PIRATE’S PIPELINETeacher Feature

Pizitz Middle School Special Edition 2017-2018

Welcome to Pizitz Middle School!In an attempt to familiarize you with all the aspects of Pizitz, the PTO presents this special edition of Pirate’s Pipeline to introduce you to the administration, faculty and staff at Pizitz. Along with a picture, you will also see their position and a few fun facts about them. We hope you find this Pirate’s Pipeline: Teacher Feature informative.

Pizitz Middle School MISSION STATEMENTThe mission of Louis Pizitz Middle School, a community of learners actively dedicated to the uncompromising pursuit of being the best middle school in America, is to guarantee that all students are fully prepared to succeed at the next level of their educational journey, through a system characterized by: challenging, varied and relevant curriculum; nurturing faculty and staff; physically safe and emotionally secure environment; extraordinary community partnerships

The Louis Pizitz Family and the City of Vestavia Hills: A Shared Legacy of Excellence1867 April 3 – Louis Pizitz is born in BrestLitovak, Poland.

1889 Louis emigrates to the United States, penniless.

1899 Starting out as a street vendor, Louis eventually establishes Pizitz Department Stores, which becomes the largest home-owned department store chain in Alabama.

1930 Louis and his wife, Minnie, build their home, “Happydale”, currently the clubhouse for Vestavia Park Apartments.

1959 June 2 – Louis Pizitz passes away.

1967 Vestavia Hills Junior High School is built on land donated by the Pizitz family. VHJH feeds students to nearby Berry High School, whose mascot is the Buccaneer; VHJH adopts the Pirate as its mascot.

1970 Vestavia Hills withdraws from the Jefferson County School System to establish its own city school system. Construction begins on Vestavia Hills High School on land donated by the Pizitz family.

1972 Vestavia Hills Junior High is re-dedicated as Louis Pizitz Middle School.

The story of Louis Pizitz is the story of the “American Dream.” Hard work, generosity and leadership-these values form the legacy of the Pizitz family. The faculty, staff and student body of Louis Pizitz Middle School are proud to honor that legacy by conducting themselves each day in accordance with the Pirate Creed: Character, Excellence, Family… Where Pirates Lead, Others Follow.

Administration

MEREDITH HANSON, Principal

Degrees Bachelor’s, Auburn University; Master’s, Lincoln Memorial; Educational Specialist, Samford UniversityYears in education Starting my 25th year in education and my 3rd at PizitzHometown Dalton, GAMarried To KyleChildren None BUT 2 dogs, Rudy & TrooperFavorite sports team Auburn University; Carolina Panthers; Atlanta Braves

Favorite music/group There is just no way to pick one! It totally stresses me out!! Once you get to know me you will understand why!Favorite movie RudyFavorite TV show Law & Order: SVUFavorite restaurant/food P.F. Chang’sFavorite app TwitterPet peeves Being late

ANDY CARPENTER, Assistant Principal of Curriculum & InstructionDegrees Ed.S., UAB; Master’s, University of Montevallo; B.S., Auburn UniversityYears in education 19; 14 at PizitzHometown Childersburg, ALMarried To Jamye for 19 yearsChildren Audrye (16); Sarah Kaye (15)Favorite sports team Auburn

Favorite music/group Jason IsbellFavorite movie Blazing SaddlesFavorite TV show SeinfeldFavorite restaurant/food A really good burgerFavorite app Twitter (@pizitzAP)Pet peeves People I can’t trust

TOM CALLAHAN, Assistant Principal of Student & Facility Management

Degrees B.A. in English, John Carroll University; M.Ed., University of MontevalloYears in education 19; 15 at PizitzHometown Lakewood, OHMarried To Patty for 22 yearsChildren 3Favorite sports team The Ohio State Buckeyes

Favorite music/group Grateful DeadFavorite movie Shawshank RedemptionFavorite TV show Hill Street BluesFavorite restaurant/food Gianmarco’sFavorite app ScrabblePet peeves Drivers who fail to signal

Front Office

AMY bARbER, Registrar

Degrees B.S. in Finance, University of AlabamaYears in education 10th at PizitzHometown Tuscaloosa, ALMarried YESChildren 2; son & daughterFavorite sports team ROLL TIDE, but I pull for Auburn when they are not playing Bama

Favorite movie Sweet Home AlabamaFavorite TV show Blue BloodsFavorite restaurant/food Pizza; salsa (NOT together)Favorite app WordbrainPet peeves Blaming others

WENDY KuSTA, Office SecretaryDegrees B.S., Livingston UniversityYears in education 28Hometown Ft. Lauderdale, FLMarried YesFavorite sports team Alabama

Favorite movie Wizard of OzFavorite TV show CastleFavorite restaurant/food SeafoodFavorite app Twitter

HELEN HICKMAN, bookkeeper

Years in education 19Hometown Montevallo, ALMarried YesChildren One sonFavorite sports team Auburn FootballFavorite music/group George Strait

Favorite TV show/channel Hallmark ChannelFavorite restaurant/food Texas Roadhouse; HabanerosFavorite app Candy Crush SodaPet peeves Not following directions

JOHN PENROSE, School Resource Officer

Degrees Studied at AUM & University of MontevalloYears in education SRO for 15 years; 5 at PizitzHometown Hueytown, ALMarried NopeChildren 5 childrenFavorite sports team Alabama

Favorite music/group Jimmy BuffettFavorite movie Man on Fire (Denzel Washington version)Favorite TV show Don’t really watch televisionFavorite restaurant/food J. Alexander (prime rib)Favorite app Regions Bank (apparently!)Pet peeves Dishonesty in all forms

SOTONIA WILLIAMS, School Nurse

Degrees B.S., University of AlabamaYears in education 12 at PizitzHometown Tuscaloosa, ALChildren 3

Favorite sports team Lakers; basketballFavorite restaurant/food Any seafoodPet peeves Wasting time

Guidance

CHASE HODGE, 6th Grade Counselor

Degrees B.S. in Psychology with a Music Minor, Troy University; M.Ed. in School Counseling, Troy UniversityYears in education 3 years as a Para-professional with Auburn City Schools; 2nd year at PizitzHometown Phenix City, ALMarried NoChildren None

Favorite sports team Troy TrojansFavorite music/group Honestly, I love all kinds of music ... R&B, 80s rock, pop, country, jazz, fusion ... It all works for me.Favorite movie The InterviewFavorite TV show Law & Order: SVUFavorite restaurant/food Wild Wing CafeFavorite app Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes

SuSIE RICH, 8th Grade CounselorDegrees B.S. in Special Education, University of Alabama; M.A. in School Counseling, University of West Alabama; Master’s of Educational Leadership, UAB; Education Specialist in School Counseling, University of West AlabamaYears in education 22; 21st at PizitzHometown Hueytown, ALMarried To ScottChildren 1 son – Michael; 1 stepson & daughter- in-law; 1 stepdaughter & son-in-law; grandson; granddaughter

Favorite sports team AlabamaFavorite music/group Bon JoviFavorite movie Remember the TitansFavorite TV show FriendsFavorite restaurant/food Pappadeaux Seafood KitchenFavorite app VenmoPet peeves When people don’t try their best, but instead look for an easy way out. Always try your best!!

