Directory
Administration
Amie Snow is the Principal for the Academy at Middle Fork.
“I love working at the Academy because every day I get to be part of something bigger than myself. Our school is charged with reimagining what education can look like, and I feel privileged to lead a team that is both innovative and deeply committed to children.
“I love the people here—our teachers, staff, and families—because they embody the HIKE values of Honesty, Integrity, Kindness, and Excellence. Together, we create a culture where students feel seen, supported, and celebrated as “mini-Mountaineers.” There is a sense of collective purpose that makes the work meaningful and joyful, even when it’s hard.
“I also love the opportunity to learn and grow alongside my colleagues and our university partners. Being part of a lab school means we are constantly reflecting, refining, and sharing practices that can shape the future of education beyond our walls. That kind of impact energizes me and reminds me why I became an educator in the first place.
“Most of all, I love seeing the spark in our students—the creativity they bring to project-based learning, the pride they feel when given voice and choice, and the confidence that grows as they take ownership of their learning. Watching them develop both as scholars and as kind, capable leaders in our community is the greatest reward and the reason why I continue to do this work each day.”
Fun Fact: “I can’t resist singing along (badly) to 80s music — especially on the drive to school.”
Degrees
- B.A. in elementary education, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2002
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2006
- Ed.D. in educational leadership, Appalachian State University, 2014
- MPA, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 2023
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- Reading K-12
- School Administrator: Principal
- School Administrator: Superintendent
Barbara Lewis is the assistant principal for the Academy at Middle Fork.
“The best part about the Academy is the love and excitement our families and students have for being here.”
Fun Fact: “I was born overseas (Germany).”
Degrees
- B.A. in Elementary Education, Fayetteville State University, 2013
- M.A. in Reading Education, North Carolina A & T State University, 2023
- MSA in School Administration, North Carolina Central University, 2023
- Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Fayetteville State University, currently enrolled
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- Reading K-12
- School Administrator: Principal
Shaylee Rogers-Moore is the Director of Student Support for the Academy at Middle Fork.
“I love working at a student-centered school that focuses on the whole child. At the academy, I have the opportunity to be a part of a school environment that creates and implements programs that directly benefit students, ensuring they have the support they need to succeed academically and personally.”
Fun fact: “I have two children, Ryder and Randi Clare, who keep me very busy. Most weekends, we can be found on a ball field somewhere.”
Degrees
- B.A. in special education, Salem University, 2014
- M.Ed. in special education, Liberty University, 2019
- Graduate Certificate in School Leadership (licensure), Appalachian State University, 2023
- Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Appalachian State University, currently enrolled
Licensure Areas
- Exceptional Children: General Curriculum (K-12)
- Exceptional Children: Program Administrator
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- Social Studies (6-9)
- School Administrator: Principal
Darron Daniels is the Director of Culture and Climate for the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “Seeing our students grow into leaders, strive to make positive choices, and demonstrate our values of Honesty, Integrity, Kindness, & Excellence each day is my favorite thing about working at the Academy.”
Fun Fact: “I enjoy watching sports and movies. ”
Degrees
- B.A. in strategic communications, Elon University, 2016
- M.A. in educational media, Appalachian State University, 2021
Licensure Areas
- Instructional Technology Specialist – Computers
Office Staff
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “The TEAM effort for each student.”
Fun Fact: “I like to color.”
Melanie Hicks-Lane is an administrative support specialist at the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “The entire staff is like one big family!”
Fun fact: “I love to ride motorcycles!”
Paula Anderson is the Data Manager at the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “Working with families and learning new skills.”
Fun Fact: “I’m scared of heights but enjoy jumping out of planes.”
Degrees:
- A.A.S. in administrative office technology, Forsyth Technical Community College, 1991
K-1 Team
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “The positive family atmosphere.”
Fun Fact: “I am a Mom of a fun loving six year old. He is my heart. ”
Degrees:
- B.S. in birth to kindergarten, Winston-Salem State University, 2003
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2021
Licensure Areas
- Birth to Kindergarten
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “I love that we work together like a family. It is okay to disagree. We can voice different opinions and come to a consensus based on what we feel is best for our students and their families.”
Fun Fact: “I once sang in a backup chorus to Andy Williams in his Christmas show. (Does anyone know who he is anymore?)”
