faculty NLRHSdirectory&staff ADMINISTRATION Scott Scott Jennings is beginning his 28th Jennings year in education. Sixteen of those years have been in school administration. He is married with two sons. In his spare time he enjoys exercising, fishing, and all NLRHS activities.

Perry Cohen Caroline Faulkner Perry Cohen has worked in the North Caroline Faulkner attended Mis- Little Rock School District for 30 sissippi County Community Col- years. During his time here, he has lege, Philander Smith College, and taught at Rose City Middle School completed her degree as a Bache- and served as Assistant Principal at lor of Science in Education at the Poplar Street Middle School, Ridge University of Central Arkansas. Road Middle School and North She has been an educator for 30 Little Rock Middle School. Mr. Co- years and has spent 26 of those hen has a Bachelor’s degree and a years with the North Little Rock Master’s degree in Education from School District. Ms. Faulkner be- the University of Central Arkansas. He is married with three grown children. gan her teaching career at Rose City Middle School where she served as the basketball, volleyball, and track coach. She also taught at Redwood Elementary and Lakewood Middle School. She has served as an assis- Sylvia Grady tant principal at North Little Rock High School East Campus, a princi- Sylvia Grady is an assistant principal pal at Ridgeroad Middle Charter School, and a Lead Administrator at at North Little Rock High School the NLRHS Freshman Campus. She is currently an assistant principal and has served as an educator for at North Little Rock High School. Her philosophy is to reach students fifteen years. She holds a Bachelor of where they are. Ms. Faulkner believes that each student is a unique in- Computer Science degree from the dividual who needs a safe, caring and positive environment in which University of Arkansas (Pine Bluff). to grow and mature academically, emotionally, physically, and socially. She has also achieved both Masters and Specialist degrees in Educa- Amber tional Leadership. She is excited to Hodges begin the 2020-2021 school year. For the past six years, Amber Hodges has served as an assis- Richard O’Connell tant principal at North Little Rock High School. Before returning to Dr. O’Connell is an assistant prin- her Alma Mater, she taught social cipal at North Little Rock High studies at Russellville High School School. He has taught special edu- for twenty years. Ms. Hodges holds cation, Advanced Placement (AP) a Master of Arts in History and a classes, pre-AP Sciences, and Al- Master of Educational Leadership, gebra. He currently teaches in the both from Arkansas Tech Universi- Education Specialist department ty. She achieved the prestigious social award, the James Madison Senior for Arkansas State University. He Fellow, one that only the most distinguished educators can obtain. Besides is very proud of his five children, all being an assistant principal, she is also the AP and AIMS coordinator for under the age of 17, and has been the high school. She anticipates an exceptional 2020-2021 school year. married to his beautiful wife for twenty years. In his spare time, he en- joys being outdoors with his family, fishing, backpacking, and reading. DEAN OF STUDENTS

La Warn Rodgers La Warn Rodgers spent most of her career in post-secondary educa- tion employed through the U of A system. She returned to the K-12 platform as a school counselor and is now excited to be at North Little Rock School District as a Dean of Students to provide student services. Her formal education includes a Bachelor of Communication degree, Master in Education and Counseling, and an Educational Specialist degree. As a grant-writing enthusiast, she looks forward to becoming a school administrator to provide sustainability in programs. She counts com- munity service, healthcare, and technology among her myriad interests.

PARENT ENGAGEMENT

Julie Drake Julie Drake is NLRHS Parent En- gagement Professional(PEP). As the PEP, Mrs. Drake works with students and families concentrat- ing on attendance and helping to remove obstacles in order for students to attend school and re- ceive course credits to graduates. She and her husband, John, are parents to two Charging Wild- cat graduates, Kyle ‘09 and Katie ‘13. They are active in their church, community and NLRSD. Mrs. Drake is a1986 graduate of Arkan- sas State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing. ART

Hunter Douglass Christy Langhammer Mr. Hunter Douglass is the cur- Ms. Christy Langhammer will teach rent Photography 1 & 2 teacher grades 9-12 in Art I, Drawing I, Intro at North Little Rock High School. to Sculpture, Sculpture and AP 3-D. Before teaching at the high school, This will be her tenth year teaching he taught Art at North Little Rock in the NLRSD. She is a graduate of Middle School for 2 years. Being the University of Arkansas at Little born and raised in North Little Rock, where she earned her Bache- Rock, Mr. Douglass graduated from lor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Mas- West Campus in 2011. He then ter’s degree in Secondary Education. went on to study studio art and art In her spare time she enjoys creating history at University of Arkansas at Little Rock. When not teaching in the art, gardening, cooking, traveling and hanging out with family and friends. classroom, Mr. Douglass can typically be found on the disc golf course. Reagan Wentzel Brad Strawn Ms. Reagan Wentzel is an art teacher After graduating from Henderson and will be starting her fourth year State University with a Bachelor as a teacher for the district. She is a of Fine Arts degree and Master of graduate of the North Little Rock Arts in teaching, Mr. Strawn be- High School and is glad to be back, gan his teaching career as a middle teaching at the school that helped school art teacher in Central Ar- her decide the path for her future. kansas. When the opportunity to Ms. Wentzel graduated from the teach high school came, he quickly University of Central Arkansas moved up. Mr. Strawn accepted a with a degree in Art Education. position at North Little Rock High She will be teaching Art History and painting classes to our students School in 2017.Like most art teachers, Mr. Strawn is an artist himself. He in the 9th-12th grade levels this year and is looking forward to seeing finds inspiration along the many rivers and streams of Arkansas, as well what the students create. She is also the lead sponsor of the Art Guild. as local landmarks and historical buildings. He is experienced in work- Through this program, she strives to find opportunities that enable our ing with a wide variety of media, both 2d and 3d, but has been focusing students to become active members of city beautification and to help on developing his drawing and watercolor skills for the past three years. spread art awareness through volunteer work. Ms. Wentzel is look- ing forward to working with all of her students in the new school year! Tonya Wentzel Mark Wittig Ms. Tonya Wentzel is beginning her twenty-first year as an educator, Mark D. Wittig is currently a Pho- eleven of which have been at North tography and Design instructor at Little Rock High School. Through- North Little Rock High School. Be- out her career, she has taught a vari- fore becoming a teacher, Mr. Wittig ety of classes including Intro. to Art, worked as an architect for ten years Drawing, Painting, Photography, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Since then, Mr. Sculpture, Senior Studio, AP, and Wittig has been a visiting lecturer IB Studio Art. She graduated from of foundations in the Art, Graphic Northwestern University in Orange Design, and Art History depart- City, Iowa with a degree in Art Education. She has recently been work- ments at Oklahoma State University ing in conjunction with the THEA Foundation and UALR to expand her in Stillwater, Oklahoma, as well as a fine art instructor at Tulsa School of art knowledge and participate in group art shows. Ms. Wentzel is con- Arts and Sciences for fifteen years. He has a Bachelor of Architecture stantly working to ensure that she is knowledgeable about any changes with a Minor in Painting from the University of Arkansas, a Bachelor of in the art community, as well as any new art innovations to help educate Fine Arts in Drawing & Photography with a minor in Art History from my students and enable them to have the best art education experience. The University of Tulsa and a Master of Fine Arts in Photography & Open Media from The University of Tulsa. A little-known fact about him is that he was born and raised in North Little Rock and he was part of the Ole Main High School Graduating Class of 1988. He is a Wildcat for life. Business

Michelle Blakely Beverly Glass Ms. Michele Blakely will begin her Ms. Glass teaches the work study twelfth year as a teacher and her program at NLRHS. She graduated 3rd year at NLRHS. She previously from North Little Rock West Cam- taught 9th grade English. This will pus and UALR. She enjoys garden- be her second year teaching Business ing, boating, reading and hammock- Education. She describes teaching as ing. She is addicted to coffee and her “Late in Life” career. After earn- brain research. Ms. Glass considers ing a Bachelor’s degree in Account- Oprah Winfrey and Rachel Ray ing and running her own firm for to be two of her greatest mentors. over twenty years, Ms. Blakely de- cided to answer a higher calling: teaching. She then received a Master’s de- gree in Education and became a teacher. Ms. Blakely looks forward to com- ing to school every day. A fun fact about her is that she became enthralled with genealogy after an 8th grade project and has researched her family tree since. As a matter of fact, she became a professional genealogist for many years. Ms. Blakely’s ultimate dream job is to be a forensic genealogist! COMPUTER SCIENCE

Samuel Fowlkes Grant Hurst Mr. Samuel Fowlkes is originally Mr. Grant Hurst is beginning his from Conway Arkansas where he at- third year at North Little Rock tended the University of Central Ar- High School. He currently teaches kansas (UCA). He earned his Bach- Computer Science. Before becom- elor of Science degree in Computer ing a teacher, Mr. Hurst worked at Science. He created virtual robotics Hewlett-Packard for eight years systems as a software developer be- in the data-center engineering de- fore becoming a teacher. This will partment and specialized in serv- be his fourth year teaching at North ers, storage, and networking. His Little Rock High School. Mr. Fowl- time with HP gave him years of kes currently teaches Computer Science and coaches the robotics team. real world experience that he uses to help teach computer science to high school students. Outside of the classroom, Mr. Hurst spends a lot of his free time working on computers and other hands-on activities. He looks forward to getting to know his students and having a great school year! Credit Recovery

