such as teaching Horizon from 2000 until 2008. She has also been a Sociology instructor at Randolph Community College and has held a variety of adjunct Sociology instructor positions at Alamance Community College, Elon University, and UNC Greensboro.

Deana loves being part of New Garden because, “the connections you build in the community. Students often stay involved with the school long after they graduate, so some of my fellow camp counselors are also former students".

Deana loves reading, hiking, yoga, spending time with her family, and fostering kittens.

Years at NGFS: 18

Education: B.S., University of North Carolina at Charlotte; M.Ed., University of North Carolina at Greensboro; Graduate Instructional Technology Certificate, East Carolina University

Lisa has worked at New Garden for many years and is currently the Director of Technology. During her educational career she has served as a middle and high school science teacher, technology facilitator, and head of upper school. This experience has uniquely prepared her to lead the technology team from both the operations and technology integration standpoints. 

Lisa often says that being part of the New Garden community has shaped her life in many positive ways and she is honored to continue serving students, teachers, and families.

In her free time, Lisa enjoys spending time with family and friends and traveling. 
 

Years at NGFS: 26

Not many people have been a part of NGFS as long as Jeff Bills, the Director of Auxiliary Programs. He began at New Garden as a volunteer in 1992, became a part-time staff member in 1995, and has been a full-time staff member since 1998. Jeff has been dedicated to the school for so many years because of the friendly community and the “Quaker values instilled throughout the life of the school.”

Jeff has worked with children for many years, beginning his career at Camp Carefree as a Counselor from 1991 to 1997. In 1998, he became Camp Carefree’s Activities Director until he began to work at NGFS full-time.

As the Director of Auxiliary Programs, Jeff oversees Summer Camp, Extended Care, school trips, transportation, and safety and security.

Years at NGFS: 1

Education: B.A. in English with a minor in Art History, M.A. in Literature in English, and a Ph.D. with Distinction in Cultural and Educational Policy Studies

Allie joined NGFS as both a staff member and parent in 2022.  Prior to that, Allie worked as a professor of education, a middle and high school teacher, and a college counselor. Allie loves New Garden because of its Quaker values and its commitment to preparing students to build more just and inclusive communities. In her spare time, Allie can be found in her vegetable garden or hiking with her husband, Joe, and their children, Seth and Bea.

Years at NGFS: 5

Education: B.A. in Business Administration, UNC Greensboro

Dwon Clifton was named NGFS Athletic Director after serving as interim during the 2018-19 school year. Dwon brings many years of experience working with student-athletes. Dwon was a student-athlete for both Clemson and UNCG as a member of the basketball team. 

Dwon was the head boy's varsity and JV coach at St. Raphael Catholic School. Dwon was also part of the Baylor University coaching staff, as the Director of Basketball Operations. He has served as Executive Director of the “Sport with a Purpose” (SWAP) summer sports programs and has also worked on the business side of sports management for the NBA.

Dwon has a passion for working with kids through sports, and he enjoys working in athletics at NGFS because of, “The opportunity to positively impact the lives of the students.”

In his spare time, Dwon golfs, but says his biggest joy comes from being a father/husband, “I enjoy spending as much time as I possibly can with my family.”

Dwon and his wife, Lucinda, have two sons, Kingston and Ace.

Years at NGFS: 11

Education: B.A., Sarah Lawrence College; Postgraduate Work, Hunter College. City University of New York; Kenan-Flagler School of Business, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Kim Leipham Freedman is Head of School at New Garden Friends School. Kim and her husband Don came to NGFS as parents in 2001, they were struck by the difference in how respectfully adults spoke to children at our school. She served as the Director of Admissions and Enrollment for three years before becoming Head of School in January 2017.

“At NGFS we consistently put students and families at the core of our work, and we live by the same values that we teach our children. It is invigorating to be around professionals who care about all aspects of a student's development."

Prior to working at NGFS, Kim worked with foundations and community leaders to found a summer treatment program for children with ADHD, she has also worked as a writer and a consultant and has decades of experience in the business world. Kim is honored to serve this community as Head of School. Outside of school, Kim enjoys attending theater and dance performances and spending time with her husband, Don, and their two sons, Charlie and Jack (NGFS alumni), and their dogs, Louie & Mochi.

Years at NGFS: 22

Education: B.A. in Religious Studies (Minor in Music -- Classical Guitar), Guilford College

Hanna works with the Administrative Leadership Team and is the first smile you see at the front desk on the Page-Frederiksen Campus. Hanna loves being a part of the NGFS community as well as the wider Quaker community; she is an alum of Carolina Friends School in Durham and is the NGFS resident Quaker historian.

In her free time, Hanna enjoys gardening and a variety of handcrafts. She is married to Richard and together they have two sons, Kerry and Jeffrey, who attend NGFS.

Years at NGFS: 13

Education: B.S., NC A&T State University, Post-Baccalaureate Studies: Education/Mathematics

Tanisha begins her 12th year at NGFS in a new role as Head of Middle and Upper School. She is excited about, "Building a sense of community where I can work in conjunction with staff, students and parents in aiding the school in the holistic development of students in a creative environment."