Degrees
- B.A. in elementary education, University of North Carolina at Wilmington, 1990
- Graduate Certificate in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2021
- M.A. in literacy education, Appalachian State University, 2024
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “Working with my team.”
Fun Fact: “I love all sports.”
Degrees
- B.A. in elementary education, D’Youville College, 2002
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State, 2021
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- Reading K-12
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “I love seeing our students thrive within the innovative school model. From an early age, they develop a sense of belonging, are empowered to make meaningful choices, and experience the importance of community. There’s nothing like seeing their faces light up when they overcome a challenge or reach a goal!”
Fun Fact: “I love traveling and have a goal to visit all 50 states.”
Degrees
- BS in birth-kindergarten education, Winston Salem State University, 2016
- MA in applied psychology – developmental psychology, Liberty University, 2023
Licensure Areas
- Birth-Kindergarten
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “Being part of a tremendously supportive, inclusive, and family-like team that embraces co-teaching, centers students, and actively partners with families in all we do.”
Fun Fact: “I never miss a good concert! Bad Bunny? Karol G? Say less. I’m front row (or at least pretending I am), losing my voice and living mi mejor vida.”
Degrees
- A.A., Forsyth Technical Community College, 2018
- B.S. in elementary education, Appalachian State University, 2020
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2021
- Graduate Certificate in teaching emergent bilingual populations in content areas, Appalachian State University, 2021
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “I love the strong collaboration across our team. Co-teaching and grade-span collectiveness help us stay aligned and support all learners. Enrichment Fridays give us time to plan, analyze student data, and tailor instruction to meet students where they are.”
Fun Fact: “I’m a big fan of Elvis music and absolutely love Disney World—nothing beats ‘Jailhouse Rock’ followed by a stroll down Main Street, U.S.A.!”
Degrees
- A.A., Forsyth Technical Community College, 2019
- B.S. in Elementary Education, Appalachian State University, 2022
- M.A. in Higher Education Leadership, Appalachian State University, 2024
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “It feels like ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY and the children are the main focus.”
Fun Fact: “I have camped in 47 of the 50 states.”
Degrees
- B.S. in elementary education, University of Phoenix, 2019
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “The teamwork.”
Fun Fact: “I enjoy singing, particularly in a choir.”
Degrees
- B.S. in elementary education, Carolina University, 1990
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “The first grade teachers are really nice and Ms.Clayton is really nice too.”
Fun Fact: “I have a cat named Kitty.”
2-3 Team
Degrees
- B.S. in Elementary Education, Appalachian State University, 2013
- M.S. in Elementary Education, Liberty University, 2017
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- School Administrator: Principal
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “We’re all a family. Everyone in the building wants the best for all students, and we go above and beyond for them all.”
Fun Fact: “I love impersonating people.”
Degrees
- B.A. in elementary education, Winston-Salem State University, 2011
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2022
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
“My favorite thing about the Academy is the way we work together as a whole school to serve every child, not just the students on our roster. We do what is best for kids, even if it isn’t easy. I love the way we work together and can depend on one another to accomplish the goals we have as a school. Our students love this school and feel safe here because of the intentionality we put behind each choice that we make. ”
Fun Fact: “I went to Paris and London on my honeymoon!”
Degrees
- B.S. in elementary education, Appalachian State University, 2019
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2020
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
“My favorite thing about working at the academy is the people who are here and doing the work that we are doing for our students.”
Fun Fact: “I’ve been zip-lining over a donkey pasture!”
Degrees:
- B.S. in elementary education, Appalachian State University, 2023
Heather Wham is a teacher support coach at the Academy at Middle Fork.
“I love the people I work with. They come to work prepared to give students their best each day. We support one another professionally and personally. We consistently provide the best instruction for students and are willing to try new things to reach all learners.”
Fun Fact: “I have hiked a waterfall in Jamaica.”
Degrees
- B.S. in elementary education, Wingate University, 2009
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State, 2012
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- Reading K-12
- Academically or Intellectually Gifted
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “Working at the Academy has been a breath of fresh air! The unique structure of grade spans, restorative practices, co-teaching and collaboration come together to create a special environment that honors all learners and helps them to thrive – and to love their days at school!”