Kim Derden Ms. Kim Derden is beginning her 17th year with the North Little Rock School District. She began her ca- reer as a computer lab manager at Indian Hills Elementary. Then, Ms. Derden moved to the freshman campus and eventually NLRHS in that same position. Six years ago, she went on to become the cred- it recovery teacher. Ms. Derden helps our students gain back any credits in which they may be deficient. DRAMA

Michael Klucher DeAndre Lewis Michael Klucher is in his twen- Mr. DeAndre Lewis is entering his ty-third year at NLR. Hel has 5th year teaching at NLRHS. He taught at Lakewood Middle School, is a Theatre I - IV and Stagecraft NLRHS East Campus and NLRHS I teacher, but he can also teach West campus. Michael is the NLR Oral Communications and The- Auditorium Manager and Techni- atre Appreciation. He received cal Director for the NLR Drama his Bachelor’s degree in Theatre program and the head coach of the Arts in May 2014 and his Master’s Lady Wildcat soccer team. Michael degree in Secondary Education has been involved in drama since with the content focus of Speech the age of 12. He has been featured in several local productions and as and Theatre in December 2016 from the University of Arkansas at Lit- a main stage actor at Murry’s Dinner Playhouse. Mr. Klucher has been tle Rock. Mr. Lewis currently directs the spring play productions and featured in several local and national television advertisements. You can is also the Troupe Director for the Thespian Troupe (Troupe 8707). catch him on Season 3 of HBO’s drama True Detective as well! Mr. Kluch- er is also the spokesman and mascot for the Yarnell’s Ice Cream company. Christen Pitts Mike Christen Burke Pitts has been a Noland dance instructor in central Arkan- Mr. Mike Noland teaches Stagecraft sas for more than 30 years and is 1, Theatre Appreciation and Foren- Founder/Director of the Theatre sics 1-4 this year. He also directs Dance Program and Dance Troupe the NLRHS musical. This will be at NLRHS, where she has taught his thirty-fourth year of teaching at since 1996. Christen is also a teach- NLRHS. Mr. Noland loves theatre, ing artist for the AR Arts Coun- and he loves to share his passion cil. She is the 2019 recipient of with students. He is also a pub- the inaugural Argenta Community lished playwright with plays being Theater Award for Excellence in Arts Education. Ms. Pitts received the performed all over the country. Mr. Governor’s Arts in Education Award from the Arkansas Arts Council and Noland has written acting scenes and monologues that are published and was named the Arkansas Communication and Theatre Arts Association available to actors everywhere. One of his monologues was part of an Teacher of the Year in 2012. She holds an MEd from UALR and a BA Off-Broadway show. Last year, he wrote a series of plays for an Interna- in Drama/Dance Performance from the UofA. Ms. Pitts has performed, tional School in Milan, Italy. Mr. Noland is excited to get this year started. choreographed, and danced professionally in more than 75 shows, plays, and musicals. She appeared on both the Disney and Family Channel and Kim Stanley in numerous commercials and films. She is a board member/co-found- Ms. Kim Stanley teaches Debate I er of the Arkansas Dance Network, and a board member of the Argenta – IV and Theatre I at North Little Community Theater, Acansa Arts Festival, TeeBoDans, and Untapped. Rock High School. She has taught for 27 years, with 21 of those years Josh Shipman in the North Little Rock School Dis- trict. As a member of the Arkan- Mr. Josh Shipman teaches Stage- sas Communications and Theatre craft I and II, and is also an as- Arts Association (ACTAA), she sistant coach for the girls’ soccer has had the opportunity to serve team. He and his wife share the on the Student Congress Commit- passion of teaching. His wife, tee, and to act as parliamentarian for ACTAA State Student Congress. Randi, teaches kindergarten at In- Ms. Stanley is currently a sponsor for the Young Democrats and Teen dian Hills Elementary, where my Court Clubs. Both clubs are open to 9 -12 grade students. The NLRHS two daughters, Isabella (10) and Theatre Arts Department is a member of the National Speech and De- Sophie (6), also attend. When bate Association (NSDA) and Kim serves as one of the sponsors for the he is not teaching, Mr. Shipman department. Her teams compete in Forensics and Debate tournaments likes to enjoy time with his family or coach CrossFit. around the state. Kim has attended the national tournament twice with students who qualified at that level of competition. She works as the Busi- ness Director for NLRHS Theatre Productions and is the school liaison for the NLRHS Swim Team. Her hobbies include watching sports and activities that include her family – swim meets, theatre productions, etc. She currently has two children that attend NLRHS and one daughter that graduated from NLRHS and attends the University of Central Arkansas. EAST

Stanley Whisnant Mr. Stanley Whisnant began his career in education in 1998 at NLRHS East Campus teaching Civics and Computer Internation- al Baccalaureate. In 2006, after receiving a Master’s degree in Ad- ministration from UCA, he served as an assistant principal at Ridg- eroad Middle Charter School un- til 2010. Mr. Whisnant returned to the classroom in 2010 to teach Civics/Psychology, until taking over EAST (Education Accelerated by Service and Technology) in 2012. This will be the beginning of his ninth year as the NLRHS EAST Facilitator. ELL

Chrystal Espinoza Rene Hill Mrs. Espinoza was born and raised Ms. Renee Hill has taught high in Erie, Pennsylvania. She studied school ELL students for nineteen to be a Spanish teacher in college, years. She is an ESOL specialist for which actually led her to move the North Little Rock School Dis- to Costa Rica, located in Cen- trict. Ms. Hill works alongside other tral America. Spanish is her sec- teachers in various subjects to assist ond language, but living in Costa our ELL students. She is beginning Rica enabled her to speak very her third year at the high school. fluently. She is happily married and has a two year old son. She actually met her husband here in Arkansas, even though, coincidental- ly, he is from Costa Rica. Their son automatically has dual citizenship, Leslie and they are raising him to be bilingual, too. Her hobbies include var- Joshua ious dance forms (Latin and Middle Eastern), hiking, running, and Ms. Leslie Joshua is the head varsity spending time in nature with her family. The coolest thing she did this volleyball coach and an ESL teacher. summer was Yoga on a stand-up paddleboard. She enjoys working She has been in this district 23 years. with the newcomer population at NLRHS, and she loves her students. She is a NLR native and a NLRHS Alumnus.She bleeds blue and Hola. Soy la Sra. Espinoza. Nací y crecí en Erie, Pennsylvania. Estudié para gold!! NLR until the day she dies! ser profesora de español en la universidad, lo que me llevó a mudarme a Costa Rica, ubicada en Centroamérica. El español es mi segundo idioma, pero vivir en Costa Rica me permitió hablar con mucha fluidez. Estoy felizmente casada y tengo un hijo de dos años. De hecho, conocí a mi esposo aquí en Arkansas, aunque casualmente es de Costa Rica. Nuestro hijo automáticamente tiene doble ciudadanía y lo estamos criando para que sea bilingüe también. Mis pasatiempos incluyen varias formas de baile (latino y del Medio Oriente), caminatas, correr, y pasar tiempo en la natu- raleza con mi familia. Lo mejor que hice este verano fue hacer Yoga en una tabla de remo sobre el agua. Disfruto trabajar con los estudiantes que son recién llegados a los Estados Unidos, y quiero mucho a mis estudiantes. ENGLISH

Joslin Ashley Mallory Bacon Ms. Joslin Ashley teaches Person- Mrs. Mallory Bacon has a Bache- al Communications and Dramat- lor of Arts degree in English Lit- ic Literature. Ms. Ashley received erature and an MA in Teaching a B.A. in Mass Communications Secondary English from the Uni- from the University of Arkansas versity of Arkansas. She is cur- in 2002, Masters in Secondary Ed rently a 9th grade English teach- from UALR in 2008, and Masters in er, and she has also taught AP Reading from UALR in 2010. She is Literature and Composition. Last a graduate of the Harding Literacy school year, she and her husband Lab in 2012 and the National Writ- welcomed their son, Fletcher, ing Project in 2013. This will be her 5th year at NLRHS and 14th year of to the world. She can’t wait to return to the classroom for her teaching. Ms. Ashley has taught English, grades 7-10, over the years. She 8th year at NLRHS and to meet all of her wonderful students. is looking forward to getting to know all of her students this school year.