AMbER PAYNE, 7th Grade Counselor

Degrees B.S. in Psychology & M.A.Ed. in Counselor Education, UAB; Ed.S. in School Counseling, University of West AlabamaYears in education 8 in counseling; 4th at PizitzHometown Little Rock, ARMarried No

Children 1 son – Beckett (5)Favorite movie The GooniesFavorite TV show The Walking Dead; SherlockFavorite restaurant/food El Barrio (Mexican)Favorite app InstagramPet peeves Saying “I can’t”

ANN WHITEHuRST, Counseling Secretary

Degrees B.S. in Marketing, University of AlabamaYears in education 7; all at PizitzHometown Carmel, INMarried 25 yearsChildren Twins; stepdaughter; stepson & daughter-in-law; and one grandchildFavorite sports team Alabama Football

Favorite music/group CountryFavorite movie Pretty WomanFavorite TV show SherlockFavorite restaurant/food SurinFavorite app Amazon MusicPet peeves Dishonesty

Media Center & Additional Staff

Tiffany Preston, ManagerLou Curry, Assistant ManagerSharon AgeeRenuka PatelBonnie RembertAngela TaylorTara Wood

Rex Short, Day Crew LeaderCurtis Shepherd, Night Crew LeaderNick CveteticLeland HollisMarco JohnsonAngela PopeCathy StovallCharles Voltz

buTTON SMITH, Library/Media Specialist

Degrees B.A. in International Business, Birmingham-Southern College; M.Ed. in Secondary Education, University of Montevallo; Library Media Specialist certification, Alabama State UniversityYears in education 20; all at Pizitz (15 teaching 8th grade History; 5 as Librarian) Hometown Hoover, ALMarried 15 years to former Pirate, Ken SmithChildren One daughter – LE (5)

Favorite sports team AlabamaFavorite music/group Beach & countryFavorite movie The Godfather IIFavorite TV show NCIS: New Orleans & Blue BloodsFavorite restaurant/food Sumo; AmoreFavorite app Disney’s Emoji BlitzPet peeves Being impolite, late and/or unprepared

CHILD NuTRITION STAFF

SANDY WALDROP, Media Center Assistant

Degrees B.S. in Education, University of AlabamaYears in education 28; all at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALChildren 3 children; 8 grandchildrenFavorite sports team Alabama Crimson TideFavorite music/group Casting Crowns

Favorite movie Momma MiaFavorite TV show So You Think You Can DanceFavorite restaurant/food Fresh vegetables; homemade ice creamFavorite app PinterestPet peeves Drivers that follow too closely

SKILLED MAINTENANCE/GROuNDS

English (All Grades & Teams)

CHRISTA bROGAN – 7th Grade, Team 3

Degrees B.A. in English & Education, Bryan CollegeYears in education 15; 10 at PizitzHometown Knoxville, TNMarried HappilyChildren Brent (5); Eirinn (9)Favorite sports team Tragic City Allstars (Birmingham’s premiere roller derby team)

Favorite music/group Right now ... Of Monsters & MenFavorite movie Roman Holiday; Blues BrothersFavorite TV show Sherlock; Buffy the Vampire SlayerFavorite restaurant/food El BarrioFavorite app Shutterfly; AllrecipesPet peeves Bad grammar & rudeness (such as, cutting in line/talking disrespectfully)

bRAD CARPENTER – 7th Grade, Team 1Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education, University of South AlabamaYears in education 8; 6 at PizitzHometown Warner Robins, GAMarried To my lovely wife, Megan, for 8 yearsChildren Twin 5-year-old daughters: Lee Ann & Anna Kate

Favorite sports team Georgia Bulldogs!Favorite music/group Hendrix!Favorite movie The Big LebowskiFavorite TV show FargoFavorite restaurant/food Sushi!Favorite app Amazon MusicPet peeves Spent markers in my marker tray

RACHEL bROWN – 6th Grade, Team 3

Degrees B.S. in Secondary English Language Arts, Auburn University; Master’s in Secondary English Education, UABYears in education 10; all at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried YesChildren NoneFavorite sports team Auburn – War Eagle!

Favorite music/group I listen to different music ... depends on my mood!Favorite movie Christmas Vacation; Remember the Titans; BeachesFavorite TV show FriendsFavorite restaurant/food Iguana GrillFavorite app InstagramPet peeves Texting while driving & not following/listening to directions

STRATTON bROCK, Gifted Education, English

Degrees B.A. in English, Auburn University; M.Ed., UAB; M.Ed. (gifted), University of AlabamaYears in education 10 years at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried To Heather Brock

Children Harper (10); Hayes (7)Favorite sports team Pizitz Scholars BowlFavorite restaurant/food SushiPet peeves Slow walkers; children laughing in dark alleys

English (All Grades & Teams)

JOANNA MCCuRDY – 8th Grade, Team 3

Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education Language Arts Education, Auburn UniversityYears in education 8; 3rd at PizitzHometown Jasper, ALMarried To a wonderful man, Sellars McCurdy!Children One sweet baby boy, Mac; and one spoiled pup, JuneFavorite sports team Auburn Tigers

Favorite music/group George Strait; Johnny Cash; Hillsong UnitedFavorite movie Walk the LineFavorite TV show Homeland; The Walking Dead; Law & Order: SVUFavorite restaurant/food Chicken Salad Chick; The Hound (Auburn); anything with sweet potatoes!Favorite app InstagramPet peeves Flipping water bottles

ETHAN JOY – 8th Grade, Team 2

Degrees B.S., Bowling Green State University; Teaching Certificate, University of Colorado at Boulder; Master’s and Ed.S., UABYears in education Starting 4th year, all at PizitzHometown Pittsburgh, PAMarried YesChildren 2 boys

Favorite sports team Pittsburgh SteelersFavorite music/group The BeatlesFavorite movie Star WarsFavorite TV show M*A*S*HFavorite restaurant/food Asian cuisineFavorite app TEDPet peeves Being late

KRISTIN COPPOCK – 8th Grade, Team 1

Degrees Bachelor’s, University of Alabama; Master’s, UAB; National Boards, ELAYears in education 14; 3rd year at PizitzHometown Homewood, ALMarried 11 yearsChildren Eva (8); Charlie (4½)Favorite sports team Roll Tide!

