OKLAHOMA VIRTUAL CHARTER ACADEMY - Key Persons
Allison graduated from Oklahoma State University in May 2009 with her master's degree in mass communication. She worked in public relations for two years before teaching and is certified in math and English. She taught five years in Putnam City and Edmond schools before coming to OVCA, where she is in her third year teaching 8th grade English. She has taught anywhere from 6th grade math to 12th grade AP® English and was also a newspaper adviser. She is currently working on her PhD at Oklahoma State University. Go Pokes!
Allison is the high school master lead teacher. She joined Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy (OVCA) in 2012 and previously taught all levels of math, from pre-algebra to calculus. She has served as the master lead teacher for the past two school years. Allison earned a BS in mathematics education from the University of Central Oklahoma, a master's degree in mathematics education from Northeastern State University, an administration certification from Northeastern State University, and is currently working on her doctorate in K-12 school administration from Grand Canyon University, with an anticipated graduation date of 2020. She is certified in 6th-12th grade mathematics, special education, and school administration.
Amanda Noreuil serves the Yukon area as a community family advisor. She began in 2019 on the student support services team. Previously, she worked for six years in children's ministry as an assistant children's director. She has a background in home childcare and in the medical field.
Amanda is the OVCA middle school Spanish and physical education teacher. She has been with OVCA since 2014 and taught 2nd grade for several years prior. She earned an early education degree from East Central University in 2008. She then studied Spanish for a year abroad in Costa Rica and added a Spanish teaching endorsement (preK-12th grade) to her teaching certificate upon her return.
Amber Knoll joined the team in the fall of 2018. She has worked in education for nine years. Amber has 10 years of experience in fundraising, merchandising, and management. She enjoys spending time with her family traveling, hiking, and exploring.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
- the Science Department Chair
Amie is the science department chair and has worked for OVCA for six years. She currently teaches chemistry, physics, forensics, astronomy, and anatomy. Amie has a bachelor's degree in cellular and molecular biology and has almost completed her PhD in molecular genetics with a certificate in toxicology. She currently studies the genetics of pancreatic cancer at Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Amy graduated from Noble High School in Noble, Oklahoma, and went on to earn her BA in English at Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. She moved to Chicago and earned a Master of Art in teaching secondary education language arts from Northeastern Illinois University. She was a substitute teacher for Chicago Public Schools for several years before returning home and teaching in several schools in Oklahoma, including Oklahoma City Community College, Rose State College, Seminole State College, and the University of Central Oklahoma, where she most recently earned a second master's degree in English creative writing.
Job Titles:
- Special Education Teacher
Amy Jaques (pronounced jay-cues) joined OVCA as a special education teacher in 2010. She also worked for Arizona Virtual Academy for one year. Before her virtual education years, she taught at Skyline High School in Arizona.
Amy Lewellen is a 5th grade math and reading teacher. She is a new team member who joined us in late August 2018. She has been involved in education for 25 years including working for the University of Oklahoma as well as teaching in both inner city and rural school districts. Amy earned a BS in elementary education from the University of Central Oklahoma and holds a certificate in elementary education.
Amy Sisco joined the team in 2020. She discovered a love for education while leading a Tinkergarden class for two years. The magic that happens when children develop a love for learning is something she wants to be a part of for many years to come. Amy has an associate's degree from Oklahoma State Institute of Technology in applied science-visual communications, which she used in her photography while traveling the world.
Ann is an English language arts teacher who joined OVCA middle school in 2019. She enjoys reading, writing, and the joys of being able to go on adventures through a book, which is why she chose this subject to teach. She is grateful that OVCA can provide students the ability to grow and learn in the safety and comfort of their own home.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Ashlea graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Science in education specializing in physical education and health. She is certified in physical education/health/safety through the state of Oklahoma. She currently teaches high school physical education, skills for health, and nutrition and wellness.
Audra has served as OVCA's head of school since 2019. Previously, she served as deputy head of school. Audra was part of the first team of educators who brought Stride K12-powered schools to Oklahoma. She has served as classroom teacher, lead teacher, and elementary principal in the virtual setting. She has more than 25 years of experience in brick-and-mortar and online education. She began her career as a classroom teacher serving Norman Public Schools. She earned her BS in elementary education in 1994 and a master's degree in instructional leadership and academic curriculum in 2000. Both degrees are from the University of Oklahoma. In 2004, she obtained national board certification. Audra is also involved with the Oklahoma Writing Project, which is part of the National Writing Project. This network of educators strives to increase literacy by equipping teachers with strategies and research to better serve students.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Barbara is a high school tech teacher. This is her sixth year at OVCA and her 14th year in education. She earned her elementary education degree from Northeastern State University and has an advanced certification in mathematics.
