John Adams, Principal

My name is John Adams. I`m married, and I have four kids. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and obtained a Masters of Education degree from the University of Dayton, OH. I began working as a computer teacher in 2001, and I taught for eight years in Ohio. I have been working as an administrator since 2009.

My #1 goal this year is to exemplify positive, professional leadership that makes a difference in the lives of the students and the staff. I will make every effort to bring teams of teachers, parents, or community partners together to achieve our school goals. I am empathetic to every student's needs, every teacher's struggle, and to the community's challenges.

Michelle Gundlach, Assistant Principal

My name is Michelle Gundlach and I am very excited to take on the role of assistant principal at Green. This is my second year as part of the Green family, having taught 5th grade ELA and Social Studies last year. Currently, I am going into my 20th year of teaching. Previous to teaching at Green, I taught 5th grade in West Columbia and 3rd and 4th grade in Massachusetts. I am a graduate of Bridgewater State University with a dual major in Elementary Education and English. When I am not at school, I enjoy traveling, reading, and spending time with my husband and two furbabies.

This year, my #1 goal as assistant principal is to build relationships with the students and families at Green. I believe that a strong school culture leads to greatness and I am excited to be a part of that.

Yusuf Kaya, Assistant Principal of Operations

My name is Yusuf Kaya. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics and I'm in the final phase of my Master's Degree in Educational Leadership. I have worked as a middle and high school mathematics teacher for several years in Florida and South Carolina. 2020-2021 will be my 7th year with GREEN Charter Family which I am happy and honored to be part of.

As Assistant Principal of Operations, my primary responsibility is to lead the implementation and maintenance of operational systems that allow the instructional team to focus on teaching and learning. I am always focused on student success. My educational philosophy is that all students can learn, but I also believe that certain things must be in place for this to happen...Things like a positive learning environment, a strong and knowledgeable leadership, a committed and focused educational team, an encouraging community, and a supportive family. As an African proverb says "It takes a village to raise a child". I will make every effort to provide "THE VILLAGE" to every single student with the help of all stakeholders.

I like to spend my free time with my wife and 3 beautiful daughters (A kindergartner born in Greenville and a set of twins born in Columbia)

Megan Bouknight, Kindergarten Teacher

My name is Megan Bouknight and I am so excited to be your child’s teacher this year! This will
be my second full year at Green. I received my Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education at the
University of South Carolina. While attending college, I had many experiences working with children of different ages, development, and ethnicity. Since graduating I have had the privilege to substitute full time at H.E. Corley and right here at Green. I taught first grade last year, but knew my passion was in kindergarten. When I’m not teaching, I am spending time with my husband and two year old son. We love going to the beach, the park, and watching movies. I believe a classroom is another home for children and hope to make your children excited to learn. I cannot wait to learn and grow with your children. Here’s to a great school year!

Kimberly Taylor, Kindergarten Teacher

My name is Kimberly Taylor. This is my second year teaching Kindergarten at Green Charter here in South Carolina. I spent most of my teaching career in Georgia. I have a wonderful husband named Jeremy, a four year old son named Keith, one fur pup named Gizmo, and two new kittens named Garfield and Princess Laea. I absolutely love teaching our youngest students because of how much they learn in their first year of school. I am looking forward to another great year here at Green Charter of the Midlands.

Heather Trice, First Grade Teacher

My name is Heather Trice and I am so excited about returning for my first full year at Green Charter of the Midlands, teaching first grade. I graduated from Columbia College with my degree in Elementary Education. I have taught everything from Pre-K through Third Grade. Outside of school, you will find me spending time with my husband and our two babies,Allie and Buck. I am looking forward to learning alongside your children and am looking forward to all of the wonderful learning experiences that we will have this year!

Abigail Hamner, First Grade Teacher

My name is Abigail Hamner and this will be my first year teaching at Green Charter School. I will be teaching first grade. I grew up here in Columbia, but I have just moved back after living in Savannah, Georgia, for the past few years where I taught first grade. I have a Master’s degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Columbia International University. When I am not at school, I am most likely running on Lake Murray Dam or looking for new books to read at the public library. My classroom is a safe place where students can learn from their mistakes and ask questions. My goal is to create a learning environment where students can flourish as life-long learners, creative problem-solvers, and proactive leaders.