Favorite music/group U2; oldiesFavorite movie Stand By MeFavorite TV show Anything mystery, but not TOO realFavorite restaurant/food SurinFavorite app Google Drive; Google DocsPet peeves Smacking

ASHLEY PERRY – 6th Grade, Team 4Degrees B.S. in Elementary Education, Athens State UniversityYears in education 7; 4 at Central and this is my 3rd year at PizitzHometown I have many ... Shreveport, LA; Taipei, Taiwan; Cincinnati, OH; Madison, ALMarried YesChildren None

Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson TideFavorite music/group Fleetwood MacFavorite movie The Curious Case of Benjamin Button; The Dark Knight; Lord of the RingsFavorite TV show FrasierFavorite restaurant/food Thai; sushiFavorite app SkyViewPet peeves Negativity in an attempt to be “cool”

English (All Grades & Teams)

HAYDEN SENTENN – 6th Grade, Team 1

Degrees B.A. in Journalism & Sociology, Samford University; M.Ed. in English Education, UABYears in education 7; 4th year at PizitzHometown Montgomery, ALMarried To sweet Andy SentennChildren One daughter, AbigailFavorite sports team Roll Tide & Go Arsenal FC!Favorite music/group Johnny Cash; Loretta Lynn;

Kings of Leon; First Aid Kit; Alabama Shakes; Bethel MusicFavorite movie Fried Green Tomatoes; Walk the Line; Moonrise KingdomFavorite TV show Call the MidwifeFavorite restaurant/food Chez Fon Fon; Jinsei; Rojo; and the list goes on and on ... I love food!Favorite app InstagramPet peeves Typos & bad grammar

KAYLA PIGG – 6th Grade, Team 2

Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education & English Language Arts, University of North Alabama; M.Ed. in English Education, UABYears in education 9; the last 4 have been at the BEST MIDDLE SCHOOL IN AMERICA!Hometown Cullman, ALMarried To my best friend and college sweetheartChildren One, a 1-year-old son! Also 2 puppies, Toby (Golden) & George (Shih Tzu)

Favorite sports team The only one that matters ... Alabama!Favorite music/group Dave Matthews BandFavorite movie Midnight in ParisFavorite TV show The OfficeFavorite restaurant/food Gianmarco’sFavorite app Pinterest and yes, DubsmashPet peeves People who make excuses & girls who wear shirts as dresses #fashiondont

JILL WIGGINS – 7th Grade, Team 2

Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education, English/History, Auburn University; M.A. English, Georgia State UniversityYears in education 12; 1st full year at PizitzHometown Gadsden, ALMarried Yes, to John Wiggins for 21 yearsChildren 3 – Tripp (15); Sam (13); Bea (9)Favorite sports team AuburnFavorite music/group Jason Isbell; The Avett Bros.Favorite movie Silver Linings Playbook

Favorite TV show Netflix: Stranger ThingsFavorite restaurant/food Little Donkey; Babalu; and guacamole!Favorite app Amazon MusicPet peeves 1) “I could care less” instead of “I could NOT care less.” 2) When golf commentators refer to “driver” without an article or adjective. “He’s going to use driver on this par 5.” I also feel strongly that hair “products” should be used in the plural or with a modifier. “Do you need product?” really gets under my skin.

Math (All Grades & Teams)

MICHELLE bINDER – 6th Grade, Team 2

Degrees B.S. in Education & Mathematics & M.A. in Education, UABYears in education 9; 3rd year at PizitzHometown My dad was in the militaryMarried NoChildren None

Favorite music/group UsherFavorite movie Spaceballs; Mr. DeedsFavorite TV show Catfish; Devious MaidsFavorite restaurant/food Cheesecake FactoryFavorite app Farm HeroesPet peeves Tapping on the desk

VICKI CATO – 8th Grade, Team 2Degrees B.S. & M.A. in Secondary Mathematics, UAB; National Board Certification EA MathematicsYears in education 29; 20 at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried Yes

Children Twin boys (25); daughter (23)Favorite movie Sound of MusicFavorite TV show House of CardsFavorite restaurant/food Fish Market (Southside)Favorite app Solitaire

bECKY bOYKIN – 6th Grade, Team 1

Degrees B.S. in Education, Northwestern State University; M.A. in Educational Leadership, University of New Orleans; Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, UABYears in education 23; 6th at PizitzHometown Houston, TXMarried Very happily to Farrell StockslagerFavorite sports team Houston Oilers; LSU Tiger Football; New Orleans Saints; LSU Tigers Baseball

Favorite music/group Sister Hazel; Alison Krauss & Union Station; Martina McBrideFavorite movie Stand and Deliver; Finding Forrester; A Beautiful Mind; Pitch PerfectFavorite TV show Grey’s Anatomy (ugh!); Chrisley Knows Best; New GirlFavorite restaurant/food Lloyd’s; Cocina Superior; Full Moon BBQFavorite app Dubsmash; SpotifyPet peeves Every car comes with blinkers, right?

HOPE LEVIO – 7th Grade, Team 2

Degrees B.S. & Master’s in Math Education, University of Alabama; Ed.S., UABYears in education 13; 9 at VHHS and 4th at PizitzHometown Arab, ALMarried YesChildren NoneFavorite sports team THE Alabama Crimson TideFavorite music/group Currently, Sam Smith &

Ed SheeranFavorite movie Love Actually; The LabyrinthFavorite TV show I don’t watch TV ... I’m more of a movie watcher.Favorite restaurant/food Outback Steakhouse; Margarita GrillFavorite app The Weather Channel; PandoraPet peeves Laziness & lying

JACKIE MILLS – 7th Grade, Team 1

Degrees B.I.E. in Industrial Engineering, Auburn University; M.Ed. in Secondary Math, University of MontevalloYears in education 19; all at PizitzHometown Muscle Shoals, ALChildren 2 daughters; 2 granddaughters

Favorite sports team AuburnFavorite music/group James TaylorFavorite movie The PatriotFavorite restaurant/food Macaroni GrillFavorite app Pandora

Math (All Grades & Teams)

LAuRA MORRISON – 8th Grade, Team 3

Degrees B.S., Auburn University; M.A., UABYears in education 10; 3rd at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried To GreggChildren 2 – one son; one daughterFavorite sports team Auburn Tigers ... War Eagle!

Favorite music/group Kari Jobe; Rascal FlatsFavorite movie RudyFavorite TV show Madam SecretaryFavorite restaurant/food ItalianPet peeves When drivers don’t move their car for an ambulance

MELbA SMITH – 8th Grade, Team 1Degrees B.S. in Mathematics & M.Sc. in Mathematics Education, Louisiana Tech UniversityYears in education 33; all at PizitzHometown Gibsland, LAMarried YesChildren One adult child; 2 grandchildrenFavorite sports team Grambling College Football

Favorite music/group Smooth JazzFavorite movie Magnificent ObsessionFavorite TV show The Big Bang TheoryFavorite restaurant/food Seafood; GreekFavorite app The Holy BiblePet peeves People who won’t clean up after themselves

MARGARET SHARbEL – 6th Grade, Team 4

Degrees B.S., Auburn UniversityYears in education 2; 1st year at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, AL (Go Rebels!)Married NoChildren NoneFavorite sports team Auburn ... War Eagle!

Favorite music/group NEEDTOBREATHE; Ben Rector; also love oldies!!Favorite movie Remember the Titans; Pitch PerfectFavorite TV show The OfficeFavorite restaurant/food Ovenbird; Zoe’sFavorite app PinterestPet peeves Smacking/chewing loudly

LINDA SPAIN – 6th Grade, Team 3

Degrees B.S. in Education, Auburn UniversityYears in education 17; 10th year at PizitzHometown Jackson, TNMarried 27 years to BillyChildren 3 boys – 1 at Auburn; 1 at Alabama; 1 at VHHS

Favorite sports team Pizitz (1st, of course); Auburn Tigers!Favorite music/group New Christian (NEEDTOBREATHE, etc.); any 70s (KC & The Sunshine Band, BeeGees, etc.)! The more disco-y, the better!!Favorite movie Elf (Nothing else even comes close!)