Job Titles:
- K8 Standard Specialist
- Standard Specialist
Barbie Sloan is the K8 standard specialist. She works with teachers and administrators to help incorporate best practices. She has been with Stride K12 since 2012, of which four years were spent directly with OVCA. Before joining Stride K12, she taught for eight years in elementary schools in Oklahoma and Texas.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Brandy is a high school English teacher who joined the team in 2018. She earned a BA in English. Her degree focused on creative writing and literature. She brings many years of experience in education and holds a leadership role in her local homeschool community.
Brittany Kegin joined the team in 2014. She previously worked in childcare for six years and graduated from Rose State College with an associate's degree.
Job Titles:
- Student Support Administrator
- Support Administrator
Cady Looper is the student support administrator for Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy (OVCA) and Insight School of Oklahoma (ISOK). Cady graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2004 with a bachelor's degree in elementary education. She has spent more than 16 years in education. She joined OVCA in 2010 and taught elementary school students for five years before transitioning to lead the student support services team (made up of community family advisors) in 2015. The team mission is: Families choose us-we also choose them. We engage, motivate, and inspire every student, every day.
Cara teaches high school special education math at OVCA. She has been teaching math for more than 16 years and moved to OVCA in 2018. She earned a bachelor's degree from Oral Roberts University in 2005.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Catherine is a high school teacher who joined the team in 2018. She brings 16 years of teaching experience ranging from grades 3-11. Catherine earned a BA in education from Oklahoma State University. She holds certificates in elementary education, intermediate mathematics, and mid-level mathematics for high school.
Christi Boggs is a 3rd-5th grade reading interventionist at OVCA. She joined the team in 2018 with 24 years of teaching experience. She earned a BA and MA in elementary education, and holds certifications in early childhood, elementary, and math. She has been a national board certified teacher for 14 years.
Christina McBride is a 1st grade reading teacher who joined the team in 2018. This is her 10th year in education. She earned a BA in elementary education from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. She holds certificates in early childhood and elementary.
Job Titles:
- Member of the Middle School Teachers and Staff
Cindy is in her first year as an 8th grade science teacher at OVCA. She has a 20-year career teaching high school and middle school science. Cindy received her Bachelor of Science from Michigan State University and holds a total of seven Oklahoma teaching certifications. Cindy and her husband of nearly 35 years have two adult children and three beautiful grandchildren. Her passion for teaching is shared among her hobbies of reading, crocheting, and watching her alma mater play football and basketball.
Cindy graduated from Oklahoma State University with a bachelor's degree in early education and middle school social studies, and she holds a master's degree in teaching and educational leadership. This is her eighth year with OVCA. She is currently teaching 8th grade American history. Before coming to the virtual world, she taught 21 years in Oklahoma brick-and-mortar schools.
Clarissa started with OVCA in 2020 after one year of teaching in Tulsa Public Schools. She is a special education case manager. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Northwestern State University and is currently working on a master's degree in special education with applied behavior analytics at University of Oklahoma. Before becoming a teacher, she worked in the medical field for 10 years as a medical scribe for hospitals, doctors' offices, and surgical centers. She loves to travel with her husband and have grand adventures. When not at work, she is exploring new places, food, and experiences.
Cristina Riggins started as a community family advisor in 2020 and has three years in education. She has a bachelor's degree in psychology.
Danielle is currently a SPED ELA teacher who started with OVCA's high school in 2020. Previously she taught for six years in the Tulsa, Union, and Muskogee districts. She has a bachelor's degree from Northeastern State University. She loves to write, even in her free time.
Dawn Waite is a community family advisor in the Tulsa area. This is her first year at OVCA. She has three years of teaching experience at a private school and more than 18 years of experience in coaching and training teams in a corporate environment.
Dena Roberson has been a community family advisor since 2018. Previously, she taught for 15 years. She has a bachelor's degree in education from University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Denese is a 1993 graduate from East Central University with a BA in art education. She holds a master's degree in human relations (2000) and a master's degree in arts in art history (2010) from the University of Oklahoma. Previous teaching assignments include seven years at Pauls Valley High School, one year at Little Axe Middle School, adult continuing education classes at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, and undergraduate classes at OCCC and the University of Oklahoma. Denese currently teaches social sciences at OVCA, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, and criminology.
Denise teaches special education English. She joined OVCA in 2019 with 10 years prior experience in education. She has a bachelor's degree in English literature from the University of Oklahoma.
Destiney Binghom started with OVCA and ISOK in 2019. She absolutely loves seeing kids grow and always being here to help them.
Donnett Caywood lives in Muskogee. She is the mother of three beautiful children and is a new grandmother of two and one on the way! She loves summertime activities, especially spending time at the lake with her family. She is new to OVCA this year and is loving it! Her oldest daughter is also a new counselor this year. Donnett has worked in school settings in different capacities for many years and has also worked with juvenile services for more than 12 years. Her favorite part of her work is helping kids!
