Meet Our Faculty and Staff

Maintenance

1 Year of Service

I moved around quite a big growing up, attending 5 elementary schools in 5 years. My first move to North Carolina was at 18 years old to attend Davidson College, and my family has since relocated to Charlotte. After living in San Francisco for the last 5 years, I am happy to call Charlotte home again. I have spent my career in undergraduate admission at Davidson College, Stanford University, and UC Berkeley. Providence Day is my first independent school home! I am excited to help PD students find their best fit colleges where they will grow and thrive as young adults.

Adrian Gordon is an internationally performed composer and seasoned music educator. He is the author of the book Note to Self; A Music Director’s Guide for Transitioning to a New School and Building a Thriving Music Program. Adrian wrote Note to Self because though his undergraduate and graduate programs were musically and pedagogically extensive, he never felt as though they touched on those hard-to-navigate areas of transitioning between jobs. Note to Self was written as a bridge for music educators who find themselves in similar situations.

Adrian currently serves as the Director of Orchestras at PD. He believes in the power of music education in a child’s life, and understands the necessity of having passionate, confident, and supported music teachers at the helm, promoting great musical experiences for students. 

In addition to teaching, Mr. Gordon is an in-demand conductor and clinician. He is also a composer with Alfred Music as well as the founder of Leap Year Music Publishing, which publishes string music for elementary, middle, and high school ensembles. His compositions appear on the Florida, Texas, Maryland, and Georgia Orchestra Association Music Performance Assessment Lists. His compositions are distributed through JW Pepper and have been performed throughout the world. He takes pride in creating music that is fun and pedagogically sound at all levels. 

Adrian received his B.A. in music from the University of Miami, and his master’s degree in music education at Florida International University. Born and raised in Miami, Florida, he currently resides in Charlotte with his wife Kelly and their two sons. Learn more at www.adriangordonmusic.com.

Teaching Physical Education and Health is my passion. My goal is to promote the importance of lifelong physical, mental, social, and emotional health. You have to be healthy to be happy. I obtained my Bachelor's of Science Degree in Health and Physical Education from East Stroudsburg University, PA in 2010 and am certified to teach grades K-12. In the past, I substitute taught at public schools in New Jersey. Also, I coached youth soccer camps in Westmont, NJ from 2006 to 2010. In addition, I won the Outstanding Future Professional Award from East Stroudsburg University in 2009. I also served as the student representative from PA and worked on the executive board of the American Alliance of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (AAHPERD) in 2008 and 2009. I am a lifelong learner and continue my knowledge and skills by attending workshops, conventions, and conferences related to promoting a physically active lifestyle and a healthy well-being. I currently coach middle school boys and girls soccer at Providence Day. Outside of school, I enjoy hobbies such as playing soccer, going to the beach, and spending time with my family. I love adventure activities and try to get outside as much as possible!

Providence Day School is a wonderful place to be each day. I love teaching at PDS. It is a rewarding experience to work with such passionate teachers, enthusiastic students, and loving parents. I enjoy getting students excited about learning. When I am not at PDS, I love to read, travel, exercise, do projects around my house, and especially spend time with my family and friends.

Middle School Administrative Assistant

4 Years of Service

I grew up in Mauldin, SC and played collegiate basketball at UNC-Pembroke, earning a BS in Athletic Training. While earning a MS in Exercise Science from UNCP, I worked as a Graduate Assistant in Athletic Training and Women's Basketball. After grad school, I moved to Indiana to coach basketball at Saint Mary's College and work at a corporate fitness facility as an instructor and Health Fitness Specialist. I returned to N.C as a women's basketball coach and athletic trainer at Queens University. Since leaving the collegiate level, I have worked full time running Adult Sports Leagues while also running bootcamps at various locations throughout the area and coaching basketball at PD and various rec leagues.  I am currently certified by the NSCA as a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist.

I have been an 8th grade Girls Basketball coach since 2014 at Providence Day. This will be my 2nd year at the Varsity Level.  I am excited about the opportunity to share my love of fitness and sport in my 2nd year as a PE Teacher.

Extended Day

.5 Years of Service

After graduating from the University of North Carolina, Chapel HIll in 1992, I realized that my dream was to teach middle school English. My first teaching job was in Mobile, Alabama, and I have taught at Holy Trinity School and Charlotte Christian School here in Charlotte. In 2005, I was thrilled to accept a position at Providence Day School as a Middle School English teacher. As a Providence Day alum, I have had the opportunity to watch this school grow and change for the past 40 years. One aspect that has remained at the core of PDS is the family atmosphere and the sense of community. I am proud that my husband and I both found our calling here and that my daughters have the opportunity to experience the love and spirit of this place.

As an alum (class of '92), parent of two PDS students (Connor, class of ‘22 and Audrey, class ‘25) and teacher, I am proud to be a Providence Day Charger! Having previously taught in the Bright Beginnings Pre-K program, as well as my children's preschool for several years, I am truly at home in Transitional Kindergarten. It is exciting to see those young minds at work! Outside of school, my family enjoys traveling to the beach, exploring our National Parks, going to football games, playing sports, and just being outside. I look forward to an exciting year of learning, playing and growing together in TK!

I left academic research to teach science to high school students and have never looked back. The joy of watching students discover, learn and grow is among the best experiences of my life. In addition to teaching, I love writing, editing and martial arts.

I like to say that I make plans for my life and then I "fall into" things that work out way better for me than what I had planned. My career has been no different. In college, I majored in Zoology, Pre-Med, expecting to go to medical school and become a psychiatrist. After deciding to take a year off to work before going to medical school, I fell in love with biomedical research and decided to get a Ph.D. instead. After graduation, my career took me to teaching at a community college and then science writing and editing. I finally got back in the classroom in 2020, this time at PD. I love getting to know the students and trying to incite in them a love of science or at least help them not hate it. My connections with students and getting to know who they are what really interests them are my favorite two things about teaching.

Although I'm originally from Connecticut and New Jersey, my husband and I moved to Charlotte in 2006 and have made NC our home. We have two daughters, who came to PD in 2019 at the same time I started teaching here. I have worked with a variety of ages, in a range of settings, including preschool, public and private elementary school, and at Belmont Abbey College. I am passionate about connecting with my young students, and helping them find the joy in learning every day.

"He who learns but does not think, is lost! He who thinks but does not learn is in great danger."-Confucius

As a child I grew up in a military family and found myself moving routinely. I grew to love exploring new locations and learning the history and culture of each place I lived. This caused me to pursue a career in teaching History. I received my MA in Secondary Education and my undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences from James Madison University. I joined Providence Day School last year after teaching in Charlotte and Virginia where I taught World History, A.P. U.S. History, and Sociology. I love the welcoming culture of Providence Day School and enjoy the enthusiasm and curiosity of the students!

When I am not teaching I spend my time with my husband, chasing our 10yr old twins and 4yr old daughter around, traveling as much as possible, and enjoying time at the beach.

Extended Day Teacher

.5 Years of Service

Middle School Science Teacher

15 Years of Service

The Middle School science lab is an exciting place; and the enthusiasm and energy levels can be hard to contain! I am happy to be working in the Providence Day School Science Department where my goal of “doing more, and talking less” is fully supported.

From Miami to Germany to Ecuador, and a few places in between... Started at PDS in 1998, German and Spanish teacher... Former World Language Department Chair... Fan of the Miami Dolphins and the USA Men's National Soccer Team... Active soccer coach, musician (cello, bass), and camper... Dad of Jakob Werner, class of '27...

Front Desk Administrative Assistant

.5 Years of Service

Providence Day School is an amazing place to learn and have fun! In my classroom, the two go hand in hand. Seeing the smiles on my students’ faces when they are actively engaged in learning warms my heart. Prior to teaching at PDS, I taught primary grades for 5 years in public school. I have enjoyed teaching in multiple grade levels since I joined Providence Day in 2002, including kindergarten, first grade, and third grade.

Not only do I wear the teacher hat at PDS, but I’m also a mom. My daughters started here in TK and are now in Upper School. Watching them progress through PDS has been such a blessing. As a faculty member, I know that they are in the best hands, learning from my colleagues.

Anita McLeod started her career at Providence Day School teaching different courses in the English Department in Upper School. She is Chairman of the English Department and was Senior Class Advisor. Later, she began developing Writers Workshop for Lower School teachers and students, where her current position is Writing Resource Instructor.

I love children and their joyful spirit, so it is no surprise that I fell in love with teaching. The enthusiastic curiosity and excitement they exhibit is inspiring and rewarding. When I began working at Providence Day School, I quickly realized what a wonderful place I had joined. Working with first graders is full of new and fun experiences. The children bring so much joy, and I am grateful to be part of the Providence Day School community. My bachelor's degree is in art and I earned a master's degree in elementary education. It is fulfilling to be able to connect my passions of art and teaching in the classroom each day. I enjoy watching and participating in sports, being outside, spending time with family and friends, and traveling.

Annie Castro has been at Providence Day School since 2008. She previously taught in her hometown of Miami, Florida for over 20 years. She attended the University of Miami and graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor degree in Mathematical Sciences. She later received a master degree in Mathematics from Nova Southeastern University. Her teaching experience includes teaching at Gulliver Preparatory in Coral Gables, Florida for 7 years and at Christopher Columbus High School in Miami, Florida while teaching at Florida International University as an adjunct professor. Her favorite subjects are abstract algebraic structures, trigonometry and combinatorics. Ms. Castro has taught Math 6, Algebra Topics 7 & 8, Algebra, Geometry, Advanced Geometry, Algebra 2, Advanced Algebra 2 & Trigonometry, Precalculus, Calculus I, Business Calculus, College Algebra & Trigonometry, Multivariable Calculus, Linear Algebra, Discrete Mathematics, Differential Equations and Computer Applications. Her weekends are spent doing math for fun, walking on trails, visiting the wonderful museums of Charlotte and playing with her pets. She also enjoys watching movie classics. She is very proud of being a member of the PDS community. Math allows us to explain the incredible dynamics of nature!

To play with my son is one of my favorite tasks.
With his imagination I transform to whatever he asks.
From a plane to a train, from a shark to a knight,
With Andre it’s games and fun from morning til’ night.

For vacation, it is to the beach we go as a family;
To swim, relax and spend time together merrily.
Seeking new experiences is often our goal,
like riding the “Polar Express” to the North Pole.

At PDS, “español” is what I help my students learn.
More competitions and use of ipads is what my students yearn.
For them to be talking is what I stress most of all,
And to celebrate their achievements whether big or small.

Ms. Parker has taught at Providence Day since 1996 in the Lower School and in the Middle School Math Department. She has two sons, Andrew and David, who are alumni of PDS. Andrew graduated in 2008, and David graduated in 2010. In her free time, Ms. Parker enjoys playing a variety of musical instruments, including piano, organ, clarinet, saxophone, and flute, and she also enjoys reading and traveling. Before coming to PDS, she was involved in science research and engineering.

I am a teacher of 26 years. 17 years of those teaching years have been in Music Education at Mallard Creek Elementary School. I have taught general education classes in 2nd and 3rd grade. I am a graduate of NC A&T State University with BS in Music Education K-12. I am blessed to be a mother of three which one of them is deceased as of December 2, 2019.