MARK WOODRuFF – 7th Grade, Team 3

Degrees B.S., Auburn University; Master’s, University of MontevalloYears in education 19; 15 at PizitzHometown Tyler, ALMarried Yes, for 23 yearsChildren 3 beautiful girlsFavorite sports team Auburn

Favorite music/group Casting CrownsFavorite movie Good Will HuntingFavorite TV show SeinfeldFavorite restaurant/food Newk’sFavorite app Watch ESPNPet peeves Inconsiderate drivers

Science (All Grades & Teams)

KATIE COOPER – 6th Grade, Teams 2 & 4

Degrees B.S. in Elementary Education, University of AlabamaYears in education 4, all at Pizitz!Hometown Hoover, ALMarried NoChildren NoneFavorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide

Favorite music/group Taylor Swift; Hillsong UnitedFavorite movie Just Go With ItFavorite TV show Once Upon a Time; NashvilleFavorite restaurant/food ChocolateFavorite app InstagramPet peeves When people think they are better than other people

AIMEE FARRAR – 7th Grade, Team 2Degrees B.S. in Zoology Pre-Vet & Master’s in Biology Education, Auburn UniversityYears in education 13; all at PizitzHometown Spanish Fort, ALMarried YesChildren 2 boysFavorite sports team Auburn University

Favorite music/group Third DayFavorite movie Ever AfterFavorite TV show Grey’s AnatomyFavorite restaurant/food Taziki’sFavorite app FacebookPet peeves Dishonesty

TRACIE EDWARDS – 7th Grade, Team 1

Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education & General Science, Samford UniversityYears in education 12; 4th at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried To Jamie EdwardsChildren 4 – 3 boys (James, Jacob & John) & 1 girl (Josie)Favorite sports team Clemson Tigers

Favorite music/group Black-Eyed Peas; Justin Timberlake; Jimmy BuffetFavorite movie Pitch Perfect; The Blind SideFavorite TV show FriendsFavorite restaurant/food Perry’s Steakhouse & GrilleFavorite app YouTubePet peeves Making excuses

SuSAN CASTLEbERRY, 6th Grade Gifted Education, Science; Dance Team

Degrees B.S. & M.Ed., Auburn UniversityYears in education 25; 21 at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALMarried YesChildren Son & daughterFavorite sports team Pizitz Pirates; Auburn Tigers

Favorite music/group U2Favorite movie The NotebookFavorite TV show The Big Bang TheoryFavorite restaurant/food Ruth’s Chris Steak HouseFavorite app EvernotePet peeves Failing to take responsibility for one’s actions

KELLY GuROSKY – 8th Grade, Team 1

Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education in Biology & History, Auburn UniversityYears in education 10½; all at PizitzHometown Alexander City, ALMarried To Scott for 25 yearsChildren 2 sonsFavorite sports team The Rebels!

Favorite music/group U2Favorite movie Nacho Libre; Christmas VacationFavorite TV show The Blacklist; The OfficeFavorite restaurant/food La Paz (Mexican)Favorite app Trivia CrackPet peeves Clutter & people who make excuses

Science (All Grades & Teams)

KELCI MCCALEb – 8th Grade, Team 2

Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education, Auburn University; Master’s in Library Media, University of West AlabamaYears in education 6; all at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried YesChildren 1 son, Jamison (6 months)Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers

Favorite music/group I love listening to movie soundtracksFavorite movie The Lord of the Rings TrilogyFavorite restaurant/food ItalianFavorite app GoodreadsPet peeves When someone does not take the time to clean up their own mess

ANGIE OLVEY – 8th Grade, Team 3

Degrees B.S., University of Montevallo; M.Ed., UABYears in education 8½; 2nd at PizitzHometown Pelham, ALMarried Yes, to Derik Olvey for 7 yearsChildren 2 daughters – Parker (5); Reese (2)Favorite sports team AlabamaFavorite music/group Mumford & Sons; Adele;

Modest Mouse; Justin Timberlake; Taylor Swift; ColdplayFavorite movie Finding Nemo; Finding DoryFavorite TV show Scandal; The Walking DeadFavorite restaurant/food Mexican!Favorite app Chick-fil-A One; Cartwheel; PandoraPet peeves Excuses and being mean while trying to be cool

DIANE MCALILEY – 6th Grade, Teams 1 & 4

Degrees B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Auburn University; M.A. in Elementary Education, University of MontevalloYears in education Starting my 4th at PizitzHometown Eufaula, ALMarried NoChildren None, but I count my nieces and nephew as my own along with hundreds of students I have had the privilege to teach.

Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers!Favorite music/group Ellie Holcomb; Drew Holcomb and The NeighborsFavorite movie Singin’ in the Rain; The Sound of Music; Steel MagnoliasFavorite restaurant/food Chez Fon Fon; Saw’s Juke JointFavorite app Dubsmash

TYLER TIDMORE – 6th Grade, Teams 3 & 4

Degrees Collaborative Education, Birmingham-Southern CollegeYears in education 1st year teaching & 1st at Pizitz!Hometown Albertville, ALMarried NoChildren NoneFavorite sports team Auburn University football;

Atlanta Braves baseball; Chicago Blackhawks hockeyFavorite music/group Drive By Truckers; Pearl Jam; Eric ChurchFavorite movie Top GunFavorite TV show NCISFavorite restaurant/food Salems Diner; GumboFavorite app SpotifyPet peeves Laziness

PAM WEAVER – 7th Grade, Team 3

Degrees B.S., Troy University; M.Ed., University of MontevalloYears in education 13; 2 at PizitzHometown Alexander City, ALMarried Yes, to DerekChildren 2 – Aidan & AsherFavorite sports team UABFavorite music/group Fountains of Wayne; Beastie Boys; David Wilcox

Favorite movie Jason Bourne series; Pride & PrejudiceFavorite TV show Stranger ThingsFavorite restaurant/food Mexican from iCantina food truckFavorite app Amazon (I love to shop online)Pet peeves Smacking gum & making noise when you eat

Social Studies (All Grades & Teams)

bRIAN ELMORE – 8th Grade, Team 2

Degrees Bachelor’s in Secondary Education Social Sciences, University of AlabamaYears in education 3rd year; all at Pizitz!Hometown Homewood, ALMarried Yes!Children NoneFavorite sports team Alabama (college sports); San Diego Chargers (NFL)

Favorite music/group Third Day; Dave Matthews BandFavorite movie BraveheartFavorite TV show The Big Bang Theory; The Walking DeadFavorite restaurant/food Saw’s BBQ ... BBQ is the best!Favorite app PlickersPet peeves People’s hair in a bun (I can’t stand it!!)