Bradley has been an educator for more than 30 years. Twenty-two of those years were at Seminole State College (SSC). His first position at SSC was as the women's head basketball coach. He was in that position for eight years, winning six bi-state conference championships and runner-up twice. He coached serial All-Americans, and his 1992 team finished the season as the third ranked community college team in the nation. In addition to coaching, he was a history and health instructor. He also was the social sciences division chair for four years and his final eight years he served as the vice president for student affairs. Prior to working at SSC, he was a high school history teacher and head girl's and boys' basketball coach at Tecumseh High School. He has four college degrees, a PhD in education studies from the University of Oklahoma, two master's degrees in education from East Central University, and a BA in history from Oklahoma Baptist University. He is in his second year at OVCA. His wife, Kay, joined OVCA as a high school counselor. This couple was the first in the nation to compete against each other as head women's basketball coaches. While Brad was coaching SSC, Kay was the head coach at St. Gregory's University.
Elizabeth "Bizzy" Swisher started as a community family advisor in 2020. She graduated from Oklahoma University and started teaching at Lee Elementary. She taught pre-K, 1st grade, and 3rd grade, and loved every grade. During her free time, she trains in martial arts and has a love for yoga.
Elizabeth is a 7th grade math teacher with OVCA. She has been teaching math and been in education for more than 16 years. Elizabeth earned her BA in education from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. She holds a certificate in middle level mathematics and health/physical education.
Emily Marks is a 3rd grade reading teacher, and this is her first year with OVCA. She graduated from Azusa Pacific University in 2015 with her bachelor's degree in youth ministry. She earned her teaching certificate through Teach for America in 2017. She has been a 4th and 5th grade teacher for three years in a brick-and-mortar school. She currently lives in Stillwater, Oklahoma, with her husband and two sweet dogs, Hawley and Kayden. In her spare time, Emily enjoys camping, hiking, reading, playing guitar, crocheting, and spending time with her husband and pups.
Erika DeLuca is a community family advisor for the Norman area. Erika joined the team in 2011 and is a graduate from the University of Oklahoma. (BOOMER SOONER!) Erika has a master's degree in human relations along with a BA in sociology and business. She is also a certified teacher for early childhood, elementary, sociology, psychology, and social studies. She taught for six years prior to becoming a community family advisor. Her perfect day would be playing football on the beach with her sons, Tyler and Michael Giovanni, and her doggies.
Job Titles:
- Principal
- Middle School Principal
Erin is the music and art teacher at OVCA middle school, and she also serves as lead teacher. She joined the team in 2014, and has been teaching for 17 years. Erin holds a BS in music education, a BA in music with a flute performance concentration, and a MMEd from Lebanon Valley College. She holds certificates in early childhood and elementary education as well as in general, instrumental, and choral music for grades K-12. She has taught elementary and middle school band, choir, and orchestral ensembles. She is also certified in art and has taught elementary and middle school art for 10 years.
Erin is the middle school principal. She graduated from Lebanon Valley College in 2001 with a BS in music education and a BA in music. She also earned her Master of Music Education degree in 2016 from her alma mater. She started at OVCA as middle school music and art teacher in 2014 and moved to assistant principal in July 2019. After filling in as interim in spring of 2020, she became principal for OVCA's middle school in May. Erin resides in Tulsa with her husband, Ted, and their three children, Madison (6), Mason (5), and Evelyn (3). This is her 7th year with OVCA, and she plans to pursue a master's degree in educational leadership. When she isn't performing her principal duties, you will most likely find her teaching and practicing piano, reading a good book, or watching science fiction!
Evan Warren joined the team in 2020. Evan earned a bachelor's degree in child and family studies from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
Ginger is a 7th grade geography teacher who joined the team in 2011. She earned her BS from Northeastern State University and became a certified academic language therapist in September of 2016. She is considering pursuing a master's degree in reading or special education.
Heather Martin started with the team in 2020. Previously, she taught pre-K. She loves helping people and wants others to succeed. The community family advisor role seemed like a natural fit to help families through uncertain times. Heather has a Bachelor of Science in family relations and child development from Oklahoma State University.
Job Titles:
- Elementary School Principal
- Principal for Grades 3 - 5
Heather Miles is the elementary principal for grades 3-5 at OVCA. She holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and a master's degree in educational leadership from the American College of Education. She taught third and fourth grade in brick-and-mortar school before making the transition to OVCA. In her eight years with Stride K12, she has served as a MS Language Arts teacher, MS PE teacher, MS lead teacher, School Data & Accountability Manager, and spent a year with the Stride K12 Data Team.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Holly teaches algebra and math foundations for OVCA. This is her 23rd year teaching mathematics in Oklahoma but only her first year with OVCA. She holds a mathematical education bachelor degree from Oklahoma Christian University and a curriculum and instruction master's degree from American College of Education. She has a passion for helping students find their love of learning and develop a positive growth mindset about learning and life. She has been married for 25 years and has three grown children and is looking forward to spoiling her grandchildren.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Jaime teaches high school physical science for OVCA. She joined the OVCA team in February 2016. She graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2007 with a BS in secondary education with an emphasis on science education. She is considered highly certified in physical science, chemistry, and biological sciences.