Fun Fact: “I am a nature enthusiast, and love being among the trees, birds, and the occasional snake on the weekends.”
Degree
- B.A. Michigan State University
4-5 Team
“My favorite part about working at the Academy is the welcoming atmosphere and how the Academy is one big family. As you walk down the halls, you see a love for education through the words, attitudes, and actions of each teacher, administrator and staff member. Throughout the school, you see a mindset focused on teamwork, support, and encouragement which in return has built a school environment that is student-centered.”
Fun Fact: “In my free time, I enjoy going to the race track and working on a pit crew with my family!”
Degrees
- B.S. in elementary education, Piedmont International University, 2015
- B.A. in elementary education, High Point University, 2015
- M.A. in teaching and learning, Liberty University, 2018
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2021
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
Degrees: Masters of Education, Bachelors: Race, Class and Culture.
Why Academy at Middle Fork? “I love the innovative model and the intentionality of the Academy with putting students first”.
What are you most excited about this year? Building positive, trusting relationships with students and staff.
Hobbies and interests: Baking, traveling and crafting.
Fun Fact: “I’m ambidextrous”
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “The relationships within our classroom and school.”
Fun Fact: “I am going on a 30-day backpacking excursion through Europe next Summer!”
Degrees:
- B.A. in elementary education, University of North Carolina at Wilmington, 2022
- Master of School Administration, Appalachian State University, currently enrolled
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
“My favorite thing about working at the Academy at Middle Fork is the students and how we work together to support them. I love co-teaching and collaborating with teammates to help our students grow, both academically and personally.”
Fun Fact: “I have a Doberman named Nova who keeps life exciting at home!”
Degrees:
- B.S. in elementary education, Francis Marion University, 2020
Allison Phelps is the STEM teacher at the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “I love the dedication of each staff member, the sense of belonging for students and staff, and the solid relationships that have been built among everyone.”
Fun Fact: “I’m a twin mom, and I enjoy painting and being by the water.”
Degrees
- B.A. in elementary education, High Point University, 2006
- M.A in reading education, East Carolina University, 2012
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- Reading K-12
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “I love the sense of family and community working among the staff, students and their families.”
Fun Fact: “Traveled to Singapore and Hong Kong in 2014.”
Degrees
- A.S. in liberal arts, Corning Community College, 1998
- B.S. in elementary education with a math concentration, State University of New York, 2000
EC Team
Degrees
- B.A. in Accounting, Dowling College, 1990
- M.A. in Special Education, 2005
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- Academically or Intellectually Gifted
- Cross Categorical K-12
- Language Arts 6-9
Degrees
- B.S. in Deaf Education, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 2013
- M.Ed. in Special Education, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 2016
Licensure Areas
- Exceptional Children: General Curriculum (K-12)
- Exceptional Children: Adapted Curriculum (K-12)
Alexa is the Speech Language Pathologist for the Academy at Middle Fork.
“I truly appreciate how our school fosters an environment where every student is valued, supported, and loved. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact our staff has on our students’ growth and confidence.”
Fun fact: “I grew up in Pittsburgh, and now my family including my two kids, husband, and our incredibly spoiled dog—keeps life lively and full of adventure! Our home is full of love and chaos!”
Degrees
- B.S. in Speech-Pathology and Audiology, Clarion University, 2013
- M.S. in Science in Speech-Language Pathology, Clarion University, 2014
- North Carolina Licenses for Speech-Language Pathologist, 2015
- Certificate of Clinical Competence through The American Speech-Language Hearing Association (ASHA), 2015
- Autism Graduate Certificate, Appalachian State University, currently enrolled
Licensure Areas
- Speech and Language Pathologist
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “Watching our students grow academically, socially, and in confidence and working alongside a caring team that believes in them.”
Fun Fact: “I can wrangle 13 energetic students with structured routines and calm strategies, but a printer jam can nearly bring you to your knees.”
Degrees
- BSW, University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- B.Ed., Winston-Salem State
- MAT, Winston-Salem State
Specialists
Carla Clayton is a Media Specialist at the Academy at Middle Fork.
“My favorite thing about working at the Academy is the positive learning environment.”
Fun Fact: “I love spending time with my family.”