I am a Dog Mom… Nena is her name and she is a chiweenie :). I love anything crafty and I own a candle company called “Comforting Candles.”

I have been teaching 6th-grade math since 2010 and serve as the 6th-Grade Level Dean and Assistant Coach of the Varsity Girl's Soccer team.

I received my Bachelor's of Education from The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), and I am working towards obtaining my Master's in Educational Leadership from the University of Alabama.

When I am not in the classroom, you can find me hanging out with nieces or relaxing on the couch with my three-legged Golden Retriever, Bentley. I love trying new foods, playing soccer, spending time with friends and family, and traveling internationally. Recently, I traveled to Sicily to explore my family ancestry.

I feel blessed to be a part of the Providence Day community. The students are incredible, and I love working with middle schoolers and helping them embrace their middle school years, making memories to last a lifetime.

Lower and Middle School Physical Education Teacher

8 Years of Service

Graduated From Victory Christian High School in Charlotte, NC and continued her basketball career with an athletic scholarship to the College of Charleston where she played point guard for the Lady Cougars and complete her undergraduate degree in Health and Physical Education with a concentration in Exercise Science.  After undergrad, Ashli completed her Masters Degree in Sports Administration and served as a Graduate Assistant for the Women's Basketball team for one year at Wingate University. Ashli has been teaching health and physical education for 4 years and will begin her 1st year as a lower school PE teacher at Providence Day. Ashli has also been coaching girls basketball for 7 years and will begin her fifth year as an Assistant Coach on the coaching staff for the Lady Chargers program of Providence Day School.

A good teacher creates a warm and caring classroom atmosphere that is stimulating, encouraging, and adaptive to the different needs of all her students. Once that trust is there, the students can feel safe enough to take academic risks.  If at the end of the day, each student feels successful and if at the end of the year, their passion for learning has grown just a bit - that is the definition of a good teacher to me.

Being born and raised in Charlotte and attending Charlotte Catholic High School, I have always admired the students and faculty that make the PDS family. I received my B.S. in Mathematics Education from Auburn University and began my teaching career at Ardrey Kell High School. In my six years at Ardrey Kell, I taught all levels of math across 9th to 12th grade. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my husband, cooking, traveling, and loving our Cockapoo puppy. I am beyond excited to be a part of the Providence Day community. War Eagle and Go Chargers!

Lower School Teacher

21 Years of Service

Transportation Coordinator

22 Years of Service

Entering my 33rd year at PDS. Married to Jessie Finneyfrock for 41 years. Jessie and I have three children Heather, Amber, and Will. Before teaching and coaching at PDS, I played professional soccer with my last team here in Charlotte. I then taught & coached for 6 years at Saint Gabriel’s Catholic School and Charlotte Catholic High School where we won 2 state championships and four conference titles. From 1990 to 2015 I coached the boy's varsity soccer team where they won four state championships, three finalists, and nine conference championships. In addition to my work at PDS, I was the founder and executive director of Charlotte United FC from 1995 to 2017. In 2017 we merged with Charlotte Soccer Academy where I am the Coaching Director for goalkeepers and serve on the CSA board.

Facilities

7 Years of Service

Admissions Administrative Assistant

.5 Years of Service

To learn more about the Admissions team, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/admissions

I am excited to join the Providence Day community. I am a proud graduate of Appalachian State University (2010) and Wingate University (2022) where I obtained my Masters degree. I previously taught grades 5-8 for two years, and was a high school math teacher for seven years. I have a passion for sports and have served as a high school & college basketball coach at previous schools. I look forward to working with prospective families and coaching basketball at Providence Day. 

My wife & I have lived many places in North Carolina, but we love Charlotte. We have been together since 2013 and we have two dogs (Lily & Reese), and one cat (Oreo). 

Archivist

47 Years of Service

I have been teaching sixth grade history at Providence Day since 2002, and took over as the MS Dean of Students in 2020.  What I enjoy most about teaching at PDS is working with, and alongside, a wonderful group of students and colleagues. In addition to my teaching responsibilities, I am the Head Varsity Lacrosse Coach and have been overseeing the lacrosse program since 2005. In my free time you will either find me on the practice field or chasing my kids around. My wife Danielle and I are the proud parents of four children, our two sons William and Scott, and daughters Charlie and Riley.

I am excited to be teaching at Providence Day School and working in the Middle School, especially since the "BEST" is in the middle! I am originally from Raleigh, N.C. Attending the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, I received a BA degree in Early Childhood Education (K-3,) and (4-9,) specializing in Mathematics and Science, and my Masters of Education from Nova Southeastern University. I taught Mathematics and Science at Charlotte Christian School for seven years and previously with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools for sixteen years. In addition to my love for working with students, I enjoy photography, traveling to the mountains of North Carolina, being under the 'Saturday Night Lights' watching football for Wofford College where my son previously played, as well as watching the weekend football games of the Carolina Panthers. I look forward to our journey together this year.

Brian spent 13 years as a student at Providence Day and then became a member of the faculty in 2000. Brian teaches middle school history and served as the Varsity Boy's basketball coach for 15 seasons before retiring in 2021. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, and cheering for the Atlanta Braves.

Born in Boston and raised in the South, I graduated from Wake Forest University in 2003 with a double major in mathematics and anthropology. During that time, I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to conduct field research in Nepal and participate in an archeological dig in the mountains of North Carolina. Upon graduation, I decided that my next adventure would be to teach math in Charlotte. After teaching at a local high school for one year, I joined the PDS community in 2004 where I have taught math in the middle school ever since. My interests involve reading, weight lifting, social justice, and personal finance. Most importantly, I enjoy spending time with my wife and two sons.

I believe that technology is the cultural touchstone of our generation; therefore, it is exciting to be teaching in a school that actively supports the use of technology in the classroom. I’ve been teaching for over 20 years and amazed at how quickly the technology used in classroom has evolved. I can still remember ditto machines and when the term carbon copy meant an actual blue colored carbon copy. I’d like to believe that as technology, I have evolved as an educator. Having been fortunate to teach in schools located in Central America, the Northeast, and Southeast regions afforded me opportunities to build upon my repertoire of teaching strategies and keep pace with trending pedagogies. My professional growth continues at Providence Day School.

Personal interests outside of school include hunting and fishing. Traveling to pursue these interests is also a passion. Two of my favorite destinations to pursue these sports are Alaska and Maine. A favorite moment was catching a rare white king salmon out of Homer, Alaska.

Extended Day

.5 Years of Service

Middle School Clubhouse

First Year at Providence Day

I am honored to serve Providence Day School as the Upper School Theatre Director.  Prior to this position, I served as the Lower School Theatre Director for six years, in an after-school capacity.  I have a B.F.A in Theatre from Auburn University and a M.F.A. from the University of Southern Mississippi.  I taught in Charlotte Mecklenburg schools for 17 years.  I own a small business called CreativeKids, which is a large vendor at Providence Day in Summer Programs.  I have two amazing children, Harper 12 and Miles 9, who are the center of my universe.  When I'm not in the classroom or at rehearsal, I love being outdoors, taking a yoga class, going to live arts events, and spending time with friends and family. 

Upper School Mathematics Teacher

First Year at Providence Day

Facilities

16 Years of Service

I joined extended day second semester last school year, because I graduated from PD a semester early. It was weird coming back from winter break as an employee, and even weirder to wave to my friends while I walked through the halls with my students. However, this job is the perfect fit, because I get to do what I love while studying at UNC Charlotte to get my teaching license.

I’ve wanted to be a teacher ever since I was a little kid, because it seemed like a fun job. As I grew older and gained experience, I’ve seen how big of an impact I have on every student I come into contact with. I’m often the first person they run to when they’re feeling upset, lonely, or just need a break. And It warms my heart to see them go from crying to laughing in a matter of minutes after hanging out with me for a little bit. 

I’m excited for the next few years, as I continue to make connections with all of my students!

Assistant Director of Admissions

21 Years of Service

To learn more about the Admissions team, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/admissions

Athletics Trainer

3 Years of Service

I attended Providence Day from TK through 12th grade, and I am beyond excited to be reunited with my PDS family as the TK and K Learning Loft Facilitator. Providence Day has always been a home away from home, and I am looking forward to another wonderful school year!

My teaching career began in California where I worked as a teaching assistant at UCSB and continued at the Harker School in San Jose. In 2006, I came to Providence Day, and after some time off spent at home with my children, I'm happy to be back in the classroom where I can share my love of problem-solving, proof-writing, and logical thinking with my students. Outside the classroom, I appreciate spending time with my family, enjoying local foods (especially from my own garden), experimenting with fermentation, and reading. I've discovered some of my favorite books through student recommendations, so let me know if you've read any good books lately!

In my early twenties after a backpacking trip through Western Europe, I realized the memories I made were more enduring than the souvenirs I excitedly purchased. The desire to make great memories for myself and my family has inspired me to do rather than to collect, and to learn from my experiences regardless of whether they are exhilarating or heartbreaking. I take my greatest pleasure in quality time spent with my favorite children and adults. It also helps me to remember that connections and relationships are as important as facts and figures.

I am thrilled to be teaching at PD! I've enjoyed working in the math department as well as with the SOS clubs throughout the Upper School. I have two wonderful children who attend PD - Andrew (middle school) and Abby (lower school).

In my spare time, I enjoy watching the San Diego Chargers football team (I refuse to acknowledge them as the LA Chargers) and the Mets baseball team. I travel as much as I can with my two children in tow, mostly to the mountains for hiking, and I love to be involved with service projects. As a hockey family, many of my weekends are spent in a cold rink somewhere.

Coach Grier enters his fourth season at Providence Day after leading the Chargers to back-to-back NCISAA Division 1 State Championships in 2021 and 2022.

Coach Grier’s overall record is 115-22 in 12 seasons with six state championships, one state runner up, and three state semi-final appearances. He began his career at Davidson Day, where he started the program from scratch and went 64-9 with four state titles in six years. Grier then took over at Oceanside Collegiate Academy in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, where he served as head coach and athletic director. Prior to his arrival at Oceanside, the Landsharks had never won a game. In 3 years, Grier led Oceanside to a 27-7 record, a regional championship, two playoff berths and an appearance in the Lower State Championship Game (state semi-finals). Grier took over the PD program in the spring of 2020 and led the Chargers to a 4-2 mark, the Big South Conference Championship and an appearance in the state-semi-finals in the Covid-shortened season. That was the first time PD had ever beaten each of its three Charlotte rivals in the same regular season. In 2021, the Chargers again swept its local conference rivals in winning their second straight Big South title, earned the #1 seed in the Division 1 playoffs and finished the season with their first state championship since 2011. In 2002, the Chargers again won the state championship, became nationally ranked for the first time in school history, and finished first in the Charlotte Observer Sweet 16.

Grier’s ability to develop student-athletes is best reflected in nearly 90 of his players moving on to play at the collegiate level including several in the SEC, ACC, Big 12, Ivy League, and Service Academies (Army and Navy). Grier specializes in teaching quarterbacks (QB). His son Will played QB for his first Davidson Day teams where he was the two-time N.C. Gatorade Player of the Year, a three-time all-american and the national high school player of the year. Will had an outstanding college career at Florida and West Virginia, where he finished fourth in the Heisman voting before being drafted in the third round by the Carolina Panthers. Currently, Will plays for the Dallas Cowboys. Another of Grier’s QBs was Sam Hartman, who owns the record for most touchdown passes in ACC history. His current QB, Jadyn Davis, is the 2022 N.C. Gatorade Player of the Year, N.C. Mr. Football and the N.C. Preps State Player of the Year. In his 12 years as a head coach, each of his starting QBs has been named All-Conference, All-State and/or All-American, and each has gone on to play college football (Florida/West Virginia, Furman, Wake Forest, Drake, South Carolina, and East Carolina).

