Julia Foxworth
Head of School
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Staff Directory
Meet the faculty and staff of Columbia Academy — the teachers, administrators, coaches, and staff who make our school run.
93 staff members
Administration
Keith Stanley
Director of Operations, Athletics & Activities · Head Baseball Coach
At CA since 2015
Favorite verse: John 15:13 “Greater love has no one than this; to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”
Mary Lois Brady
Director of Development
At CA since 2026
About Mary
I am married to a football coach, Lane and we have two children, Mason and Molly- both at CA. We enjoy going to Southern Miss Athletics events and traveling to the beach, the mountains, and Disney World.
Favorite verse: "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to to His purpose." Romans 8:28
Kaylee Beal
Director of Marketing & Branding
Angel Reagan
Elementary Coordinator/Interventionist · Varsity Cheer Coach
Dr. Scott Oliver
Counselor/Director of Student Success
Wendy Barnes
Admissions & Student Services Director
At CA since 2015
About Wendy
I’m married to Stephen Barnes and we have 2 daughters, Ragen and Marlie. I worked for 25 years at the Mississippi Dept of Human Services. I’ve been at CA for 11 years.
Favorite verse: The Lord bless you and keep you, the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace. Numbers 6:24-25
Fun fact: I like to do jigsaw puzzles but I only do ones of Santa.
Becky Fortenberry
Front Office Coordinator
At CA since 1999
About Becky
Wife, mom to two wonderful humans, Britt and Wesley and BeBe to three amazing babies, Emma, Major and Mamie.
Favorite verse: Psalms 51:10 CREATE IN ME A CLEAN HEART OH GOD AND RENEW A RIGHT SPIRIT WITHIN ME.
Fun fact: I love college football. But, CA baseball has my heart. The only game I've missed in the past three years was when my husband got his new hip. We still watched the livestream. Between my years as a student and employee, I've been in this place for 39 years and I absolutely love it! I am thankful for my time here. It's like a second home to me.
Tammy Morris
Student Attendance Coordinator · Tennis Coach
Mike Barber
Food Services Manager · Archery Coach
- Mississippi health Dept & Serve safe certified - BAI/AIMS State Archery instructor certified
At CA since 2006
About Mike
Favorite verse: John 3:16 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one & only son. That whoever believes in him shall not parish but have eternal life."
Fun fact: What I enjoy most is spending time with my granddaughter, Millie. I also enjoy winning Archery State Championship rings and watching my team members grow into leaders & become more self confident young adults.
Pre-K & Kindergarten
Kelsey Branch
K3 Teacher
At CA since 2024
About Kelsey
While I am not originally from Columbia I have lived here since 2016. I am married to Whitney Branch, CA alumni, and we have 4 children(Easton,Crosby,Brooks,and Sadie) who all attend CA. I am grateful to be apart of a school that feels more like family and especially enjoy getting to teach and pour into our youngest cougars at the school!
Favorite verse: “Train up a child in the way he should go and when he is old he will not depart from it.”Proverbs 22:6
Fun fact: When not at school you most likely can find me at a ballfield somewhere cheering on my oldest boys!
Megan Price
K3 Assistant Teacher
At CA since 2025
About Megan
I am originally from Biloxi, MS & have lived in Columbia since 2017. I have been married to my husband, Cole Price, for eight years. We have three entertaining children that all attend Columbia Academy. I am blessed beyond measures to be part of Columbia Academy. The K3 babies fill my heart with so much joy! Their smiling faces, sweet hugs & fun personalities make working here feel more like fun. I am fortunate to be able to help teach about Jesus along side my best friend. I can’t thank Columbia Academy enough for making me feel more like family, than an employee.
Favorite verse: Psalms 91
Fun fact: My husband converted me to an Ole Miss fan, Hotty Toddy!
Alissa Caston
K3 Teacher
Ashley Douglas
K3 Assistant Teacher
About Ashley
I am very excited to join the CA family this year. I began substitute teaching last year, and I loved it so much that I wanted to come back as full time! I am married to Garrett Douglas, and we have two children, Emma and John Henry.
Favorite verse: “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” Psalm 23:6
Tara Pierce
K4 Teacher
At CA since 2014
About Tara
I started working at CA as a K4 assistant in 2014. After taking a couple of years off after having my son, I came back to continue that role. I accepted a K4 teacher position for the 26-27 school year which I am so excited about.
Favorite verse: Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
Fun fact: Outside of school we farm with our chickens, cows and 3 dogs
Sandi Martin
K4 Assistant Teacher
Shelby Russell
K4 Teacher
At CA since 2022
About Shelby
I’m Shelby, a wife and proud mom to two wonderful kids, ages 7 and 2. Being both a mom and a K4 teacher gives me a special appreciation for these early years, and I love creating a classroom where every child feels loved, encouraged, and excited to learn.