KATHIE KNICKREHM – 8th Grade, Team 3Degrees B.S. in Family & Child Development, Auburn University; M.A. in Education, UABYears in education 13; all at PizitzHometown Huntsville, ALMarried For 32 years to James Knickrehm, my high school sweetheart!Children 2 great kids – Jessica (Drew Hall) & Dustin; 2 amazing grandchildren – Lily (4) & Colton (3)Favorite sports team All sports, except basketball

– Auburn University; Basketball – North Carolina, GO HEELS!; Major League Baseball – Red Sox!Favorite music/group Zac Brown BandFavorite movie The SandlotFavorite TV show Modern Family; ScorpionFavorite restaurant/food Chocolate & shrimp (but NOT at the same time!)Favorite app Wordle (I am releasing my inner geek!)Pet peeves Gum chewing ... It drives me crazy!!

STEVE FAbER – 7th Grade, Team 2

Degrees B.S. & M.Ed., University of MontevalloYears in education 36; 10 at PizitzHometown Grand Rapids, MI ... Mr. Vander Kamp and I are from the same hometown.Married NoChildren NoneFavorite sports team Los Angeles Lakers of the 1980s; Pittsburgh Steelers of the 1970s

Favorite music/group Fleetwood Mac; The Grass RootsFavorite movie The Natural; Shawshank Redemption; Walk the LineFavorite TV show The West WingFavorite restaurant/food Copeland’s (New Orleans)Favorite app Watch ESPN

ELIZAbETH LANG – 6th Grade, Team 4

Degrees Elementary Education, Judson College; Fashion Merchandising, Jefferson State Community CollegeYears in education 4; 1st at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried Yes, to David for 12 yearsChildren 2 – John Robin (10); Helen (8)Favorite music/group Maroon Five

Favorite movie RockyFavorite TV show Dateline; 60 Minutes; Law & Order ... I can’t pick just one!Favorite restaurant/food BottegaFavorite app PinterestPet peeves When you let a car merge/pull-out in front of you, but they don’t wave to thank you!

bILL MANN – 6th Grade, Team 2

Degrees A.A., Bevill State; B.S. & M.A. in Secondary Education, UABYears in education 10; 4th year at PizitzHometown Margaret, ALMarried To ChristyChildren 4Favorite sports team Alabama Football; Atlanta Braves Baseball

Favorite music/group Montgomery Gentry; Toby KeithFavorite movie True Grit (old & new)Favorite TV show American PickersFavorite restaurant/food Tecate/MexicanFavorite app Dice with BuddiesPet peeves Being late

Social Studies (All Grades & Teams)

bETH NEIGHbORS – 7th Grade, Team 1

Degrees B.A. & M.Ed., UABYears in education 21; all at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALMarried To Mike for 43 yearsChildren 3 – Matthew; Adam (Stacy); Mary Ellen DeBardeleben (Charles); 4 grandchildren – Madison; Allie; Ellis; Henry

Favorite movie Gone With the WindFavorite TV show Downton AbbeyFavorite restaurant/food MexicanPet peeves Students that do not give their best, EVERYDAY!

KELLY SORRELL – 6th Grade, Team 3Degrees B.S., Auburn University; Master’s, University of MontevalloYears in education 6 teaching; 14 at PizitzHometown Montgomery, ALMarried YesChildren 4

Favorite music/group Rolling Stones; Alabama ShakesFavorite movie As Good As It GetsFavorite TV show Rehab AddictFavorite restaurant/food Cafe DupontFavorite app GooglePet peeves Your/You’re; There/Their/They’re

MALCOLM PREWITT – 7th Grade, Team 3

Degrees Bachelor’s & Master’s of Physical Education, Auburn University; Bachelor’s & Master’s of History, University of MontevalloYears in education Starting my 29th year at PizitzHometown Decatur, ALMarried To the former Amy Westhoven for 28 yearsChildren 3 boys – John (26); Patrick (25); Will (23)

Favorite sports team Vestavia Hills Rebels; Auburn TigersFavorite music/group CountryFavorite movie It’s a Wonderful LifeFavorite TV show Anything on the History ChannelFavorite restaurant/food Anything my wife cooksFavorite app FlashlightPet peeves People who don’t do the best they can at whatever they are doing

PHIL VANDER KAMP – 6th Grade, Team 1

Degrees B.S. in Language Arts, Grand Valley State University; M.Ed. in Elementary Education, Lesley UniversityYears in education 17; 13 at Pizitz, 3 in New Hampshire, 1 at ColumbianaHometown Grand Rapids, MIMarried To ElizabethChildren Tressa (14); Mary (12)

Favorite sports team Detroit Tigers; Boston Red SoxFavorite music/group Jim Kweskin & The Jug BandFavorite movie It’s a Wonderful LifeFavorite TV show I don’t have a TVFavorite restaurant/food Chocolate!Favorite app What’s an “app”?Pet peeves Wait ... What?

JASON WILLIAMS – 8th Grade, Team 1

Degrees B.A., UAB; M.A., University of AlabamaYears in education 16Hometown Birmingham, ALMarried NoChildren All that I teach & coachFavorite sports team The ones I coach – Go Pirates!!

Favorite music/group Toss up ... Pink Floyd; Pearl Jam; NirvanaFavorite movie Airplane!Favorite TV show Law & OrderFavorite restaurant/food Dino & Tony’s (Rome, Italy)Favorite app Fried PicklesPet peeves Talking while someone is teaching/presenting to the group.

Fine Arts & Computer

bRENT COLEMAN, Choral Music

Degrees B.M.Ed., Auburn UniversityYears in education 23; all at PizitzHometown Enterprise, ALMarried To Andrea Coleman, 2nd grade teacher at VHEWChildren Sophie (15) & Selah (10)Favorite sports team All Auburn University teamsFavorite music/group The Eagles; country; Christian; Southern gospel

Favorite movie Star Wars Trilogy (original); Indiana Jones Trilogy (original)Favorite TV show CastleFavorite restaurant/food Davenport’s PizzaFavorite app EvernotePet peeves Nasty feet! If you wear shoes that show your feet ... WASH THEM FIRST!!

KIM bAIN, band DirectorDegrees B.S. in Music Education, M.A. & Education Specialist, University of Alabama; Master’s of Music, Bowling Green State UniversityYears in education 27; 12 at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALFavorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide

Favorite music/group Cannonball AdderleyFavorite movie Lord of the RingsFavorite TV show House of CardsFavorite restaurant/food Bright StarFavorite app PrometrononePet peeves People who drive in the passing lane!

MELISSA bONDS, 6th Grade Choir

Degrees B.A. in Music Education, Auburn UniversityYears in education 9; all at Pizitz!Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL – Go Rebels!Married To Austin BondsChildren A.J. (5); Addie (3)Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers! War Eagle!!Favorite music/group Sugarland; Little Big Town; Miranda Lambert

Favorite movie Going to a movie is a rare treat at our house ... We’re more into Disney Jr. right now!Favorite TV show BonesFavorite restaurant/food Taziki’s; Zoe’sFavorite app PinterestPet peeves It drives me crazy when people forget to use their manners!! (Ma’am, sir, please, thank you – we’re in the South after all, y’all!)