Grier graduated from Charlotte Latin and then played quarterback at both University of Richmond and East Carolina where he learned under some of the best football minds in the game including Kevin Gilbride, Mark Richt, and Steve Logan. While starting a family in Charlotte and working in business, he earned his MBA from Queens University. He started coaching as a passion hobby in the 90s at numerous camps and as an assistant coach at Western Guilford High School, Charlotte Latin, and SouthLake Christian before taking on his first head coaching position at Davidson Day in 2010. It wasn’t until Grier took the job at Oceanside that he became a full-time coach. He has served in numerous all-star games including assistant coach in the 2015 Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas, head coach of the 2016 Adidas Freshman All-American Bowl in Naples, F.L., head coach in the 2017 Army All-American Bowl, and head coach of the 2022 Carolina Bowl.

Coach Grier is a Charlotte native. He has been married to his wife Nila for 14 years and is the father of four sons, Will (27), Nash (25), Hayes (22), and Hank (3).

Upper School English Teacher

6 Years of Service

Claire Bell is one of the Upper School Counselors at Providence Day School. Claire is a National Certified Counselor, and she is licensed in North Carolina as a Professional School Counselor. With professional experience in leadership development and school counseling, Claire is passionate about supporting students as they navigate high school. Outside of school, Claire enjoys spending time with her husband, David, her daughter, Bennett, her son, Charlie, and two hound mixes, Princeton and Beale. In addition to spending time with family and friends, Claire gets very excited about hot sauce, online shopping, chips and dip, and, obviously, counseling students!

Head of School Administrative Assistant

14 Years of Service

I have been attacked by an owl on four occasions, while running, in two different Charlotte neighborhoods, over an eight-year span. I believe they were not the same owl. 

Bizarre owl behavior notwithstanding, I run to stay in shape. Although I listen to a lot of music—mainly Bach’s sacred choral works—I don’t wear ear buds while I run. I just let my mind roam. On my weekend pre-dawn 10-milers, I might be revisiting moments from favorite novels—Mark Helperin’s A Soldier of the Great War, Patrick O’Brian’s Aubrey-Maturin series, anything by Walker Percy. I might silently recite a favorite memorized poem by Hopkins or Larkin. I’ll anticipate watching my favorite sport, soccer, on TV when I get home. 

Soccer was rarely mentioned in my North Carolina small town when I grew up in the 1970s and ‘80s. I knew nothing about the game—beyond the obvious—when I went to college at Chapel Hill. This ignorance continued at Florida State, where I did a master’s degree in English (writing a thesis on Milton’s Paradise Lost), and at the U. of Kansas, where I studied the history of the language and wrote a Ph.D. dissertation on risible distortions of the historical record in certain plays by Shakespeare and some of his contemporaries. 

My son, a Providence Day alumnus, plays soccer at Centre College in Kentucky, where he majors in physics yet also reads novels. (N.b. to parents: his favorite subjects at PD were all humanities. His Spanish proficiency earned him an annual scholarship at Centre. So his talent for and dedication toward calculus and physics in college took us by surprise.) My wife is a swimmer, a gardener, a licensed psychologist. She and I have lived in Charlotte’s Plaza Midwood neighborhood since 1998, also the year I accepted a teaching position at PD. Starting in 2005, we’ve continued to be active members of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church. 

In addition to teaching writing and literary appreciation via analysis, I chaired the English department from 2005-22. I ran Charger House, where students, colleagues, and I provided meals and shelter on campus for up to twelve homeless women, every winter between 2009-20. And for many years I also advised the editors and staff of our award-winning Upper School literary magazine, Pendragon. I was named Upper School Teacher of the Year in 2014. The courses I most frequently teach include AP English Literature, English II, Creative Writing, Shakespeare, and Writing Seminar. 

I remember sitting in my own 8th grade English class long ago working on my first significant writing assignment. At that moment, I decided that teaching would be my life-long career. Now in my 25th year of teaching, I remain passionate about teaching this level. It's the energy, the vulnerability, the joy, and the tears. Middle school classrooms are part chaos and laughter, and for this level, I find that learning requires interaction, flexibility, patience, and balance. You could not pay me to move to a different career.I have a Master's Degree from Northern Arizona University and a bachelor's degree in secondary education from Arizona State University.

I am so excited to be starting my sixth year as an assistant teacher in Lower School. I am originally from Morganton, NC, and studied speech pathology at Appalachian State University (Go Mountaineers!). For the last eleven years, I’ve worked as a pediatric speech language pathologist here in Charlotte. I have a love for children and helping them learn in their own unique ways. In my free time, you can find me spending time with my family and friends, being outside, or scheming up a new design project at my house.

Middle School Librarian

10 Years of Service

I love spending my days as the Middle School Librarian at Providence Day School!

I'm originally from Rock Hill, SC, and I've also lived in Elkhart, IN, Asheville, NC, and Boone, NC. I graduated from Appalachian State in 2008, and I love to visit the mountains in Boone and Asheville when I get the chance. I recently completed my Masters in Library and Information Science via the University of Alabama.

In my free time I like to read, draw, play music, and spend time with my family.

After graduating from Providence Day School myself in 2006, I attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. There, I earned a B.A. in English and Economics with a minor in Mathematics and became a die-hard Tar Heel fan! I then began my teaching career in Memphis, Tennessee where I taught high school math through the Teach for America program. At Providence Day, I have taught courses ranging from Algebra II to AP Calculus AB. I love math and it is my goal each year to inspire all of my students to love it as well. Outside of the classroom, I am the senior class dean and I advise the Big Brother Big Sister Club. I have a master’s degree in Secondary Mathematics at UNCC. When I am not at school, you can often find me spending time with my husband Corey, and daughters Eleanor and Amelia, running, practicing aerial silks, reading, or spending time outside!

Football Coach & Upper School Study Hall

First Year at Providence Day

I have taken a long, strange journey to teaching math at Providence Day, but I believe the things I have done have led me right to where I belong. After growing up in Whitefish Bay, Wisconsin, I attended the University of Missouri (MIZ - ZOU!) and earned a Bachelor's of Journalism. I took a job at ESPN in the Statistics and Analytics Department, where a love of numbers came rushing back to me. I decided to move to Chicago, where I still wrote for the Chicago Tribune, but started coaching high school sports (baseball and basketball) while pursuing a Master's in Education at DePaul University. Upon graduating in 2012, I accepted a job at Providence Day and haven't looked back. Here at PD, I teach Algebra I, Accelerated Algebra II and SAT Prep. Outside of the classroom, I am the Associate Head Coach of the varsity baseball team, advise the Charger Asset Management Board and run No Shave November. Outside of school, I love traveling to see friends and family all over the country, running to stay in shape, playing golf and lounging at the house with my wife, dog and baby girl.

Payroll and Benefits Administrator

.5 Years of Service

Facilities, Campus Events

6 Years of Service

Teaching was not my first career choice. After graduating from Syracuse University with an MA in International Relations, I had hopes of being in the Foreign Service, but I wound up working as a travel representative in Cancún, Mexico, and eventually after a stint at Sears Roebuck decided to become a teacher, following in the footsteps of my mother, aunt, and three uncles. I began my teaching career in Chicago Public Schools, and later at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, Francis Parker and Catherine Cook Schools in Chicago, before coming to Providence Day.

I have a passion for teaching and particularly history. In my spare time I enjoy cooking and working on my family tree. In addition, I love spending time with my spouse, family and friends, traveling, and watching my beloved White Sox. It is a true pleasure being a part of the Providence Day community. 

Bus Driver, Athletics

8 Years of Service

Off-campus Coach

8 Years of Service

Facilities Operations Manager

21 Years of Service

I love working at Providence Day School! I was born to help people and have been placed in the perfect job for that. From helping the young TK students all the way up to our Seniors! Also helping our faculty and staff and our wonderful parents! It is a great honor to serve at Providence Day School!!!

My name is Dena Graziano. I was born and raised in Charlotte, NC. Providence Day School has shaped and molded me into the person I am today. I'm what we call, a "lifer," here at school. I grew up living and breathing PDS and I still believe that this school represents the best in education and my extended family. Finding my passion for learning here at school, extended into college in Atlanta, graduate school in Washington, DC, and living overseas in Australia. When not in the halls of PD, you can find me with my own kiddos, Addison (19), Noah (17) and Austen (15). I strongly believe that we are always learning regardless of our age and I believe that we should always always choose kindness.

Lower School Administrative Assistant

4 Years of Service

Facilities

8 Years of Service

Mr. Burgess started teaching at PDS in 1992 after six years in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System. Since then he has taught science classes in grades 6-9, and elective classes in 11th and 12th grades. He currently teaches weather, earthquakes, light, and optics in 7th grade. A winner of the Eichenbrenner Master Teacher Award Grant in 2001, and the Middle School Teacher of the Year in 2007, he credits the influence of the Apollo Space Program astronauts for his love for science, and was present at the launch of Apollo 15. He has been married to his wife, Traci, for 35 years. They are the proud parents of Lauren, Class of 2011, and Michael, Class of 2015. In his spare time, Mr. Burgess enjoys music, singing, and reading Scripture.

Facilities

5 Years of Service

I joined Providence Day as a 1st grader in 1995 and have been following the Charger Way ever since! Eventually attending Duke University, where I majored in music and theater arts with a strategic framework in service learning, I have come to be a passionate advocate for leveraging the benefits of the arts in all learning spaces for children.

I am so happy to be back at Providence Day in the third grade, where we use songs, movement, games, tons of rich texts and literature, and our active imaginations to bring student discoveries to life, all the whilst using our artistic toolbox to regulate our emotions, express ourselves in healthy ways as we build new friendships, and find mindful moments during a busy academic year. PDS is family, and I am honored to have been a part of it for so long and to have new members of my classroom family each year! Go Chargers!

After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Education from UNC Chapel Hill, I moved to Charlotte to begin my teaching career in Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. Charlotte has since become home and I am now entering my 8th year teaching middle school math. I love being part of a school community and working with middle school students. 

When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy traveling, trying new restaurants, cheering on the Tar Heels and Panthers, and hanging out with my dog, Tucker. I am so excited to be a part of the  Providence Day community!

My name is Elisa Clark and I grew up in Winston-Salem, NC. I graduated from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC with a BS in Early Childhood Development and a K-6 teaching certificate. After college, I taught 2nd grade, 1st grade, and Kindergarten in High Point, NC. In 1997, I moved to Charlotte with my husband, Gray. I found Providence Day School in 1998 and have been working here in many different capacities ever since. During my time at PDS, I have had the privilege of working in Summer Programs, Extended Day, Admissions, Kindergarten, and First Grade.

