PIRATE’S PIPELINE

Teacher Feature Pizitz Middle School  Special Edition 2015-2016

Welcome to Pizitz Middle School! In an attempt to familiarize you with all the aspects of Pizitz, the 2015-2016 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 STATEMENT The 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 Excellence 1867 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 University Years in education Starting my 23rd year in education and my first at Pizitz Hometown Dalton, GA Married To Kyle Children None BUT 2 dogs, Rudy & Trooper Favorite 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 Rudy Favorite TV show Law & Order: Special Victim’s Unit Favorite restaurant/food P.F. Chang’s Favorite app Twitter Pet peeves Being late

TOM CALLAHAN, Assistant Principal of Student & Facility Management Degrees B.A. in English, John Carroll University; M.Ed., University of Montevallo Years in education 17; 13 at Pizitz Hometown Lakewood, OH Married To Patty for 20 years Children 3 Favorite sports team The Ohio State Buckeyes Favorite music/group Grateful Dead Favorite movie Shawshank Redemption Favorite TV show Hill Street Blues Favorite restaurant/food Gianmarco’s Favorite app Scrabble Pet peeves Drivers who fail to signal

ANDY CARPENTER, Assistant Principal of Curriculum & Instruction Degrees Ed.S., UAB; Master’s, University of Montevallo; B.S., Auburn University Years in education 17; 12 at Pizitz Hometown Childersburg, AL Married To Jamye for 17 years Children Audrye (14); Sarah Kaye (13) Favorite sports team Auburn Favorite music/group Jason Isbell Favorite movie Blazing Saddles Favorite TV show Seinfeld Favorite restaurant/food A really good burger Favorite app Twitter (@pizitzAP) Pet peeves People I can’t trust

Front Office TRICIA VICE, Registrar Degrees B.A, University of Alabama Years in education 8; all at Pizitz Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL Married Yes Children 3 Favorite sports team Alabama – Roll Tide! Favorite music/group Mumford & Sons Favorite movie Finding Nemo Favorite TV show Datetline Favorite restaurant/food Sekisui (sushi)

WENDY KUSTA, Office Secretary Degrees B.S., Livingston University Years in education 26 Hometown Ft. Lauderdale, FL Married Yes Favorite sports team Alabama Favorite movie Wizard of Oz Favorite TV show Castle Favorite restaurant/food Seafood Favorite app Twitter

AMY BARBER, Secretary HELEN HICKMAN, Bookkeeper Years in education 17 Hometown Montevallo, AL Married Yes Children One son that will be a Pirate this year! Favorite sports team Auburn Football Favorite music/group George Strait Favorite TV show 19 Kids and Counting Favorite restaurant/food Texas Roadhouse; Habaneros Favorite app Candy Crush Pet peeves Not following directions

JOHN PENROSE, School Resource Officer Degrees Studied at AUM & University of Montevallo Years in education SRO for 13 years; 3 at Pizitz Hometown Hueytown, AL Married Nope Children 5 children Favorite sports team Alabama Favorite music/group Jimmy Buffett Favorite movie Man on Fire (Denzel Washington version) Favorite TV show Don’t really watch television Favorite restaurant/food J. Alexander (prime rib) Favorite app Regions Bank (apparently!) Pet peeves Dishonesty in all forms

Degrees B.S. in Finance, University of Alabama Years in education 8th at Pizitz Hometown Tuscaloosa, AL Married YES Children 2 – son at Alabama; daughter at Auburn Favorite sports team ROLL TIDE, but I pull for Auburn when they are not playing Bama Favorite movie Sweet Home Alabama Favorite TV show Blue Bloods Favorite restaurant/food Pizza; salsa (NOT together) Favorite app Weather Pet peeves Blaming others

SOTONIA WILLIAMS, School Nurse Degrees B.S., University of Alabama Years in education 10 at Pizitz Hometown Tuscaloosa, AL Children 3 Favorite sports team Lakers; basketball Favorite restaurant/food Any seafood Pet peeves Wasting time