Tanisha enjoyed being a part of the 2017-19 Institute for Engaging Leadership in Friends Schools. Throughout this two-year program, members strengthen their capacity and skills for the unique role of Friends school leadership and the peculiar art of sustaining the Quaker value-based ethos of a Friends school. She says about working at a Friends school, "The Quaker ideal where 'that of God" is seen in every person creates an atmosphere of tolerance and openness throughout the community and makes for an incredible learning experience for all."

In her free time she enjoys music, singing, traveling, trying new restaurants, being involved in her church community and spending time with family and friends. Tanisha also has two sons.

Years at NGFS: 25

Education: B.S., University of North Carolina at Greensboro

After so many years at NGFS, Pattie still gets excited each year about meeting new families and staff members. She says, “We have a very strong community at NGFS. People genuinely care about one another. As a staff we are always working to improve the school experience for students and parents. I am particularly proud of this community's mission to be inclusive of all and to embrace diversity as a great strength.”

Pattie’s hobbies include gardening, cooking, and crafting. She especially enjoys upcycling (turning recyclable materials into something else). She is married to Dan and together they have two daughters, Lilly and Amelia, a daughter-in-law, Jenny, and son-in-law, Jorge and grandchild Izzy.

Years at NGFS: 3

Education: Jason holds a BA in Geography from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and an MBA and BSBA in Accounting from Appalachian State University.

Jason joined the Administrative Leadership Team in January 2019. Jason is a Certified Public Accountant with over 20 years of experience in various industries including not-for-profit organizations, colleges and universities, health care, manufacturing and financial institutions. He is a member of the North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Jason and his wife Dee have been part of our school community for years as the parents of 3 NGFS students. Jason also served on the Board of Trustees from 2015-2018.
 

Years at NGFS: 23

Education: B.A. in Education Studies and German, Guilford College

Carolyn joined the administrative leadership team in 2016 as Head of Lower School after teaching in Rainbow as a 1st and 2nd grade teacher since 2000.

 The Quaker philosophy, developmental pedagogy, and strong interpersonal relationships between staff, parents, and students made NGFS an exciting community to be a part of. 

She says, “Twenty-three years later, I still feel that way. I love being a part of a community that continues to find new ways to make learning exciting and meaningful for students.”

In her free time, Carolyn enjoys attending arts events in the community, running, cooking, playing board games, and scrapbooking. Carolyn has three children, Leyna, Silas, and Halle.

Some of Carolyn’s favorite NGFS traditions include the Carnation Ceremony, overnight field trips, and the Halloween parade. 

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: B.A. in Religious Studies and Biology and a Masters of Divinity from Wake Forest University

Allison Seymour joined us in June as the new Director of Advancement. She previously served at both High Point Friends Meeting and High Point Friends School. Allison is a lifelong Quaker and brings her experience in relationship building, Quakerism, education, and fundraising to this new role. Allison shared, “I am immensely grateful to be a part of this community and to use my gifts and talents in collaboration with others.”

Years at NGFS: 4

Education: B.S. in Textile Science, North Carolina State University

Chris loves, "All the energy and excitement the students bring to the campus.”

Chris did not begin her career in education, but instead first worked in the textile industry and then as an Outreach Consultant for Right Management. When asked what interested her in working at NGFS, she said, “My oldest son attended NGFS and had an amazing experience! The teachers, the programs, the field trips, are just a part of what makes NGFS a unique place to be. I am very excited to be a part of this wonderful community.”

Chris has two sons, Benjamin and Harrison. Chris enjoys walking her two rescue dogs, Sam and Hadley, with her husband Scott.

Years at NGFS: 16

Education: B.A. in Psychology, Guilford College, 2006, Licensure in Elementary Education, Greensboro College, 2010
 

Before joining the Rainbow teaching team, Erin worked at NGFS for many years in Auxiliary Programming, including extended care, summer camp, trips, and service-learning.

She became very interested in the school after volunteering at NGFS while she was a student at Guilford College. She loves the school's philosophy and supportive community.

Erin has many hobbies including running, hiking, reading and yoga.

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: Bachelor of Arts and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from High Point University

My master’s degree specializes in STEM education at the elementary level. I have presented undergraduate and graduate level research at several conferences.

I have a fiancé named Dillon, a dog named Murphy, and a cat named Chernobyl! 

Years at NGFS: 23

Education: B.S., Guilford College

Tracey, a fifth and sixth grade teacher, enjoys working in a community as supportive and encouraging as NGFS. She also loves that “we [the teachers] are able to take advantage of teachable moments to inspire our kids and bring out their curiosity and love of learning.” New Garden has been a part of Tracey’s life for many years. Before becoming a teacher, Tracey worked in New Garden’s Extended Care and Summer Program.

With each new school year Tracey cannot wait to see how the sixth graders will step into their new leadership roles. She says, “They [the older students] offer our new Galaxians ‘veteran advice’ about the ins and outs of Galaxy.”

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: Guilford College

Maddie first joined the NGFS community as a substitute teacher, extended care staff member, and summer program lead counselor. Maddie has over ten years of experience working with children both in caretaking and school settings, including as an ESL in Costa Rica and an au pair in Germany. 

Maddie enjoys a wide variety of hobbies in their free time such as guitar, watercolor, drawing, photography, nature walks, cooking, and is always open to new ones. 