Favorite verse: Isaiah 41:10: "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you."
Dawn Fairburn
K4 Assistant Teacher
Carrie Buckley
K4 Teacher
Shelia Graves
K4 Assistant Teacher
Elise Stewart
K5 Teacher
- M.Ed., B.S. Ed.
About Elise
I love creating a classroom where children feel loved, encouraged, and excited to learn. My goal is to help each child grow in confidence, develop a love for learning, and know just how special they are.
Favorite verse: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Matthew 6:33
Fun fact: I’m a mom of four and love spending time with my family, gardening, and being crafty.
Andrea Newell
K5 Assistant Teacher
At CA since 2025
About Andrea
This is my second year at Columbia Academy, and my first year as a Teachers Assistant. I truly love what I do and feel blessed to help children learn, grow, and feel confident, supported, and successful each day.
Favorite verse: “Now faith is the reality of what we hope for, the proof of what we don’t see”. Hebrews 11:1
Fun fact: When I’m not at school, you can usually find me cheering from the baseball field.
Mary Smith
K5 Teacher
Rita Wesley
K5 Assistant Teacher
At CA since 2020
About Rita
I love working at Columbia Academy! There’s nothing better than being in the classroom with our sweet babies—loving on them, watching them grow, and seeing the excitement on their faces when they learn something new. When I’m not at school, you can usually find me running around with my grandboys or sitting at a ballfield watching them play. Family is very important to me, and making memories with the people I love is something I will always cherish! ❤️
Favorite verse: Romans 8:28
Fun fact: I love making fun TikToks!🤣🤦🏼♀️🤪
Lower School
Lori Smith
1st Grade Teacher
- I teach all subjects, including Reading, Language, Spelling, Math, Science, Social Studies, and Health
- Bachelor’s Degree - Elementary Education - University of Southern Mississippi
At CA since 2015
About Lori
I have been teaching for 23 years, and I truly love what I do! First grade has always held a special place in my heart. I love watching my students learn to read, become more confident, and realize all the things they are capable of doing. It is so rewarding to see how much they grow and change from the beginning of the school year to the end.
Favorite verse: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” - Jeremiah 29:11
Fun fact: In my spare time, I love sitting on my porch and enjoying the beauty that God has given us. I also enjoy fishing, shopping with friends, spending time with my family, and honestly, just being at home!
Crystal Upton
1st Grade Assistant Teacher
Pam Knight
1st Grade Teacher
At CA since 2019
About Pam
I’ve been teaching Kindergarten and first grade for 38 years. This is my 8th year at CA. I’ve been married for 38 years to Larry Knight. I have three sons, a beautiful daughter-in-law and two precious grandsons. My goal as a teacher is to provide a safe and loving environment where each child can flourish physically, intellectually, morally, and socially. I strive to help each child grow into a confident, caring, and lifelong learner.
Favorite verse: “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13
Fun fact: Working at CA is truly a family affair - my husband and son work here, too! We love getting to be part of the CA family together.
Aleshia Bracey
1st Grade Assistant Teacher
At CA since 2015
About Aleshia
My husband Tim and I have been married for 25 years (26 in September) and we have two sons. Jayden is 23 and he teaches and coaches in the Walthall County School District. Jayce is 16 and in the 11th grade here at CA. I grew up riding horses and barrel racing. My family does a lot of hunting, camping, going to the lake, and swimming. I love spending time with my family and taking trips together.
Favorite verse: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13
Fun fact: My moto is take the trip, take the pictures and make the memories.
Debra Lee
2nd Grade Teacher
- B.S. Elementary ed. M.A Elementary ed. Administration license. Librarian license
At CA since 2014
About Debra
I love teaching as much today as I did when I first started. I am a nana to two wonderful grandchildren.
Favorite verse: I can do all things through Christ who strengths me. Philippians 4:13
Fun fact: I enjoy the beach. My favorite pastime is reading!
Courtney Mitchell
2nd Grade Teacher
At CA since 2010
About Courtney
I am a wife and mom to a 22 year old son who loves Jesus.
Favorite verse: My favorite verse is Isaiah 40:31.
Fun fact: I’m slightly addicted to true crime shows.
Shasta Buckley
2nd Grade Teacher
Jennifer Pace
2nd Grade Assistant Teacher
At CA since 2021
About Jennifer
A Christian, wife and mom to two wonderful daughters.
Favorite verse: Psalm 119:105
Fun fact: Love to sew.