Guidance SUSIE CARLSON, 6th Grade Counselor Degrees B.S. in Special Education, University of Alabama; M.A. in School Counseling, University of West Alabama; Master’s of Educational Leadership, UAB Years in education 19; 18th at Pizitz Hometown Hueytown, AL Married To Robert Children 1 son – Michael Favorite sports team Alabama Favorite music/group Bon Jovi Favorite movie Remember the Titans Favorite TV show Project Runway Favorite restaurant/food Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen Favorite app Varage Sale Pet peeves When people don’t try their best, but instead look for an easy way out. Always try your best!!

AMBER PAYNE, 8th Grade Counselor Degrees B.S. in Psychology & M.A.Ed. in Counselor Education, UAB; working on Ed.S. in School Counseling, University of West Alabama Years in education 5 in counseling; 1st year at Pizitz Hometown Little Rock, AR Married No Children 1 son – Beckett (3) Favorite movie The Goonies Favorite TV show The Walking Dead; Sherlock Favorite restaurant/food El Barrio (Mexican) Favorite app Instagram Pet peeves Saying “I can’t”

KELLIE WIGLEY, 7th Grade Counselor Degrees B.S. & M.Ed. in Elementary Education, Auburn University; M.Ed. in Counseling, University of West Alabama; Administrative Certification, University of Montevallo Years in education 11; 1st year at Pizitz Hometown Mobile, AL Married Getting married October 25, 2015!! Children 2 girls Favorite sports team Auburn Favorite music/group Kari Jobe; Chris Tomlin Favorite movie The Notebook Favorite TV show I watch the Disney channel with my kids! Favorite restaurant/food Mexican Favorite app Pinterest; Fitbit

ANN WHITEHURST, Counselor’s Secretary Degrees B.S. in Marketing, University of Alabama Years in education 5; all at Pizitz Hometown Carmel, IN Married 23 years Children Twins (seniors at VHHS); stepdaughter; stepson & daughter-in-law; and one grandchild Favorite sports team Alabama Football Favorite music/group Country Favorite movie Pretty Woman Favorite TV show Sherlock Favorite restaurant/food Surin Favorite app Amazon Music Pet peeves Dishonesty

Media Center & Additional Staff 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 University Years in education 18; all at Pizitz (15 teaching 8th grade History; 3 as Librarian) Hometown Hoover, AL Married 13 years to former Pirate, Ken Smith Children One daughter – LE (3) Favorite sports team Alabama Favorite music/group Beach & country Favorite movie The Godfather II Favorite TV show NCIS; NCIS: New Orleans Favorite restaurant/food Sumo; Amore Favorite app PicCollage; The Weather Channel Pet peeves Being impolite, late and/or unprepared

SANDY WALDROP, Media Center Assistant Degrees B.S. in Education, University of Alabama Years in education 26; all at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Children 3 children; 8 grandchildren Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide Favorite music/group Casting Crowns Favorite movie Momma Mia Favorite TV show So You Think You Can Dance Favorite restaurant/food Fresh vegetables; homemade ice cream Favorite app Pinterest Pet peeves Drivers that follow too closely

LUNCHROOM STAFF Tiffany Preston, Manager Lynn McCallum, Assistant Manager Sharon Agee Andrea Lou Curry Renuka Patel Bonnie Rembert Tona Seeds Angela Taylor

SKILLED MAINTENANCE/GROUNDS Rex Short, Day Crew Leader Curtis Sheperd, Night Crew Leader Nicholas Cvetetic Sharon Hardin Leland Hollis Demarcos Johnson Angela Maul Gary Speights Cathy Stovall Michael Vandrell

