Panther Press
New Prospect Elementary School Newsletter
July 8, 2024
Summer is not over yet!
Hello Panther Families!
Although summer is not over yet, we are getting closer and closer to the beginning of the school year! I hope you have enjoyed a summer vacation filled with fun and exciting memories with your loved ones (and will continue to do so over the next couple of weeks).
We are thrilled to welcome all of you back to a new school year where learners grow, success is celebrated, and everyone matters. This year our theme is "Swing for the Fences"! Just like in the game of baseball, we are going to practice hard each day to grow in our academic and social learning but our goal will always be to "swing for the fence" and score a homerun!
I personally cannot wait for school to start. I miss your kids so much and am very excited about this school year for so many reasons. I look forward to continuing to serve this amazing school and community!
In this summer issue of Panther Press, you will find a lot of “Save the Dates” for school events, new staff bios, and our updated Parent Handbook that will answer so many questions about how things are done at New Prospect. Even if you are not a new family, it would be a great thing to reread before the year begins.
Looking forward to seeing our New Panthers at our Scavenger Hunt on July 25th and all of our Panthers on August 2nd for Sneak Peek!
Please reach out if you need anything from me in the coming weeks and see you soon!
Amy Lemons
Principal
Upcoming Events:
Friday July 12th- 2023-24 Yearbook Pick Up at New Prospect 8:00-10:00am
Friday July 19th-2023-24 Yearbook Pick Up at New Prospect 12:00-2:00pm
Thursday July 25th- New Panthers Scavenger Hunt- 9:00-10:00am (for all PreK, Kindergarten & any New Families to our school)
August 2nd- Sneak Peak
*Times based on Last Name
9:00- A-D
9:30- E-K
10:00-L-R
10:30-S-Z
August 5th -First Day of School
August 7th-Andy's Spirit Night
August 9th-Pep Rally-Wear House Shirts
August 16th-Back to School Bash-5:30-8pm
August 22nd- 2nd-5th Curriculum Night 5:30pm *parents only-book a sitter now:)
August 27th- PreK-1st Grade Curriculum Night 5:30pm *parents only-book a sitter now:)
September 2nd-No School-Labor Day
September 3rd & September 4th-No School-Teacher Workdays
Pick Up Days for 23-24 Yearbooks
We are so sorry that the yearbooks were delayed last school year! They are finally here and ready to be picked up. We are offering 2 times to pick up yearbooks that were pre-ordered or if you would like to purchase one for $40*.
Friday July 12th from 8:00-10:00am
or
Friday July 19th from 12:00-2:00pm
There will be donuts at this weeks pick up time! *
Please contact Claudia Strange at claudiaz1009@gmail.com with any questions!
*while supplies last
New Prospect Parent Handbook 2024-2025
School Supply Lists
NPE Staff Congratulations!
Ms. Sarah McCarthy is now Mrs. Sarah Davidson!
Ms. Raechel Smith is now Mrs. Raechel Chesher
Promotions!
Mrs. Mary French (left) has been promoted to our K-5 MTSS (multi-tiered system of supports) Coach.
Congratulations Ladies!
New Prospect Staff Changes
Mrs. Summer Dempster (former 3rd grade teacher) promoted to 2nd Grade Teacher/Grade Level Chair
Mrs. Gabi Mills- (former 2nd grade teacher)-moved to ESOL Teacher
Mrs. Amanda Oliver (former 2nd grade teacher)-moved to ESOL Teacher
Ms. Emily Brown (former 4th grade teacher)-moved to 2nd Grade Teacher
Mr. Rafael Jordan (former GNETS teacher)-moved to 3rd Grade Co-taught Teacher
Mrs. Cindy Heibel (former data clerk)-moved to 3rd Grade Para
Mrs. Susan Messina (former GNETS para)-moved to 1st Grade para
Mrs. Jessica Bork- (former instructional para)-moved to PreK para
Staff Retired From New Prospect: Mrs. Sandi Dennis
Staff that left New Prospect: Mrs. Emily Childs, Mrs. Ashley Loftus, Mrs. Lynne Perlitz,
Mrs. Lauren Slimming, Mrs. Becky Jordan, Mrs. Sunni Craig, Mrs. Lisa Lewy, Mrs. Ashlyn Davis
Welcome to New Prospect!