Madeline VanAmerongen, 2nd Grade Teacher

My name is Maddie VanAmerongen, but everyone calls me Mrs. Van (so much easier). I’m a 2nd grade teacher. This is my 2nd year at GREEN and my 2nd year teaching. I received my Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education at Newberry College. While attending college, I was a Newberry College Cheerleader (Go Wolves!) and a member of Alpha Xi Delta sorority. Newberry College was an amazing school and prepared me so well to be a teacher! I got to work with all different students from all different backgrounds. I also got to work with a variety of teachers and was able to student-teach in many different learning environments! Since graduating I have worked at GREEN Charter School. Here I have been able to grow my abilities as a teacher and feel better than ever going into my second year! When I’m not teaching, I’m either coaching cheerleading or spending time with my husband. I just became a cheerleading coach at Dutch Fork High School and love spending my time still teaching kids but in a different way! My husband and I love to watch movies at home and go out to dinner. I am so excited to start the upcoming school year and can’t wait to see all of the wonderful students I will be working with! Have a great year!

Kristin Olcott, 2nd Grade Teacher

Hi! I’m Mrs. Olcott and this will be my seventh year teaching, but my first year at GREEN Charter. I am thrilled to be here! I just moved back to Columbia from Charleston to be closer to my family. I graduated from The University of South Carolina in 2014 where I majored in early childhood education. I have two dogs named Taco and Chubbs, and two cats named Olive and Kiwi. I also have a pet rat named Ruby. I got married to my husband, Dean, in February. In my spare time I love to read, travel, and spend time with my friends and family. I am SO excited to get started at GREEN Charter and meet all of my new students!

Briana McLeland, 3rd Grade

Hello, my name is Mrs. McLeland and I will be teaching 3rd grade this year! This is my first year at Green Charter Schools and I am so excited! My husband and I recently moved to South Carolina from Indiana where I grew up. While in Indiana, I attended Indiana Wesleyan University and graduated with a degree in Elementary Education and Exceptional Needs Education. Outside of school, I love going on walks with my husband, reading a book, going to the beach, cooking and baking! I am so excited to be a part of Green Charter Schools and make it a great year!

Kaitlyn Shuler, 3rd Grade

Hello! My name is Kait Shuler. I received my bachelor's at Clemson University (Go Tigers) and my Master's in Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum from Drexel University. I met my now-husband, Alex, at Clemson during our freshman years. We got married in 2019 and we have two dogs, Layla and Scout. Since we graduated in 2016, we have been living wherever the Army has placed us. My husband recently left the Army and we are thrilled to be back in our favorite state for good. I enjoy watching football and movies, reading, and spending time with my husband and our dogs. I'm looking forward to a great year in third-grade!

Susan Brown, 4th Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher

My name is Sue Brown, and I will be teaching ELA and Social Studies to our fourth graders this year. I was born into a military family in California and grew up mostly in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, but received my BA degree in Elementary Education at Vermont College. I taught fourth and fifth grade students within the Florida public school system for 10 years, adding an ESOL endorsement to my FL teaching certificate. When my husband and I relocated to South Carolina, so we could be closer to family, I added the Gifted and Talented endorsement to my SC teaching certificate. This will be my 5th year as part of the GREEN Charter School family; teaching 1 year at the Greenville campus, and 3 years at our campus here in Irmo. I love sharing my passion for history with my students and seeing them become excited about their learning. Another year of reading, writing, and history awaits, and I cannot wait to get started!

Grace Lifer, 4th Grade Math and Science Teacher

I am so excited to be teaching 4th grade Mathematics and Science at Green for my second time this year. This will be my fifth full year of teaching. I graduated from Presbyterian College with a degree in Early Childhood Education with an additional certificate in Elementary Education. I love teaching and finding new and exciting ways to engage my students. I also love showing students how and why everything in math is connected. I love teaching my students to challenge themselves and become more independent as they explore the world around them.

When I am not at school, I enjoy being outdoors, exercising, hanging out with friends, and going on adventures. I also love watching football and am a Clemson Tiger through and through. I also have one sister who lives in Orlando, and I love visiting her and talking to her, as well as my parents who live in Starkville. I am excited to partner with you this year as I teach Fourth Grade!

Sheri McKelvin, 5th Grade Math and Science Teacher

My name is Sheri McKelvin and I am excited to start my second year with the Green Charter School family. I currently teach 5th grade Math and Science. I received my Bachelors from Mars Hill University in NC. I am certified in Early Childhood, Elementary Education and Special Education. My teaching experience includes Kindergarten, 5th grade, and Special Education in grades 3, 4 and 5. I have two children, a daughter, and son. I relocated from Western NC three years ago to be closer to my family, especially my 3 granddaughters. I enjoy spending time with them and getting in an occasional bike ride.