Patsy Brock
3rd Grade Teacher
Madison Nations
3rd Grade Teacher
Lori Niven
4th Grade ELA Teacher
Mandy DuBose
4th Grade Math Teacher
- Math, Science, History
- Master’s degree
At CA since 2020
About Mandy
I am a graduate of Columbia Academy. I am a wife and have 4 children. I’m truly dedicated to Columbia Academy, it has been my home for many years. I love watching students learn and grow.
Favorite verse: Proverbs 3: 5-6 “Trust in the lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Fun fact: When I’m not at home, I’m usually at some kind of ballfield. We love sports, especially baseball.
Rita Crain
3rd and 4th Grade Assistant Teacher
Kathy Nagy
5th & 6th Grade Language Arts and History Teacher
About Kathy
I live in Hattiesburg, MS. This is my 36th year to teach at CA. I have two children and six granddaughters.
Favorite verse: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Fun fact: I love dogs and Disney.
Sandra Stringer
5th & 6th Grade Math Teacher
Kelly Polk
5th & 6th Grade Science Teacher
At CA since 2024
About Kelly
This is my 9th year teaching, and my 3rd year at CA. My husband Tyler and I have 2 kids, MB & Mack.
Favorite verse: When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. Isaiah 43:2
Fun fact: I have a beta fish and 4 snails in my classroom.
Kristen Speir
5th & 6th Grade Reading and Writing Teacher
About Kristen
I am starting my 11th year here at CA. I am the mother to 3 awesome boys and wife to Tim.
Favorite verse: I lift up my eyes to the mountains-where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121 1-2
Fun fact: I graduated from CA in 2000.
Kristen Singletary
5th/6th Grade Assistant Teacher
Emily Leary
Art Teacher
- Elementary Art
- BA
At CA since 2022
Favorite verse: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” -Romans 15:13 (NIV)
Fun fact: I set a reading goal every year!
Amber Mattox
Librarian
Grace Blair
Library Assistant
Halee Reed
STEAM Lab Teacher
At CA since 2019
About Halee
I am married and have two children, a 5th grader a Senior. I enjoy watching both my kids chase their dreams on and off the field.
Favorite verse: A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit drys up the bones. Proverbs 17:22
Fun fact: I love to SEW!
Lee Waits
Elementary Music Teacher
Tawana Herring
Physical Education Teacher (K3-2nd)
Upper School
Rebekah Bass
Upper School Teacher
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Trigonometry
- Pre-Calculus
At CA since 2020
About Rebekah
This is my 15th year of teaching and my 6th year at Columbia Academy. I live in Columbia with my husband Eric and our daughter Summer, who is a sixth grader here at CA.
Favorite verse: Romans 8:38-39 “For I am persuaded that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Fun fact: I have probably said “show your work” more times than any other sentence in my life.
Sally Hitt
Upper School Teacher
- Algebra I
- Geometry
- Advanced Math
- CA graduate
- BS USM Elem. Ed.
- BS USM Math
About Sally
I am married to Mike Hitt and am the mother of two sons, Isaac and Joel, who are each CA graduates.
Favorite verse: Ephesians 3:20-21
Fun fact: I was a 9th grader when CA first opened its doors at the current location. I teach in the same classroom where I was a student that year.
Becky Wilks
Upper School Teacher
- Pre-Algebra
- Math 7
- Math 8
- 7th Grade Bible
- BA, Liberty University
About Becky
I live in Bunker Hill. My husband is in heaven and I have 2 sons, Josh and Tyler and 2 awesome grandchildren, Summer and Sawyer!
Favorite verse: Romans 8:1.
Fun fact: I love Jesus, my family and my favorite game is Jeopardy!
Melanie Thrash
Upper School Teacher · Head Track Coach
- College Algebra
- Algebra II
About Melanie
I am married with 4 kids and 2 grandchildren. I love to watch students grow not only in math, but their walk with Jesus!
Fun fact: I love the beach and Disney World!
Ginger Berry
Upper School Teacher
- English I
- English III
Emily Knight
Upper School Teacher
- English 7
- English 8
Dr. Carly Tubbs
Upper School Teacher
- English II
- English IV
Samantha Phillips
Upper School Teacher
- Human A&P
- Advanced Science
- Health
Courtney McKenzie
Upper School Teacher
- Science 7
- Science 8
At CA since 2012
About Courtney
I teach Middle School Science for 7th and 8th grade. I have been in this position for the past 8 years. I really enjoy developing relationships and engaging in hands on activities with my students.
Favorite verse: Proverbs 3-5:6 "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways submit to Him, and he will direct your path."