LEAH SENG, Assistant band Director

Degrees B.S.E. in Music Education & Ed.S. in Music Education, University of Alabama; M.M.E. in Music Education, University of GeorgiaYears in education 15; 7th at PizitzHometown Chelsea, ALMarried To JordanChildren 1 daughter – JuliaFavorite sports team St. Louis Cardinals

Favorite movie The HolidayFavorite TV show Unbreakable Kimmy SchmidtFavorite restaurant/food Shindigs Truck; Indian foodFavorite app InstagramPet peeves Spending time with friends that are constantly looking at their phones

LARRY GIbSON, Art

Degrees B.S. & M.Ed., University of MontevalloYears in education 33 years; also completed my student teaching at PizitzHometown Decatur, AL (born in upstate NY)Married Wife is also a teacher at a private schoolChildren 2 boys – 26 & 28 years oldFavorite sports team Bama football

Favorite music/group Zac Brown BandFavorite movie Tin CupFavorite TV show College Game DayFavorite restaurant/food IchibanFavorite app PinterestPet peeves Bullying and rude people

Fine Arts & Computer

KIMbERLY HuNTON, Spanish

Degrees B.S. in CSFS, History & Spanish Secondary Education, Auburn UniversityYears in education 23; all at PizitzHometown Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, FLMarried To Kevin HuntonChildren Mary Hanlon (16) & Hal (12)Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers

Favorite music/group Violent Femmes (real band); Velcro Pygmies (cover band)Favorite movie Steel MagnoliasFavorite TV show Reality TV ... I love it all!Favorite restaurant/food Gianmarco’sPet peeves People/students who do not take personal responsibility for their actions

JOSH WADE, French & Newspaper SponsorDegrees B.A. in French & B.A. in English, Samford University; M.A. in Educational Psychology, University of AlabamaYears in education 18; 17 at PizitzHometown Gardendale, ALMarried To the beautiful Dr. Stacy Wade for 11 yearsChildren Noah (8); Bridger (4); Ellie (3)Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide

Favorite music/group The Avett BrothersFavorite movie Gone Baby GoneFavorite TV show Hannibal; The AmericansFavorite restaurant/food Lots of favorites ... I like to try new things and to be interested!Favorite app Google Drive ... It’s not just for school, it’s my brain!Pet peeves Dirty kitchens, pessimism and over reactions

FRAu KATHY ROGERS, German & Creating with Code

Degrees B.S. in Speech Pathology with graduate work in Early Childhood-Special Education, St. Cloud University (Minnesota); Master’s in German, University of Florida in cooperation with Mannheim Universitaet (Germany)Years in education 25; 17 at Pizitz; started the German Program at VHHS in 1992Hometown Belle Plaine, MN (Fun Fact ... There were more students enrolled at VHHS when I

started in 1992 than the population of my hometown!)Married Happily for 28 yearsChildren 2 – 1 son; 1 daughterFavorite sports team Pizitz Pirates!Favorite restaurant/food Taj IndiaFavorite app DuolingoPet peeves Pet peeves are annoying ... I don’t have any!

KENDALL KENNEDY, Family & Consumer Science

Degrees B.S. in Family & Consumer Sciences Education, University of MontevalloYears in education 4; 2nd at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALMarried Yes! To Derek KennedyChildren 1 daughter, Ellie Gray Kennedy (9 mos.)Favorite sports team Alabama! Roll Tide!

Favorite music/group Ben Rector; Lauren DaigleFavorite movie Remember the TitansFavorite TV show FriendsFavorite restaurant/food Panera BreadFavorite app VarageSale (online shopping!)Pet peeves When people pick at their fingernails!

DONNA WATKINS, Career Prep & Keyboarding

Degrees B.S. & M.Ed., Mississippi State UniversityYears in education 25; 22 at PizitzHometown Jackson, MSMarried YesChildren 2 sonsFavorite sports team Pizitz Pirates; Shelby County Wildcats; MSU Dawgs

Favorite music/group Oldies ... Motown through 80sFavorite movie The Wizard of OzFavorite TV show I Love Lucy; Everybody Loves RaymondFavorite restaurant/food SeafoodFavorite app SolitairePet peeves Rudeness

Physical Education & Sports

MANDY buRGESS, Varsity Volleyball Coach; Assistant Athletic Director

Degrees Bachelor’s in Human Performance & Kinesiology, Huntingdon CollegeYears in education 19; first 6 were at Pizitz, then 11 at VHHSHometown Hoover, ALMarried To Tyler BurgessChildren Joshua (10); Millie (9)Favorite sports team That is tough, I don’t have a favorite

Favorite music/group Matchbox 20, but I like a wide varietyFavorite movie Toy StoryFavorite TV show The VoiceFavorite restaurant/food SeafoodFavorite app iTunesPet peeves Blaming others

bETH uHLMAN, Volleyball Coach (8th Grade Head Coach); Asst. Softball Coach; Girls PEDegrees B.S. in PE & Social Work, University of North Alabama; M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, UABYears in education 21; 2nd at PizitzHometown Florence, ALMarried YesChildren Yes, but they have 4 legs – Winston & Phoenix are both rescue pups under 3-years-old & have eaten 2 couches so far!Favorite sports team Auburn Softball & Football

Favorite music/group Chris TomlinFavorite movie Remember the Titans (I cry every time!)Favorite TV show SEC Football or the Olympics (the only things I will sit still to watch)Favorite restaurant/food Peanut butter; Italian foodFavorite app Jesus Calling (morning devotion) Pet peeves It is a tie ... Laziness & the statement “we have always done it that way”

KATIE MATCHEN, 7th Grade basketball & Volleyball Coach; Girls PE

Degrees Bachelor’s & Master’s, Jacksonville State UniversityYears in education 4; 3rd at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALMarried NegativeChildren NoneFavorite sports team Jacksonville State Gamecocks (1st & foremost); Auburn Tigers; Carolina Panthers

Favorite music/group Elvis Presley; Sam Smith; Jessie JFavorite movie A League of Their OwnFavorite TV show FriendsFavorite restaurant/food P.F. Chang’sFavorite app InstagramPet peeves Lazy people; smacking food!

Physical Education & Sports

DAVE MCKENZIE, 7th Gr. Football Coach; Head 7th Gr. Girls basketball Coach; School Athletic Trainer; boys PE

Degrees Bs.Ed. in Exercise & Sports Science, University of Georgia; M.Ed. in PE, University of MontevalloYears in education 8; 2nd at Pizitz (12th as athletic trainer/coach at Pizitz)Hometown Columbus, GAMarried YesChildren 1 daughter (4); 1 son (4 months)

Favorite sports team Georgia BulldogsFavorite music/group The Avett Brothers; Chris StapletonFavorite movie CaddyshackFavorite restaurant/food Bar-B-QueFavorite app ESPN Pet peeves People who talk out of turn or talk when someone else is speaking

JOHN WYMAN, Head basketball Coach; boys PEDegrees B.S., Birmingham-Southern College & UABYears in education 27; 24 at PizitzHometown Chicago, ILMarried NoChildren 27-year-old twinsFavorite sports team Vestavia Rebels

Favorite music/group Rascal FlattsFavorite movie Field of DreamsFavorite TV show Friday Night LightsFavorite restaurant/food Pizza; MexicanPet peeves People who don’t pick up after themselves

JOHN RuSH, Assistant Athletic Director; Head Football Coach; boys PE

Degrees B.S., University of MontevalloYears in education 37; 36 at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried NoChildren 2 boysFavorite sports team Auburn

Favorite music/group EaglesFavorite movie Saving Private RyanFavorite TV show Fox NewsFavorite restaurant/food Fish Market; any good seafood restaurantPet peeves Making excuses; not taking responsibility for your actions!