Cynthia Bell Holly Friedman Ms. Cynthia Bell is an English Ms. Holly Friedman is a graduate teacher at North Little Rock High of the University of Arkansas where School. She was born and raised in she received a BA in Journalism Pine Bluff, Arkansas. After grad- and a Juris Doctorate. She teach- uating from The University of Ar- es Pre AP English and Personal kansas at Pine Bluff in 1999, she Communication. Mrs. Friedman accepted a teaching position in is married and has a stepdaugh- the North Little Rock School Dis- ter who is studying chemistry at trict. Throughout her 21 years of UCA. In her free time she en- teaching, she has taught grades joys volunteering with various social organizations and traveling 7-12 in a traditional, an alternative, and a virtual learning environ- (pre-COVID) to California with her husband. They adore their three ment. Her love for teaching stems from having an extraordinary role dogs - Buster, Sammie, and Mylo. Mrs. Friedman is really excited model: her mom. Because of years watching her mom as an elementa- about this coming school year and can’t wait to meet her new students. ry teacher, Ms. Bell subconsciously developed a love for teaching at an early age. Interestingly enough, in her own classroom, Ms. Bell likes to experiment with creative opportunities to engage students, even if that means campaigning for monetary donations for classroom field trips or Jeffery Grimmett art supplies for student projects. Who says field trips have to cease in Mr. Jeffrey Grimmett is begin- elementary school?...NOT MS. BELL! Besides going on field trips with ning his second year with North her students, she has created many friendships and lasting memories. Little Rock High School. He re- ceived a Bachelor of Arts in En- Hannah glish from UALR with a Minor in Gowan Secondary Education. He teach- Mrs. Hannah Gowan was born es Critical Reading and enjoys and raised in Indiana but moved it very much. Mr. Grimmett’s to Arkansas to pursue her under- wife and two daughters are the graduate degree. She has decided most important people in his life. to stick around for the hiking trails, He enjoys listening to and playing music. mountains, and of course, NLRHS! This will be her first year of teach- ing ninth-grade English and Pro- fessional Communications, and she can’t wait to begin learning with all of her students. Mrs. Gowan is looking forward to having a fantastic year! ENGLISH

Christopher Harris Gary Hinton Mr. Chris Harris is an Arkansas This will be Mr. Gary Hinton’s first native who graduated high school year at North Little Rock High in Stuttgart, Arkansas. He obtained School and heI couldn’t be more his BA from UALR in Liberal Arts excited to be part of the team! He and obtained his MA in Secondary is an educator who is driven to Education in 2002. This is his 19th guide students to overcome barri- year teaching and his eighth year at ers and achieve success. Mr. Hin- NLRHS, where he teaches English. ton received my B.A. in English Language Arts at UALR (2017) and also holds a certification for teach- ing English as a Second Language from the Intercultural Communica- tions College (ICC) in Honolulu Hawaii (2009.) He has been an educa- tor around the world, which helped him to develop a lasting belief in Carolyn Jackson equity, a celebration of diversity, and the development of relationships as being key to lasting learning. Mr. Hinton is a native of New Orleans, Ms. Carolyn Jackson teaches junior Louisiana and enjoys cooking, athletics, and reading in his spare time. He English. She has been at NLRHS is married with two amazing daughters who are the center of his world. since 2006, and this is her 16th year of teaching. In that time, she has taught grades 7-11 at all lev- els. Ms Jackson holds two mas- Jordan Kinsey ters degrees, an MA in Curricu- Ms. Kinsey graduated from Cabot lum and Instruction and an MA high school and earned her de- in TESOL. She enjoys spending gree from UALR. This is her fifth time with her family: her incred- year teaching, and her first year at ible husband, a Marine veteran, her sassy nine year old daughter, and NLRHS. She has two dogs, Oakley her silly one year old son. Ms. Jackson also enjoys traveling, DIY proj- and Sasha, she loves indian food ects, curling up with a good book and a hot cup of tea, and 5k fun runs. and green sea turtles, her favor- ite color is teal, and her favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird!

Samantha Kordsmeier Leslie Krebs Samantha Kordsmeier teaches Miss Leslie Krebs is a graduate of both 9th and 10th grade English NLR Northeast High School and the at North Little Rock High School. University of Arkansas with a Bach- She earned a Bachelor of Arts in elor of Arts in Journalism. After a English Literature from the Uni- 20-year career as a Graphic Design- versity of Central Arkansas in Au- er in the printing and publishing gust of 2019. She’s continuing her industry, she became a teacher, and education at UCA and will grad- for the past 15 years she has taught uate with her Master of Arts in subjects like 10th grade English Teaching in May of 2021. She’s an Language Arts, Journalism, Creative avid reader and writer, an advocate of the arts, and a lover of education. Writing, and Oral Communications. She is recognized by the Journalism Education Association as a Certified Journalism Educator. As the adviser of the NLRHS Legacy yearbook, Miss Krebs enjoys giving her students the “real world experience” of taking a small idea all the way to a 300+ page yearbook, while documenting the school year for their peers. She is committed to helping students understand the role of the First Amend- ment. Miss Krebs loves her family, the Arkansas Razorbacks, all Charging Wildcat sports, Broadway musicals, Cokes from Sonic with extra extra ice, and her three little dogs: Thelma, Louise, and Buddy. ENGLISH

Julia Markham Amber Nicholson Ms. Julia Markham has been teach- Ms. Amber Nicholson graduated ing English in the North Little with a Bachelor of Science degree Rock District for 24 years. This in Public Relations from Arkansas will be her 17th year of teaching State University and earned her Mas- Advanced Placement English Lit- ter of the Arts in Teaching from the erature and Composition. She has University of Central Arkansas. She been teaching seniors for 18 years teaches Journalism, Newspaper, and total. British literature is a favorite ACT Prep. The students at NLRHS of hers. She was fortunate to receive are the best part of her job, and she a grant to participate in the Folger loves to see how kids learn and grow. Shakespeare Library in Washington, D.C. in 2010. She has even been an At home, Ms. Nicholson has a daughter named Ferris and a chihuahua named intern in Washington, D.C. at the Department of Agriculture in 1991. Cookie. If you want to get on my good side, bring me Reese’s butter cups.

Angela Sample Meyonsha Riddles Angela Sample is beginning her 21st year in teaching and it is still Ms. Meyonsha Riddles is beginning exciting to her! She teaches 10th her second year teaching English at grade English as well as senior AP the secondary level. Last year, she Literature & Composition. This is taught 7th and 8th grade English at her second year as a Charging Wild- Robert F Morehead Middle School cat. Ms. Sample graduated with her in the Pine Bluff/Dollarway School Bachelor’s degree in Mass Commu- District. She will be teaching senior nication (emphasis in broadcasting) English and ELL English this year. with a minor in English in 1992 Ms. Riddles is extremely excited to from the University of Central Arkansas. After a short stint in radio, she be a part of the North Little Rock returned to UCA for a degree in Education and became certified to teach High team and looks forward to a safe, fun, and prosperous school year. English. Her love affair with teaching began in 2000, and she eventually received her Master of Arts degree from UCA in English in 2015. Ms. Sample has two amazing young adult children. Her son and his wife live in Bryant, and her daughter is a senior at Arkansas State University. She lives in Park Hill with her spouse and two pups. They enjoy live music, traveling Prisca Selhorst (pre-covid), walking, & grilling. She is learning to play guitar & has start- Ms. Prisca Selhorst has a M.S.E. in ed cycling around the neighborhood. She owns a mobile DJ service. Ms. Curriculum and Instruction and Sample has a passion for literature and helping students learn to love it too! a B.A. in Theatre Arts. She is an NLRHS Alum, parent, communi- ty member and advocate. Entering Ray Sessions year twenty in the classroom, her Mr. Ray Sessions is beginning his teaching experience ranges from the 3rd year with North Little Rock creative to the advanced academic, High School. He is also entering the classroom to leadership, and his twenty third year of coaching. program coordination to program initiation. Even after nineteen years, Ms. Selhorst remains open to rich, innovative and effective strategies in order to reach and motivate our stu- dents. Prior to teaching, she worked as a casting/talent/modelling agent and as the Arkansas State Film Commissioner with the Arkansas Depart- ment of Economic Development. This spring, her oldest son will graduate from the University of Central Arkansas while her twins graduate from North Little Rock High School. Whew- her nest will empty very soon! ENGLISH

Emily Murry-Sublett Courtney Taylor Emily Murry-Sublett is one of the Courtney Taylor is the Multi-Class- 10th grade English teachers at room Leader for 9th and 10th grade North Little Rock High School. She English. She has a BA in English has a BSE in English from Arkansas and Sociology and a MA in Teach- State University in Jonesboro. Emily ing from the University of Central is a recent graduate, and she hopes Arkansas, an Ed.S from Arkansas to begin the process of obtaining her State University, and is working to- Masters degree within the next year. wards her Doctorate in Educational She is a first-year teacher at NLRHS Leadership from the University of and is excited for the school year! Arkansas at Fayetteville. She began her career at North Little Rock High School in 2015 and has since taught 10th and 11th grade English, Creative Writing, and has co-sponsored Stu- dent Council. Family & Consumer Science