My husband, Gray, and I have two daughters, Cathryn and Elisabeth, who bring much joy into our lives. We also have “two four-legged boys,” Alvin and Theodore, who complete our family. Outside of school, my family enjoys trips to Sunset Beach with my extended family. I spend my free time walking, reading, and creating dollhouse miniatures. 

Associate Director, Summer Programs and Extended Day

15 Years of Service

As a UNC-Chapel Hill and UVA graduate, I am beyond thrilled to return to my home state doing what I love: teaching and learning from young people. Before I began teaching, I worked in the outdoor industry, serving as the Admissions Director for Moondance Adventures and spending my previous summers at Camp Merrie-Woode. I believe deeply in the power of experiential education and hope to elevate these opportunities with my students as much as I can. When I'm not at school you can find me outside running with my dog, sitting on my back porch with a cup of coffee, or spending time with my family.

I am happy to be a part of the Providence Day family and feel blessed to work at such a wonderful place. I started here as a parent. Both of my children have attended Providence Day, one of which graduated in 2013. I was a substitute teacher for several years and when an opening became available in kindergarten I knew it would be the perfect fit. I have a Bachelors degree in Early Childhood Education (K-6) from UNCC. My favorite part of being an assistant is getting to know each and every child in my class and learning how to make their day the best it can be. I learn their interests, what makes them happy and more importantly what makes them sad and anxious. I want every day to be as productive and happy as possible, and I work hard to assure this is possible for each child. Outside of school I enjoy gardening, walking my dog, reading and trying new recipes.

Admissions Associate

.5 Years of Service

To learn more about the Admissions team, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/admissions

I grew up on Eastern Long Island where I spent a good deal of my time on the Great South Bay, in a town that had a very active Sister City program with a town in the south of France. As early as 6th grade, I was enamored with all things French and was able to stay with a French host family twice during high school. I majored in French and Secondary Education at SUNY Cortland and studied abroad near Paris during my junior year. After graduation, I moved to the Washington, D.C. area to begin teaching middle school French. As a child, I had never been away to summer camp, so I decided to work at a sailing camp in the summer of 2001. There, I met a French sailing instructor who became my husband...and we celebrated with three weddings (civil, France, USA)! We moved from D.C. to Central Virginia, where I continued teaching French, earned a Master's Degree from the University of Virginia in Curriculum and Instruction and started a family. From Virginia, our family of five relocated to the Charlotte area in 2012 and we love calling Charlotte home! Prior to joining the Providence Day family, I was teaching French levels 1-5 and AP at the high school level. When I am not working, I enjoy cooking, home improvement projects and yard work, as well as the occasional sail or kayak ride on Lake Norman.

Admissions is a new career path for me and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to continue working in education. I look forward to working with prospective students and their families!

Upper School History Teacher

7 Years of Service

Hello! My name is Emily Young and I am starting my seventh year at Providence Day School. I am a graduate of Charlotte Latin School and Appalachian State University. I began my teaching career here in Charlotte, at Ardrey Kell High School, following in the footsteps of my mother, who has been in the classroom for 35+ years as a High School Spanish Teacher. In addition to being a classroom teacher, I am one of the Upper School Learning Specialists, working with Shelley Mikszan. I work directly to serve 9th and 10th graders. My office is located in Ridenhour, inside our Student Services department. Outside of the classroom, I am a club advisor and am beginning my Masters degree in School Counseling. This summer, I am a remote Early Table Leader for the College Board, scoring AP World History Essays. While it may not seem like the most exciting summer adventure, I always thoroughly enjoy my time with colleagues that I get to see once a year and catch up and collaborate on the ever-changing curriculum. I am looking forward to another great year!

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to work with children. After receiving a BA in History from the University of Wisconsin- Madison and a Master of Science in Education from Bank Street College in New York City I began my work with young children and have been at it for over 20 years. I am thrilled to be a teacher at Providence Day School and excited to be a part of all the fun and learning that will take place this year in Second Grade. When I am not at school I enjoy spending time with friends, cooking and baking, reading, and cheering on the Hornets, Panthers and of course, the Chargers!

Head of Upper School

26 Years of Service

To learn more about Eric Hedinger, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/about/school-leadership

It is a great privilege to be able to be part of a child's early exposure to language learning! Watching them move from novice learners to being able to use the language effectively is such a joy! Though, teaching is just one of the joys in my life! I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends, traveling to new cities/countries, basking in the beauty of nature, listening to live music, watching just about any sport, and working out…especially through dancing! I have taught French at Providence Day for many years and feel thankful for all of the opportunities this job has afforded me!

Head of Lower School

15 Years of Service

To learn more about Erin Harper, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/about/school-leadership

I'm originally from Maryland and attended The Bullis School for High School and Wake Forest University for college. I moved to Charlotte after graduating from Wake and I have fallen in love with the Queen City! In Charlotte I have.... Completed my Masters in Educational Leadership, met and married my husband (Ryan), had my first child (Zane), bought my dog (Otis), and found my DREAM job. Working at PDS is the BEST! The students, teachers, and families are one of a kind. GO CHARGERS!!

I am very excited to get to work with the student athletes of Providence Day School. I look forward to building relationships with all the students. While improving speed, strength and confidence. My wife Mallory and daughter Azalea Gates are excited to be joining the Charger family. 

Admissions Senior Associate Director

2 Years of Service

To learn more about the Admissions team, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/admissions

Fé began her career in Admissions as an undergraduate at her alma mater, Bowdoin College, where in addition to studying Psychology and Spanish and rowing on the Crew team she had the opportunity to serve as a Senior Interviewer in 2003 and continued her involvement as Chair of the Bowdoin Regional Admissions Volunteer Organization in both Georgia and North Carolina.

After going on to graduate school to pursue a Masters in Cognitive Science at the Johns Hopkins University, Fé returned to collegiate admissions in Upstate New York from 2008 to 2009 before beginning a new chapter in K-12 Independent School Admissions and Enrollment Management in Northern Virginia at the Flint Hill School. Fé wore many hats at Flint Hill (including Middle School volleyball coach) and finished up her 5 years as an Admissions Officer working with families applying to Middle School. From Oakton, Virginia, Fé's family moved to Atlanta where she had the opportunity to serve as the Director of Financial Aid and oversee Middle School Admissions at Pace Academy.

After 6 wonderful years at Pace the summer of 2020 brought Fé and her family to Charlotte where she was so excited to join the Admissions Team at Providence Day. Fé was so surprised to feel so welcomed at Providence Day since day 1, which was no easy task seeing as how she started at the height of the pandemic. She and her husband Nick are the parents of two proud Chargers, Peter (in the Class of 2033) and Paul (in the Class of 2036). When Fé isn't with her family or on campus meeting prospective families, she is a big fan of the arts especially musical theatre, loves to travel, and enjoys walking and hiking with her two Cockapoos.

I was raised both by my hometown of Newark, NJ and the independent schools I attended for grades 6-12. Before moving to Charlotte and becoming a Teaching Fellow in PD's English department, I studied anthropology and spent a year working in career services in higher ed. I have academic and personal interests in Brazil, where my family is from, and Portugal. I enjoy thinking and talking about how non-authors write about their own lives in diaries, letters, social media posts, etc. I also love to dance, read, bake, and annoy my cat with avalanches of affection. 

I am excited to witness the growth, development, and passions of PD students this year! 

I am living the dream. Father of two beautiful twin girls, married to the woman of my dreams, and I get to work with the amazing students, teachers, and staff at PDS. I love to draw and paint, hang out with my family, and stay active during my free time.

I do what I love and love what I do as a World Language teacher at Providence Day School. Fluency in French and Spanish and a hearty knowledge of German and Latin has opened many doors for me in my career and in my life. I credit my multilingual grandparents for introducing me to languages at a young age and for always encouraging my language learning. The very first trip I took abroad was with my grandmother who brought me to her hometown of St. Junien, France to relive our family history and to absorb the French culture and language. It was an experience that changed my life and sparked my love of languages. Each day, I love coming to work to model my enthusiasm and passion for languages with my students. My classroom is my stage and is a warm, inviting, and fun place to be. It is important for me to not only teach the aspects of languages, but to infuse life skills and personal growth into my lessons. I pride myself on creating a community atmosphere in my classroom. Also, student travel is key for me as a teacher, as well as for the students, so I continue to lead student trips to experience real life language learning with my students on location around the world. It is extremely rewarding to watch them piece together concepts that we had learned in the classroom as they put them into practice in another culture. It was an honor to watch my own son grow up at Providence Day and to see him flourish as an individual and a language student. I am grateful for the many professional development opportunities, resources, and freedom to be creative and inspiring to my students here at Providence Day. I look forward to many more years of generating excitement and enthusiasm for languages and travel with my students. Long live languages! Vive le français! ¡Viva el español!

Gina Mason has taught math and social studies to fifth-graders at Providence Day since 2018. Before moving to Charlotte, Gina lived in Los Angeles, California where she taught 4th and 5th grades for eight years at Crossroads in Santa Monica. Prior to that, she lived in the midwest where she spent nine years directing children's theater, working as the education coordinator at a children's museum, and teaching toddler classes. Gina earned her master’s degree in elementary education at National Louis University in Chicago, Illinois. Spending time with her wonderful husband and two adorable children keeps her busy when she is not at school. Gina also enjoys spending time in the outdoors, trying new gluten-free recipes, and learning new things.

Lower School Teaching Assistant

11 Years of Service

Institutional Advancement Administrative Assistant

First Year at Providence Day

Head of School

11Years of Service

To learn more about Glyn Cowlishaw, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/about/school-leadership

I love interacting with students as a teacher, Assistant Head of Upper School, and Dean. I enjoy running, hiking, exploring the latest trends in the media, & watching Carolina basketball (but not necessarily in that order). I'm married to a PD alumna and have two daughters - both of whom graduated from PD.

I'm a native Charlottean who grew up in the Midwest but found my way back home and to PDS in 2000. I have a true passion for assisting in the learning of our youngest students at PDS. I am also the proud parent of a daughter!

I am a French native speaker and a former United Kingdom-trained teacher. I have considerable experience teaching students of various age groups and levels internationally in both the UK and the USA, more precisely in North Carolina where I was a middle school teacher, and in Hilton Head, South Carolina, where I taught high school students. The reason I am attracted to America goes beyond curriculum. I greatly admire the country's creative innovation, culture, ideals, and history; so much so that I was eager to return to the USA in 2014 to learn more about the country's rich diversity, taste new experiences, and become more immersed in America’s unique culture. Outside of school, I enjoy reading Agatha Christie's novels, cultural and music festivals, as well as discovering other countries. My son is a student in lower school.

Innovation & Technology Specialist & Teacher

First Year at Providence Day

1 Year of Service

I am originally from Charlotte, NC. I received my B.F.A. from Savannah College of Art & Design and my M.F.A. from Columbia College Chicago. My work has been exhibited internationally including the National Portrait Gallery in London. I have taught everything from graphic design, film, photography, screenprinting, digital art, painting, and mixed media. I love teaching my students new ways of thinking and creating.