Jamy Hamilton started as a community family advisor in August 2020. She studied organizational communication and leadership at the University of Central Oklahoma. She lives in Edmond and enjoys crafting and board games. She is also a dance teacher and enjoys working with students of all ages. She loves her advisory role and continues to learn each day by working with the awesome students in her community!
Job Titles:
- Special Education Teacher
Janis is a high school special education teacher. She started with OVCA in 2014 and has been teaching for 17 years. She earned a teaching certificate through University of Georgia, an MBA from Mercer University, and a BBA from University of Missouri. She started teaching after retiring from AT&T in 2000. Janis has taught in Georgia, Kuwait, South Korea, Kosovo, and Oklahoma.
Jennifer Ratzloff is a 3rd grade math teacher who joined the team in 2016. She brings more than 14 years of experience. Jennifer taught special education previously. She earned an AS in early childhood from Conner's State College, BS in special education from Northeastern University, and MA in elementary education from Jones International University. Jennifer holds a certificate in elementary education.
Jennifer Sabedra has served students and their families in the northwest part of Oklahoma since 2019. She graduated from Northwestern Oklahoma State University-Alva in 1998 with a bachelor's degree in psychology. Although fairly new to education, Jennifer has enjoyed working with children her entire career.
Jennifer joined the OVCA middle school team in 2014. Currently, she teaches special education math. She has more than 19 years of teaching experience. Jennifer completed a bachelor's degree in chemistry and mathematics in 1996, and a master's degree in science education in 2018. She is certified to teach mathematics, science, and special education.
Jenny is a 6th grade history teacher who joined the team in August 2018. She brings 14 years of teaching experience OVCA. Jenny taught for three years in Texas and seven years in Oklahoma before pursuing a teaching job overseas for four years. While overseas, she taught English, math, and science to Arabic-speaking children. Jenny earned her BS in early education from Northeastern State University in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. She holds a certificate in early education for grades 1-8.
Jera McCann is a kindergarten teacher who joined the team in 2018. She received a bachelor's degree in early childhood studies from the University of Central Oklahoma in 2012, and she has worked with early learners for more than six years. Her classroom is a safe, comfortable place where students can make mistakes, grow, and learn together.
Jesse teaches high school technology courses. He has a BS in computer science.
Jessica started with Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy's (OVCA's) high school in 2020 teaching personal finance and special education. She is in her 14th year as an educator. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts from University College London, a master's degree from University of Southern California, and a professional certificate from University of California at Riverside. She has worked in Oklahoma and abroad and is thrilled to be in Oklahoma and part of the OVCA team!
Jessica Bryant has taught 1st grade reading at OVCA for five years and brings more than eight years' experience in education. Jessica earned her early childhood education degree from the University of Central Oklahoma. She will serve as a lead teacher for grades K-2 this year, working with students, families, and teachers to encourage growth and aid families in the transition to virtual school.
Jessica Hopkins is a 3rd and 4th grade teacher who joined the team in 2018. She has been teaching in Oklahoma for four years. She has a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Oklahoma City University, a master's degree in education from Oklahoma State University and she holds a certificate in elementary education. She previously taught 4th grade for Skiatook Public Schools.
Jessica is the 6th grade middle school math teacher for OVCA. She has been teaching since 2001. She taught math at Western Heights Middle School for two years, then took a year off when she had her first baby. She ended up at Riverside Elementary and taught ELA for 14 years before leaving brick-and-mortar schools for OVCA. She received her national board certification as well.
Jody teaches algebra 1. She graduated from Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva, Oklahoma with a bachelor's degree in mathematics education and a master's degree in secondary education. She is looking forward to being your math teacher. She begins her 5th year with OVCA in January 2019.
John is the 12th grade ELA special education teacher. He started with OVCA in 2020 but has been teaching since 2005. He holds both bachelor's and master's degrees from Oral Roberts University. Teaching is his second career.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Jonathan teaches world history. He brings to OVCA more than 20 years of experience in teaching and coaching.
Julie Pfister has taught at OVCA for 10 years. Before joining OVCA, she taught for nine years in brick-and-mortar schools in Stillwater, Oklahoma, and Palm Desert, California. She received a bachelor's degree in elementary education from the University of Kansas. She will serve as a lead teacher for grades 3-5 this year, working with students, families, and teachers to encourage growth and aid families in the transition to virtual school. She and her husband EJ, daughter Janie, and son Jack, live in Edmond. In her free time, she loves to travel, spend time with family, and watch her kids play sports.