Cara Spitzner, Media Specialist
Hello! My name is Cara Spitzner, and I am thrilled to be NPE's new METI! Although this will be my first year as a METI, I bring 21 years of teaching experience to the Media Center and a deep love of all things literacy related. I am an avid reader and am physically unable to leave a bookstore empty-handed. When I don't have a book in my hands, they're usually holding a camera, a spatula, a fancy pen, my cat's little head, or the hand of one of my 5 beloved nieces and nephews. I have lived in Atlanta since 2022 but I was born and raised in Chicago, so my midwestern accent is bound to slip out during read-alouds. The last two school years were spent nearby, teaching 5th grade ELA at Cogburn Woods. Although I am sad to say goodbye to them, I'm also so excited to experience this new chapter of my career with the NPE community. I look forward to connecting with all of you through the wonderful things our Media Center has to offer!
Ann Mukherjee, Preschool General Education Teacher
Hello! My full name is Anusuya Mukherjee but I go by Ann. I was born and raised in India before moving to Atlanta in 1997. I have two grown up daughters who love to travel around the world just like me. I live in Johns Creek with my husband and my beloved Yorkie . During my spare time I love to do arts and crafts. I have been teaching various grades since I graduated but found my real passion in teaching PreK. I have been teaching Georgia PreK for last 13 years and have always gained my energy by being with the youngest super stars! Looking forward to being with my new family at New Prospect!!
Allyson Rook, Preschool General Education Teacher
Hi! My name is Allyson Rook and I am so excited to be a Panther! I have recently moved to Georgia after graduating from Kent State University in Kent, Ohio with my Bachelor of Science in Education. This will be my first year teaching, and I am so excited to live my lifelong dream of being a teacher! Outside of school, I love going to the beach, and watching baseball games (I am a huge Cleveland sports fan...Just like Mrs. Lemons!). I look forward to an amazing school year at New Prospect Elementary!
Ashley Brown, 2nd Grade
Hello, my name is Dr. Ashley Brown. I am beyond excited to continue my educational journey as a Panther! As a veteran teacher, I am dedicated to the field of education. I graduated from the College of Charleston in Charleston, SC, with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. I furthered my education at Walden University in Minneapolis, MN, where I earned a Master’s Degree in Reading and Literacy and a Doctoral Degree, Ed.D., in Teacher Leadership. I also have endorsement certifications in ESOL, online teaching instruction, and gifted education.
Throughout my career, I have been inspired by two of my favorite teachers, Mr. John Young and Ms. Andrietta Fogle, who instilled in me the values of education and the joy of learning. Their influence has driven me to create a warm and welcoming classroom environment where students feel valued and excited about learning. They showed me how much they cared and believed in me. Today, my goal is to reciprocate that same passion for making a difference in the lives of future leaders.
I am passionate about building meaningful relationships with my students and the broader learning community. As a lifelong learner, I am committed to continually expanding my knowledge and look forward to discovering something new every single day. My dedication to education matches my joy in making a difference in my students' lives.
In my free time, I enjoy traveling, shopping, relaxing at the beach, listening to podcasts, and spending quality time with my family. I feel honored to be part of the education field, and I believe there is no place I would rather be.
Bryce Garman, 3rd Grade
Hello, my name is Bryce Garman and I am incredibly excited to be joining New Prospect Elementary School! I was born and raised in Wooster, Ohio where I attended Ashland University and received my B.S in Psychology. After, I attended Grand Canyon University and was awarded my M.Ed in Elementary Education. During my early practice, I have learned evidence based techniques to help each student strive toward success.
I look forward to meeting my new students and collaborating with family members to provide a comfortable learning environment. My wife and I have now lived in the Atlanta area for two years and we are so thankful to be a part of this community. Outside of our jobs, we enjoy getting outside with our dog Harley. We are expecting our first child in November and can’t wait to continue putting down our roots here in Georgia.