Abbey Gross, 5th Grade ELA and Social Studies Teacher

My name is Abbey Gross and I am the 5th grade ELA and Social Studies teacher. I graduated from the University of Louisville in Kentucky with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. After graduating, I moved back home to Wisconsin where I held a 5th grade position at Pleasant Prairie Elementary. Although I loved my time there, I decided to move to South Carolina and here I am a Green Charter! I love teaching 5th grade because it is an age where students are challenged to think deeper into the concepts they are learning and begin to practice how to hold knowledgeable discussions with their peers. When I am not teaching, I love to be outdoors, spend time with family and friends, travel, and go shopping. I look forward to a year of learning and growing with my students and the Green community!

Aruna  Appari, Middle School- Math Teacher

My name is Aruna Devi Appari and I am the Mathematics teacher for the Middle School at Green Charter. I have earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and Mathematics. This will be my twentieth year of teaching, but my first in South Carolina. I was born and brought up in India and moved to Florida, USA last year. Most of my teaching experience has been at the high school and middle school level. My passion for Mathematics and facilitating students in exploring Math concepts motivated me to choose this teaching career. Before moving to South Carolina, I taught High School in Florida. I encourage class discussions, open-ended questions and cooperative learning in students, which enables a highly interactive and inquisitive class atmosphere. Outside of school, I enjoy traveling with my family and friends, exploring different places and hiking with friends. I’m glad to welcome the opportunity as an educator at Green Charter School of the Midlands and I’m looking for an excited year ahead.

Harriett Abraham, Middle School ELA Teacher

My name is Harriett Abraham and I am the Middle School ELA teacher. I am excited to be returning to Green Charter of the Midlands. I truly enjoy working with students and helping them explore the world around them. It makes my day to see students make connections and gather new knowledge. I encourage parents to help me allow students to grow and learn the world around them. I studied at Macon State College and Mercer University. I have been part of the Green Charter School Family for three years and look forward to another amazing year.

Alexandra Marlin, Middle School Science Teacher

Hello everyone! My name is Alexandra Marlin, and this will be my first year of teaching. I will be teaching Science, which was always my favorite subject in school. I even went on to get my Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences from Liberty University. Outside of that, I enjoy reading, traveling, running, playing volleyball, and making others smile! I look forward to creating an interactive and engaging classroom environment for middle school students, where they will feel safe, welcomed, and challenged. I can't wait to meet your children and get to know you all better!

Michael Easter, Middle School Social Studies Teacher

I am Mr. Easter, and I am happy to be returning for my third year at Green Charter School. I have the honor and privilege of teaching Social Studies, where students learn more about the world around them, different cultures, current events, and how the past affects our lives today. I hope my class can help students learn to build critical thinking and problem solving skills, as well as compassion and empathy. I got my degree from the University of South Carolina - Aiken. When I’m not at school, you can find me at the gym, cooking in my kitchen, or reading.

Deanna Furniss, Art Teacher

Hey there! My name is Deanna Furniss and I am the new art teacher at Green Charter of the Midlands. I received a BA in Art Education from Winthrop University in May of 2020, so this will be my first-year teaching. I am originally from the small town of Lugoff, SC, and still live there with my dog, Sadie, and my cat, Petunia. Outside of the classroom I enjoy hiking, music, and creating ceramics.

I look forward to meeting all of the wonderful artists at Green and helping them create art that they love!

Stacy Tyson, Music Teacher

My name is Stacy Tyson and I am in my second year as the music director at GREEN and my 11th year teaching music. I’m excited to see the program expanding and look forward to adding new instruments, ensembles, and opportunities for our students. I have spent a lot of time preparing to teach music in many different ways including recorder, percussion, ukulele, band and orchestra. Look for lots of information from the music department this year! When I’m not teaching I’m performing on euphonium or trumpet, hiking in the mountains or cruising with my husband, or watching and working on Broadway productions with my husband and daughter.

Karina Vega, Spanish Teacher

Let me introduce myself. My name is Mrs. Vega. I will be your Spanish teacher. I have been teaching for almost 20 years now. I am from the country of Colombia, South America. I have three wonderful children and my hobbies are practicing music with my daughter. During the school year, students will learn about the Hispanic Culture and the language through many fun and interactive activities. Every day, we will spend time perfecting the four skills necessary for learning a foreign language: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. I will be delighted to have your child in my classroom. I believe that by all of us working together, we can make this a very successful year. I consider it of prime importance that you be an active part of your child's education. Looking forward to a wonderful year!

Dianne Cotney, PE Teacher

Hello, my name is Dianne Cotney. This will be my third year at Green Charter School. I teach physical education and coach archery. I am from Spartanburg, SC and went to Dorman High School. I received my undergraduate degree from Newberry College and my Master's degree from the University of South Carolina. I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling. I look forward to working with our students at Green Charter and entering my thirty-sixth year in education.