Shirley Billings Madison Luck Ms. Shirley Billings is a Louisi- Ms. Luck has been teaching at ana native. She graduated from NLRHS for 4 years. She teaches Louisiana Tech University with a Lifespan Development and Fam- Bachelor’s degree and a Master of ily and Consumer Sciences. She Science degree in Human Ecolo- graduated from Beebe High School gy. This is her 14th year at North in 2012 and from UCA in 2016. Little Rock High School and her 34th year in education. Ms. Bill- ings will be teaching FACS, Fash- ion and Interior Design, and Dynamics of Relationships. Last year, she received her lifetime teaching license. Her hobbies include reading, sewing, decorating, Bridgette Youngblood and shopping. Ms. Billings also enjoys spending time with her hus- band, Kevin, and their seven children and fifteen grandchildren. Bridgette Youngblood is currently a Family and Consumer Sciences Teacher at North Little Rock High, Emily where she teaches Food Safety & Taylor Nutrition. She believes that all stu- Mrs. Emily Taylor teaches in the dents are unique and different. She Family and Consumer Sciences feels that to be an effective educator, department. This year she will be one must include a variety of teach- teaching FACS and Life and Fit- ing styles, techniques and creativity ness Nutrition. Her background is to help accommodate ever changing in dietetics and she’s currently at- generations. Bridgette Youngblood is a native of Monticello, AR. She com- tending UAMS, working towards a pleted a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Arkansas at Master’s in Public Health. Her fam- Monticello and a Masters Degree in Education from the University of Ar- ily is rooted in North Little Rock, kansas at Fayetteville. Ms. Youngblood’s professional experiences consist of as she graduated from NLRHS in at least 20 years of progressive experience in the education field, both formal ‘01, and her children all attend school in the district. Mrs. Taylor’s lei- and informal. Her areas of expertise include program planning, maintain- sure time is often spent attending her boys’ ball games or traveling. ing and effective liaison with local leaders, staff training, public school -ed ucator and Family & Consumer Sciences Agent for Cooperative Extension Service. Ms. Youngblood enjoys shopping, cooking and watching sports. Foreign Language

Lisseth Arana Katie Dicken Hola amigos! Ms. Arana teaches Ms. Dicken is part of the Foreign Espanol! She was born in Central Language department, and she America, in a country called Nic- will be starting her fourth year at aragua. She came to Arkansas as a NLRHS. She is currently teach- child and has lived here for over 30 ing Spanish II, AP Spanish IV, and years, so she’s an Arkansan at heart. Freshman Seminar and is also a Woo Pig Sooie! She graduated from co-sponsor of the National Hon- the University of Central Arkansas or Society. She holds a BA in En- and has been proudly teaching for glish and Spanish from Arkansas the North Little Rock School Dis- Tech University. Prior to moving trict ever since. 12 years and counting! She loves being a Wildcat! She’s back to Arkansas, Ms. Dicken taught Spanish and linguistics at the an aunt to five nieces and four nephews and about to be a great aunt to University of Georgia. She believes that all students can benefit from a baby boy before school starts. She has two goofy dogs named Bullseye foreign language learning and the many opportunities afforded by it. and Gisselle. She loves being active at her church, volunteer work, read- ing, watching movies, dancing, spending time with her family and friends, traveling, being outdoors, and swimming. As unprecedented as these Lydia times are, she’s optimistic and has faith that things will get better and we’re Lu going to have a great year by doing our part and working together. She Ms. Lu was born and raised in Tai- hopes to meet you and your family soon! Big virtual hug from a distance! wan. She attended Central Theology Seminary, in Taiwan, for undergrad- uate studies, and Concordia Uni- versity, in Nebraska, for graduate Cecilia Franco school. She is currently working on an ESOL degree. She lived in New Cecilia Franco received a Mas- Jersey, Nebraska, New York City, ter’s degree in Special Education and Seattle before moving to Ar- and currently teaches Spanish II kansas. This year is her 10th year of and III at North Little Rock High teaching and her fifth year teaching at North Little Rock High School. She School, Arkansas. Her experience is very excited to teach Mandarin Chinese and enjoys teaching her students in teaching at all levels has made very much. During the spring and summers, she spent most of her time her a strong advocate of learning by working on her flower and vegetable gardens. Her hobbies include playing doing. Based on research, it engages different types of puzzles, traveling, and taking care of her newly adopt- students to participate in a variety of ed puppy, Twix. She has a 14-year-old son, whom she absolutely adores! language acquisition, problem solv- ing, and technology activities that give them the opportunity to use their Spanish to help others. In addition, she serves as a sponsor of the National Gloria Webb Spanish Honor Society for North Little High School, and is the active pres- ident of the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portugués. Ms. Gloria Webb is from Mexico and has lived in Arkansas for many years. Previously, she worked as a lunch aide/recess supervisor at North Heights Elementary. She was Alejandro Quezada then a paraprofessional, substitute Mr. Quezada is part of the Foreign teacher, Spanish interpreter/trans- Language Department, and he has lator, and an ESL tutor for Pulaski taught Spanish I and Spanish II County Special School District. at NLRHS for 3 years. Born and This is her second year teaching raised in Mexico, he attended the Spanish at North Little Rock High School. Her first year was filled with Universidad Autonoma de Chihua- incredible learning experiences. COVID 19 not only moved her out of hua and earned his B.A. in Econom- her comfort zone but also strengthened her resolve to keep learning. She ics. He received a Master’s degree recently obtained a Master’s degree in Education from UALR, of which in Teaching in 2018 from UAM. she is immensely proud. She is ready for whatever this school year brings. She knows that if we work together, we can overcome any obstacle. MATH

Susie Brunson Carrie Callo-Barraza Ms. Susie Brunson is the 9th/10th Ms.Callo Barraza graduated from Mathematics Department Multi the University of Arkansas at Lit- Classroom Leader (MCL). She tle Rock with a Bachelor’s degree has a BS in Applied Mathematics in mathematics. This is her first and a MA in Mathematics Educa- year teaching, and she is excited to tion from the University of Central begin her career here at NLRHS. Arkansas. She has been with the She has lived in Little Rock my North Little Rock School District entire life. She loves traveling and for thirteen years. Ms. Brunson spending time with her family. served as an educator on the colle- giate level for twelve years at Arkansas State University - LRAFB Campus. Ms. Brunson has taught Algebra I, Geometry, Pre-AP Geometry, and Al- gebra II. She has also served as the Freshman and Varsity Dance Coach. Roberto Garcia Mr. Garcia has been a high school math teacher for eighteen years Tanner and has coached football for ten Deppolito years. This will be his second year Tanner Dippolito has been a math teaching at NLRHS. Integrating teacher for three years. He gradu- technology is his passion as an ed- ated from the University of Central ucator. Prior to becoming a teacher, Arkansas with a BS in Mathematics he was in the USAF for six years. with a concentration in STEM ed- He received BS in Physical Educa- ucation. He and his wife are high tion from the University of Houston school sweethearts and they cur- and Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University rently have no children, but they of Phoenix. He was a member of the United States Air Force from 1978 consider their three dogs family. In – 1985. His hobbies include fishing, cooking, and watching sports, and his spare time, he loves to bass fish his personal mantra is “Decreasing math anxiety through technology.” and play outside with my dogs. He is passionate about teaching math.

Debbie Higgins Elise Gray Debbie Higgins is beginning her 28th year with the North Little Elise Gray has a Bachelors of Sci- Rock School District and is a 1988 ence in Mathematics from The Uni- graduate of NLR Northeast High versity of Mississippi and a Masters School. She has a BA in Mathe- of Arts in Mathematics Education matics and a Master in Education from the University of Central Ar- degree from UALR. She started her kansas. She is starting her 13th year career teaching math at the mid- in the North Little Rock School dle school level before transferring District and will be teaching Geom- to the high school four years later. etry for the 2020-2021 school year. She is currently serving as the 11-12th grade Mathematics Multi-Class- room Leader. Ms. Higgins’ love for sports and outdoors has led her to being a part of the NLR Athletic Dept as a softball and assistant volley- ball coach. She enjoys all outdoor activities with her family. Debbie is married and has two children who have been raised in the NLRSD. MATH