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: B.A. in Elementary Education, Appalachian State University

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: BSN from University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Kathryn comes to NGFS with over ten years of experience as both an emergency room and triage nurse. She was born and raised in the triad and has lived here her whole life. Kathryn has two girls and in her free time enjoys spending time with family and friends. Kathryn says, “I am excited to work with such a welcoming community and learn more about the Quaker culture.” 
 

Education: B.A. in Communications from Catawba College

Renee returned to our community this year in the front office on Guilford Campus where she previously worked from 2005-2009. Renee received a B.A. in Communications from Catawba College and worked in several educational settings, including Greensboro College and The Experiential School of Greensboro. Renee enjoys spending time with her children, Will and James, hiking and their dog Nina; they especially enjoying hiking together

Years at NGFS: 21

Years at NGFS: 25

After many years of teaching World Languages, German, and Spanish, Robb Jolly moved in to the role of Technology Specialist beginning in the 2018-19 school year. Robb provides technical support on the Guilford Campus and will be working to expand our Digital Citizenship curriculum. 

Years at NGFS: 21

Education: B.A. in Fine Arts with a concentration in Art Education and Design, University of North Carolina at Greensboro; K-12 Art Education State Certification

Maura has been a part of the New Garden community for many years and previously taught Middle and Upper School art students as well before becoming the lead Lower School art instructor, teaching preschool-6th grade students. Before coming to NGFS, Maura taught art in Charleston, S.C. and Winston-Salem, N.C.

When asked what she enjoys most about working at NGFS, Maura says, “Working with our amazingly creative students and helping to motivate each child to do their best.” Maura enjoys seeing how the growth of each child unfolds in the art studio.

Maura does much art in her free time as well, especially painting with acrylics, drawing, pyrography, and commissioned projects. However, her interests are not limited to visual art, and she loves music and dancing. She also gardens and takes care of two cats and several pet chickens. Maura is married to Erik Beerbower, the current Middle and Upper School art teacher, and has two children: Emmett and Esmae.

Years at NGFS: first year

Years teaching: 17

Education: B.A. in Early Childhood/Childhood Education and Musical Theater Performance, State University of New York College at Cortland

Prior to my time at NGFS I taught 1st grade for 2 years, kindergarten for 4 years, and preschool for 10. When I am not at school or doing mom duties, I enjoy hiking and riding my bike. Sometimes I even invite my family along for the fun. I have known that I wanted to be a teacher since I was in the 11th grade. There is nothing more fulfilling than being a part of a child's journey as they learn and discover new things. 

“Kindergarten children are confident in spirit, infinite in resources, and eager to learn. Everything is still possible.” - Robert Fulghum

Years at NGFS: 17

Education: B.A. in History, Guilford College

Ben, a former student at NGFS, was previously the Director of Extended Care but has loved his current role in the preschool classroom these past few years. Ben enjoys working in a close-knit, supportive community where “all students' differences are recognized and celebrated.” In his free time, Ben loves going to the movies and playing video games. He is married to Lizzie.

Years at NGFS: 12

Education: B.S. in Education (Certification in Special Education and Elementary Education and a Minor in Human Development), State University of New York at Geneseo; M.Ed. in Special Education (Certification as an Educational Diagnostician), University of North Texas, Associate Member of the Orton-Gillingham Academy

After her time in Morocco with the Peace Corps, Christine was a Special Education Teacher and an Educational Diagnostician with Lewisville City Schools in Texas. After coming to North Carolina, she first became a Sunrise teacher at NGFS and later transitioned to her role as the Lower School Reading Specialist. She has received training in the Fundations Reading Program, the Wilson Reading System and completed Associate level certification in the Orton-Gillingham approach. In her current role as Director of Literacy Instruction, Christine works with students in small groups and in individual sessions, and provides professional development and coaching in reading instruction to lower school teachers.

In her free time, Christine enjoys playing disc golf, reading, cooking and traveling.

“There’s so much more to a book than just the reading.” - Maurice Sendak
 

Years at NGFS: 5

Education: B.S. in Elementary Education, Greensboro College 

Lindley graduated from New Garden in 2009 and continued to be involved with the School as a staff member for the Extended Care and Summer Programs. She also served as the Assistant Director of the Summer Program. After graduating from Greensboro College in 2016, she returned to NGFS as a teacher in Rainbow.

After so many years as a part of the New Garden family, it is easy for Lindley to articulate what makes the school so special to her. She says, “I love that every student at NGFS is given a great opportunity to succeed in education, and that as a teacher, I will be a part of this unique learning experience.” 

Lindley loves to go to the beach, take walks, and spend time with her friends and family. Lindley and her husband, Nic, have a son, Grayson and a daughter, Amelia, who both attend NGFS.
 

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: Bachelor’s in Music Theory and Composition, with studies in Classics

Mary Ellen has 4 years of experience teaching a variety of music-related topics. She began teaching in the classroom a year ago at Highlands Latin School Charleston. She has tackled subjects from Latin to Physics in the classroom and loves sharing knowledge with her students.  

Mary Ellen plays a number of instruments and is particularly fond of folk fiddling styles, which she tries to incorporate into her compositions. When not involved in music, she writes, gardens, and practices yoga, and on particularly rainy days can be found with a book (or show or podcast) and a large quantity of tea.

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: BA from UNC-Greensboro for English Literature and Creative Writing
 

Years at NGFS: 17

Education: B.S. in Psychology, Guilford College
 

Charles was first introduced to the school in 1984 when he was an intern and the interim director of the school’s aftercare program. Since then, he has fallen in love with New Garden’s strong Quaker community and focus on education.