6th Grade ~ Team One Math BECKY BOYKIN Degrees B.S. in Education, Northwestern State University; M.A. in Educational Leadership, University of New Orleans; Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, UAB Years in education 21; 4th at Pizitz Hometown Houston, TX Married Very happily to Farrell Stockslager Favorite sports team Deep down inside – Houston Oilers; Saturdays – LSU Tiger Football; “Most” Sundays – New Orleans Saints; avid fan of LSU Tigers Baseball Favorite music/group Sister Hazel; Alison Krauss & Union Station; Martina McBride Favorite movie Stand and Deliver; Finding Forrester; A Beautiful Mind; Pitch Perfect Favorite TV show Grey’s Anatomy (ugh!); The Ellen Show (yea DVR!); Saturday Night Live Favorite restaurant/food Lloyd’s; Cocina Superior; Full Moon BBQ Favorite app Dubsmash; Spotify Pet peeves Every car comes with blinkers, right? Supplies Yes, every day!!

English HAYDEN SENTENN Degrees B.A. in Journalism & Sociology, Samford University; M.Ed. in English Education, UAB Years in education 5; 2nd year at Pizitz Hometown Montgomery, AL Married To sweet Andy Sentenn Children Not just yet ... Favorite sports team Roll Tide & Go Arsenal FC! Favorite music/group Johnny Cash; Loretta Lynn; Kings of Leon; First Aid Kit; Alabama Shakes; Bethel Music Favorite movie Fried Green Tomatoes; Walk the Line; Moonrise Kingdom Favorite TV show Call the Midwife Favorite restaurant/food Chez Fon Fon; Jinsei; Rojo; and the list goes on and on ... I love food! Favorite app Instagram Pet peeves Typos & bad grammar

Social Studies PHIL VANDER KAMP Degrees B.S. in Language Arts, Grand Valley State University; M.Ed. in Elementary Education, Lesley University Years in education 15; 11 at Pizitz, 3 in New Hampshire, 1 at Columbiana Hometown Grand Rapids, MI Married To Elizabeth Children Tressa (12); Mary (10) Favorite sports team Detroit Tigers; Boston Red Sox Favorite music/group Jim Kweskin & The Jug Band Favorite movie It’s a Wonderful Life Favorite TV show I don’t have a TV Favorite restaurant/food Chocolate! Favorite app What’s an “app”? Pet peeves Wait ... What?

Science DIANE MCALILEY Degrees B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Auburn University; M.A. in Elementary Education, University of Montevallo Years in education Starting my 2nd at Pizitz Hometown Eufaula, AL Married No Children None, but I count my nieces and nephew as my own along with hundreds of students I have had the privilege to teach. I take it as I high complement for a student to accidentally call me “Mom”! Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers! Favorite music/group Ellie Holcomb; Drew Holcomb and The Neighbors Favorite movie Singin’ in the Rain; The Sound of Music; Steel Magnolias Favorite restaurant/food Chez Fon Fon; Saw’s Juke Joint Favorite app Dubsmash

6th Grade ~ Team Two Math MICHELLE BINDER Degrees B.S. in Education & Mathematics & M.A. in Education, UAB Years in education 7; 1st year at Pizitz Hometown My dad was in the military Married No Children None Favorite music/group Usher Favorite movie Spaceballs; Mr. Deeds Favorite TV show Catfish; Devious Maids Favorite restaurant/food Cheesecake Factory Favorite app Farm Heroes Pet peeves Tapping on the desk

English KAYLA PIGG Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education & English Language Arts, University of North Alabama; currently working on Master’s at UAB Years in education 7; the last 2 have been at the BEST MIDDLE SCHOOL IN AMERICA! Hometown Cullman, AL Married To my best friend and college sweetheart Children 2 puppies, Toby (Golden) & George (Shih Tzu) Favorite sports team The only one that matters ... Alabama! Favorite music/group Dave Matthews Band Favorite movie Midnight in Paris Favorite TV show The Office Favorite restaurant/food Gianmarco’s Favorite app Pinterest and yes, Dubsmash Pet peeves People who make excuses & girls who wear shirts as dresses #fashiondont

