WALTON ACADEMY - Key Persons


Amira Ali

Amira Ali, with degrees in Arabic Studies, Early Childhood Education, and Family and Community Service from ECU, is pursuing an MA in Health Education. She promotes healthy habits and community service, and writing poetry in her free time.

Amy Sheppard

Amy Sheppard, with 32 years of experience, holds a BS and MA in Elementary Education from East Carolina University, along with AIG and K-12 Reading certifications. She engages students with rigorous, fun learning experiences and enjoys the beach and family time.

Carrie Everette

Carrie Everette, with a BS in Elementary Education from Bradley University, has over 10 years of teaching experience. She creates a fun, active classroom environment and enjoys watching her children play sports.

Dawn Braddy

Job Titles:
  • STEM Teacher, Director of After School
Dawn Braddy, with 13 years at Children's World, holds an Associate's Degree in Early Childhood Education and is pursuing a Birth-Kindergarten degree. She teaches STEAM through hands-on experiences.

Denisse Rivera

Job Titles:
  • Spanish Teacher
Denisse Rivera, a native Spanish speaker from Puerto Rico, holds a BS in Biology and has 16 years of bilingual teaching experience. She fosters cultural appreciation and confidence in Spanish learning.

Ella Green

Job Titles:
  • Music Teacher

Jada Rogers

Jada Rogers, a National Board Certified Master Teacher, graduated from ECU with BS and MA degrees in Elementary Education. Named a Pitt County Top 5 Teacher twice, she fosters compassionate leadership through collaborative partnerships.

Janel Mangold

Janel Mangold, inspired by her own third-grade teacher, holds a BS in Elementary Education and K-12 Reading licensure from ECU. Known for incorporating music into teaching, she builds strong student relationships to foster confidence.

Joan Allen

Job Titles:
  • Academy Principal
Joan Allen brings over 25 years of experience in elementary education. With a BS in Child Development/Family Relations and an MA in Educational Leadership from East Carolina University, she holds a North Carolina K-6 Educator License. Passionate about student growth, Mrs. Allen fosters a culture of excellence.

Lori Penland

Job Titles:
  • Art Teacher

Sharon Nicholson

Sharon Nicholson, with 35 years of experience, holds a BS and MAED in Elementary Education from East Carolina University, plus K-12 Reading certification. She taught in Washington and Greenville and supervised interns at ECU.

Wanda Williams

Job Titles:
  • Kindergarten Teacher
Wanda Williams, a Greenville native with 45 years of experience, including 18 years teaching kindergarten, holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from East Carolina University. She creates engaging learning environments to build foundational skills. Outside the classroom, she enjoys family time and hobbies like dancing and gardening.

William Tull

Job Titles:
  • Teacher