Educational & Professional Background: I attended Mars Hill University for my undergraduate degree in education and earned my Master’s degree in Reading from Appalachian State University. I earned my National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certification (NBPTS) in 2003 and have renewed this certificate twice since then. I am also a member of an organization called Shakespeare Lives! I traveled to London, England with this organization and trained with various masters of the stage at the Globe Theater to teach the works of William Shakespeare through interactive movement. While in London, I performed Richard III on the stage of the Globe Theater and had the opportunity to perform for a local school. I returned the following year as a teacher mentor and continued my studies.

Teaching Experience: I began my teaching career in Columbia, South Carolina teaching eighth grade English/Language Arts, Yearbook, and Newspaper Journalism. After four years, I moved to North Carolina and taught eighth grade English Language Arts and Yearbook Journalism at Allen Jay Middle School in Guilford County. I have also worked at The Piedmont School as a reading tutor and taught English at Guilford Technical Community College for 6 years. This is my 17th-year teaching English at Southwest Guilford High School and my 31st year as an educator.

Interest/Hobbies: I enjoy reading a variety of literature, especially Shakespeare, Greek mythology, poetry, and mysteries. I love to dance (especially ballroom and swing dance). I also enjoy live theater and love Broadway shows! And, above all…I LOVE to TRAVEL!!! I spend most of my summers traveling the globe. Anywhere new is an adventure! I’ve been to 46 countries so far and always look forward to the next adventure!

I look forward to an amazing semester with you! Please use the contact information below to get in touch with me if you have questions or concerns. 

Email: gainesc@gcsnc.com