Facilities

5 Years of Service

2 Years of Service

It was important for me to teach in a school whose vision encourages independent thinkers, well-rounded students, and creative problem solvers. I found this at Providence Day as they too embrace this vision! One of my goals as a teacher is to instill a passion for lifelong learning in my students. Hopefully, something we talk about in the classroom will ignite a spark in them! I also think it is extremely important to develop a strong rapport with my students. We work hard in our class to develop a strong community and safe work environment. I am blessed to be the mom of two boys. My family enjoys watching collegiate sports of all kinds, especially football in the fall. As a graduate of the University of Tennessee, I am a huge Tennessee Volunteer fan! I also enjoy reading, cooking, and spending time on the lake and at the beach.

My name is Hsiu-Chen Chen. I have gone by Nina Chen since I moved to the States. I hold a master's degree in Education. I started teaching in elementary school right after graduating from the teacher college in Taiwan. I taught the Chinese language Immersion school at CMS prior to joining PDS. My two boys also attend PDS. This is my 11th year at PDS. I love the work environment at PDS and my kids also like the school. PDS is like another big family to us. I enjoy practicing yoga and walking during my leisure time. 

It started with a goat. Every afternoon the summer I was nine, Sunshine and I meandered around the scruffy grounds of Camp Anawana, exploring nature, observing laughter, taking in the day. And folks baaahh-ed when we moseyed by. By the time I entered Cornell, I believed myself to be the incarnation of Walt Whitman—“I am…a cosmos, of Manhattan the son”—which somehow translated into roaming around campus each afternoon during “frolic time,” rooooaaaaring gleefully at folks, bathing occasionally, and attempting to convince my peers of the positive aspects of the word “smelly.” With Levis rolled up to my knees and days of grime stewing, I found my calling: to irrigate Africa—yes, the entire continent. Though when that calling failed after taking a geology class for eight hours a day over the entire summer—I ended up attempting to bury rock outcrops so that there would be less to study—I stumbled upon what has ended up being my intellectual whey powder: the humanities. From gulping down everything from the paintings of Gericault and Delacroix to the words of Dickinson and Balsac (I know, funny), I became a lover of nineteenth century culture. I felt moved by the humanity I witnessed—by the inner-connectedness we all share. After spending some six months backpacking through Europe after university, a quest both to visit the works that moved me in my art history classes and to unearth my vocational calling, I decided to become a teacher. And I’ve been lucky to find a husband—Steven--who’s okay with me getting lost in the garden for hours upon hours each week-end, who shares my beliefs in social justice, who condemns my Fresca addiction, and who tolerates my playful antics. (For the past two days, I’ve been on a kick to send Shaving Cream—our Old English Sheepdog—to the Sylvan Learning Center so that he can improve his reading skills.) Yup, he’s one patient man. It has been years since I’ve been called Uncle Walt. But much of his spirit still guides me. Each day, I find myself roaming here nor there, attempting to connect with those around me through silliness and laughter and happy noises—the roooooaaarrr most recently has morphed to an OWWWWWWWWW. I know, ridiculous. For the past twenty years, through teaching art history, writing, literature, and social justice, I’ve encouraged students to find their voices, to see the world through different lenses, to explore our shared humanness. I continue to revel in the world around me. I thank the stars that I have such wonderful students who inspire me. And I look forward to finding something beautiful about each day.

I was born in New Jersey after my parents immigrated from Norway. We moved to Charlotte when I was in high school and graduated from Providence Day (a long time ago). I went to Appalachian State followed by Mercy School of Nursing. I was a Labor and Delivery Nurse for 16 years at Atrium Health before joining One Day Surgery for 4 years. I am so happy to be back at Providence Day School. It is truly is a full circle moment for me. I am married and have three boys. I like to swim, run and do puzzles with my boys.

Go Chargers!

Upper School English Teacher

12 Years of Service

At PD, Jack teaches a variety of required and elective English courses, as well as an interdisciplinary Environmental Studies course. He also promotes his passion for nature and environmental sustainability through his roles as Environmental Sustainability Coordinator and Charger Gardens Project Manager and his work with the PDSustainability campus service project. In his free time, Jack enjoys spending time with his family and getting outdoors.

Jack Whelan has been Providence Day’s Director of College Guidance since 2007, having previously served as Director of the College Counseling Office of TASIS, England prior to his many years as college counselor and English teacher at Saint Andrew’s School in Boca Raton, FL. Jack has also served on the Board of Directors for the Southern Association of College Admission Counseling (SACAC), as a delegate for the College Board, as a founding member of the College Counselor Advisory Team for the North Carolina Association of Independent Schools (NCAIS), and as an advisor for many college and university admissions offices. Jack earned his bachelors degree from Amherst College and masters from the Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College. Jack’s wife Patricia teaches in the Providence Day English Department, and his two daughters, Sarah and Gracie, are both proud PDS alumnae.

I am a Massachusetts native who moved to Charlotte to attend college. I earned my Bachelor's of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in athletic training from UNC Charlotte in 2007. I spend 6 years at Cannon School as an outreach athletic trainer with Select Physical Therapy.  For the past 9 years I was the head athletic trainer at Ardrey Kell High School through outreach with Atrium Health. I have a passion for helping athletes get back on the field and making sure they are safe and supported while participating in sports. 

I love the high school age students and am looking forward to building new and lasting relationships in this community.  When I'm not at work I am hanging out with my two dogs, traveling to new places, doing DIY projects around the house, or spending time with friends and family. 

Growing up I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher! After receiving my BA in Elementary Education from Clemson University, I began my work with young children and have been at it for over 20 years.I also received my Master of Science in Religious Studies from Fordham University in 2007. I am blessed to be a teacher at Providence Day School and excited to be a part of helping fifth grade students fulfill their potential and grow as a person and a student. When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with friends, traveling, reading, and cheering on the Carolina Panthers, Clemson Tigers, and of course, the Chargers! 

Facilities

11 Years of Service

Fortunately, I've been surround by individuals who are intellectually curious since I was a child, even though none of them were educators in a traditional sense. My first sense of identity was pieced together from the amalgamation of conversations about military, medical, agricultural, athletic, economic, and artistic pursuits, which still anchor my sense of self. Academically, I've earned degrees from the University of Georgia (BA and MA) and the University of South Carolina (PhD). Despite the joy I found while teaching in college classrooms for over a decade, I found my true calling in helping TK-12 students become more fulfilling versions of themselves via literature, social entrepreneurship, and innovation. I am elated to continue my journey of self improvement at PD and hope I can help my colleagues and students do the same. Go Chargers!

Mr. James Reeder grew up in southern Oregon as the 7th of 11 kids - he has seven sisters and three brothers. He was a four-sport athlete at St. Mary's High School and graduated in 1980. He then went to Oregon State and graduated with a B.S. in Computer Science in 1985, but with degree in hand, he decided to go back to school and become a teacher. He then went to Southern Oregon University and finished with both a teaching certificate and B.S. in Mathematics in 1987. After graduating, he taught a variety of topics from math to computers to Physics at St. Mary's for two years. Following his parents' path of getting out and seeing the 'real world' (his mom grew up in Baltimore, his dad in Oklahoma, and they got married in Tokyo), he accepted a teaching position at University School in the Cleveland area in 1990 and taught a variety of math classes there for 18 years. He met his wife, Katie, 6 months after moving to Ohio, and they have two boys, Joshua (soon to be 25) and Alexander (soon to be 23). He earned his M.A. in Mathematics from John Carroll University in 1995. Mr. Reeder has been teaching at PDS since 2008 and has been co-leader of the IDEAS Team since 2022 and the Computing and Innovation Department Chair since 2016. This year he will be teaching AP Computer Science A, AP Computer Science Principles, Advanced Structures in Java, Game Development w/ Unity, Computer Programming w/ Python, and iOS Programming w/ Swift. Outside of school, Mr. Reeder enjoys working out, riding his bike, hanging out with his dog Tuscan (a cute maltipoo), playing gigs, being a cantor (with his guitar) at his church, and visiting the mountains and the beach whenever possible.

What I love about theatre is that it is all of the arts combined. No matter what you are good at: dancing, singing, painting, designing, organizing, building.. there is a place for you in the theatre. It is a joy for me to help students discover where their talents lie and how they can effectively use those talents to contribute to the art of mounting a production. I became active in theatre in college and I have been teaching, directing, or performing in some capacity ever since. I earned an MFA in 2003 and I have enjoyed working in a variety of capacities and venues including outdoor dramas, educational tours, dinner theatre, and children's theatre. My daughter Monica is a Middle School student at PDS and part of the joy of my day is traveling to and from school with her, or seeing her on campus. I love to travel, crochet, decorate cakes, and bake with my daughter. I like to read and I love my pets. I am a West Virginia girl, so I feel most at home when I am close to the mountains. I am happy to be in Charlotte doing what I love each day for Providence Day School!

I love teaching at Providence Day School! It truly is my "home away from home." After moving to Charlotte in 2000, I joined the 4th grade team and met my wife, a 2nd grade teacher and PD alumna. 14 years later, I am thrilled that both of our children are now Chargers! As an educator, Providence Day is the most amazing place to work! Being a part of an all inclusive campus, I am constantly interacting with former students in the halls. It is such an unique and rewarding experience to watch them grow up right before my eyes! One of my favorite days of the school year is Commencement, when I have the privilege of seeing them begin their adult lives. When I'm not teaching in the classroom, I'm coaching on the lacrosse field. I always joke that I'm usually either wearing a tie or a whistle. I direct several area youth lacrosse organizations and leagues including the summer camps at Providence Day School. My love of lacrosse began as a child growing up in Syracuse, NY, and I'm thrilled to help spread the excitement of lacrosse down here in the south!

I am a New York native (the Bronx originally and later Upstate.) I am an alumna of Emma Willard School, an all girls independent boarding and day school in Troy, New York. I hail from a family of educators as my mother served as a community college administrator and my father served as a college professor. My family is from Nevis. A small island in the Caribbean where Alexander Hamilton was born. I have dual citizenship--the United States and St. Kitts & Nevis. Prior to joining the PD community, I worked in admissions and student affairs at the collegiate level as well as on a 2020 Presidential Campaign. I have lived in several cities in New York and Indiana as well as Boston and Las Vegas. I moved to Charlotte for my role at Providence Day School and I am grateful to be a part of this lovely community and to call this wonderful city home, now! I enjoy international travel, getting creative in the kitchen, nature walks, true crime docuseries and podcasts, spending time with family and friends (especially with my nephews, nieces and twin toddler Goddaughters) and taking care of my plants. 

I currently work at Extended Day with 3-5 graders afterschool. I am known as “The Queen of Fun!"

I love playing games with the kids and getting to know them and having fun whether we’re playing a game of kickball or four square or a game of Blokus!! I learned a new card game this summer and can’t wait to teach them that too!!!  

During the summers you’ll find me at PDS summer camps where I have 4 different camps like Minute to Win It, Game

During the day before I come to Extended Day I’m very busy with my cookie business, Jolly Elf Holiday Cookies. My twin sister and I work together and bake at night and in the mornings. That’s a passion of mine too and if you’ve  never had  our cookies, you need to!!! They are truly heavenly!!!! We specialize in sugar cookies but our nuggets and chocolate chip are very popular too!!!!

In my spare time, I love to cook and travel and visit my 2 grandchildren and spend time with my 3 children. My youngest is a senior this year and plays football.