Regan Zakrewski, 3rd Grade
Hello, my name is Regan Zakrewski and I’m thrilled to begin teaching at New Prospect Elementary! I am a recent graduate from The University of Georgia where I earned both my BEd and MEd in Elementary Education. I also earned a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI).
I was born and raised in McDonough, GA, where I have dreamed of being a teacher since I was five years old. I value a positive learning environment where all students feel loved, nurtured, and challenged to be their best. I believe every child has the ability to succeed and achieve great heights with the proper support.
I have a wonderful rescue dog, Luna, who I love to spend my time with. I also have a passion for exercising and love to attend spin classes, lift weights, and run.
I’m so excited to begin my career at New Prospect Elementary and can’t wait to become part of this wonderful community!
Natalie Naczas, 4th
Hello! My name is Natalie Naczas and I am so excited to be one of the new fourth-grade teachers at New Prospect Elementary! I have dreamed of being an elementary school teacher since I was in the 9th grade. I grew up in Chesapeake, Virginia and attended Virginia Tech for my undergraduate and graduate degrees. Go Hokies! I received my bachelors degree in Childhood Pre-Education and masters degree in Elementary Curriculum and Instruction. I recently got married and am relocating to Georgia! This will be my first year teaching in my own classroom and I am so excited to create a classroom where students can thrive academically, physically, and emotionally!
Lisa Share, TAG
Hello! My name is Lisa Share, and I am excited to be joining New Prospect Elementary as a TAG teacher. With 27 years in education, I've had the pleasure of teaching and leading at various levels, from elementary to university. I started my career working with gifted students and was excited return to gifted education in January when I joined Fulton County Schools. I am both a Gator and Bulldog, having received my undergraduate degree at the University of Florida and my doctorate from the University of Georgia. My husband and I have three sixteen-year-old children, and I enjoy spending time with them playing video games, frisbee golf, and watching them cheer, wrestle, and play the clarinet! Life is full of excitement! I learn best when I am having fun and truly engaged. I try to bring that passion into everything I do in the classroom!
Amy Daneke, TAG
Hi! My name is Amy Daneke, and I will be joining the New Prospect staff one day a week this year as a TAG teacher. This will be my 19th year teaching, and my 2nd year teaching TAG. I previously taught 4th grade. I have a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction.
I moved to Alpharetta, GA 18 years ago from Jamestown, NY, where I grew up. Jamestown is south of Buffalo. My husband, Bob, and I have been married for 14 years and have 2 children. My daughter will be starting middle school this year, and I am looking forward to this new chapter! My son will be in 4th grade at Ocee, my home school. I stay busy with my kids’ activities, and I also love to cook and bake. I am looking forward to a great year at NPES!
Amanda (Mandy) Stack, Data Clerk
Hello! My name is Mandy Stack and I am very excited to join the New Prospect family as the School Data Clerk! I have two children who both graduated from NPE. They absolutely loved their time as Panthers and I know I will as well! I received my B.S. in social work from Marist College and my MSW in social work from Rutgers University. After receiving my MSW, I worked for the State of NJ’s Child Protection Agency for 10 years. I then resigned to raise my young children shortly before my family relocated from Pennsylvania to Georgia about 7 years ago. We absolutely love living in GA! During my free time, I enjoy playing with my dog, going for walks outside, reading, and spending time with my family. I look forward to becoming a part of such an amazing school!
Calling all 4th and 5th Graders!
Do you love making creative videos? Conducting interviews? Keeping others up to date on the latest happenings at school? If so, we need you on PNN!
Our new METI, Ms. Spitzner, is especially looking for rising 5th graders with PNN experience who can help show her the ropes.
If you're interested, click on the link below to submit a video explaining why you want to participate!
Does your child have medical needs??
Does your child have any medical conditions or concerns that we should know about?
Please contact
Tracylynn Wagner, RN
Alpharetta Cluster Nurse
404-401-5546
New Prospect Elementary School
Email: lemonsa@fultonschools.org
Website: https://newprospect.fultonschools.org/
Location: 3055 Kimball Bridge Road, Alpharetta, GA, United States
Phone: (470)254-2800
Twitter: @npepanthers