Kelly Lincicome Bruce Maddox This is Mrs. Lincicome’s second Mr. Maddox has taught at North Lit- year at NLRHS but will be her 12th tle Rock High School since 2006. He year teaching. Mrs. Lincicome has is currently teaching Precalculus, a B.S. in Mathematics from Louisi- AP Calculus AB, and AP Calculus ana Tech University, a M.A.T. from BC this year. Mr. Maddox has a B.S. Northwestern State University, and in Mathematics from the University 18 graduate level math hours from of Arkansas and a M.A.S. (Master University of Central Arkansas. of Aeronautical Science) from Em- This year she will be teaching Alge- bry-Riddle Aeronautical University. bra 2, Algebra 3, and AP Statistics. She is thankful she has the opportunity to share her love of mathematics. Her husband, Paul, teaches at Catholic High. They have two kids, Mary Claire (4) and James (3). They are excited about starting a new school year. Allison Passmore Alison Passmore has had the privi- lege of teaching at North Little Rock Makayla McMasters High school since 2015. In her15 years of teaching, She has taught 8th- Makayla McMasters has a BSE grade general math, AP Calculus, in Mathematics from Arkansas and just about every math course in State University. This is her third between. This year she will be teach- year at North Little Rock High ing Honors Algebra II, Statistics, School. She currently teaches Al- College Algebra, and College Trig- gebra 1 and Algebra 2. When she onometry. She also co-sponsors Mu is not teaching, she is most likely Alpha Theta. She is a third-generation educator and graduate of the Univer- wrapped up in some art project, sity of Central Arkansas. Her bachelor’s degree is in Mathematics and Mass reading or playing with her dog. Communications. Her master’s degree, also from UCA, is in Mathematics Education. This summer she has explored her nature-loving side. Floating various rivers and paddling new lakes mixed with some hiking and camp- ing thrown in have kept her busy the past few months. Don’t be misled, Anna Phan though: she loves good air-conditioned arts and crafts opportunities also. Mrs. Phan aspired to be a math teacher because she enjoys shar- ing her learning experiences and Cassie Rogers methods on how to learn math. Mrs. Phan majored in Math at Cassie Rogers graduated with her Hendrix College and achieved degree in Secondary Mathemat- her Master in Secondary Educa- ics Education from the University tion at UCA. This is her 3rd year of Central Arkansas in December at North Little Rock High School, 2011. She immediately made her where she began her career. She teaching home at North Little Rock is very grateful to be able to grow as a teacher every year with her stu- High School, where over the past dents. And she is very confident that all of her students will be a little 9 years, she has taught Algebra II, bit more comfortable with math after joining her classes, and a bit Algebra III, IB Mathematics I and more humorous, too. Mrs. Phan is excited to begin the best year ever! II, IB Math Studies, and Advanced Topics and Modeling in Mathematics. She has also served as the sponsor of Student Council for the past 5 years, choreographing everything from Sara Rozzell Homecoming to visits at Fox Ridge Assisted Living. While she was not raised as a Charging Wildcat, she truly bleeds blue and gold! Go Cats! Sara Rozzell is a math and AP Seminar teacher. She is enter- ing her 13th year of teaching at NLRHS. I enjoy traveling and hanging out with her family. MATH

Melissa Sela Grace Sharpe Missy Sela, a lifelong resident of Grace Sharpe received a BS in North Little Rock, graduated from Math Education from the Uni- Texas Christian University. Her versity of Central Arkansas. She teaching career began at Poplar is in her second year of teaching Street Middle School, where she at North Little Rock High School. taught math and science to 6th grad- She teaches Algebra 1. In her free ers for 2 years. She then transferred time, she loves spending time to Lakewood Middle School, which with her husband and stepson. transitioned to North Little Rock Middle School, and taught a variety of math and science courses over her 12 years there. She transferred to North Little Rock High School two years ago and considers it the best decision she ever made! She has taught several Algebra courses and a year Steven White ago, she got her ELL certification and has blended her love for math with Mr. Steven White teaches Geom- working with ELL students. She has also coached both the competitive and etry and Quantitative Literature, game day NLRHS varsity cheer squads for nine years, and they recently and he earned his BS in Business won 6th place at the National High School Cheerleading Championships Administration degree at the Uni- in Orlando, Florida. Even though this year will definitely look different, versity of Arkansas at Fayetteville. she is just as excited starting her 17th year of teaching as she is every He enjoys sports, concerts, boat- year, and she looks forward to meeting and working with new students! ing, and traveling. He is looking forward to the 2020-21 school year.

Jarod Wright Jarod Wright is a native of Jones- boro, AR. He received his BSE in English and MA in English from the Arkansas State University of Jones- boro. He has been teaching for 17 and a half years, and this will be his second year to teach Geometry at NLRHS. He is also the co-sponsor of the Dungeons and Dragons Club. MUSIC

Thomas Havens Josh Jackson Thomas Havens, a choral music Josh Jackson is entering his 14th teacher, is beginning his fourth year year of teaching and second year as at NLRHS. He previously taught the Assistant Band Director at North choir at NLR Middle School and Little Rock High School. He assists in Lubbock, TX public schools, with the Charging Wildcat March- and he spent 30 years directing ing Band, directs the Concert Band choirs of all ages at churches in and Jazz Band, and teaches courses Texas and Arkansas. For the past in AP Music Theory and Music Ap- five years, he has been director preciation. Josh previously worked of the Arkansas Youth Chorale. for the Harmony Grove-Has- A native of West Texas, he is a graduate of Texas Tech Uni- kell, Ashdown, Camden Fairview, and Abundant Life School Districts. versity. His wife, Gloria, is a retired elementary teach- er, and they have three grown children and 14 grandchildren.

Michelle Smith Mrs. Smith is currently begin- ning her 22nd year of teaching band, and her second as the head band director here at North Lit- tle Rock High School. She has a passion for teaching music and performance. She has very high expectations for all of our students. Ms. Smith’s favorite quote is “To achieve great things two things are needed. A plan and not quite enough time” --Leonard Bernstein PE / HEALTH

Wes Bilon Chanlee Bottoms Mr. Wes Bilon grew up in Cabot, Coach Chan Bottoms teaches Arkansas and graduated from health and yoga, and she is the as- Cabot High School in 1999. He sistant girls’ basketball coach. (GO then attended UCA and obtained CHARGING WILDCATS) Out- a Bachelor of Science degree in side of school, she enjoys work- 2003, a Masters degree in Kinesi- ing in her yard, playing with the ology in 2007 and an Educational pups, and of course spending Specialist in Administration degree time on the court. The education in 2018. He has coached basket- and safety of our students is very ball, football, baseball, and track important to Coach Bottoms, during his time in the NLRSD. He has been married to his wife, Me- and she can’t wait to start the new year. She will see you soon!! gan Bilon, for 16 years and they have two daughters, Avery and Allison.

Nathan Clayborn Daryl Fimple Mr. Nathan Clayborn teaches PE Coach Fimple teaches PE at and is the assistant boys’ basketball NLRHS and has been a coach coach. He has been teaching and for 22 years (14 in North Little coaching in the North Little Rock Rock). He has an overall record of School District for 16 years. When 495 wins and 134 losses. He has he’s not teaching and coaching, he led the girls’ basketball team to loves spending time with his fam- 11 conference championships, as ily and hanging out on the beach. well as four state championships. 43 of his players have earned over six million dollars in scholarship money, so it is no wonder that he has been nominated for and named Ashley Hull Coach of the Year nearly 20 times by various organizations. He has been married to his wife Mandy for 22 years, and she is a counselor at Ashley Hull teaches health and PE Lakewood Elementary. They have two daughters, Payten and Katie. and she is the girls’ track coach and the assistant varsity volleyball coach. This school year will be her seventh Blake year teaching and coaching and her Pizan third year at North Little Rock High Coach Blake Pizan has been at School. When she’s not coaching, NLR for the last 14 years because she enjoys working out and spend- he loves our students and commu- ing time with my family on the lake. nity. He enjoys building relation- ships with all of his students and players through teaching health and coaching football. His wife Ka- tie and their two children, Easton (8) and Emmie (5) live by the moto “NLR TIL THE DAY I DIE!” PE / HEALTH

Clint Reed Johnny Rice Coach Reed is starting his 6th year Johnny Rice is starting his 30th at NLRHS as a health and phys- year teaching and coaching in the ical education teacher and foot- NLRSD. He has been the head boys’ ball coach. He is a 1997 Nashville basketball coach for 9 of those years. High School Graduate in Nashville He is married to his wife Terri, and Arkansas. Coach Reed attended they have 2 sons Jackson and Luke, and played football at Arkansas both of whom are now in college. Tech University, where he grad- uated with Bachelor of Science and Masters of Education de- grees. Prior to coming to North Little Rock, Coach Reed coached and taught at Arkansas Tech University, Nashville High School, and Lakeside High School. Coach Reed enjoys hunting, fishing, riding cut- Justin Yates ting horses, and spending time with his family on the farm. He is mar- Mr. Justin Yates has been in the ried to Jennifer Reed, who also works in the North Little Rock School North Little Rock School District District. They have two sons, Tanner Reed and Jackson Beavert. for three years. He has been in education for 17 years and has had the privilege to work not only in Randy Sandefur high schools but also at the colle- giate level. He is the head 9th grade This is Coach Sanderfur’s 38th girls’ basketball coach, as well as year with the North Little Rock the assistant varsity girls’ basket- School District. He is an assistant ball coach. Coach Yates loves his head coach for football and the job as a PE teacher and coach! He always knew what he wanted to do head coach for the baseball team. growing up and he is excited he gets to do what he loves to do everyday! What he enjoys the most is spend- ing time with his wife, his children, and his beautiful granddaughters. JROTC

James Lively Donald Hunter CW4 Lively, James R. is a Senior I’m retired from the Army, and he Army Instructor for the NLR Army served for 32 years and had six de- Junior Reserve Officer Training ployments in his career. His hobbies Corps (JROTC). He was born in are bowling, fishing, watching all Pine Bluff, AR in 1975. He graduated sports on TV, and hanging out with in 1993 from Watson Chapel High his three granddaughters and four School in Pine Bluff, AR. He joined sons. In his spare time he likes to the US Army in December of 1993. relax and reflect on life and the im- He served 22 years in the Army as pact he tries to have on young kids enlisted and as a Warrant Officer. today. He strives to teach them right He was a Chinook CH-47, instructor pilot, flight lead, air mission com- from wrong. He is an easy person to get along with and I love to have fun. mander, instrument examiner and tactical operations officer. He served in Panama, Iraq, Afghanistan, Hawaii, Thailand, Australia, Japan, and Korea, as well as numerous stateside duty stations. He retired from the military in 2015. He started teaching at NLR High School in 2018 as an assistant in- structor and moved to the senior Army instructor for the 2020/2021 school year. His overall goal is to “motivate young people to be better citizens”. SCIENCE

