Dear Parents and Guardians,
I hope this letter finds you refreshed and rejuvenated after a wonderful summer break! As we gear up for another exciting academic year, I wanted to extend a warm welcome back to all our families. We've missed the energy and enthusiasm you bring to our school community, and we're thrilled to have you back with us.
This year, we're embarking on an exciting journey together with a theme that encapsulates our aspirations and goals: "Soaring to New Heights." This theme is not just a catchy phrase but a guiding principle that will shape our endeavors throughout the year. It symbolizes our collective commitment to growth, exploration, and pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve individually and as a community.
We believe that each student has the potential to soar, to reach heights they may not have imagined possible. Whether it's academic success, personal development, or extracurricular pursuits, we're here to provide the support, guidance, and encouragement needed to help your child thrive.
Throughout the year, you can expect to see this theme reflected in our curriculum, school events, and community initiatives. We'll be fostering an environment where curiosity is encouraged, challenges are embraced, and achievements are celebrated. Together, we'll explore new ideas, overcome obstacles, and inspire one another to reach for the stars.
As partners in your child's education, your involvement and support are invaluable. We invite you to join us on this journey of growth and discovery, as we work together to ensure that every student has the opportunity to soar to new heights.
Thank you for entrusting us with your child's education. We're excited about the year ahead and the wonderful possibilities it holds.
Here's to a fantastic year of soaring to new heights!
Warm regards,
Susan Gowin, Principal
Allyson Baker - CTAE Teacher
My name is Ally Baker. I have my undergrad in elementary education from the University of Alabama. Roll Tide! I have my master's in education from Kennesaw State University. This will be my 11th year of teaching. I spent my first 9 years teaching in the STEM Lab at River Eves. After one year away I'm happy to be able to be back part-time as the CTAE (Career, Technical, Agriculture Education) teacher.
I am getting married in September and wedding planning has taken up most of my free time. When I'm not planning a wedding, I enjoy doing puzzles, reading and watching football. I have missed the students, staff and families at REES and I'm so excited to be able to come back!
Cortney Featherston - Long Term Substitute
Hi River Eves Family!
I am incredibly excited to be returning to River Eves after a year off to spend time with my family. I previously worked at River Eves for 7 years and am looking forward to continuing to build relationships with our wonderful students and families. I have a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and have taught 2nd Grade and EIP.
I love to spend time with my husband and two daughters, as well as bake and play guitar. My oldest daughter will be joining me at River Eves this year in the Pre K program. I cannot wait to get back to doing what I love!
Deonte Moore - 2nd Grade Teacher
Hello REES!
My name is Deonte Moore. I have my masters in education with a tier 1 certification in educational leadership. I am currently back in school working on my specialist degree in curriculum and instruction. I love traveling every chance I get, and I am close to fluent in Spanish.
After a year away from REES to pursue aspirations of working as a literacy coach, I have learned a lot about literacy and how to develop students into proficient readers. During my year away from REES, I realized that REES is a special place with great staff and a wonderful community that could not be replicated anywhere else. So, I made the decision to come back to our wonderful school! I am so excited to spend many more years back “Home”!
Andrew Hanis - ESOL Teacher
My name is Drew Hanis and I am the new ESOL teacher at River Eves. I am from Tampa, Florida and moved to Atlanta a little over a year ago. I graduated from the University of Florida with a BA in Linguistics and a minor in TESL. I moved to Atlanta to live with my wonderful girlfriend and I was lucky enough to find a part-time job at Findley Oaks before finding a full time position at River Eves.
I love to read, play video games, and learn. I also enjoy playing basketball and golf. I'm super excited for this new school year and if even half of what I've heard about the River Eves community is true then I'm sure it will be amazing.
Xania Livingood
Hi!
My name is Xania Lovingood. I have a Masters in the Art of teaching from Georgia Southern University. My favorite things are playing with my two girls, finding new places to hike with my husband and pup, and visiting family at the beach. I also love reading and have a goal to beat my 28 books read last year. I am excited to join the REES team after a year of being home with my littles! I’ve heard wonderful things about this school and cant wait to join the family!
Kerry DeFelice
Hello REES Community!