Before working at NGFS, Charles worked as the director of Kinderhut Children’s Ski School and Childcare Facility in Breckenridge, Colorado.

Charles says, “I love working in such a close-knit community and vividly remember my first day at NGFS and the overwhelming sense of welcoming that I received from the entire community. I try to keep that in mind in all my interactions with both new members to the community as well as those that have become among my treasured friends.”

Charles has a wide variety of interests including traveling, ultimate frisbee, mountain biking, skiing, kayaking, hiking, mountain climbing, running, disc golf, and yoga. He is married to Erin Allred, a teacher in Rainbow. He has two daughters, Caroline and Ellie (NGFS alumnae), and three cats, Birdie, Kingsley, and Milo.

Years at NGFS: 17

Education: B.A. in Dramatic Art, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Paul Nguyen took on the role of Extended Care Director beginning with the 2019-20 school year. He has been working in the NGFS Auxiliary Programs department for fifteen years, most recently running the Middle School Extended Care program during the school year and with nine years of experience as an Assistant Summer Program Director, primarily leading the NGFS Summer Explorers program. Paul also attended NGFS from kindergarten - 8th grade.

Years at NGFS: 2

Education: B.S. in Secondary Education, Southeast Missouri State University

Courtney O’Shea continues to work in A Child's Garden where she taught in the Crocus (Preschool) class last year and this year in the Sunflower (TK/PK) class. Courtney is an experienced early childhood educator who was formerly a Directing Teacher at National Child Research Center (NCRC) in Washington, DC; Co-Creator and Lead Teacher of Little STEAMers program at NCRC, a STEM-focused half-day program for 4 & 5 year olds; and a Directing Teacher for a Pre-K class at Spring Valley Montessori Academy in Bethesda, MD.

Courtney holds a DC Teaching License for PS-3rd grade; a B.S. in Secondary Education from Southeast Missouri State University; an Elementary Responsive Classroom Certificate from Center for Responsive Schools; and a Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) to Young Learners Certificate from ITTT International Training Corphas.

Courtney is an avid sports fan. She loves football, the Washington Nationals, the Washington Capitals, and having grown up in Missouri, she has a soft spot for the St. Louis Cardinals baseball team. She likes to hike, fish, ski, travel with her family, and play tennis and golf.

Courtney moved to the Greensboro area in 2020 and she and her husband Bill have a daughter who is a sophomore at NGFS. Courtney shared, “Play with purpose is my classroom mantra. I believe children learn best when they are provided opportunities to work together as a team to achieve community goals, when they are allowed to make choices which foster independence, and they can use hands-on exploration to satisfy sensory needs and further curiosity.”

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: Guilford College graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Education with a minor in sociology and community justice. 

Kat joined the Horizon (grades 3-4) teaching team this year. She has three years of experience as a lead teacher at Childcare Network. 

Kat loves collecting house plants and cooking for her loved ones. Kat enjoys going to soccer games, concerts, and traveling to different cities. Kat loves spending quality time with family and friends and the people she meets along the way!

Years at NGFS: 19

Education: B.A. in Political Science, Elon; Elementary Education, UNCG

Susan previously taught 4th grade at Sedgefield Elementary before coming to NGFS and has been a classroom teacher in Rainbow, Horizon, and Sunrise, and now is the Lower School math specialist. 

Susan has enjoyed being a part of New Garden Friends School because, "I love working with friends and colleagues who are dedicated to our mission. I also love getting to know my students and their families, and working together to emphasize each person's strengths while also working to strengthen each person's areas of challenge. I also love watching former students grow up at NGFS. I often feel like I have many many many nieces and nephews!"

Outside of school, Susan loves to travel, watch the Carolina Panthers and soccer, and take on sewing projects. She says, "I enjoy the process of envisioning a garment I want to wear in exactly the right fabric and I love the challenge of making the idea come to life."

Susan is married to Daren, they have two sons, Matthew and Stuart, who are both NGFS alumni, and currently in graduate school.

Years at NGFS: 1

Education: B.A. Religious Studies, Quaker Studies, Guilford College; Master of Library and Information Studies, University of North Carolina at Greensboro; Trained in the Wilson Fundations Reading Program

Leslie joined NGFS during the 2021-22 school year.  She began her literacy education career as a librarian working in academic, public, and school libraries.  While working as a school librarian, she discovered the Science of Reading which completely changed the way she viewed her role as an educator and ignited her interest in literacy instruction best practices and ensuring that all students are empowered to become confident, skilled readers able to fully access the language-rich world around them. 

Leslie is passionate about Quaker history and loves that working at NGFS deepens her connection to and support of the wider Quaker community in Greensboro and beyond. Leslie is a mom of two and an NGFS parent. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family, being outside, reading, and traveling.
 

Years at NGFS: 6

Education: B.A. in Psychology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro; M.Ed. in Special Education, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

For NGFS Learning Specialist Marci Richardson, this school has a special place in her heart. When describing why New Garden means so much to her, she says, “It is where my husband first came to teach and fell in love with the nurturing and accepting environment. Through his love and passion, I, too, have fallen in love with all that NGFS is and represents. I love the school's history of embracing diversity, nurturing lifelong learners and igniting a passion within to help change the world.”