Borrowing from Jorge Loius Borges on his "heaven is a kind of library" quote, I would have to say that working in a library at PDS is definitely one of those "kinds". Our physical building and number of resources are absolutely enviable. That I get to work here and bring books to kids (easier than bringing that horse to water for sure!) is just icing on the heavenly chocolate pudding. I started working in libraries in high school and college and decided to just keep going and get my Master's in Library Science too. I love reading, I love all varieties of kids and I love bringing stories to life. At home, I love reading, I love my family, I love my absurd number of pets and I love being outside with nature and inside with my crafts.

Lower School and Extended Day Teaching Assistant

6 Years of Service

After graduating from Davidson College in 1989, I've taught in New York, Virginia, Mexico, Vermont, and sometimes it's hard to believe we've been at PD since 2003! Shea and I married in 2000, and our daughters are proud lifers! We're ready for the next phase as Libby starts the 10th grade and Sophie heads off to Furman. Outside of the classroom, I love to sing and play music with the PDaddies.

Coming from a family of educators, teaching has always been very important to me. My love of learning and desire for helping others, led me to pursue a career as a teacher. I am a graduate of UNC- Charlotte with a BA in Elementary Education. I love working with my students and finding creative ways to engage and spark their desire to learn. I joined the faculty at Providence Day School in 1997 and I have been teaching in Second Grade for 19 years.  I feel honored to work at a school where there is a total commitment to educational excellence and character development for all students. Prior to my teaching career, I traveled as a flight attendant for Trans World Airlines. During that time, I had the wonderful opportunity to visit many interesting and amazing places around the world.

I earned my Global Educator’s diploma at PDS and traveled with World View to Senegal, West Africa and chaperoned a student trip to South Africa. My family and I absolutely have enjoyed being a part of the PDS community. My daughter Jenny graduated from PDS (’08) and middle son, Sydney (’09). My youngest son, Wesley attended PDS from TK to MS and graduated from Providence HS (’14). We have a lovable and frisky cat named JoJo, who loves to climb and take naps. When I am not teaching in my classroom, you can probably find me on the tennis courts. I enjoy participating in USTA leagues and being the captain of many teams in the Charlotte area.

“The world is the true classroom. The most rewarding and important type of learning is through experience, seeing something with our own eyes.” – author unknown.

Librarian Circulation Assistant

4 Years of Service

Associate Head of School for Institutional Advancement

11 Years of Service

To learn more about Jeff Appel, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/about/school-leadership

This is my 10th full year teaching and coaching at Providence Day. After graduating from Middlebury College in 1983 I was a player/lacrosse coach in Perth, Australia and then an assistant lacrosse coach at Denison University. After two years as a graduate assistant  lacrosse coach at the Univ. of Massachusetts I was named  the head lacrosse and assistant soccer coach at the Univ. of Vermont for 11 years. Previous to coming to Charlotte I spent seven years as a middle school P.E. teacher, soccer and golf coach at Bosque School in Albuquerque, NM.

After nearly twelve years of teaching at the college level, I made the transition to teach fulltime at Providence Day School beginning in 2013. Every day at PDS reaffirms my decision to work with our Upper School students and the entire PDS Community. On any given day at PDS I can find myself discussing the merits of the Progressive reformers, facilitating a simulation on the Federal Election Commission, assisting with a student designed community-wide voter registration drive, being recruited to assist a student in his elaborate plan to ask a classmate to Homecoming, supporting a student-led initiative to eliminate food deserts, working out (poorly) with the girls Lacrosse team, moderating a practice round with the Academic World Quest team, arguing with my advisees over who would win in a fight: Superman or the Hulk, and all of this before noon! I am excited to find a school that welcomes innovation, creativity, and embraces the “mindful student” as well as the “busy-minded” student! I am among the future rock stars of industries not yet invented! I am seeing history happen every day at PDS and it excites this historian right here!

I am privileged to teach AP Human Geography. It is a course that provides many opportunities for great discovery, reflection, and discussion. I am also serving as the Advisor for Student Government. I cannot wait to work with this dynamic group of young people. I also am the proud parent of three beautiful daughters. My children have taught me tremendous amounts about joy, laughter, patience, flexibility, and of course humility. Although having three children can be very hectic, I believe it makes me the educator that I am today. It is such an honor not only to help students grow intellectually, but also as individuals. Our students at Providence Day are kind, funny, helpful, hard working, and incredibly intelligent. It is my gift to not only teach, but also learn from each of them. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my children, serving at my church, and participating in Crossfit.

My goal is to inspire in students a passion for physics and lifelong learning.

Middle School World Language Teacher

3 Years of Service

Associate Director of Admissions

3 Years of Service

To learn more about the Admissions team, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/admissions

Teaching and spending time in school is a family tradition and the school campus always feels like home to me. My mother taught for over 30 years, and many other family members are educators. What lively dinner conversations we had growing up!  

I have been fortunate to work in the independent school world for over 22 years and am thrilled to be a part of the PD family! I have enjoyed many experiences and always welcome new opportunities. Over the years, I have taught second grade, LS computer classes, resource/academic coach, and served as a middle and lower school administrator. I especially enjoy working in Admissions and sharing our beautiful campus and wonderful community with visitors. PD is a joyful place to be!

My family and I enjoy attending Carolina Panther and Charlotte Football Club games, theater events, going to the beach and traveling. However, what we love the most is just being together and spending time with our precious grandchildren!

Administrative Support Specialist

24 Years of Service

Assistant Head of Lower School

6 Years of Service

I grew up in Pennsylvania and made my way south for Clemson University and I have never gone back. I moved to Charlotte after graduate school and I absolutely love it here. I met my husband, Andy in the Queen City. We have three children, Lia, Jake, and Sydney who are all Chargers. I knew at a young age that I wanted to be a teacher and work in the field of education. Over the last twenty years I have been a special education teacher, a school psychologist, a school counselor, and a college professor. I love school and learning! I was thrilled to join the Providence Day Community in 2016. Providence Day is the most welcoming and caring school community that I have been a part of! I look forward to coming to Lower School every day and working with our fantastic teachers, students, and parents!

Jenny is one of the Lower School Counselors at Providence Day School. She is passionate about supporting and encouraging students to be their most authentic selves. When not at school, Jenny loves spending time playing and watching sports with her two boys and traveling. She is a huge Tar Heel fan!

Lower School First Grade Teacher

.5 Years of Service

Director, Global Education 

4 Years of Service

I am an alum of Providence Day School, class of 2004, and I graduated from Georgia Tech with a B.S in Business Management with a focus in Operations and Technology. I had a wonderful opportunity to play professional basketball in Sweden for a couple of years. I have been teaching at PD since 2015. I am fortunate to have found my passion: teaching Middle School students. My goal is to help students develop the confidence in their abilities and have a passion for learning. In my free time, I enjoy doing puzzles, reading and traveling.

I’m originally from Dayton, Ohio and attended The Ohio State University for college. I taught first grade in Ohio for a few years before moving to Charlotte. I taught several years in public school in Charlotte before taking some time off to stay home with my 2 sons. When they were both in school I knew it was time to go back and pursue my passion for teaching. I spent a few more years in public school before I made the switch over to Providence Day. I feel so lucky to have found such an amazing place to continue teaching.

I joined the Providence Day School faculty in 2012. Prior to moving to Charlotte with my wife and two daughters, I taught at Collegiate School in Richmond, Virginia for 11 years. I was appointed to the position of US Science Department Chair in 2013 and was honored to be chosen as the US Teacher of the Year for 2016-2017. I teach AP Biology and I love being part of such a dynamic community. I treasure the relationships forged between students and faculty and the dedication, creativity, and professionalism of my colleagues in the science department.

Afternoon Circulation Desk Assistant

First Year at Providence Day

I was raised in small town Metamora, Illinois. Following high school, I attended the University of Notre Dame, where I graduated with a degree in psychology in 2002. After college, I resided in Iowa City, Los Angeles, and Chicago, where I worked in various non-profit organizations as a counselor for at-risk adolescents before settling in Charlotte in 2006. 

I believe that psychology is a wonderful subject for young people to study. It is applicable to so many areas of daily life, and it provides a venue for discussion about what it means to be human, just as high school students are moving through a particularly formative period of their development. 

In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, woodworking, gardening, and watching far more television than is good for me. I am also a loyal Chicago Cubs fan who after the World Series win spends most of his time shuffling about looking for purpose in life.

People often describe the Providence Day community as a 'family'. It is a school that is full of wonderful people who care deeply about all of those around them. This statement takes on further meaning for me. Providence Day was my home for most of the most formative years of my life. As both the son of a faculty member (first grade teacher Joanne Compton) and a 'Lifer', I was more or less raised here. I started here in TK and graduated from PD in 2004, and I can attribute many of my interests today to my time at Providence Day as a student. I did my undergraduate work in History at Wake Forest University, then continued my education at Wake and earned my MAEd in Secondary Social Studies Education. In addition to my love of history, I was also able to pursue my passion for running as I had the opportunity to run track and cross country at Wake Forest. I graduated from the Masters program in the summer of 2009 and moved back to Charlotte to begin my teaching career. I started off teaching Civics, Comparative Government, and History of the 1960s, but have since transitioned into a more Global role as I continue to teach Global Civics and Comparative Government, but have also added Global Studies: East and Southeast Asia and Global Studies: Middle East and North Africa to my repertoire. In addition to teaching, I have served as the Chair of the Honor Council since the Fall of 2023 after serving as a Faculty member from 2010-2023. In the fall I work with the varsity cross-country team along with my former coach Ben Hovis, and in the spring I work with the middle school boys track team along with my former coach Bill Gallagher. I have earned my Global Educator's Certificate. This has allowed me to pursue my love of traveling. In the past few years I have traveled to China, Cambodia, and Germany through PDS. When I'm not at school, you can most often find me on the trails or on the roads continuing my love of running. My wife and I welcomed our son Oliver in the fall of 2022! I also love to travel, read, and spend time with friends. Providence Day helped me to become the individual that I am today, and I am honored to be back here as an educator.

I have been working at Providence Day since 1991 as a teacher and athletic trainer. I earned my BS degree from West Chester University and my MS degree from Marshall University. I have been a certified athletic trainer since 1984. I enjoy teaching about sports medicine and helping athletes. My wife is also an athletic trainer, and we are adjusting to being "empty nesters". We have four children who have all now graduated from college. In my free time I enjoy watching any sport, and playing golf when I can.

Safety Officer

7 Years of Service

Proctor

3 Years of Service

Custodian

3 Years of Service

When I was a child, my dad told me, "Read everything you can get your hands on." My professional journey represents my best attempt to do what he advised. I began my career as a Teach For America corps member, and TFA's mission still sticks with me: I believe that all children deserve an excellent education. One reason I love teaching at Providence Day is because we are actively connected to the needs of our Charlotte community. Outside the English Department, I am the Freshman & Sophomore Grade Level Dean, and I serve on the Honor Council. I feel lucky to do two of my favorite things at my job: teach English and serve a city that has given me so much. When I am not at PD, you can find me spending time with my husband Jason and our two children, likely on a local greenway or hiking trail.