Christina Buchanan Jonathan Calvin Ms. Christina Buchanan is a life Coach Jonathan Calvin teach- sciences and fine arts teacher. This es 10th grade Biology. His class will be her sixth year at NLRHS, is located in C-Tower, Room 321. and she loves it! She grew up twenty Coach Calvin is a graduate of the minutes away in Lonoke, Arkan- former North Little Rock- North- sas. She earned her Bachelor’s and east High School. He is the head Master’s degrees at Arkansas Tech boys’ track coach and an assistant University in Russellville. While varsity football coach. Being a life- she loves teaching high school, it long member of the NLR commu- is not her first career. She spent ten nity, Coach Calvin loves to chant, years working as an athletic trainer with high schools around the Fort “It’s in my blood and I cannot lie. I’m reppin NLR til the Smith area. She does not have any children of her own, but she hopes day I die.” Enjoy the tour and he will see you in the hallway. to adopt a teenager in the future. She’s a big animal lover and has two cats of her own. She loves football, Italian food, and Christmas time. Adam Hicks Tracy Chrisman Adam Hicks is a proud graduate of North Little Rock High School’s Mr. Tracy Chrisman graduated from class of 1999. He received a Bache- NLR Northeast in 1989. He attended lor’s degree in Chemistry from Hen- the US Air Force Academy and the drix College and a Master’s degree University of Arkansas at Fayette- in Teaching from the University of ville before finishing his undergrad- Central Arkansas. He is currently uate degree at UALR. He received a the Science Multi-Classroom Leader Master’s degree from UALR, as well. (MCL) for 9th and 10th grades. Be- He is proud to be in his 23rd year fore assuming his current role, Mr. with North Little Rock High School Hicks taught Regular and PAP Physical Science, Regular and PAP Chemis- teaching Biology! He and his wife try, AP Chemistry, and AP Physics. He is also very proud of his undefeated Juli have two amazing children, Paden (son) and Cameron (daughter). record in one-on-one basketball games with students. This is Mr. Hicks’s ninth year in education and his seventh year with NLRHS. Go Wildcats! Robert Irons Mr. Robert Irons grew up in Rose Willy Larry City, where he attended Lynch Mr. Larry teaches Chemistry at Drive Elementary and Rose City NLRHS. He is a former Indi- Jr. High. He graduated from NLR ana University basketball play- Northeast High School. He re- er, and he also played for the UE ceived his Bachelor’s degree and and Pacers organizations. He has his Master’s degree from the Uni- earned both Bachelor’s and Mas- versity of Central Arkansas. His ter’s degrees and obtained his experience includes teaching teaching certification through the secondary sciences, coaching, APPEL program. He has worked and being in administration over the past three decades. He is incred- as a grocery store manager for ibly interested in seeing the life and academic success of all students. Aldi, a trainer, and a corporate fitness facility manager. He has coached players at all levels, and he is currently working towards his PhD. SCIENCE

Blake Leisenring Meredith Moore Coach Leisenring is excited to be Hello! My name is Meredith back for his third year of teach- Moore, and I am a biology teach- ing/coaching at North Little Rock er at NLRHS. I obtained a Bach- High School. As a 2010 graduate elor of Science degree in Biology of NLRHS, he is ecstatic to be able from the University of Arkansas to give back to his hometown by and a Master’s degree in Second- helping mold today’s student-ath- ary Education from UALR. This letes into quality young men. Af- is my seventh year teaching Life ter graduating from NLRHS, he Sciences at NLRHS, and every completed his undergraduate stud- year gets more exciting! I expect ies at Ouachita Baptist University where he gained his Bachelor of Art this year will keep me on my toes! As both a teacher and a parent in degree in Kinesiology, Pre-Professional Studies. In 2018 he accepted North Little Rock, I strive to create an environment that I am proud to a position as a science teacher at the high school and began pursuing a be in, and proud to send my own children to be a part of. I am mar- Master of Arts in Teaching degree through Henderson State University. ried to my husband Steve, and currently have two 8th graders (Mia and He is currently teaching Environmental Science and volunteering as an Gavin) and one 7th grader (Grayson) at North Little Rock Middle School. Assistant Baseball Coach for the NLRHS Wildcats Baseball Team. He and his wife, Katelyn, live in Sherwood with their chocolate lab, Bru- no. Katelyn is a Kindergarten Teacher in the Little Rock School Dis- trict and the two have been happily married since November of 2018. Zach Stauber Mr. Stauber grew up in the West George Pulaski area and graduated from Schwab Joe T. Robinson High School in Mr. George Schwab has been a 2004. He has his Bachelor’s degree teacher for 17 years. This will be in Aviation from Henderson State his second year at NLR high school University, and he served six years teaching Chemistry and Physics. as a pilot of the United States Navy. He is married with two little girls, He has a Master’s degree in Educa- ages 9 and 7. In his spare time I tion from the University of Central enjoys camping, hiking, and biking. Arkansas, and he is ready to start his fourth year at North Little Rock High School teaching physical science.

Rolando Valls Hunter Thompson Mr. Valls teaches Biology and Mr. Hunter Thompson is a 10th Chemistry at NLRHS and has 30 - 12th grade science teacher at years of teaching experience in Ar- North Little Rock High School. kansas, Louisiana, and Texas. He He is a North Little Rock High is a Harding University graduate School graduate. Mr. Thomp- and his beautiful wife, Tanya, is the son received his undergraduate Special Education Due Process Des- degree in Business from the U ignee for NLRHS. They have three of A and Masters in Teaching at children and eight grandchildren. UALR. He has taught at the high school for the past four years. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his friends and family, hunting, fishing, woodworking, and lifting weights. SOCIAL STUDIES

Jorden Berberian Leslie Crider Ms. Jorden Berberian has been in Mrs.Crider has been in the educa- the education field for two years tion field for the past five years. She and has spent those years at North holds a BA in Political Science, a Little Rock High School where she BA in Criminal Justice, and a Juris teaches US History and Psychol- Doctorate, all from UALR. Prior to ogy, two of her biggest passions! becoming an educator, Mrs. Crider She holds a BSE from the Uni- spent more than sixteen years in the versity of Arkansas at Little Rock. legal field. While the legal field was This will be her first year serving a great place to work, her heart is in as the NLR 9th grade cheerlead- education! She loves being a teacher ing coach. When she’s not in the classroom or at cheer practice, you and loves her students. She loves watching students grow, both academ- can find her walking her precious English bulldog, Stella, kayaking, ically and personally. She looks forward to having you in class this year doing a DIY project in my home, or taking up some sort of short-lived and hopes that you will enjoy learning about the world in which we live. hobby. Her other hobbies include:badminton, tennis, candle-making, and making myriad desserts. She says quarantine made her get cre- ative. Even though this year will include new challenges and respon- Michael Huels sibilities, she is looking forward to another year of being a Wildcat!! Mr. Michael Edward Huels was born in the oldest city in America, St. Au- gustine, Florida. He is 47 years old, Kyle Hicks married, and has four sons. He grew up mostly in Mississippi, but came Mr. Kyle Hicks teaches 9th grade to Arkansas when he was 15. He at- US History. He has been teach- tended the University of Arkansas, ing for almost 8 years, and the Fayetteville, and has a B.A. Journal- last 5 years have been at NLRHS. ism, B.A. History, and an M.A.T. in Mr. Hicks holds a BSE in Sec- Secondary Social Sciences. He is ondary Social Studies from UCA known for his humor and ability to make history an informative and enter- and has an ESL endorsement. He taining subject. He currently teaches World History, A.P. Government and and his wife welcomed their first Politics, and Philosophy. Hanging out with his wife and sons is his favorite child, Lillian, on July 18, 2020. thing to do. He also enjoys all types of fishing, hiking, hunting, and kayak- They’re looking forward to being ing. Music is also important to him, and he incorporates it into many edu- parents and he’s looking forward to another great year at NLRHS. cational lessons. He has a progressive style of teaching and is ready and will- ing to try new things to improve his student’s attention and performance. Elizabeth Hughey Social studies are not only important, they can be very fun. He believes that we learn about the past so we do not repeat our mistakes in the future. Elizabeth Hughey is a proud Ar- kansas native. In her free time, she enjoys doing anything with her Chris Kizer family and friends, or any outdoor Mr. Chris Kizer is starting his 8th activity that our beautiful state year of teaching and his first year at has to offer. She also loves to trav- North Little Rock High School. He el and learn about different cul- spent the previous seven years with tures and customs. She graduated the Arkadelphia Public Schools as in May 2020 from the Universi- a health teacher and as a defensive ty of Central Arkansas with her coordinator for the football team. Bachelor of Science in History Education. She is so excited to be Mr. Kizer holds a BSE and MSE a new member here at North Little Rock High School and looks from Southern Arkansas Universi- forward to getting to know this year’s students and families. ty. He is married to Allison Frizzell Kizer who is the head volleyball coach at Ouachita Baptist University. SOCIAL STUDIES