Exceptional Education

LAuRA PRESTON, 6th Grade Exceptional Education

Degrees Bachelor’s in Mild Learning & Behavioral Disabilities & Master’s in Autism & Behavioral Disorders, Auburn UniversityYears in education 15; 3rd at PizitzHometown Talladega, ALMarried To Ben for 14 yearsChildren 2 – Claire (11); Mary (7)Favorite sports team AUBURN!!

Favorite music/group I love it all, especially 80s, 90s & R&BFavorite movie Steel MagnoliasFavorite TV show Game of ThronesFavorite restaurant/food SeafoodFavorite app PandoraPet peeves Laziness (I believe in hard work); clutter; people who don’t use their manners (especially while eating); dry feet

MEGAN HOSKIN, 8th Grade Exceptional EducationDegrees Bachelor’s, University of Alabama; Master’s in Educational Leadership, UABYears in education 12; 10 at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried YesChildren 2 girlsFavorite sports team Roll Tide

Favorite music/group Tribe Called QuestFavorite movie The LabyrinthFavorite TV show This Is UsFavorite restaurant/food Anything at The Pizitz Food HallFavorite app TimehopPet peeves Whiners

SONYA JOHNSON, 7th Grade Exceptional Education

Degrees B.A. in Psychology, University of Alabama; M.Ed. in Special Education, West Georgia CollegeYears in education 27; 9 at PizitzHometown Pensacola, FL & Birmingham, ALMarried NoChildren One furry, 4-legged child

Favorite sports team Alabama Roll Tide!Favorite music/group Melody GardotFavorite TV show The Big Bang TheoryFavorite restaurant/food Vecchia Pizzeria; The Pita ShopPet peeves Not doing what you say you will do

MADDIE ESCuE, Life Skills, Exceptional Education

Degrees B.S. in General/Special Education, University of AlabamaYears in education 1st year teaching, but was a student at Pizitz for 3 years!Hometown Vestavia Hills, ALMarried NoChildren No

Favorite sports team Alabama! Roll Tide!Favorite music/group NEEDTOBREATHEFavorite movie The NotebookFavorite TV show Big Little LiesFavorite restaurant/food MexicanFavorite app Spotify

JORDAN SMITH, 6th & 7th Grade Exceptional Education, behavior unit

Degrees B.S. in Elementary Education/Collaborative K-6, University of Montevallo; M.A. in Special Education K-12, UABYears in education 6; 1st at PizitzHometown Helena, ALMarried NoChildren No humans, just Heidi ... a 14-year-old Dachshund

Favorite sports team AlabamaFavorite music/group Sam HuntFavorite movie StepbrothersFavorite TV show This Is UsFavorite restaurant/food Pizza/Post Office PiesFavorite app Amazon PrimePet peeves Poor grammar

Exceptional Education

JILL CLARK, 6th Grade Special Education

Degrees B.S., University of Alabama; M.Ed., University of Nebraska-Lincoln; National Board for Professional Teaching StandardsYears in education 39; 31 at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried YesChildren One daughterFavorite sports team North Carolina Basketball

Favorite music/group Barry White; Dolly PartonFavorite movie VoyagerFavorite TV show NCISFavorite restaurant/food Steak; jumbo fried shrimpFavorite app Too hard to chose a favoritePet peeves Drivers that do not pull over for emergency vehicles & squeezing toothpaste from the middle of the tube

MELINDA FAGIN, Speech/Language TherapyDegrees Master’s, Our Lady of the Lake University Years in education 17; 7 at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALFavorite sports team Texas LonghornsFavorite music/group Sam SmithFavorite movie My Fair Lady

Favorite TV show Cooking showsFavorite restaurant/food Vecchia’s is the place I frequent the most ... very relaxed atmosphere. I love Italian, French and good ol’ American food!Favorite app iConversation (My students love this app and that’s what makes it my favorite!)Pet peeves Rudeness

KAREN MCCuTCHEON, 7th Grade Resource

Degrees B.S. & M.A., UABYears in education 19; 17 at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALFavorite sports team Alabama Crimson TideFavorite music/group Hilary Hahn; Alabama Symphony

Favorite movie The Sound of MusicFavorite TV show So You Think You Can DanceFavorite restaurant/food Alexander’s; salmonFavorite app Beats MusicPet peeves Loud car commercials

JOYCE TALbOT, English as a Second Language (ESL)

Degrees M.S. in Audiology, University of WyomingYears in education 26; 17 at PizitzHometown Elmont, NY (home of the Belmont Race Track)Married Married to JimChildren One son, Sam

Favorite music/group Beatles; Van Morrison; Neil Diamond; and many moreFavorite movie I like a lot ... It’s hard to pick a favoriteFavorite TV show NashvillePet peeves Slow cashiers

Interventionists

DANNA MOSS, 6th Grade Interventionist

Degrees B.S. in Early Childhood/Elementary Education, University of Alabama; Master’s, Early Childhood/Elementary Education, UABYears in education 22; all at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALMarried To Mitchell Moss for 17 yearsChildren NoneFavorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide

Favorite music/group Maroon 5Favorite movie SerendipityFavorite TV show Modern Family; The VoiceFavorite restaurant/food Donut Hole (Sandestin)Favorite app Fashion PolicePet peeves People who are not on time

LISA CROSS, 8th Grade InterventionistDegrees B.S. in Elementary Education, UAB; B.S. in Early Childhood Education, Auburn University; B.S. in Physical Education Elementary-Secondary, UAB Years in education 19; 5 at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALMarried To Jason for 20 yearsChildren 4 – Ally (18); twins Andrew & Jay (16); William (10)

Favorite sports team Auburn, even though we are a house divided :)Favorite music/group Hillsong UnitedFavorite movie The Blind SideFavorite TV show Dancing with the StarsFavorite restaurant/food Niki’s WestFavorite app Bible GatewayPet peeves When people don’t pick up after themselves

KRISTEN ROuGHEN, 7th Grade Interventionist

Degrees B.A. in Journalism, Samford University; M.Ed. in Secondary Education, Samford UniversityYears in education 2; 1st year at Pizitz!Hometown Ft. Lauderdale, FLMarried NoChildren NoFavorite sports team Miami Hurricanes

Favorite music/group Thomas Rhett (I LOVE HIM!)Favorite movie The IncrediblesFavorite TV show New GirlFavorite restaurant/food Jack Brown’s; spaghettiFavorite app BitmojiPet peeves When someone leaves ONE bite of ice cream in the carton and still puts it back in the freezer.