Jordan is a North Carolina native actor who has worked professionally, acting and designing, in the theatre throughout the country. He has been seen performing here in Charlotte (Central Piedmont Summer Theatre); Charleston (Charleston Stage Company) Denver, Colo., (Midtown Arts Center); Winchester, Va., (Shenandoah Summer Music Theatre); and New York City (Project Rushmore Theatre). Some of Jordan's favorite roles include Huck Finn (Big River), Bobby Strong (Urinetown), Peter (Peter Pan), Tobias (Sweeney Todd), Jack (The Weir), Al (A Chorus Line), Terk (Tarzan) and Motel (Fiddler in the Roof). Jordan has also been seen singing with the prestigious New York City Chamber Orchestra at Carnegie Hall in NYC. Jordan attained his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre and Minor in Vocal Performance from Catawba College. During his collegiate career, Jordan was a two-time recipient of the Kennedy Center's Irene Ryan acting award. Jordan teaches design by honoring the playwright and director through an actor’s eye. 

Custodian

1 Year of Service

I have found a home here at Providence Day. It is my goal to provide a nurturing and challenging environment so that each student may excel to their fullest potential. It is a goal for me to help steer them to develop the skills and knowledge basis to become mature, informed, and active members of society. I have been at PD since the fall of 2007, where I have taught a variety of science courses. I am thrilled that I can share this wonderful school with my family and have my children attend the Lower and Middle school each day. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, gardening, organically growing crops, spending quality time with my family, and of course a good movie in the evening to unwind from the busy day.

Josh Springer, native of Appleton, WI, was named Head Varsity Girls Basketball Coach at Providence Day School on July 4th, 2007. During Springer’s fifteen seasons, the Chargers have continued their tradition as one of the elite high school programs in the country. Coach Springer has guided the Chargers to ten NCISAA (North Carolina Independent School Athletic Association) State Championship Titles (2008, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, & 2020.)  Coach Springer has guided the Chargers to an eye-popping 372-75 overall record during his fifteen seasons.  Springer oversaw the majority of the Chargers 108 game CISAA Conference game winning streak that went from 2004-2018.  Springer was recognized as the North Carolina Girls Basketball Coach of the Year by USA Today in 2014 and Charlotte Observer Girls Basketball Coach of the Year in 2011 and 2016.  Coach Springer was recognized in 2019 as the Charlotte Observer Coach of the Decade.

Under Springer’s watch, the Chargers have produced nineteen players that have gone on to play at the college level, including four North Carolina Gatorade Players of the Year, three USA Olympians, two McDonald’s All-Americans, and one WNBA player.

Prior to joining Providence Day in 2007, Springer coached on the college level for seven seasons.  He served as the recruiting coordinator for nearby Belmont Abbey College Women’s Basketball team. At the Abbey, Springer assisted in the development of Division II All-American, Nicole Woods, who then went on to play professionally in Europe. Springer’s coaching career also has included stints at the University of Wisconsin-Fox Valley, Wisconsin-Green Bay Viking Club (AAU), Green Bay Southwest High School (WI), Ohio University, Emory & Henry College (VA), and Tusculum College (TN).

Internationally, Springer has coached teams from the U.S. in tournaments held in Holland, Australia, Italy, and the Bahamas.

Springer and his wife, Holly (who teaches 4th grade at PD), were married in 2006 and reside in Charlotte. The Springers have two children (Tyler-14 and Logan-9) who both attend Providence Day. In his free time, Springer enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, and taking in as many football and basketball games as possible. Go Badgers and Packers!

Looking back at my childhood, there is no surprise that I became a teacher. I was the oldest of seven, and the only girl. Since my mother had her hands full working a full-time job, I became the conductor of our family orchestra making sure daily tasks were completed at the right time and in the right way. To this day, my brothers still tell stories of their big sister organizing the household and helping them manage their daily activities. Of course there are also stories of when I chased them out the front door with a broom because they were being less than cooperative, but no one should believe everything they hear! My brother, Jack was born with Down’s Syndrome. Jack taught me about patience and that learning new skills can take lots of practice. Growing up with Jack led me to majoring in special education. Being a special education major gave me endless opportunities for learning and practicing methodology for teaching “all kinds of minds.” Teaching gave me great joy and permitted me to see the world through the creative eyes of children. Teaching also gave me opportunities to celebrate accomplishments with my students, accomplishments that often times were the result of lots of practice and consistent hard work. Teaching at Providence Day has provided me with endless opportunities to grow as a teacher, parent, and colleague. I have been able to pursue my passion for lifelong learning. One of my personal goals is to give back to Providence Day what my children’s teachers gave to them; a deep sense of community and countless tools for lifelong learning. My husband and I will be eternally grateful for the care and dedication our children received at Providence Day. “Paying It Forward” has never been so much fun! THANK YOU, Providence Day!

I"m a midwest girl who grew up in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago and in the City after graduating from the University of Dayton, Ohio. While living in Chicago I earned my M.Ed at DePaul University and taught High School French. I spent a year teaching English in France before moving to Charlotte, NC in 2001 to raise a family in warmer weather. I have been part of the PDS family since my oldest daughter started TK in 2007, followed by her sister who started Kindergarten in 2010. I started substitute teaching in in 2016 and became a 4th grade Teacher Assistant the following year. I love giving back to the community that has been such an important part of my children's life. Go Chargers!

Grounds Crew Member

1 Year of Service

Associate Director of EIB Programs & Education

First Year at Providence Day

Extended Day Teacher

6 Years of Service

I am thrilled to be joining the Providence Day community as a teaching assistant in Lower School.  I received my undergraduate degree in business administration from East Carolina University. After working in banking for several years I decided my passion was teaching. I earned my Master's degree in Elementary Education from University of North Carolina at Greensboro. I taught  K-2 in the Charlotte Mecklenburg School system for years before staying home to raise a family.  As an empty nester I decided it was time to return to the classroom. I spent two years as a teaching assistant at CMS schools. My daughter was a "lifer" at Providence Day so coming to work in the lower school feels like coming home. When not at work I enjoy spending time with family and friends, walking my dogs, working out, reading and traveling.

Middle School Learning Specialist

9 Years of Service

Director of Advancement Services

11 Years of Service

To learn more about the Institutional Advancement team, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/philanthropy/meet-the-team

I grew up in Chester, S.C. before attending Clemson University. In college, I got the opportunity to play football and esports! Post graduation, I got into coaching high school football and soccer and then college football.

In 2022, I decided to change career paths into esports and spent a year launching an esports department in Virginia at a standalone sportsplex.

While my BA is in Theatre & Speech from Wagner College, I like to tell people that I have a PhD in Life Experience: acting in film and television in NYC; editing textbooks for Harcourt Publishing; working in a bone-carving village in Indonesia; competing at Miss America in 2001; running with the Olympic torch for Salt Lake City; singing with the Boston Pops; coordinating a marketing campaign for CCA Global Partners; and serving as a furniture spokesmodel in South Carolina. Once I became a mom, it became my mission to cultivate this same desire for adventure in my children; as a result, our family rarely sits still. We love golf, tennis, yoga, dance, games, hiking, water sports, cooking, and even waterfall hunting. Oh, and we love rescue dogs. Our Redbone Coonhound, Wyatt Twerp, keeps us busy, running and walking, while our newest pup (we think a Whippet/Lab mix?), Pippa Middleton, keeps us busy with training and chastising.

Even before schools started pursuing the concept of differentiated learning, I took a kinesthetic approach to education. If you stop by my classroom unannounced, you’ll often find students playing Vocab Basketball or Silent Football, engaging in Sentence Line-Ups, or perhaps sentence branching with Legos as visuals.

Database Manager for Institutional Advancement

6 Years of Service

To learn more about the Institutional Advancement team, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/philanthropy/meet-the-team

I have a passion for teaching that I discovered and nurtured throughout my career at Providence Day. My favorite aspect of our community is the chance to teach young children and then, to maintain a relationship with them as they grow up on our TK-12 campus. A diehard Tarheel fan, I graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a BA in Communications Studies and Psychology. I received my Masters of Arts in Teaching from Queens University while I was working in the kindergarten at Providence Day. I enjoy putting my time and energy into helping less fortunate children in Charlotte to have educational opportunities during the summer through our Freedom School.When I am off campus, I am usually putting my passport to good use! I love to travel around the world and have visited six of the seven continents! I was able to channel this passion into completing the Global Educators’ certificate at school and chaperoning multiple trips with Upper School students. Broadening my own international experiences me daily to encourage my students to think beyond their own immediate world.

Teaching our youngest Chargers at Providence Day School is a privilege and honor that I do not take lightly! My name is Katie Nieves and I am so grateful to be a part of this incredible academic community. In TK, we enjoy learning through imagination, play, and discovery. My favorite part about teaching TK is watching my students learn and grow in developmentally appropriate ways, while also gaining strong foundations in their peer interactions. I have been fortunate to teach young children for over five years in grades k-2. I have a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Wingate University where I was able to visit several schools in Union County which gave me valuable experience in teaching elementary age students. During the summer of 2022, I completed a two week Orton-Gillingham training that has provided me with more tools in my tool belt to teach foundational reading skills. Aside from school, I enjoy spending time with my friends, family, and my two pets (Hadley and Lily). I look forward to another awesome year here at Providence Day School!

Keith is a residency-trained Emergency Physician with 20 years of experience in clinical medicine. He recently decided to take on the only slightly less terrifying task of working with middle school students.

What fun it is to be a TK teacher at Providence Day School! My name is Kelly Smith and I feel so fortunate to be a part of this amazing academic community. Our TK students have the most fun learning through imagination and play, using a variety of creative outlets to explore the world around them. I have taught young children for over ten years in grades K-2. I have a bachelor’s degree in English, where I spent years studying British and American children's classics, and a master's degree in teaching. Using these together, I enjoy incorporating great literature and creative instructional practices into our daily routine. Aside from school, I enjoy traveling and spending time with family and friends. I look forward to another exciting year here at Providence Day School!

As an educator, nothing excites me more than being a catalyst in the growth and maturation of a middle schooler. The sight of a nervous but curious sixth grader then developing into a self-confident and mature 8th grader as they are exiting middle school, is a source of fulfillment. Knowing that I play a part in what guides and shapes our students in becoming academically astute, compassionate, and critical thinkers propels my passion for education. 

I began my career in the classroom in Atlanta, GA. After serving as a teacher for five years I entered administration, I served as an Assistant Principal for 15 years, prior to moving to Charlotte. I am thrilled to join the Providence Day family as the Assistant Dean of Students. 

I really enjoy spending time outdoors reading, swimming, hiking, walking or just hanging out with family or friends. I was high ropes certified in Ohio so you might find me in the trees on a ropes course or flying down a zipline!I have traveled to many countries and would love to hear about some of your adventures! You can catch me sharing my passion for math in Lower School!

Maintenance

1 Year of Service

I am a Massachusetts native who moved to Charlotte to attend college.  I earned my Bachelor's of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in athletic training from UNC Charlotte in 2007. I spend 6 years at Cannon School as an outreach athletic trainer with Select Physical Therapy.  For the past 9 years I was the head athletic trainer at Ardrey Kell High School through outreach with Atrium Health. I have a passion for helping athletes get back on the field and making sure they are safe and supported while participating in sports. 

I love the high school age students and am looking forward to building new and lasting relationships in this community.  When I'm not at work I am hanging out with my two dogs, traveling to new places, doing DIY projects around the house, or spending time with friends and family. 