Social Studies BILL MANN Degrees A.A., Bevill State; B.S. & M.A. in Secondary Education, UAB Years in education 8; 2nd year at Pizitz Hometown Margaret, AL Married To Christy Children 4 Favorite sports team Alabama Football; Braves Baseball Favorite music/group Montgomery Gentry; Toby Keith Favorite movie True Grit (old & new) Favorite TV show American Pickers Favorite restaurant/food Tecate/Mexican Favorite app Dice with Buddies Pet peeves Being late

Science KATIE COOPER Degrees B.S. in Elementary Education, University of Alabama Years in education 2; both at Pizitz! Hometown Hoover, AL Married No Children None Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide Favorite music/group Taylor Swift; Hillsong United Favorite movie Just Go With It Favorite TV show Once Upon a Time; Nashville Favorite restaurant/food Chocolate Favorite app Instagram Pet peeves When people think they are better than other people

6th Grade ~ Team Three Math LINDA SPAIN Degrees B.S. in Education, Auburn University Years in education 15; 8th year at Pizitz Hometown Jackson, AL Married 25 years to Billy Children 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 (Need to Breathe, etc.); any 70s (KC & The Sunshine Band, BeeGees, etc.)! The more disco-y, the better!! Favorite movie Elf (nothing else even comes close!!)

English RACHEL BROWN Degrees B.S. in Secondary English Language Arts, Auburn University; Master’s in Secondary English Education, UAB Years in education 8; all at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married Yes Children None Favorite sports team Auburn – War Eagle! Favorite music/group I listen to different music ... depends on my mood! Favorite movie Christmas Vacation; Remember the Titans; Beaches Favorite TV show Friends Favorite restaurant/food Iguana Grill Favorite app Instagram Pet peeves Texting while driving & not following/listening to directions

Social Studies KELLY SORRELL Degrees B.S., Auburn University; working on Master’s, University of Montevallo Years in education 4 teaching; 12 at Pizitz Hometown Montgomery, AL Married Yes Children 4 Favorite music/group Rolling Stones; Alabama Shakes Favorite movie As Good As It Gets Favorite TV show Rehab Addict Favorite restaurant/food Cafe Dupont Favorite app Google Pet peeves Your/You’re; There/Their/They’re

Science ASHLEY PERRY Degrees B.S. in Elementary Education, Athens State University Years in education 5; taught 4 years at Central and this is my 1st year at Pizitz Hometown I have many ... Shreveport, LA; Taipei, Taiwan; Cincinnati, OH; Madison, AL Married Yes Children None Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide Favorite music/group Fleetwood Mac Favorite movie The Curious Case of Benjamin Button; The Dark Knight; Lord of the Rings Favorite TV show Frasier Favorite restaurant/food Thai; sushi Favorite app SkyView Pet peeves Negativity in an attempt to be “cool”

7th Grade ~ Team One Math JACKIE MILLS Degrees B.I.E. in Industrial Engineering, Auburn University; M.Ed. in Secondary Math, University of Montevallo Years in education 17; all at Pizitz Hometown Muscle Shoals, AL Married No Children 2 daughters; 2 granddaughters Favorite sports team Auburn Favorite music/group James Taylor Favorite movie The Patriot Favorite restaurant/food Macaroni Grill Favorite app Uber

English BRAD CARPENTER Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education, University of South Alabama Years in education 6; 4 at Pizitz Hometown Warner Robins, GA Married To my lovely wife, Megan, for 6 years Children Twin 3-year-old daughters: Lee Ann & Anna Kate Favorite sports team Georgia Bulldogs! Favorite music/group Hendrix! Favorite movie The Big Lebowski Favorite TV show Fargo Favorite restaurant/food Sushi! Favorite app Amazon Music Pet peeves Spent markers in my marker tray

Social Studies BETH NEIGHBORS Degrees B.A. & M.Ed., UAB Years in education 19; all at Pizitz Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL Married To Mike for 41 years Children 3 – Matthew; Adam (Stacy); Mary Ellen DeBardeleben (Charles); 4 grandchildren – Madison; Allie; Ellis; Henry Favorite movie Gone With the Wind Favorite TV show Downton Abbey Favorite restaurant/food Mexican Pet peeves Students that do not give their best, EVERYDAY!