Fun fact: I have two little boys who keep me busy at all times. My oldest will be 4 in September and my youngest will be 2 in January. I also enjoy planning trips and if I weren't a teacher, I think I would enjoy being a travel agent!
Brittany Easterlin
Upper School Teacher
- Biology
- Physical Science
Maegan Green
Upper School Teacher
- History 7
- History 8
Dylan Rhodes
Upper School Teacher · Assistant Varsity Football Coach / Head JV Football Coach · Head Golf Coach
- Government
- Economics
- MS History
At CA since 2021
About Dylan
This is my 6th year at CA!! I love teaching and coaching!! I really love telling these kids about Jesus!!
Favorite verse: 2 Timothy 1:7 “For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgement.”
Tiffany Dyess
Upper School Teacher
- Government
- Economics
At CA since 2015
About Tiffany
I am married to Colby, and we have three children, Brayden, Benton and Holly. I have taught elementary and high school math, and now I am teaching government and economics.
Favorite verse: Philippians 4:6-7
Fun fact: I have been at Columbia Academy since 1996, either as a student, parent or teacher.
Jason Johnson
Upper School Teacher · Assistant Football Coach
- ACT Prep
- World History
- American History
About Jason
33 year educator and football coach. Servant of Jesus Christ.
Favorite verse: John 3:16
Fun fact: I love to hunt and fish.
Jeff Vanderheiden
Upper School Teacher
- DECA
- Intro to Business
- Advanced Business
- Bachelor and masters degree from Southern Miss.
- 2007 Mississippi Assistant Principal of the year.
At CA since 2022
About Jeff
Teacher and high school coach. Former high school administrator. Beginning my 37th year in education
Favorite verse: Jeremiah 1vs5 “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet of the nations”
Fun fact: I like to cycle and have participated in 6 century rides.
Kim Todd
Upper School Teacher
- Computer Applications
- Yearbook
Robin Tavarez
Upper School Teacher
- Spanish I
- Spanish II
Colleen Pratt
Upper School Teacher
- Show Choir
- Fine Arts
Athletics
Alex Knight
Strength & Conditioning Coach · Assistant Baseball Coach · Athletic Movement Instructor
- Athletic Movement
Kyle Wilks
Head Softball Coach
Lyle Berard
Assistant Softball Coach
Joey Hawkins
Head Football Coach
Sam Caston
Assistant Football Coach · Head Soccer Coach · Survey of Construction Engineering Teacher
- Survey of Construction Engineering
Ed Smith
Assistant Football Coach
At CA since 2026
About Ed
My wife Patti and I live in Hattiesburg. We have three daughters, a son-in-law, and two grandchildren (grandson and granddaughter).
Favorite verse: Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding
Fun fact: I enjoy playing the guitar.
Reid McCay
Head Girls Basketball Coach
Dale Watts
Head Boys Basketball Coach
Ras Pace
JV Boys Basketball Coach
Larry Knight
Assistant Baseball Coach
Steeve Cooley
Assistant Baseball Coach
Duane Powell
Cross Country Coach
Lauren Robertson
Cross Country Assistant Coach
Kathi Selman
JV Cheer Coach
Kayla Raynes
Dance Team Coach
Tom Porter
Head Youth Football Coach
Haley Hamilton
Pee Wee Cheer Coach
Heather Roberts
Cougarettes Coach
Cafeteria
Debra Hilbun
Cafeteria Manager
Hope Williamson
Cafeteria Staff
At CA since 2020
About Hope
I love being a mom to my daughter Bailey and son Tate. I also love working at Columbia Academy which I consider my other family
Fun fact: My family loves everything LSU. I love all sports but basketball is my favorite. I love watching my daughter play with our Varsity Lady Cougars.
Gwen Anthony
Cafeteria Staff
Lisa Thomas
Cafeteria Staff
At CA since 2025
About Lisa
Im a Wife, Mom of 2 boys 25 & 23, Bonus Mom (aka LueLue) of 3- 25, 23 ,& 16 our 16yr old is a Senior at CA this year and is also on the Football team. I attended and am member of Neely Baptist Church in Greene County where I have taught Sunday School class for 4yrs. I love Baking in my spare time at my home bakery LueLue's HomeMades, Spending time with family and my church family.
Favorite verse: "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16
Fun fact: We have over 400 Old English Bantam show chickens
Cindy Patterson
Cafeteria Staff
Kendall Welch
Cafeteria Staff
Support Staff & Other
Mike Mills
Building & Grounds Manager
At CA since 2023
Fun fact: I enjoy spending time with my grandchildren!
Tonya Ball
Building & Grounds Staff
Cynthia Williamson
Building & Grounds Staff