New Teachers and Staff
We have new VHE family members!
Let's give a warm welcome to our newest teachers & staff!
I am excited to join the Virginia-Highland Elementary community! I earned my degree in Elementary Education from Kennesaw State University and my Master’s degree from Piedmont University. With seven years of experience teaching elementary students, I am passionate about building strong relationships and creating engaging learning experiences where all students can thrive. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with family, reading, traveling, kickboxing, and playing with my pets, Leo, Bee, and Oliver. I look forward to partnering with students, families, and staff for a wonderful year at VHE.
My name is Peyton Healy, and I am excited to join the Virginia-Highland Elementary family! I graduated from Penn State University and earned my Master's degree in Elementary Education from Oglethorpe University. With 12 years of teaching experience in Gwinnett and Fulton counties, I am thrilled to bring my passion for math and science to the 5th grade STEAM team. My goal is to create a supportive and engaging classroom where students are challenged, inspired, and encouraged to achieve their personal and academic best. Outside of school, I enjoy playing Mahjong and pickleball, running 5Ks, reading, and cheering on my favorite New York sports teams. I look forward to an amazing year at VHE!
My name is Michelle Lopes. I am elated to join the VHE family! I have a Bachelor's degree in psychology with a minor in sociology. I also have a Master's degree in Elementary Education. I am currently working towards my Education Specialist (ED.S) degree along with my reading endorsement. I am a proud alumna of Spelman College and Mercer University.
When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy reading children's literature, attending Braves games, and spending time with family and friends. I am honored to be part of your child's educational journey and look forward to a wonderful year of learning and growth.
Hello! My name is George Monterola, and I am excited to join the Virginia-Highland Elementary community. A native of Athens, Georgia, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Georgia and my Master's degree from Augusta University. Before coming to VHE, I taught for three years in Gwinnett County, where I developed a passion for creating engaging learning experiences and supporting student growth. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling, golfing, and spending time with family and friends. I look forward to helping students become active learners and am thrilled to begin this new journey at VHE!
My name is Reena Patel, and I am excited to join the Virginia-Highland Elementary community! Originally from Chicago, I bring more than 20 years of experience teaching kindergarten through fourth grade, with a strong background in gifted education. I hold a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction and an ESL endorsement, and I am passionate about personalized learning and meeting the needs of all students. As a recent transplant to Atlanta, I enjoy gardening, reading, exploring new places, and spending time with my daughter. I look forward to partnering with the students, families, and staff of Virginia-Highland.
My name is Mrs. Kiyanna Turner, and I am excited to join the Virginia-Highland Elementary community as a Pre-K teacher. With more than 14 years of experience teaching students from Pre-K through 5th grade, 1 am passionate about creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where all children can thrive. I earned my bachelor's degree from Alabama State University and my master's degree from Georgia State University. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, arts and crafts, puzzles, singing, and dancing. I look forward to partnering with families to support a successful year of learning and growth.
- Mr. Jake Calle - 1 to 1 Para
- Ms. Kylani Haley - Pre-K Para
- Mr. Isaiah Hughes - Kindergarten Para
- Mrs. Robbie Teasley - Custodian
- Ms. Jessica Ivory - Au Unit Para
- Mr. Dennis Platt - Kindergarten Para
- Ms. Katie Bonsall - Ist Grade Para
- Ms. Alyse Whiddon - Kindergarten Para Floater