Christy Klucher Joshua Neago Christy Klucher earned her BSE Mr. Josh Neago teaches AP World from the University of Central Ar- History and Honors World His- kansas. She has been a teacher in tory here at NLRHS. He is start- the North Little Rock School Dis- ing his second year of teaching at trict for the past 20 years. She is North Little Rock, and he’s excited currently the NLRHS Peer Lead- to start teaching Advanced Place- ership Coordinator, or STARS in- ment courses for the first time. He structor. This program is a com- loves history because it affords the munity service learning course opportunity to look at past peo- that allows juniors and seniors to ple and events, learn from their serve as mentors to our district’s youngest students. Mrs. Klucher also mistakes and successes, and apply the lessons to present situations. Mr. teaches Advanced Placement European History and World History. Neago holds a BA in History and BA in Education from Ouachita Baptist University. Outside of school, he loves to rock-climb, run, play PS4, eat spicy food, or spend time with his lovely wife, Hannah. Whatever lies in James Overturf store for our school, he is excited to return, and he hopes you are too! Mr. James Overturf holds a Bach- elor’s degree in History and a Tammy Master’s degree in Curriculum Petty and Instruction from the Univer- Tammy Petty is a social studies sity of Arkansas at Little Rock. He teacher at North Little Rock High also has an ESL endorsement. Mr. School. For the 2020-21 school year, Overturf has taught social studies she will be teaching AP U.S. Histo- at North Little Rock High School ry, Civics/Economics, and Amer- for the past seven years. Explor- ican History. She loves teaching ing and interpreting the world history, and she is proud to say that through a historical lens is an invaluable tool and Mr. Overturf thor- she has been teaching at the high oughly enjoys helping students learn to see their world from differ- school for 20+ years! Go Wildcats!! ent viewpoints. He loves to cook, try different foods, and even “makes” food (he made bacon last year and regularly makes his own beef jerky). Other hobbies include traveling,(unfortunate because of the Autumn Thomas current situation), playing PS4 with his son Will, and working outside. Autumn Thomas is a proud grad- uate of North Little Rock High Terri School. She holds a Bachelor’s Smith degree from the University of Terri Smith teaches Advanced Central Arkansas and a Master’s Placement Psychology and Intro- degree from the University of duction to Yoga. She has a Mas- Kansas. She is currently the Social ter’s degree from University of Studies Multi-Classroom Lead- Central Arkansas and received er (MCL) for 9th and 10th grades. her National Board Teacher Cer- Before assuming her current role, tification in 2017. She has been Mrs. Thomas taught regular and honors Civics and Economics, Amer- teaching at North Little Rock ican History, and AP Human Geography. She is also one of the high High School for 11 years and also school sponsors of NLR Teen Court. This is Mrs. Thomas’ eighth teaches yoga at a local yoga studio. year in education and seventh year with NLRHS. Go Wildcats! SOCIAL STUDIES

Aaron Whitt Cameron Williams Aaron Whitt and is in his second Over the past six years at NLR year teaching US History and first High School, Cameron Williams year teaching AP US History at has taught World History (AP, North Little Rock High School. He Honors, and Level) along with IB graduated from Fayetteville High Psychology. He is looking forward School in 2009 and from University to teaching your child this year. of Arkansas-Little Rock in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in History. He is passionate about history and feels so lucky that he gets the oppor- tunity to share his passion with students every day. Although he grew up in Fayetteville, he has strong ties to North Little Rock. His grandfather, Dan Whitt, graduated from North Little Rock High School in 1963 and he is proud to be a part of a community with which his family connects. He is an avid sports fan and a massive supporter of the Dallas Cowboys, Totten- ham Hotspur FC, and the Razorbacks. He is extremely excited about meet- ing a new group of students and is eager to have a wonderful school year.

Meredith Williams Mrs. Meredith Williams currently teaches American History, Hon- ors American History, and AP Microeconomics/Macroeconom- ics as well as serving as co-ad- visor for the NLRHS chapter of the National Honor Society. She has a BA in History and a MEd in Secondary Education. This is Mrs. Williams’ 24th year in the NLRSD. In her career she has taught a variety of classes at all lev- els of ability ranging from Special Education to IB and AP courses. SPECIAL SERVICES

Elizabeth Bartlett Courtney Clark Elizabeth Bartlett is a Dyslexia In- Ms. Courtney Clark is starting her terventionist at North Little Rock 4th year in the North Little Rock High School. This is her 23rd year of School District. Coach Clark has a teaching. She has spent most of her Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic career teaching reading, but she has Recreation with a Masters of Arts also taught art and photography. She and Teaching in Special Education enjoys hanging out with her hus- grades K-12 from Henderson State band, Michael, and their dogs. She University. She is currently the has three grown children. She keeps head softball coach and helps with herself way too busy gardening, quilt- the varsity basketball team. She is ing, taking photographs, playing mandolin, and feeding birds and feral cats. married with a 15 year old son. In her spare time, she enjoys being out- doors and around her family. She is extremely outgoing and always up for new adventures. She hopes you have a wonderful school year, and if you ever have any questions or concerns, she will be happy to help. Beth Cranor My name is Beth Cranor. I am a spe- cial education teacher at NLRHS. I have been teaching for 20 years. Michelle Ferguson This is my 5th year in the North Lit- Ms. Michelle Ferguson has a Bache- tle Rock School District. Previous lor’s degree in Animal Science: Pre- to coming to North Little Rock, I Vet from the University of Arkansas taught at North Pulaski High School and a Master of Arts in Teaching in Jacksonville. I have a Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (P-4) Arts in Communications degree from the University of Central Ar- from the University of Arkansas kansas. Currently, she is the pursu- and an MAT degree, also from the ing another Master’s degree in Spe- University of Arkansas. I am married to my highschool sweetheart. We cial Instruction, K-12, from AState. have been married for 23 years. I have one daughter, Anneke, who is a She previously taught at the Univer- 10th grader at the high school. In my spare time I love playing with my sity of Arkansas (Fort Smith) in the Early Childhood Education/Preschool dogs, reading, and taking my daughter to dance competitions. Teaching is Program. Her other teaching experiences include 7-12 science classes, pre- my absolute passion. I treat my students as if they were my own children. school, 4th grade, and a dual role as the Director of Preschool Services and I am looking forward to working with you and your student this year. Early Childhood Developmental Specialist at a preschool for all abilities.

Joan Holbert I have a B.S. degree in Physical Ed- Heather Gallentine ucation/Health from the University Ms. Heather Gallentine has been of Arizona and an Ed. Specialist in teaching for 15 years, all of which Reading degree and M.Ed. degree have been in the service of NLRSD. in Special Education from the Uni- She is also an alumni of NLRSD! versity of Arkansas at Little Rock. She attended UALR for her Bache- I served as an educational thera- lor’s degree and Arkansas State Uni- pist at the Centers for Youth and versity for her Master’s degree. She Families for 19 years, and I have is so excited to get this year started. been a special education teacher in the NLRSD since 2009. In my free time, I enjoy bird watching, hiking, traveling to visit family, reading, and participating in church functions. SPECIAL SERVICES

Monica Hollis Grace Horton Ms. Monica Hollis is a 1978 grad- This is Grace Horton’s first year at uate of Blytheville High School NLRHS. She, however, is not new and a 1989 graduate of Arkansas to North Little Rock. She attended State University where she received NLRSD schools from kindergarten her BS in Special Education K-12 to 12th grade. After graduating, she and in Elementary Education 1-6. attended UALR and returned to She is married with one child (28 NLRSD, teaching at Seventh Street yrs.old) and two fur babies, Lucy Elementary. She moved to NLRMS & Sadie She has taught in Ar- 7/8 th grade campus last year and kansas (25 yrs.), Virginia, North now she’s at the high school! She is so Carolina, and Tennessee. She has taught students with document- excited to be coaching the 9th grade dance team and teaching special educa- ed disabilities in all grades and all areas. She is currently a member of tion this year. She looks forward to meeting you and having a great school year. the Council of Exceptional Children. She loves spending time with her family, and she also enjoys reading, serving those less fortunate. knitting, cross stitching, & making cards with a Cricut Air2 machine. Brenda Melvin I am currently the CBI (Commu- nity Based Instruction) teacher Laura Kelty here at NLR High School, and I have 30 years of teaching experi- Mrs. Laura Kelty is thrilled to get ence in Special Education, the last to know your freshman. This is 21 of which have been in the NLR her 2nd year at NLRHS but her 7th School District. I hold a Bach- year teaching. She has 3 wonder- elor’s and a Master’s degree in ful kids, a lovely husband, Chris, Special Education from UCA. I 2 dogs, 5 fish, and 2 guinea pigs. am married with 2 children. Our Let’s go Wildcats and let’s have youngest is a junior here at NLR High School. a great 2020-2021 school year!