Paraeducators

SuMMER bAKER

Degrees B.S. in Elementary Education, University of Alabama; working toward M.A. in Special Education, UABYears in education 1½; 1st at PizitzHometown Hoover, ALMarried NoChildren NoneFavorite sports team Not interested in sports

Favorite music/group FunFavorite movie Her; 500 Days of SummerFavorite TV show Pushing Daisies; ScrubsFavorite restaurant/food Any asian cuisine!Favorite app Podcast AddictPet peeves Vague plans

CONNIE buTTSHometown Dayton, OH

DAVID bLACKMON

Degrees B.S., Jacksonville State University; M.B.A., University of AlabamaYears in education 9th year at PizitzHometown Sylacauga, ALMarried YesChildren 2 children; 4 grandchildrenFavorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide

Favorite music/group Robert Cray; EaglesFavorite movie American SniperFavorite TV show NCISFavorite restaurant/food Costa’s (Italian)Favorite app al.comPet peeves Disorganized people

LISA CHEEK

Degrees B.S. in Business Administration, Auburn UniversityYears in education 11; all at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried YesChildren 2

Favorite sports team Auburn TigersFavorite music/group Zac Brown BandFavorite TV show The MiddleFavorite restaurant/food ChickenPet peeves Bad drivers

EITZEN, KERI

Degrees M.Ed. in Secondary Social Science, University of Montevallo; B.S. in Criminology, Auburn UniversityYears in education 8; 1st at Pizitz, though I’ve been a substitute here for 2½ yearsHometown Houston, TXMarried YesChildren 2 – 1 daughter; 1 sonFavorite sports team Auburn Tigers Football ... War Eagle!

Favorite music/group Train; Ben Rector; Maroon 5; Matchbox 20; Bruno MarsFavorite movie Pride & Prejudice; Jerry McGuire; When Harry Met Sally; Definitely MaybeFavorite TV show FriendsFavorite restaurant/food New York Pizza (Edgewood)Favorite app Sound HoundPet peeves When people use the word me in the subject of a sentence, i.e. Jenny and me are going ... ugh!

Paraeducators

JESSICA HALL

KELLY HARDWICK

Degrees Attended University of MontevalloYears in education 1st year!!Hometown Bessemer, ALMarried Yes, to Allen HardwickChildren 1 daughterFavorite sports team Alabama ... Roll Tide!Favorite music/group Florida Georgia Line

Favorite movie The HolidayFavorite TV show The BlacklistFavorite restaurant/food Bottega Café (Love it!)Favorite app Pinterest is my obsessionPet peeves When people park in handicap spaces but are not handicapped!

KIMbERLY FORD

Degrees B.S. in Business Administration, Miles College; B.S. in Psychology, UABYears in education 1st at PizitzHometown Birmingham, ALMarried NoChildren 3Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers; Golden State Warriors

Favorite music/group I love all genres of musicFavorite movie War RoomFavorite TV show Fixer UpperFavorite restaurant/food Pappadeaux Seafood KitchenFavorite app Google MapsPet peeves Not accepting accountability for your actions

Photo not available ... Arrr

gh!!

SHAWN FIELDS

Years in education 3rd year!Hometown Oceanside, CAMarried NoChildren OneFavorite sports team Cleveland Cavalier’s

Favorite music/group Earth, Wind & FireFavorite TV show Power/EmpowerFavorite restaurant/food Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

ASHLEY HICKS

Degrees B.S. in English, Auburn University; M.Ed., Auburn UniversityYears in education 13, all at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALMarried YesChildren Tucker (6); Alice (4)Favorite sports team Auburn; UNC basketball; Dublin hurling team

Favorite music/group Matt Maher; Counting CrowsFavorite movie Pippi LongstockingFavorite TV show Once Upon a TimeFavorite restaurant/food Surin; anything seafoodFavorite app TimehopPet peeves Mean people & people who try to act “cute” for attention.

Paraeducators

GARRETT WEST

bETSY WILSON

Degrees B.S. in Education, Auburn UniversityYears in education 12; all at PizitzHometown Vestavia Hills, ALMarried YesChildren 3Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers

Favorite music/group James TaylorFavorite movie Somewhere In TimeFavorite TV show The Big Bang Theory; ScandalFavorite restaurant/food Amore; lemon icebox pieFavorite app DubsmashPet peeves Lying

KEVIN WALDROP

Degrees B.A. in Journalism, Auburn University; M.S. in Therapeutic Recreation, University of South AlabamaYears in education Starting my 4th yearHometown Honeycomb Valley (on Lake Guntersville)Married 23 yearsChildren 2 daughters, Zoe (13) & Keelani (10)Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers; Boston Red Sox; Miami Dolphins; Golden State WarriorsFavorite music/group Marc Cohn; Johnny Cash; Big & Rich

Favorite movie Nobody’s Fool; A River Runs Through It; The Book of EliFavorite TV show The Office; The Red Green Show; The Andy Griffith ShowFavorite restaurant/food Chicken gizzards; any gas station/convenience store that serves poultry productsFavorite app The Holy BiblePet peeves Haters of Bigfoot & the Loch Ness Monster

Photo not available ... Arrr

gh!!

JuLIE MARTINDegrees Auburn UniversityYears in education 18; 11 at PizitzHometown Leighton, ALMarried NoChildren Sam (20); Layton (17)Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers!Favorite music/group Alterbridge; Kings of Leon; anything rock, hard rock or alternative ...

no country, pleaseFavorite movie A Time to Kill; Under the Tuscan Sky; Lincoln Lawyer; Enough, plus many more!Favorite TV show Criminal MindsFavorite restaurant/food Bottega; Mug Shots; Famous Fred’sFavorite app I don’t do apps ... I do chocolate!Pet peeves Bad manners and loud; obnoxious people

Treasure Map

Important Information

LABEL! LABEL! LABEL!! Students should label ALL personal items brought to school. Items often forgotten include: cell phones, purses, wallets, lunch boxes and water bottles.

ParkingWhen visiting the school, please park in a parking space marked “VISITOR” or along the curb in a non-yellow area. Numbered spaces are reserved for faculty and staff.

Carpool EtiquetteIt is considered bad manners to pull in front of others at the curb. Always pull up as far as space allows to accommodate others lined up behind you.

Homeroom ParentsHomeroom activities are a little more low-key in middle school. The room parent will coordinate seasonal and end-of-the-year parties, as well as make arrangements for teacher gifts and other tokens of appreciation.

Extended CareThe Extended Care Program starts at 3:15 p.m. and ends at 6:00 p.m. The first hour is a study hall for completing homework. You must pre-register to participate in Extended Care.

2017-2018 Pizitz PTO Executive BoardPresident Summer Zulanus

President Elect Michele Morrow

VP, Membership Katherine Taylor

VP, Communications Cinnamon McCulley

Recording Secretary Lisa Bryant

Corresponding Secretary Amy Schmitz

Treasurer Kristen Comer

Treasurer Elect Beth Rose

Parliamentarian Missy Armstrong

To volunteer, or if you have any questions for the Pizitz PTO Executive Board, please contact us via email at PizitzPTO@gmail.com.