Network Administrator

12 Years of Service

I was born and raised in the Northwest suburbs of Chicago and came to Charlotte in 2015. (Much to the excitement of my family here.) In 2016 I was thrilled to become a part of the PDS family! I love the enthusiasm young children have for learning and nurturing that passion. My husband, Andy and I have two sons. Jeff who is pursuing a career as a chef here in Charlotte and Drew who is a Research Analyst for a firm in Baltimore, Maryland. I am currently working on my Masters in Teaching at Queens University. I enjoy traveling, baking, kayaking, spending time with my family and I always carry a good book with me wherever I go.

Upper School World Language Teacher

4 Years of Service

When I first decided to enter the teaching field, I did so because of my love of literature and writing. Over twenty years later, I still love my career, but it has much less to do with my subject area and much more about the students themselves. Middle schoolers' energy is contagious. They come to school wanting to learn, participate, and discover. Not a day goes by that I don't l smile or laugh; I have the best "bosses" in the world: a large group of twelve and thirteen year olds!

Assistant Head of School for Finance and Risk Management

7 Years of Service

To learn more about Kristen Kral, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/about/school-leadership

Lower and Upper School Physical Education Teacher

16 Years of Service

I love being part of the PDS family as a teacher and a parent! After graduating from Providence Day, UNC-Chapel Hill, and Royal Holloway, I entered the classroom and have been teaching Middle School English, both in Charlotte and London, for over fifteen years. I love to teach young adolescents and understand the importance of creating engaging, relevant, and developmentally appropriate lessons that inspire each student to reach his/her potential. I have a passion for traveling, reading, writing curriculum, and spending time with my family.

I began my teaching career in Howard County, Maryland, where I taught lower school and gifted and talented education for 13 years.  After moving to North Carolina in 2009, I worked at three different private schools before landing here at PDS.  I have been fortunate to teach in all divisions- lower, middle, and upper- which has given me the opportunity to interact with kids of all ages and to observe the many different stages of student growth and development.  The bottom line is I am passionate about teaching no matter the level of expertise- I love helping kids realize their full potential as lifelong learners and community members!  I am thrilled to be a part of the PDS family, and I look forward to my time here on campus.  Go Chargers!

After changing my major in college at least five times in two years, I settled on English, and then I found myself in the throes of an MAT program. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about teaching, but I can honestly say that I love what I do. I spent 11 years as a member of the English department at PDS, and since 2008 I've been in the College Guidance department, often drawing upon my experience in the classroom as I help students tell their stories to prospective colleges. I love getting to know students and their families, and I also love that my two sons, Connor and Will, are growing up as members of the PDS community.

Having spent my TK-12th grade years as a student at Providence Day School, I guess you can say that PDS is in my blood. I gained my zest for being a lifelong learner from the fabulous teachers I had growing up. I love to learn and experience new things, and I am always up for an adventure!

Since 2009, I have worked in a variety of children's programming that included summer camps, sports lessons, birthday parties, special events, and more. I am thrilled to join the PDS family and continue my career working with children of all ages. 

I obtained my BA in Communication from Florida State University and my MS in Sport Administration from Georgia State University. When not at PDS, you can find me spending time with my husband and two young daughters (usually outside at a playground!).

1 Year of Service

Lauren holds degrees from North Carolina State University and Queens University.

"I am not a teacher, but an awakener." - Robert Frost

Having been in the classroom Since 2008, this quote fully represents what I love about teaching. The moment when a child experiences something new and makes a connection, that 'light bulb' moment, is magical. 
My wonderful husband, Robbie, also works at PDS in Facilities. We have a son, Warren, as well as our four-legged children: our dogs, Philip and Murray, and our cat, Phoebe.

My highest hope is that every student in my class greets each school morning with smiles on their faces, excited and ready to learn! To learn is a lifelong experience, and how young minds are introduced to school will create a passion for learning. I hope to help instill that passion!

School Store Manager

13 Years of Service

Middle School Dean of Students

16 Years of Service

To learn more about Lee Tappy, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/about/school-leadership

Looking back, Lee knew that he wanted to be an English Teacher by the end of his tenth grade year. However, that goal was solidified when, as a junior at Providence Day, he entered Mrs. Patsy Steimer's class. Mrs. Steimer not only helped him to cultivate a love for reading and a passion for creative writing, but, in doing so, she also showed an amazing amount of patience. Lee knows that he was a challenge to have in class at times, but Mrs. Steimer was able to help him find a positive outlet for his energy and humor. Of course, there were other teachers and professors who inspired him and helped him along the way. Eventually, all of those lessons led Lee back to PDS to teach and coach--and later, to become an administrator-- at the school that meant so much to him as a student. In his 15 years at PD, Lee has taught both 7th and 9th grade English and a Creative Writing elective for Juniors and Seniors. He has served as the Middle School Student Leadership Team advisor and as a faculty representative on the Upper School Honor Council. He also spent three years as the Freshman Class Dean, and three more as the Middle School Dean of Students. After one year as the Assistant Head of Middle School, Lee moved into the role of the Head of Middle School. Lee and his wife, Robin, have twins who are rising 6th graders at Providence Day, and they love traveling, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.

Upper School Mathematics Teacher

23 Years of Service

When I think of Providence Day, the first word that pops into my mind is family. I feel like I have grown up at PDS, coming to work on the 5th grade team not long after college. I was excited and ready for the next step of adulthood! Little did I realize then what Providence Day is all about.Our school is special in so many ways, it becomes a part of who you are the longer you are here. From the faculty and staff that work here to the love and care that is given to each student, PDS is a school like no other. Now that my daughters are students at PDS, our school is an integral part of our daily lives. Knowing that my girls are being taught by fellow colleagues and friends is the best feeling in the world. We are all dedicated to encouraging young people to push themselves to do their personal best, to become a solid problem solvers, to be a contributing member of our community, and to feel that they belong to something special here at Providence Day. I love being a part of the 4th grade team here at PDS. We are a strong, unified team that is always open to change, and we love learning from each other as well as our students. I feel that my daily role in my classroom is that of a facilitator. Children learn best when they are discovering, problem solving, and searching for the answers! Having fun while you are learning is also a must in my book. Come in to our 4th grade world, and let’s learn together and see what we can discover!Something that is extremely important to me is my family. Making time for them is top priority. These moments of special together time are precious! My husband, Chad, the girls, and I love to be outdoors! We enjoy biking, playing basketball, cheering for the Tar Heels, and traveling to the mountains and coast. These are the moments that our children will remember. So you always have to get out there and make the most of it!

I'm originally from Baltimore, Maryland. I served in the U.S. Navy for five years as a Hospital Corpsman in San Diego, CA. After discharging from the Navy, I was a police officer for twelve years with the Kannapolis Police Department in Kannapolis, NC. During my tenure as a police officer, most of my time was spent as a lead detective over the Special Victims Unit investigating crimes against children. I also served three years as a School Resource Officer.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with family, coaching football, bowling, and traveling.

Mrs. Clowes has a Bachelor of Music Education, with a concentration in Instrumental Music, from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, PA, a Master of Music from Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC, with a concentration in Wind Conducting, and is a National Board Certified Teacher.  Most recently Mrs. Clowes served as the Director of Bands at Crestdale Middle School in Matthews; a position she held for 18 years.  She has also served as the color guard instructor at East Mecklenburg High School, the Director of Bands at Spaugh Middle School, and an itinerate elementary band director in several Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools.  Mrs. Clowes is active as a clinician and adjudicator for both concert and marching bands.  She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the South Central District Bandmasters Association and has a private clarinet studio.  Mrs. Clowes thoroughly enjoys sharing her passion for music with young musicians and strives to foster an appreciation for the arts through playing an instrument.  Mrs. Clowes has three children and two grandchildren.  She and her husband, Scott, live in Charlotte.

Lower School World Language Teacher

First Year at Providence Day

I earned my B.A. in Child and Family Development with a birth through kindergarten NC state teaching license and a minor in psychology in 2005. I earned my Master's in Reading (K-12) in 2020. I began my teaching career in 2005 as a teacher in CMS. To learn more about Montessori, I began working at a local private school as an Early School Montessori Assistant in 2012. 

I believe children learn best through literacy, free exploration, hands-on activities, play, peer interactions, and a balance of teacher-led and child-initiated activities in a safe, nurturing, and respectful environment. 

I enjoy photography, outdoors, animals, water, reading, traveling, and spending time with my precocious, active, talkative 8-year-old son (soon to be 9), my handy husband, my sweet pup, Jasper, my parents, and my friends. I'm also a chronic illness advocate in my spare time.

A former professor once told me that there is no better way to connect with people or to truly understand their history, perspectives, and values than by being able to communicate with them in their native language. I have always carried that in my heart along with my love for the Spanish language and Spanish-speaking cultures. My hope is that each of my students will build their skills and confidence in class so that they are excited to use what they learn outside of class. 

This year marks my fourteenth year of teaching at PDS! This will be my third year teaching Lower School Spanish, after teaching Spanish for eleven years with Middle and Upper School students. I love teaching students of all ages, but there is a special place in my heart for our littlest Chargers! 

My husband, Jeremy and I have a 1st grader here at Providence Day, our daughter, Emery. We also have a two year old daughter, Stella, and our sweet pit bull named Bueno ("Good" in Spanish!) We love to get outside, exercise, read, and travel whenever we can! 

I have the best job in the world!  I dreamt of being an art teacher when I was a little girl, and I am so thankful I get to live my dream everyday.  I have experience teaching Kindergarten-8th grade art in the Charlotte area since 2004.  I am thrilled to be part of Providence School and to be working with 5th-8th graders.  My students inspire me, they are the reason I teach.  I am a passionate person with a love for creating and I want to instill that joy and love for art in others.  When I am not in the classroom I enjoy running, traveling, and spending time with my family.

I began teaching at PD in 2019, but my teaching career began in 2005 in Brockton, Massachusetts. As a teacher, I welcome questions from students. It is my goal to inspire students to want to learn more about the world around them. My two children attend PD (8th and 5th grade). As a PD parent, I love asking my children, “What questions did you ask today?”

I have taught Latin, World Religions, World History, and British Literature at Charlotte-area independent schools, and in Massachusetts as well. My true love is teaching how ancient civilizations and languages have impacted the world around us. I attended the American School of Classical Studies in Athens and have excavated at a variety of archaeological digs in Italy. I have had the opportunity to lead student groups on tours in Italy (climbing Mt. Vesuvius, attending gladiatorial school, and serving in a refugee center in Rome). I plan to lead PD groups in the future.

My passions include traveling, circus activities, and having outdoor adventures with my family.

Lisa J. Bernard, Ed. S. is a certified school psychologist with 30 years of experience in the public school system both in Ohio and, most recently, in South Carolina. Lisa, originally from Ohio, has had extensive training in crisis prevention and intervention, suicide prevention and intervention, threat assessment, and a variety of other mental health issues related to the social-emotional well-being of our students. She is excited for the opportunity to bring her diverse experiences and knowledge by working as a school psychologist to our middle school counseling program. With her warm and caring manner, Lisa has the innate ability to develop positive working relationships with students, parents, and faculty members. She is excited to be a part of the PD community!

Assistant Head of School for Admissions and Enrollment Management

4 Years of Service

To learn more about Lisa Knight, click here: https://www.providenceday.org/about/school-leadership