Science TRACIE EDWARDS Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education & General Science, Samford University Years in education 10; beginning 2nd year at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married To Jamie Edwards Children 4 – 3 boys & 1 girl Favorite sports team Pizitz Pirates; Vestavia Rebels Favorite music/group Black-Eyed Peas; Justin Timberlake; Jimmy Buffet Favorite movie Pretty Woman; This is Forty Favorite TV show Heart of Dixie; Naked & Afraid Favorite restaurant/food J. Alexander Favorite app Netflix; Pandora Pet peeves Making excuses

7th Grade ~ Team Two Math HOPE PREVALLET Degrees B.S. & Master’s in Math Education, University of Alabama; Ed.S., UAB Years in education 11; 9 at VHHS and this is my 2nd year at Pizitz Hometown Arab, AL Married No Children None Favorite sports team THE Alabama Crimson Tide Favorite music/group Currently, Sam Smith & Ed Sheeran Favorite movie Love Actually; The Labyrinth Favorite TV show I don’t watch TV ... I’m more of a movie watcher. Favorite restaurant/food Outback Steakhouse; Margarita Grill Favorite app The Weather Channel; Pandora Pet peeves Laziness & lying

English HEATHER BROCK Degrees Bachelor’s, University of Alabama; Master’s, UAB Years in education 18; 14 at Pizitz Hometown Child of the Universe (Translation ... Dad was in the military) Married 13 blissful years to the other 7th grade English teacher named “Brock” Children Harper (8); Hayes (5) Favorite sports team Pizitz Scholars’ Bowl: Three Time STATE CHAMPIONS! Favorite music/group Twenty-One Pilots; Imagine Dragons; AWOLNATION; Eminem; Macklemore; Of Monsters and Men Favorite movie Life is Beautiful; Alive Inside: A Story of Music and Memory; SLC Punk!; Sliding Doors; What We Do in the Shadows Favorite TV show Doctor Who Favorite restaurant/food Lucy Buffett’s LuLu’s; Sam’s (Homewood); Basil Pizza; Crestwood Coffee Co. Favorite app Poetics (or any app that allows me to add clever captions to pictures) Pet peeves Rips in the time-space continuum; kids who levitate; meanies

Social Studies STEVE FABER Degrees B.S. & M.Ed., University of Montevallo Years in education 34; 8 at Pizitz Hometown Grand Rapids, MI Mr. Vander Kamp and I are from the same hometown. Married No Children None Favorite sports team Los Angeles Lakers of the 1980s; Pittsburgh Steelers of the 1970s Favorite music/group Fleetwood Mac; The Grass Roots Favorite movie The Natural; Shawshank Redemption; Walk the Line Favorite TV show The West Wing Favorite restaurant/food Copeland’s (New Orleans) Favorite app Watch ESPN

Science AIMEE FARRAR Degrees B.S. in Zoology Pre-Vet & Master’s in Biology Education, Auburn University Years in education 11; all at Pizitz Hometown Spanish Fort, AL Married Yes Children 2 boys Favorite sports team Auburn University Favorite music/group Third Day Favorite movie Ever After Favorite TV show Grey’s Anatomy Favorite restaurant/food Taziki’s Favorite app Facebook Pet peeves Dishonesty

7th Grade ~ Team Three Math MARK WOODRUFF Degrees B.S., Auburn University; Master’s, University of Montevallo Years in education 17; 13 at Pizitz Hometown Tyler, AL Married Yes, for 21 years Children 3 beautiful girls Favorite sports team Auburn Favorite music/group Casting Crowns Favorite movie Good Will Hunting Favorite TV show Seinfeld Favorite restaurant/food Newk’s Favorite app Watch ESPN Pet peeves Inconsiderate drivers