Marci began teaching at the Greensboro Montessori School where she specialized in reading, language arts, math, and social studies instruction. She then moved to Ledford Middle School and spent her time “working with students who had varying learning differences and needs.” After ten years of working at Ledford, she began to teach summer school at the Piedmont School, where she eventually joined the full-time staff. For the past six years, she has also worked as a private tutor for a large variety of ages. As she begins her sixth year at New Garden, Marci continues to enjoy being part of a community that she is passionate about.

Marci has a number of diverse interests. She loves old movies and reading, and she has an eclectic taste in music. She has a passion for nutrition and enjoys cooking, baking, and experimenting in the kitchen. She once even worked at a local farm to learn about where food is produced. Marci also enjoys exercising and spending time with her husband, Chris, and her three children: Gentry, Landry, and Lilly Belle, who all attend NGFS.

Years at NGFS: 1

Education: B.A. in Sociology, Guilford College

Christian Ritter joined the Horizon teaching team in the 2021-22 school year after teaching 6th grade in Guilford County Schools. at Swann Middle School. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Guilford College. While at Guilford, Christian was a Principled Problem Solving Scholar as well as Volleyball Captain, playing volleyball alongside our Spanish teacher Khaira Bolden.

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: Bachelor of Humanities with a Specialization in English from the University of Panamà. She has a Master of Business Administration in International Business from High Point University.

Omayra most recently taught Spanish at South Asheboro Middle School and has extensive experience teaching English as a Second Language at the Elementary School level.

Omayra is originally from Panamà. She is married and has three sons. She enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: B.F.A. in Dance Performance and Choreography, University of North Carolina at Greensboro; M.Ed. Clinical Mental Health, North Carolina State University; certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors

Jen Sherman joins us this year as a part-time Lower School Counselor. She is a licensed clinical mental health counselor and has received certification from the National Board for Certified Counselors. Jen was most recently a counselor at Greensboro Montessori School. Her children Claire and Miles are also joining the NGFS community.

Atayah (AJ) Smith is a familiar face on both campuses as she has taken on many roles here at NGFS. She first joined our community in the Extended Care program and then the Summer Camp program as a counselor and Preschool program leader. AJ has also served as an assistant athletics coach and substitute classroom teacher. In August, AJ joined the A Child’s Garden teaching team as a teaching assistant in the Sunflower (Pre-K/TK) classroom.

Years at NGFS: 26

Education: B.A., Swarthmore College; Teacher Certification, Pacific Oaks Northwest College
 

New Garden is a special place for Neil because he values “the commitment the staff and families have to educating the whole child and honoring the gifts that each person brings to our community.” He enjoys, “The strong sense of community and the way that the staff gets to know each child as an individual.” 

In his free time, Neil enjoys running, hiking, and writing. He is also a huge sports fan. Neil is married to Ann, and they have two children, Anne Joy and Seannie (NGFS alumni), and two cats, Bella and Sirius.

I enjoy working in Galaxy because as the oldest students on campus, we get to see them develop their confidence and leadership skills before they move to the other campus for Middle School.

Years at NGFS: 26

Education: Bachelor of Music in Performance, Northern Illinois University; Master’s in Music Performance with an emphasis in Suzuki Pedagogy, Texas Christian University; Suzuki Teacher Training (Books 1-8); Training in the Orff-Schulwerk method of music teaching, Level 1; Education Through Movement Certification

“Music Jeannie” (as she is known to our youngest students) previously taught at the Greensboro Montessori School and at Brooks Global Studies School. She has also been a violinist in the Winston-Salem Symphony Orchestra and in an in-school string quartet with both the W-SSO and Greensboro Symphony Orchestra that gave educational performances at all of the Guilford and Forsyth County schools. Currently, Jeannie teaches private violin lessons, performs as a member of the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra, subs with the W-SSO as well as other NC orchestras, and teaches music to preschool through 6th grade students at NGFS. As part of the NGFS program, she started a Suzuki in the Schools program for violin. She has been teaching Suzuki violin for over 45 years and teaches each summer at various Suzuki institutes.

After over twenty years at NGFS, Jeannie knows exactly why the school is so special. She says, “I enjoy the feeling of community that we have at NGFS. Everyone supports each other.” Each year she cannot wait to meet the newest members of the New Garden community and to see how her old students have grown.

Jeannie enjoys playing chamber music with friends, but she also has many non-music interests. She loves pickleball, hiking, running, reading, and spending time with her family. Jeannie is married to Wiley and together they have two daughters: Bette and Anna.

Years at NGFS: 14

Education: Studied Child Development, University of Akron; A.A., Guilford Technical Community College; Studied Human Development and the Family, University of North Carolina at Greensboro; Certificate in Accounting, Guilford Technical Community College

Jeannie loves “instilling a love of school and a curiosity for learning in children just beginning their school experiences.” While she has been a Preschool Teacher for many years, she has been a part of the New Garden community for even longer as a volunteer, as a substitute, and as a teacher’s aide. NGFS has been a part of Jeannie’s life for so many years because of the creative curriculum, the responsiveness to students’ needs, and the close relationships that teachers enjoy with families.

Jeannie has many outdoor interests, such as hiking, trail-running, camping, yard work, home repairs, and growing blueberries, raspberries, and herbs in her garden. Jeannie has two adult children, NGFS alumni Zack and Addie.