Job Titles:
- Elementary School Principal
- Principal for Grades K - 2
Karin Campbell taught in a brick-and-mortar setting for four years in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. She received a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Northeastern State University. She is also certified in early childhood education. This is her eighth year with Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy (OVCA). She serves as the OVCA elementary assistant principal.
Karin Campbell is the elementary principal for grades K-2. She has been with OVCA since 2012. She has been a homeroom teacher, interventionist, lead teacher, and the elementary assistant principal. She is married with two daughters and two dogs. She loves to go camping, read, and travel in her spare time.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Karla graduated Summa Cum Laude from Southern Nazarene University in 1995 with a BS in elementary education. She has since continued studies in specific subject areas to obtain endorsements in several upper-level subject areas. She has experience as a middle school classroom teacher in the brick-and-mortar setting as well as almost eight years teaching K-12 students online for a national educational service company. Karla has lived in many areas in Oklahoma during her own school years. She and her family currently live on the western side of the OKC metro area. She and her husband have two sons, the oldest of whom is a 2015 OVCA high school graduate. She is a flute player and an avid reader when she has free time. She loves to travel with her family and has visited most of Oklahoma's 77 counties, enjoying the diversity of geography that is uniquely Oklahoman. Karla originally joined the OVCA staff as a family support specialist in 2015 and then began teaching world history during the fall semester. She now enjoys teaching high school government and Oklahoma history classes for OVCA.
Karlena is a middle school teacher for the OILERS program. She started with OVCA in 2015 after teaching special education for three years prior. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Tulsa. In addition to teaching, Karlena is a singer and actress and regularly performs in the Tulsa area.
Job Titles:
- Director
- Director of Special Programs
Katherine Young is the director of special programs. She graduated from Oklahoma State University in 2007 with an elementary education degree. She has been in education since 2007 and with Oklahoma Stride K12 schools since 2015. She started her teaching career in Ponca City as a 3rd grade teacher before moving to the elementary school curriculum specialist role. She was a kindergarten teacher at OVCA for two years, and the Title I coordinator for one year. Katherine is passionate about education and watching students grow.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Katie is a 12th grade English teacher who joined the team in January of 2018. She earned a BA in English with a double minor in education and Spanish from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma, and she holds a certificate to teach secondary English in the state of Oklahoma.
Katy McLain is a 3rd-5th grade math interventionist who joined the team in 2018. She has seven years of teaching experience in private and public education. She has taught grades 3-6. Katy earned a degree in elementary education from Oklahoma State University, and she is working towards a master's degree in educational administration from Oklahoma Wesleyan University.
Kayla Zelnicek is the K-2 reading interventionist at OVCA. She joined the team in 2015 and worked with kindergarten and first grade students. She is currently working on her master's degree as a reading specialist. Kayla is currently certified to teach early childhood learners.
Kelley Winsett is a 2nd grade teacher who joined the team in 2016. She brings more than 18 years of experience in education. She has been a reading coach, a grant coordinator, and has taught grades 1-4. Kelley earned a BA in elementary education and an MS in educational leadership from Oklahoma State University.
Kelly Pruett is a Northeastern State University graduate with a bachelor's degree in early childhood education. Before coming to OVCA, she taught in the brick-and-mortar setting for nine years, teaching grades pre-kindergarten, kindergarten, and first grade. She has one son, Rhys. She is excited to start her third year of teaching in the virtual world and helping students and families gain a love for lifelong learning. In her spare time, she enjoys being outdoors, gardening, watching her son play sports, and spending time with family and friends.
Kimberly Ring is a 4th grade teacher who joined the team in 2015. Kimberly earned a BA in elementary education in 2010 from Northwestern Oklahoma State University, and a MA in educational leadership in 2015 from American College of Education. She is certified in elementary education and is working on earning her Oklahoma principal certification.
Krissi Duff is a 5th grade ELA teacher who joined the team in 2017. She brings 11 years of experience in education from both Texas and Oklahoma. Krissi earned a BS in education from Southwestern Oklahoma State University. She holds certificates in elementary education along with early childhood education and mild-moderate disabilities.
LeAn Sanders is the Principal at OVCA. She worked at OVCA for three years and then helped with the start up of ISOK and was there for three years. She returned in 2021 back to OVCA and began working as the Vice Principal. She has been in the field of education for approximately sixteen years. She was a teacher for the deaf, a special education teacher, biology teacher, school counselor and now a Vice Principal.
LeAn earned her BS degree from Tulsa University in Deaf Education, she went on to get her Masters in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma and her PhD in psychology from Capella University. She also is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She has been a LPC for the past sixteen years. LeAn has worked in several fields, which she says has helped her in her present field of education.