My name is Kerry DeFelice. I am from Ansonia, Connecticut. This will be my 4th year teaching. I have a dual certification for general and special education in New York and Connecticut. This May I earned my Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction. I started paddleboarding recently, so if anyone has any recommendations or tips I am all ears! I am so excited to join the REES community because I want to encourage the success of all students.
Claudia Westbrook - Pre-K Teacher
Hi, I’m Claudia Westbrook, and I am thrilled to join the River Eves community as the new Pre-K teacher. With a degree in psychology from Kennesaw State University and several years of experience working with this age group, I bring both expertise and enthusiasm to my role. I believe that Pre-K students are among the funniest and most delightful learners, and I am excited to nurture their growth and witness their personalities flourish.
In addition to my passion for teaching, I enjoy reading books, crafting, and going to the movies. My favorite place to be is the beach, where I find relaxation and inspiration. I am eager to embark on this new journey at River Eves, dedicated to fostering a nurturing and stimulating environment for my young students.
Orly Gonzalex - Pre-K Paraprofessional
Hello,
My name is Orly Gonzalez. I was born in Brazil and lived in Israel for 13 years, I moved to Georgia in 2001 due to my parent's career. Since then, I earned an associate degree in healthcare and spent 13 years working in the field.
In 2021 decided to change my career to education. I am planning to return to school to pursue my bachelor's degree.
I have a wonderful husband whom I married in 2008, and together we cherish our time with our three beautiful children, creating lasting family memories.
I love children and being able to help others, which is the reason I decided to work in Fulton County Schools. Recently, I worked in Esther Jackson ES, but was drawn to River Eves due to its wonderful, welcoming community. I deeply resonate with River Eves' values of family and unity, which align perfectly with my own.
I can speak 3 languages; English, Hebrew, and Spanish, and I am currently learning Portuguese. I can't wait to meet all of you and am looking forward to being a part of REES.
Amanda Larochelle
Hello!
My name is Amanda Larochelle and I am excited to start my 12th year teaching at River Eves Elementary! I have a masters degree in elementary education that I earned from The University of Florida, Go Gators! My teaching career spans 3 states, Florida, Georgia, and Virginia! I’ve had unique experiences in each place and have met some great educators along the way.
In my spare time I am a mom to Corinne (5) and Harrison (born in December). They keep me pretty busy but I also love playing tennis, reading, going to the beach, and watching the bachelor (and bachelor franchise shows) with my neighbor friends.
I’ve only heard great things about REES! I’m excited to call it my new home and can’t wait to meet everyone! Im also excited to not have to commute over 400 on Holcomb Bridge everyday!
Hope everyone has a great summer!
The River Eves PTA is excited to kick off the 2024-2025 school year!
- Click HERE to visit and create a free account. Once you complete the form you will receive an email with a link you need to click and verify within 2 hours. If you don’t receive it right away, check your Spam/Junk folders.
- Once your account is verified you can login. There is a “Quick Link” to Join on the home page. (Become a Member/ Families). For more information you can see the “Membership” page under “Our PTA”.
- The PTA website also has an app! Download “Membership Toolkit” from the App Store or Google Play. (After registering on the website, use your same login information on the app.)
- Does your employer offer corporate matching or an employee flex fund? River Eves PTA is a 501(c)(3) organization and you could double your donation! Click HERE for more information on corporate matching.
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Follow us on Instagram: @riverevespta and Facebook: River Eves PTA
Contact us: riverevespta@gmail.com
If you would like a paper copy of the Handbook, you or your student can pick one up in your school's front office.
At River Eves Elementary School, we believe in celebrating the achievements and positive contributions of our students and staff members. Whether it's a remarkable accomplishment, an act of kindness, or a demonstration of outstanding character, we want to hear about it!
We invite you to use the QR code below to shout out a student or staff member for a significant event or situation deserving recognition. This could include:
- Exceptional academic achievement
- Acts of kindness and compassion
- Demonstrations of leadership or perseverance
- Going above and beyond to help others
- Displaying outstanding character traits
Your words of appreciation and acknowledgment not only lift the spirits of the individual being recognized but also inspires others within our school community. By celebrating these moments, we foster a culture of positivity, encouragement, and support.
Please take a moment to fill out the form linked here and share your shout outs with us. Let's celebrate the wonderful accomplishments and contributions of our students and staff members together!