Years at NGFS: first year

Laura Mae is a Guilford College graduate and has spent time teaching Social Studies on the coast of North Carolina. Born in England, she has spent most of her life moving around the United States and Europe and shares that these "experiences have made me understand the importance of community and embracing the new and unknown". 

Laura Mae joined the Upper School staff this year and shares that she is "excited to work with such an inclusive, welcoming community about which I have heard many great things."

Years at NGFS: 3

Education: Degrees in Music Performance and English Education, UNC and UNCG

Prior to coming to NGFS, Marc taught English, Music, and Mythology at American Hebrew Academy for 14 years. He also performs with the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra as a vocalist in Pops concerts and has performed and directed extensively in local professional and community theatre. Additionally, Marc directs the choirs at New Garden Friends Meeting and Temple Emanuel and gives private voice lessons.

He enjoys working at NGFS because of, "the supportive environment and ability to work closely with students in small classes."

In his free time, Marc performs with a cabaret group and in local productions, reads, travels, cooks, and takes care of his fur babies. 

Years at NGFS: 8

Education: B.A. in English, Virginia Commonwealth University; M.S. in Library and Information Studies, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Barry previously taught science to elementary school students and English/Language Arts and History  to both middle and high school students.

Barry believes New Garden Friends School is a perfect fit for his teaching style, “I most enjoy the flexibility we have as teachers to break traditional curriculum boundaries in an effort to help our students engage in their world, and, of course, I love my teammates and students immensely.” Barry loves interacting with his students and being inspired and amazed by them every day.

Barry has a number of hobbies, including reading, playing the guitar and fiddle, mountain biking, and hiking. He also enjoys spending time with his family, which includes his wife, Dr. M. Kathryn Shields, and their two children, Gillian and Alden, both NGFS students. The family also has two golden retrievers, Folly and Ilo, and two kitties named Felix and Yuki.
 

Years at NGFS: 10

Education: BS in History from UNC, Certificate in construction welding plate/pipe from GTCC

Harlan's history with NGFS began in sixth grade. After attending NGFS as a student he worked with Auxiliary Programs and at the front desk at the Guilford Campus. He left to pursue welding and has returned as maintenance manager.

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: She has a Bachelor of Science in biology with a minor in chemistry from Guilford College.

Madison has over 3 years of biology research experience focusing on animal behavior. She also has 3 years of teaching assistantship experience at the college level. This is her first year at NGFS, and she's excited to start this new chapter!

Throughout college, Madison specialized in ornithology (the study of birds) and has published a thesis on the relationship between bird song and nest predation in northern mockingbirds. 

Outside of work, she enjoys reading, bird watching, hiking, and spending time with her two cats. 

Years at NGFS: 1

Education: B.A. in History, University of North Carolina at Greensboro; 6-12 English State Certification

Danielle joined the Middle School team as a history teacher for the 2021-22 school year. She has a Bachelors of Arts in History from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and holds a grades 6-12 English State Certification. Danielle most recently worked in Florida at a public alternative school, which included Restorative Justice as the school’s main practice. She grew up in and around Greensboro and recently moved home to be closer to family and friends. In her free time, she enjoys reading, traveling, embroidery, and spending time with her 13 year old dog, Finnegan. 

Danielle shared, "The mission and values of the school align perfectly with my own, and I am looking forward to the freedom in curriculum to get students interested and actively involved in their History class. I love working with young people and believe that all students have a voice that should be heard and respected in the classroom."

Years at NGFS: 3

Education: B.B.A. in accounting (minor in mathematics), College of William & Mary

Catherine joined our faculty as part of the PFC team in the 2020-21 school year. 

She is grateful to NGFS for its small class sizes and for its concern for the needs of the individual student.

She is excited about teaching Geometry in addition to Algebra II this year.

In her free time, Catherine enjoys traveling with her family, spending time at the beach, and listening to books. Catherine grew up in Paris, France, and speaks French.

She is married to Dave, and together they have two children, Courtney, a recent graduate of Davidson College, and Eric, a recent graduate of NGFS.

Years at NGFS: 5

Education: B.A. in Business Administration, UNC Greensboro

Dwon Clifton was named NGFS Athletic Director after serving as interim during the 2018-19 school year. Dwon brings many years of experience working with student-athletes. Dwon was a student-athlete for both Clemson and UNCG as a member of the basketball team. 

Dwon was the head boy's varsity and JV coach at St. Raphael Catholic School. Dwon was also part of the Baylor University coaching staff, as the Director of Basketball Operations. He has served as Executive Director of the “Sport with a Purpose” (SWAP) summer sports programs and has also worked on the business side of sports management for the NBA.

Dwon has a passion for working with kids through sports, and he enjoys working in athletics at NGFS because of, “The opportunity to positively impact the lives of the students.”

In his spare time, Dwon golfs, but says his biggest joy comes from being a father/husband, “I enjoy spending as much time as I possibly can with my family.”

Dwon and his wife, Lucinda, have two sons, Kingston and Ace.