Lindsey Baldwin joined the team in 2018. She has worked in education for more than 10 years. Working with students is truly her passion. She has a daughter who attends OVCA as a kindergartner and she absolutely loves it!
Lindsey Colwell joined the advisory team because she has a passion to help families and students feel like their voices are heard and that they have someone in their corner. Lindsey has worked in a variety of teacher support roles since 2010. She has worked one-to-one with special needs students, provided student support to grade level teachers, and helped run public school library programs. She has an Associate in Arts.
Lisa Benn joined the team in 2014 from the business world where she was an office manager for 20 years. Lisa earned her bachelor's degree in business administration from Northeastern State University, Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Lisa worked with the Boy Scouts of America for 24 years.
Lisa is a 7th grade science teacher, mentor teacher, and lead teacher for Oklahoma Virtual Charter Academy (OVCA) middle school. She joined OVCA in 2014 and has a Master of Education in literacy from the American College of Education. Lisa has certifications in early childhood education, elementary education, and middle level English.
Lonnie Barton joined the team in July 2018. She worked as a social worker for almost 20 years before joining the team. Lonnie has a bachelor's degree in communication relations.
Lori Egnor been with the advisory team since 2009. Lori has a background in nursing and has worn many other hats, such as registrar, operations manager, high school advisor lead, and community family advisor. She is the spouse of a cancer survivor and is passionate about supporting research for its cause. She is currently working on a degree for cancer information management while working full-time as a community family advisor.
Lori is a graduate of East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma. She is certified in early childhood, elementary and special education. She has been teaching since 2012, including general and special education and has served as a special education director. She taught 4th grade for OVCA from 2015-2018, is currently serving as a 4th grade special education teacher, and she sits on the 2020-2021 school year special education advisory board. She believes school choice is important for all and is so excited to once again be a part of this fantastic program.
Job Titles:
- Special Education Teacher
Madonna has been a special education teacher for 25 years in Oklahoma and Nevada. She received a bachelor's degree from the University of Oklahoma, a master's degree from the University of Phoenix, and EdS from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.
Job Titles:
- Special Education Teacher
Mary is an elementary special education teacher who started with OVCA in 2018 after 14 years prior experience. She has a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master's degree in special education.
Meagan is a 7th grade teacher who joined the team in 2018. She has more than 10 years of experience in education. Meagan earned a Bachelor of Science in education from Northeastern State University.
Melanie graduated with an elementary education degree from University of Oklahoma, and she earned a master's degree in instructional leadership academic curriculum with an emphasis in mathematics. She has taught in Norman, Florida, and Edmond including pre-K through 6th grade. Her passion is special education. She has a special needs daughter and understands the challenge but is excited by seeing her educational growth.
Melissa is a special education math teacher who joined OVCA middle school in 2020. Previously, she spent 20 years in education serving in many positions (teaching, counseling, principal, superintendent), teaching a variety of subjects (special education, math, character education, AVID, psychology, personal financial literacy, senior seminar), and serving in a variety of roles (coach, athletic director, AVID district director, special education director, Title I coordinator, outreach and community relations). She has an AA in business administration with an emphasis in accounting from Rogers State University, BSEd in special education from Northeastern State University, MHR in human relations-counseling track from University of Oklahoma, and she has completed all but her dissertation for an EdD in school leadership from Concordia University.
Michelle is a 5th grade special education teacher. She started with OVCA in 2019. She graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a Bachelor of Science in education in 2011. Her major areas of study included special education, elementary education and early childhood education. Prior to coming to OVCA, she taught for Edmond Public Schools for nine years, working with special education students in grades K-8.
Mindy is a 2005 Texas Woman's University graduate with a bachelor's degree in business administration education. Mindy began her teaching career in Texas and started at OVCA in 2020 with 15 years of prior teaching experience.
Morgan began with OVCA in 2020 after six prior years of teaching. She has taught kindergarten, 2nd, and 3rd grades and special education. She graduated from Oklahoma State University and loves all things OSU!
Job Titles:
- Member of the Middle School Teachers and Staff
Nicole is a 6th grade ELA teacher and is in her rookie year with OVCA. Before joining the team, Nicole taught for 15 years at the high school level, including English 9-12, Spanish levels 1-3, AP® literature and composition, ELL, alternative school ELA grades 9-12, and she was a yearbook advisor for 14 years. Nicole earned her BA in education and her MEd as a reading specialist from Southwestern Oklahoma State University.