Degrees
- B.A. in psychology, University of Miami, 1994
- M.S. in library science, Florida State University, 2000
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2021
Licensure Areas
- Media Coordinator
Megan Garner is the art teacher at the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “The students!”
Fun Fact: “In addition to the United States, I have lived in Cape Town, South Africa, and in Giessen, Germany.”
Degrees
- B.A. in studio art, Furman University, 1994
- Teaching Certificate, Salem College
Licensure Areas
- Art K-12
Robin Phelps is a physical education teacher at the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “I love the people I work with!! Of course, I love what I do but working in an environment with people I love and who love me is priceless.”
Fun Fact: Phelps enjoys surf fishing, coastal history and coastal exploration.
Degrees
- B.A. in physical education, Emory and Henry College, 2008
Licensure Areas
- Health and Physical Education
- Safety and Driver Education
Elaine is the Music Teacher for the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “Our students are beautiful humans and musicians who are capable of so much with some additional support and encouragement.”
Fun Fact: “My dad taught me to sing and my mom taught me to play piano. I wasn’t the most cooperative student, but I learned so much from them!”
Degrees
- Bachelor of Music Education, Voice Concentration, Appalachian State University, 1995.
- Master of Music Education, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 1999.
Licensure Area
- Music K-12
Support Staff
Jasmine “Jazz” Brown is the school Social Worker at the Academy at Elkin.
“One of my favorite things about working at the Academy is witnessing the incredible growth in our students—academically, socially, and emotionally. As a Title I school, many of our students face significant challenges, yet they continue to rise above with strength and resilience. Being part of that journey and seeing their progress firsthand is truly the greatest reward.”
Fun Fact: “I am a foster mom!”
Degrees:
- Associates of Social Work, Forsyth Technical Community College, 2014
- Bachelor of Social Work, Winston-Salem State University, 2018
- Master of Social Work, Appalachian State University, 2024
Licensure Area
- School Social Worker
Matthew Cooke is the Technology Support Specialist at the Academy at Elkin.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “Everyone has been so inviting and kind to me from the moment I got here, I have felt like a part of something big since day 1.”
Fun Fact: “I’m a huge history nut, so naturally I collect a lot of different types of historical items. Recently my interest has been vintage clothes, hats, advertisements, and really anything related to Winston-Salem’s history in different industries that built the city.”
Degrees:
- B.A. in history, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 2020
Elif Erginer is the school counselor at the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “I love that the Academy innovates by caring for the whole child and using restorative practices!”
Fun Fact: “I had full-term twins that weighed 8.5 and 9.5 lbs, respectively.”
Degrees
- B.S. in psychology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 1992
- M.A. in women’s studies, George Washington University, 1995
- M.S. in counseling, California State University, Northridge, 2009
- Graduate Certificate in school counseling, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 2020
Licensure Areas
- School Counselor
Chantae Reynolds is an English as a second language teacher at the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “The Academy feels like family.”
Fun Fact: “I love elephants!”
Degrees
- B.A. in communication studies, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 2006
- M.A.T. in elementary education, Salem College, 2008
- Graduate Certificate in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2019
- Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Appalachian State University, currently enrolled
Licensure Areas
- English as a Second Language K-12
- Elementary Education (K-6)
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “The students and staff!”
Fun Fact: “I enjoy spending time with family and friends.”
Ayden Tackett is a behavior support interventionist at the Academy at Middle Fork.
“My favorite thing about the Academy is how dedicated we are to the well-being of our students.”
Fun Fact: “I have been playing Dungeons and Dragons for ten years!”
Degrees
- B.A. in psychology, Salem College, 2015
- M.A. in professional school counseling, Appalachian State University, 2023
Licensure Area
- School Counselor
Kori Trainor is the school improvement coach at the Academy at Middle Fork.
Favorite thing about working at the Academy: “We are a family! We show up each day for each other and our students, even on the hard days!”
Fun Fact: “My husband and I have the same first name, our moms have the same first name and birthday.”
Degrees
- B.A. in elementary education, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, 2005
- M.A. in reading education, Appalachian State University, 2010
- Graduate Certificate in academically/intellectually gifted, Duke University, 2015
- Ed.D. in educational leadership, Appalachian State University, 2025
Licensure Areas
- Elementary Education (K-6)
- Reading (K-12)
- Academically or Intellectually Gifted