Years at NGFS: 6 months

Education: PhD in Comparative Literature, Harvard University; MA in Classical Studies, Brandeis University; BA in Comparative Literature and Classical Civilizations, Wellesley College

Aside from her continuing work in academia, Aisha previously worked for three years with an education consultancy for international students. She worked closely with international students who were either boarding in the US or in the process of applying for colleges in the US. Aisha guided students and their families in navigating the US education curriculum and culture.
 

Years at NGFS: 4

Education: B.S. in English and Secondary Education from Appalachian State; M.Ed. in Middle Grades Education from Appalachian State; Math, Science, and Literacy Cohort member from East Tennessee State University; Currently pursuing an Environmental Educator Certification through the NC Environmental Educator Program.
 

Lauren has 17 years of experience teaching in both North Carolina and Tennessee Schools. Since 2018, Lauren has held teaching positions in both the Upper School and Middle School teaching teams. Formerly a student of NGFS, Lauren is glad to contribute back to an environment that greatly contributed to who she is today. She enjoys becoming more involved in her hometown community through our strong stewardship program here at NGFS.

Lauren loves to hang out with her family which includes her husband Matthew, two sons Slade and Asa, and her three dogs and one cat. In her free time, she loves to walk, read, bake, write, garden, and craft.

Years at NGFS: 8

Education: B.A. in Elementary Education, American University

Beth has served in several roles at New Garden Friends. Recently she joined the middle school team as the Learning Specialist. As she steps into this new role Beth shared, “I have always appreciated how NGFS meets each child where they are in their social, emotional, and academic learning and am grateful and excited to have the opportunity to be able to work closely with small groups and individuals to help them grow and realize their amazing strengths.”

Previously, Beth was an upper elementary and middle school teacher in Montgomery County, Anne Arundel County, and Frederick County Public Schools in Maryland.

As a Rainbow teacher, Beth worked to instill the importance of service in her students by partnering with the Interactive Resource Center, an organization that works with those who are experiencing homelessness in Greensboro. In May 2017, Beth was honored to receive the Guilford County 2017 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award for her work with the IRC.

 Beth is married to Tony and together they have two children, Noah and Owen, who attend NGFS, and two dogs, Rascal and Sadie. Beth likes reading, traveling with family, and going to Disney. 

 

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Carolina, a Master of Arts from NC State University, and is currently pursuing her Ph.D in Educational Law through Liberty University. 

Lindsey comes to us with more than 15 years of experience in higher education and at the high school level of advocating for and helping to develop students and teachers via curriculum and professional development. Lindsey gives students and educators the skills necessary to deliver and succeed through quality, equitable educational experiences. 

Lindsey is married with two boys and a golden doodle. She spends her free time enjoying the outdoors with her family, reading, and working on her doctoral dissertation. Lindsey loves golf, walking, running her fantasy football teams, and riding four wheelers with her boys.

Amy Hanson began teaching upper school math at NGFS in 2019. Amy has had years of experience teaching math in both public and independent schools. 

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: B.S. from North Carolina A&T State University

Sheliah has joined the Upper School team for the 2021-22 school year as a chemistry teacher. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.

Sheliah was raised in Greensboro but was born in Buffalo, New York. Her previous endeavors include community research and healthcare, but she comes from a long line of teachers. Sheliah is very excited to join New Garden Friends School and looks forward to working with the students, parents, and faculty.

Years at NGFS: 8

Education: B.S. in Accounting, North Carolina State University

Michael was drawn to New Garden because of the friendly, stress-free environment. Each year, he enjoys seeing the little ways that the community changes and grows.

In Michael’s free time, he plays sports such as tennis, soccer, and flag football. He also likes video games, movies, TV shows, and spending time with his Lab/Border Collie mix.

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: He is a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill holding a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy & Chemistry.

Carter is familiar with the New Garden community, having attended NGFS for grades 1st through 8th. Additionally, Carter has contributed to the NGFS community as a tutor, teaching assistant, substitute, and summer camp counselor. Beyond the New Garden community, Carter has worked as an online reading teacher and is currently pursuing a masters in education with UNCG.

In his free time, Carter enjoys playing disc golf, reading philosophy, and playing the violin. Carter is also an avid sports fan, especially for the Carolina Tar Heels and the New York Giants. 

Years at NGFS: 2

Education: Greensboro College Bachelor of Arts in Theatre - hybrid in Acting & Directing

Victoria began at New Garden Friends School in 2nd grade and began performing in the musicals in 3rd grade. From an early age, she fell in love with New Garden Friends School and grew up in the school. While in high school at NGFS, Victoria started an internship with Greensboro Performing Arts and the rest was history. Victoria is currently the Office Manager and Acting Teacher at Greensboro Performing Arts while leading the Acting classes and Musical Theater program at NGFS. Victoria enjoys spreading a love of theater and “living truthfully under imaginary circumstances” with all of her classes.
 

Years at NGFS: 5

Education: B.A. in Psychology, minor in Early Childhood Development;  M.A. in Community Counseling and College Student Development with a Concentration in Addictions, Appalachian State University; Licensure in School Counseling, North Carolina Central University and the University of Phoenix.

Jenn came to NGFS after working as a school counselor at Page High School since 2011. Prior to that, she was a school counselor at Graham High School for six years.

Jenn says, “I am excited to work with students, teachers, and families that believe all people are special, important, and deserve respect. The warm connection felt when you walk on the campus is genuinely the greatest feeling I have ever felt when starting a new school year."