Nicole is a 6th grade math teacher who started with OVCA in 2020 after 19 prior years teaching experience. She has a bachelor's degree in biology from West Texas A&M University, a master's degree in special education/educational diagnostician from Texas Tech University, and a specialist degree in educational leadership from Grand Valley State University. She has been a teacher, diagnostician/psychometrist, and an elementary and high school principal.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Pam is an 11th grade American literature teacher who has taught English for 29 years in the state of Oklahoma. Her 30th year of teaching is her first year at OVCA. She graduated from Midwest City High School in 1981, then attended the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) in Edmond where she earned her bachelor's degree in 1986 with an English major and vocal music minor. She also earned her master's degree in 1996 in public school administration at UCO. At Edmond North High School, she taught English, yearbook, and photography for 10 years and served as the AISP administrative representative the next eight years. After that, she taught middle school language arts, band, and vocal music throughout the state, at Crescent, Covington-Douglas, Oklahoma City, Ponca City, and Sand Springs.
Pamela is an 8th grade ELA teacher who joined the team in 2018. She brings more than 18 years of experience in education, higher education, and community service. Pam earned a BA in education from Northeastern State University specializing in language arts and history. She holds certificates in elementary education, grades 6-8 language arts, and 6-8 social studies.
Patience is a middle school special education and math teacher. She has both a bachelor's and a master's degree in special education from the University of Oklahoma. In 2020-2021, she marked her 5th year at OVCA.
Patricia Sanders joined the team in 2014. Patricia brings more than 10 years of experience in education. She earned her bachelor's degree in business with a concentration in accounting from American Intercontinental University.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Phillip is a 10th grade English teacher and chair of the high school English department at OVCA. He has been teaching since 2008 and has been a proud member of the OVCA faculty since 2012. Phillip earned licensure through the University of Findlay's post-graduate program, a BA in English education from Wright State University, and an AA in communication arts from Sinclair Community College. He is currently certified to teach English language arts from grades 6-12.
Job Titles:
- Advisor in the Northeast Part of Oklahoma
- Community Family Advisor
Raedean Rafferty is a community family advisor in the northeast part of Oklahoma and has been with the team for more than 10 years.
Rebecca is one of the 5th grade special education teachers who joined the team in 2016. She has been teaching for approximately 15 years. Rebecca earned her BA and master's degree in special education at the University of Oklahoma. She holds certifications in mild-moderate and severe-profound special education and elementary education.
ReJeana has been an educator for 24 years and is in her 3rd year with OVCA as a high school special education teacher. She received a doctoral degree from the University of Oklahoma. She plans to continue to build strong relationships with students and families each year. ReJeana strongly believes highly effective instructional strategies will allow students to make academic gains and provide them with living skills that will enable them to be productive citizens within their communities.
Sara is a University of Central Oklahoma graduate with a BA in English. She began her teaching career at Jarman Middle School in Midwest City teaching 7th grade English language arts (ELA) for four years. Sara then taught 7th grade ELA at OVCA middle school for three years, took a year off, and is back at OVCA middle school in an ELA special services position.
Sara is a 7th grade language arts teacher who joined the team in 2016. She brings seven years of experience in education, community service, and professional development. Sara earned a BA in English from the University of Central Oklahoma and holds a teaching certificate in secondary English (grades 5-12).
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Sarah is a high school science teacher who joined the team in 2011. She brings 16 years of experience as a classroom teacher in both middle school and high school settings. Sarah earned a BA in science education from the University of Oklahoma. She holds certificates in the life sciences, physical sciences, and biological sciences.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Shannon graduated from Cameron University and has taught pre-algebra, algebra I and II, and honors algebra I and II.
Shannon is an 11th grade ELA special education teacher who started with OVCA in 2020, and she has been teaching for more than 14 years. After she received her degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University, she went right to work teaching at Mustang High School for seven years and then Yukon Middle School for another seven years. Her favorite things to do include teaching, reading, and spending time with her husband and children.
Shari Winters is a reading interventionist who joined the team in 2018. She brings more than twelve years of experience in education. She has specifically focused on reading instruction for nine of those years. Shari earned a BS in human development and family studies and a MA in elementary education from Texas Tech University. She holds certificates in early childhood and elementary education. Shari taught 3rd and 5th grade in the Ada Public School System. She also taught reading in grades 3-4 at Stonewall Public School.
Sharity Watts is a 2008 graduate of the University of Oklahoma with a bachelor's degree in secondary science education. She taught 9th grade biology in Mustang, Oklahoma, for four years before joining OVCA in 2012. She earned her master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Southern Nazarene University in 2011. Her certifications include the biological sciences and physical science. She transitioned from teaching high school science to the role of community family advisor in 2018 and is excited to work with ISOK and OVCA, grades K-12!
Job Titles:
- Lead Community Family Advisor
Shauna Irvin is currently serving as the lead community family advisor. Her journey with OVCA began in 2010 as a Learning Coach and then in 2011 as an employee. Prior to that she was a stay-at-home-mom, home educator, and manager of a small family business. She has worked as an enrollment support specialist and a family academic support liaison with Stride K12.