David McPherson Shelbi Rowley Shelbi Rowley is a new teacher My name is David McPherson. I am to the North Little Rock School a special education teacher at North District. She recently taught in Little Rock High School. I will be Heber Springs and she has a won- teaching Self Contained Social Stud- derful 2 month old daughter. She ies, Science, Math, Language Arts, is so excited to meet everyone and Vocational this school year. I and anticipates an amazing year! am entering my 41st year of teach- ing, 38 of which have been with the North Little Rock School District. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Music and a Master’s degree in Special Ed- ucation. I am also the sponsor of the school chess club. The NLRHS Chess Club won back to back State Championships in 2017/2018 and 2018/2019. We won the Regional tournament in 2019/2020 but were not able to de- fend our title due to Covid 19. I have been married to my wife, JoEllen for 30 years. We have a son named Scott who lives in Chicago. We also have a miniature bull terrier named Stella. My overall philosophy in teaching is to help prepare students to be as independent as possible in all areas of their life. SPECIAL SERVICES

Ella Sergeant Anita Shelton Ella Sergeant. Your servant lead- Anita Shelton was born and raised er is here ready to Welcome in Nashville, AR. Her educational you to NLRHS for the 2020-21 background consists of a Bachelor School Year. Remain positive of Science degree in Speech Pathol- and you will have a great year! ogy and a Master of Science degree in Special Education. She has an endorsement in English as a Second Language and Career Development. She has worked for NLRSD since 2001. She has a total of 32 years teaching experience. Her hobbies include gardening, jigsaw puzzles and Patricia Taylor spoiling Her 4 legged furbaby, Cotton. She also enjoys riding motorcy- Patricia Taylor is a special educa- cles and driving her convertible on the twists and turns of a scenic road. tion resource and inclusion teacher at NLRHS. She has been with the Tanya North Little Rock School District Valls for seven years. Prior to that, she Mrs. Tanya Valls, the special ed- was a math teacher in the Searcy ucation due process designee for Public Schools. She received her the high school, was born in Ar- M.S.E. in Mathematics at ASU in kansas, but grew up in Philadel- Jonesboro. Mrs. Taylor is married to phia and New Jersey. She came Tom who is a pharmacist at Getwell back to Arkansas and attended Rx in Cabot. They reside in Judsonia. They have two sons; Caleb lives in Harding University where she met Conway and is employed as a communications and research associate and her husband, Nicky. She received Jared (married to Keela) lives in St. Louis and is an operations associate a degree in Special Education/ for a financial company. Her hobbies are walking, reading, and baking. Elementary and Middle School Education, and obtained her first teaching job in McCrory, AR. She re- turned to education after devoting nine years to raising her three chil- dren. She and her husband have both taught in Arkansas, Louisiana, Sheryl White and Texas. She has taught elementary special education at all levels, as well as Algebra and Geometry. The Valls love doing things together out- Sheryl White has taught special ed- doors, especially in the mountains of our beautiful state. They believe it ucation at North Little Rock High has kept them as sane as possible during the craziness of this summer! School for five years. She received her AAS in Petroleum Technolo- gy and BS from UAFS. Then, Ms. White went on to earn her Masters Sheila Whitfield degree from NCU for Higher Ed- Sheila Whitfield has taught resource ucation and Organization Leader science and social studies at North Masters degree in Sped from HSU. Little Rock High School for the past She currently teaches Geometry six years and has absolutely loved it! Resource B and has taught Algebra She entered teaching after spending A and B, Geometry A, English 10, 16 years as the Executive Director of and English 11. Before becoming a high school teacher, Mrs. White was The Shepherd Center of North Lit- a petroleum instructor at the University of Arkansas Community College tle Rock, a non-profit program for in Morrilton. Mrs. White loves teaching students, especially those who senior citizens, which emphasizes struggle in learning. She believes it her mission to meet students where successful aging and life-long learn- they are and to teach them in the way that they learn best. In her free ing. When the center transitioned to an all volunteer program, Ms. Whit- time, Mrs. White loves to sing, play piano, fish, swim, float, and camp. field decided to switch careers and pursue a Master of Arts in Teaching from Harding University. She earned a certification in PreK - 4th grade and completed certification course work in Special Education at UALR. SPECIAL SERVICES

Barbara Zertuche Ms.Barbara Zertuche received her bachelor’s degree from Ashford University, her teaching licen- sure from Henderson State Uni- versity, and is currently working on her master’s degree in Special Education from Arkansas State University. Ms. Zertuche joined the North Little Rock School High family last December and is entering her eighth year teaching. She started her career as an ALE for second and third grade students and has worked her way to high school special education. Ms. Zertuche is excited for this new year!

TV

Sela Alvaro Born and raised in Madrid, Spain, Mr. Sela is a graduate of Boston Uni- versity in Film Production. Mr. Sela has been working on film and tele- vision productions for over 20 years, and has done work for ESPN, Fox Sports, NBC, 20th Century Fox and ABC News, to name a few. He loves working with our students on NL- RTV, a program which allows them to work on all aspects of television production and covers as many school events as possible. A self-proclaimed nerd, Mr. Sela has been living in Ar- kansas for the past 20 years, with his wife Missy (also a teacher and cheer coach in the district), his children, Marisol and Nicholas, and his 4 dogs. COUNSELORS

Caleb Austin Shaundria Gordon Mr. Austin graduated twice from Shandria Gordon is currently a the University of Central Arkan- school counselor at North Lit- sas. He is a former middle school tle Rock High School. She works teacher, and he is passionate with students whose last names about preparing students to reach begin with A - Day. Her office is their future in higher education. located in F227. Ms. Gordon re- ceived a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Philander Smith College. She attended the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where she earned a Master of Education degree in Middle School Education and a Master of Education degree in Guidance Counseling. Cynthia Hampton She has been with the North Little Rock School district since 1997. Ms. Cynthia Hampton is a guid- ance counselor who serves stu- Debbie dents whose last names begin Horton with Mulherin-K.Smith. She re- Debbie Horton lives in North Lit- ceived her Bachelor’s degree in tle Rock with her husband (Scott) Business Education from UC and they have two great sons. She and her Master’s degree in Coun- started my teaching career 37 years seling Education from UALR. ago as a 1st grade teacher in Cabot Public Schools. One day while at work in Cabot, someone working at the North Little Rock central office called her and asked if she would Lindsey Ledgerwood come in to talk with them about This will be Lindsay Ledgerwood’s 12 taking a counseling job. Keep in mind: she was not looking for a job at th year working for the North the time. But, when she found out that NLR would pay her more money Little Rock School District and her than Cabot Public Schools, she said, “So long Cabot, I‘m out” and never fourth year as a school counselor looked back. She has been in this district for 31 years as an elementary, at North Little Rock High School. middle school, and high school counselor. She says that she has loved Before starting at the high school, every grade level with which she has worked. She loves her job, her stu- Ms. Ledgerwood was a 3rd and dents, and her colleagues. She is excited to do another year at NLRHS. 4th grade teacher at Crestwood Elementary for 8 years. She lives in North Little Rock with her Gwen Leger husband, Doug, and our 4 children; Alex (19), Nate (13), Jackson Gwen Leger is the head coun- (7), and Emslee (6 months). selor for North Little Rock High School. She is currently mastering the art of manipulating over 1000 blocks of time to ensure every stu- dent has the opportunity to take as many of their desired classes as possible and every teacher has a “bright spot” in their day. Leger has served NLRHS for 28 years in various capacities: drama teacher, English department chair, Jour- nalism teacher, activities director, senior class sponsor, social media organizer, leadership team member, etc. She received her BA in Pub- lic Relations from Tulsa University, her Master’s degree in Second- ary Ed from University of Arkansas at Little Rock, and her Education- al Specialist in Educational Leadership from Arkansas State University. MEDIA CENTER

Raquell Barton Deborah Anderson Dr. Raquell Barton received her This is Ms. Debbie Anderson’s 27th Bachelor’s degree from Philander year teaching in the North Little Smith College. She holds a Master’s Rock School District. This is her degree from the University of Cen- first year as a media specialist at tral Arkansas and a Doctorate from the high school. Before moving the University of Memphis. She has to NLRHS, she was a media spe- been teaching in the North Little cialist and classroom teacher at Rock School District for 20 years, and Indian Hills Elementary School. she has served 9 at the highschool She graduated from North Little level as the library media specialist. Rock High in 1990 and obtained She has three children, Torie, Stephanie and Henry, who are her pride and joy. both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in Library Media from the University of Central Arkansas. She has been married to her hus- band Rob for 25 years and they have twin daughters who are 23 years old. She is really looking forward to working with her former elemen- Heidi Cherry tary students this year in high school. “We keep growing together!” Ms. Cherry graduated from North- east High School in NLR. She be- gan attending a college in Flint, MI right after graduation. After a couple years, she changed my major and moved to the Univer- sity of Kentucky. After chang- ing her major again, she ended up at Michigan State University where she earned a Master of Sci- ence degree in Forestry. She now works in the Media Center and han- dles a variety of responsibilities, including technology and student debts. Ms. Cherry hopes you have a healthy and engaging school year.