In addition to her work with students, Jenn enjoys singing, dancing, swimming, the beach, ice cream, spending time with her family, and if you’ve met her you know she’s always up for a good hug.

Jenn and her husband Rodney have two children, Nathan and Haven, who both attend New Garden.

Years at NGFS: 1

Education: B.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies at Liberty University

Lawrence’s coaching style is 3-dimensional, and he enjoys training athletes into champions for sports and life. He has coached youth sports in California, Cayman Islands, and North Carolina. Lawrence is a former student-athlete who was selected as one of the top 80 athletes in the nation to represent an international sports exchange to compete in track and field with the Republic of Korea Amateur Athletic Federation in Seoul, South Korea. He holds Simi Valley High School’s 300 hurdle record of 37.4 seconds and the long jump record. In 1985, he won the California State Long Jump Championship with a jump of 24.4 ¼ ft. This jump earned him a Track and Field Scholarship to Fresno State where he studied Physical Education. In Lawrence’s first year at Fresno State, he jumped 24.11 ft to break NFL player Henry Ellard’s freshman record to become “Freshman of the Year.” He went on to win 3 PCAA  track and field championships with the Bulldogs under the leadership of legendary Coach Gene “Red” Estes. In addition, Lawrence played semi-professional football for the Simi Valley Swarm. 

Lawrence and his wife, Trenny, have two daughters, Amanda and Serena. Lawrence enjoys spending time with his family, weight lifting, golfing, and traveling. 
 

Years of NGFS: 4

Education: B.S. in Biology, minor in ecology & evolution, at the University of Connecticut (2015); M.S. in biology at Wake Forest University (2018)

Dan joined our faculty for the 2019-20 school year. He is grateful for New Garden's teaching philosophy and the community as a whole. Dan enjoys developing a strong relationship with his students.

Dan's hobbies include running, hiking, camping, long-distance biking, ultimate frisbee, and board games. Dan also loves to spend time with his family, which includes his parents, grandparents and his three sisters who all live in Connecticut where Dan grew up. He currently lives with his girlfriend Seren, his dog, and cat.

Dan has a black belt in both Tae Kwon Do and Mixed Martial Arts. He also rode his bike across the U.S., from Seattle, WA to New England.

Years at NGFS: 7

Years at NGFS: 5

Education: B.A. in English, Arkansas State University; M.F.A. in poetry, Louisiana State University.

Chris came to NGFS after teaching at an independent school in New Orleans for the past six years. He is also an author and has had eight books of poetry published.

Chris was first drawn to NGFS by the school’s mission statement. He says, “The values communicated at NGFS are completely aligned with my own.”

Chris and his wife Sarah have a daughter who attends NGFS.

He plays drums in a local band The Goodbye Horses.
 

Years at NGFS: first year

Education: Bachelor of Arts in English Lit and in Spanish from Salem College; National Board Certified in World Language

Gwen is married with two children, two cats, and several outside animals. She enjoys going to the gym, reading, hiking, gardening, and traveling, including working every summer in Barcelona.

Years at NGFS: 3

Education: Rutgers University, B.S.; New York University, M.S.

Janet has joined the PFC faculty for the 2021-22 school year. Janet recently relocated to the Greensboro area after living in the NY/NJ area her whole life. Previously she worked at Brooklyn Friends School in the roles of science teacher, Director of Sustainability, and Science Department Chair. She has also taught science at Birch Wathen School.

Janet is excited to reconnect with a Quaker School, and is looking forward to being part of a community where her expertise, sense of humor, and creative problem-solving can make a difference. Janet looks to spark students to carry out their own projects, find data, and use critical thinking to bring science and technology to life, and to improve their own future. Janet also works part-time at the Greensboro Science Center.

In her free time Janet enjoys opera singing, swimming, theater, and gardening. She lives with her spouse Linda and their cat. 

Years at NGFS: 7

Education: B.A. in English and Secondary Education, Mary Washington College; M.F.A. in Poetry, Boise State University

Maura Way previously held the position of Middle School Reading and Writing teacher at NGFS before becoming the Upper School English teacher in 2018. Maura has a rich history of educational experience teaching English in Stafford, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. She has also been a Composition and Creative Writing instructor at Boise State University and an English and Creative Writing instructor at Summit School.

After experiencing many different educational styles, what makes NGFS stand out? According to Maura, it is “the Quaker pedagogy and focus on community, the challenging and student-centered approach to life-long learning, and getting to be Maura instead of Mrs. Way!”

There is no better way to get to know Maura than through her own words. She says, “I am a poet. I enjoy going to poetry slams and readings as well as quietly sitting under trees writing sonnets.”

Years at NGFS: 5

Education: Bachelor's degree in Health and Human Sciences with a concentration in Fitness Leadership, UNCG

In the 2019-20 school year, Serena moved into the role of Assistant Athletic Director after serving as interim the prior year and assisting in all areas of PFC student life. She also coaches for volleyball, girls varsity basketball, and the co-ed track and field team.

Serena is a Garner Magnet High alumna; where she played both varsity volleyball and basketball. Serena played club volleyball at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

On working at NGFS, Serena says, “I enjoy the opportunity to create lasting memories with our students. I am excited to see students create and meet goals, whether in academics or physical fitness.”

In her spare time, Serena enjoys singing, writing, and baking goodies with her daughter.