Shelena is a high school biology teacher who joined the team in 2018. She brings 10 years of experience in science and STEM education. Shelena earned both a BS and MT in biotechnology from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. She holds certificates in biological science and chemistry. Shelena is very passionate about science education in the State of Oklahoma. She has served as the high school director for the Oklahoma Science Teachers Association. She was also a part of the rewriting of the certification examinations for Oklahoma Educators Chemistry Exam and is a graduate of the first State Department of Education's Oklahoma Science Leadership class. Shelena continues to be involved as a mentor for a FIRST Robotics team.
Shelli Harris-Ketchum joined the team in 2019. She has a Bachelor of Applied Technology, and a Master of Legal Studies of Indigenous Peoples Law. She has a varied work background. She has been a health data analyst, an oil/gas data analyst, a human resource communications coordinator, training coordinator, a worker's compensation-general liability adjuster, an escalations lead, a dispatcher, and currently a volunteer tribal judge. She is always looking for the greater good and to make this world a better place. There is nothing so broken that a little love can't fix.
Sonia Gaytan joined the team in September 2018. She enjoys helping families achieve their educational goals. She is also able to assist families in Spanish.
Stacy Buck is a math interventionist for grades 3-5, and she began teaching for OVCA in January of 2014. She is a Northeastern State University graduate with a bachelor's degree in elementary and early childhood education and a minor in psychology. She has taught for 25 years, 19 of which were in brick-and-mortar settings, for grades 1-2 and 4-6. This is her fifth year with OVCA. Stacy lives in Perkins with her husband, Bobby. In her spare time, she loves to travel and fish.
Job Titles:
- Advisor for the Weatherford
- Community Family Advisor
Stevie Baker is a community family advisor for the Weatherford area community. She brings more than 10 years of experience in teaching, working with families of all backgrounds, and childhood development. Stevie attended Southwestern Oklahoma State University and studied early childhood education.
Teri Reeves is a 4th grade math teacher, and this is her first year at OVCA. Before returning to teaching, Teri had spent the last nine years being a stay-at-home mom to three amazing little boys. Prior to entering the parenting world, she taught one year of 4th grade and five years as a 9th grade algebra teacher. She earned her BA in elementary education from Oklahoma State University.
Theresa is a 6th grade math teacher. She joined OVCA in 2018 after teaching at community college for 17 years and one year of teaching English online to students in China. She holds a BS in mathematics education from Northeastern State University and is currently one semester away from her MS in mathematics education. Theresa holds certificates in mid-level math, intermediate mathematics, and advanced mathematics.
Job Titles:
- Special Education Teacher
Tiffany is a special education teacher servicing both 2nd and 3rd grade students. This is her first year with OVCA. She has been teaching since 2008 after earning her degree from Northeastern State University in education. She holds certifications for both early childhood education and K-12 special education.
Job Titles:
- Advisor for the Fort Sill / Lawton
- Community Family Advisor
Tracey Rafferty is a community family advisor for the Fort Sill/Lawton area. She earned a BS in biology and an AS in respiratory therapy. Tracey taught middle school life science in North Carolina and middle school science in Virginia. She is a military spouse and has served as a volunteer in each military community she has lived in for 25 years.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Tracie joined OVCA in September 2016. She has taught both algebra I and geometry. She earned her bachelor's degree from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and JD from Oklahoma University. She taught nine years in northwest Oklahoma and the panhandle area prior to joining OVCA. She is certified to teach mid-level and high school mathematics, English, and journalism, mid-level social studies, and mild to moderate special education. She is active in her church and community.
Trina is a 6th grade science teacher who joined the team in 2013. She has 15 years of experience teaching science. She earned a BA in sociology/criminology at the University of Oklahoma and her MA in teaching, learning, and leadership-curriculum from Oklahoma State University. She holds certificates in early childhood, elementary education, mid-level social studies, and grades 6-12 earth science. She is a volunteer for the American Cancer Society.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
Vanessa is a high school math teacher and department chair. She joined the team in 2009 after teaching 7th grade math for seven years in Mid-Del School District. She earned a math education degree from Oklahoma Christian University and is certified in advanced mathematics.
Virginia Clark joined the team in 2020. She has a Bachelor of Science in child and family studies with a concentration in community outreach from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and she is a certified family life educator. She has worked in early intervention and special education for more than seven years and has also served families as a birth doula.
Job Titles:
- Member of the High School Teachers and Staff
William has taught music appreciation for OVCA since 2013. He has taught music for more than 25 years and also English as a second language in secondary schools in Japan as well as five years in an intensive English institute in Oklahoma. William (Bill) earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Eastern Michigan University as well as a Master of Music degree from Arizona State University. In addition, he holds a Master of Church Music degree from Golden Gate Baptist Theological Seminary and the certificate of teaching as a foreign language to adults from Cambridge University in the United Kingdom. He holds teaching certificates for grades K-12 general, vocal, and instrumental music.