Rianna Smith, Literacy Coach

My name is Rianna Smith and this will be my fourth year at GREEN. I am originally from Syracuse, NY, and moved to Columbia three years ago. I graduated with a dual Bachelors degree in Childhood and Special Education, as well as my Masters degree in Literacy from The College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY. I taught first grade for eight years. This will be my third year as the Literacy Coach/RTI Coordinator. I can’t wait to continue to collaborate, coach and support our staff members, as well as develop amazing readers and writers in our students. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my husband and our dog Roxy. I enjoy sports, cooking and exploring new places.

Johanna Ellis, Reading Interventionist

My name is Johanna Ellis and I am the Reading interventionist. I hold a teaching certificate in Early Childhood Education as well as a Masters in Elementary Education. I am returning to Green Charter for a fourth year to work with small groups of students in reading. It is my goal to instill in them a lifelong love of reading. Originally from Greenville, my husband and I moved to Columbia 13 years ago. We have two children who attend Green Charter. We keep 3 cats, and we love to be active outside together.

Wendy Roberts, ESOL/Interventionist

Cecilia Rosopa, Administrative Assistant / Powerschool Coordinator

Hi GREEN Charter families! I started at our school working part time in aftercare and enjoyed the atmosphere so much that when an opportunity presented itself to be full time I was more than happy to take it. I graduated with a degree in Human Services from University of Massachusetts and am currently pursuing my Masters in Clinical Social Work. I have a passion for advocating for children and families. So, working in the front office is such a treat because I have the opportunity to interact and assist all our families.

Ariel Eaves, Teacher Aide

My name is Ariel Eaves and this is my third year at Green Charter School of the Midlands. My fiancé and I moved to South Carolina from Missouri in 2015. We have one baby boy, Ryker, and one fur baby, Remi. I have been working with children for almost 10 years and I obtained my Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education in 2014. I am so excited for this journey with your children and I look forward to a great year!

Cody Russell, Teacher Aide

Susan Willoughby, School Nurse

My name is Susan Willoughby and I am excited to be a part of GREEN! This is my first year as a school nurse. Previously I was in the military as a nurse, and retired a few years ago. My experience ranges from NICU to elderly care. My heart has always been with pediatrics. I have 4 children, three of which are in college now and one heading into high school. I love spending time outdoors and riding my two horses.
My goal is to keep families well informed, keep our students healthy while at school, and have a great school year!

Wendy Roberts, Reading Interventionist / ESOL Coordinator

Hello Green Charter families. My name is Wendy Roberts. I received my Bachelors Degree from Newberry College in Early/Elementary Education. I spent 30 years teaching in public schools. My last 10 years were spent teaching English Language Arts. I joined the Green Charter faculty after retiring from public school teaching in 2018. I have been working with Reading Intervention and ESOL for the past 2 years and I am looking forward to beginning my third year.

Cody Russell, Teacher Aide

Hello Green Charter family! My name is Cody Russell. I am 24 years old and I work in Mrs. Olcott’s 2nd grade class as a teacher assistant. I have worked with kids for the past 8 1⁄2 years as an after school counselor. I was born and raised in wonderful Chapin, South Carolina. I live on the beautiful Lake Murray! Love spending time with my family and friends. I love playing pickleball in my free time and floating on the lake. Life is wonderful and I am very thankful to be at this school and be part of the Green Charter family.  

Betty Freeman, Special Education Teacher

My name is Betty Freeman and I am so happy to start my 20th year in education as a Special Education Teacher at GREEN Charter School of the Midlands. This is my third year at GREEN, and I enjoy having the opportunity to empower my students with self-confidence and a love of learning. I encourage my students to explore and develop their unique strengths so that they may reach their full potential in all areas of their life. I hold a Master’s Degree in Special Education from the University of Tennessee, and during my teaching career, I’ve served students with learning differences in preschool school through twelfth grade. In addition to my experience in the classroom, my roles have included administrator and educational consultant. At home, I love spending time with my family in the backyard, taking Cleo on walks, going on bike rides, gardening and bird watching .

Larrysa Martin, Special Education Teacher

My name is Larrysa Martin and my third year at GREEN will be as a special education teacher. I am a graduate of Converse College with a BA in Special Education: Deaf and Hard of Hearing. However, in my 10 years of teaching, I have had a wide range of teaching experiences from kindergarten to college and a variety of abilities. I enjoy the challenges of figuring out what works for students to help them learn at their level. My hobbies include cooking and baking, and crafts. I look forward to teaching, encouraging and supporting students as they navigate their school year and prepare for their future.