English CHRISTA BROGAN Degrees B.A. in English & Education, Bryan College Years in education 13; 8 at Pizitz Hometown Knoxville, TN Married Happily Children Brent (3); Eirinn (7) Favorite sports team Tragic City Allstars (Birmingham’s premiere roller derby team) Favorite music/group Right now ... Of Monsters & Men Favorite movie Roman Holiday; Blues Brothers Favorite TV show Sherlock; Buffy the Vampire Slayer Favorite restaurant/food El Barrio Favorite app Shutterfly; Allrecipes Pet peeves Bad grammar & rudeness (such as, cutting in line/talking disrespectfully)

Social Studies MALCOLM PREWITT Degrees Bachelor’s & Master’s of Physical Education, Auburn University; Bachelor’s & Master’s of History, University of Montevallo Years in education Starting my 27th year at Pizitz Hometown Decatur, AL Married To the former Amy Westhoven for 26 years Children 3 boys – John (24); Patrick (23); Will (21) Favorite sports team Vestavia Hills Rebels; Auburn Tigers Favorite music/group Country Favorite movie It’s a Wonderful Life Favorite TV show Anything on the History Channel Favorite restaurant/food Anything my wife cooks Favorite app Flashlight Pet peeves People who don’t do the best they can at whatever they are doing

Science BECKY GIBSON Degrees B.S. in Secondary Science Education & B.S. in Elementary Education, University of Montevallo; M.Ed. in Education, University of Alabama Years in education 33; starting 21st year at Pizitz Hometown Wilsonville, AL Married Yes Children 1 daughter Favorite sports team Alabama; VHHS Football Favorite movie National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Favorite TV show The Astronaut Wives Club Favorite restaurant/food Slice Favorite app Fitbit Pet peeves Rocking back in chairs

8th Grade ~ Team One Math MELBA SMITH Degrees B.S. in Mathematics & M.Sc. in Mathematics Education, Louisiana Tech University Years in education 31; all at Pizitz Hometown Gibsland, LA Married Yes Children One adult child; 2 grandchildren Favorite sports team Grambling College Football Favorite music/group Smooth Jazz Favorite movie Magnificent Obsession Favorite TV show The Big Bang Theory Favorite restaurant/food Seafood; Greek Favorite app The Holy Bible Pet peeves People who won’t clean up after themselves

English KRISTIN COPPOCK Degrees Bachelor’s, University of Alabama; Master’s, UAB; National Boards, ELA Years in education 2; 1st year at Pizitz Hometown Homewood, AL Married 9 years Children Eva (6); Charlie (2½) Favorite sports team Roll Tide! Favorite music/group U2; oldies Favorite movie Stand By Me Favorite TV show Anything mystery, but not TOO real Favorite restaurant/food Surin Favorite app Google Drive; Google Docs Pet peeves Smacking

Social Studies JASON WILLIAMS Degrees B.A., UAB; M.A., University of Alabama Years in education 14 Hometown Birmingham, AL Married Seriously? Children See above ... Favorite sports team The ones I coach – Go Pirates!! Favorite music/group Toss up ... Pink Floyd; Pearl Jam; Nirvana Favorite movie Airplane! Favorite TV show Nothing good is on TV anymore Favorite restaurant/food Dino and Tony’s (Rome, Italy) Favorite app Fried Pickles Pet peeves Stupid questions. Yes, there is such a creature.

Science KELLY GUROSKY Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education in Biology & History, Auburn University Years in education 8½; all at Pizitz Hometown Alexander City, AL Married To Scott for 23 years Children 2 sons Favorite sports team The Rebels! Favorite music/group U2 Favorite movie Nacho Libre; Christmas Vacation Favorite TV show The Blacklist; The Office Favorite restaurant/food La Paz (Mexican) Favorite app Trivia Crack Pet peeves Clutter & people who make excuses

8th Grade ~ Team Two Math VICKI CATO Degrees B.S. & M.A. in Secondary Mathematics, UAB; National Board Certification EA Mathematics Years in education 27; 18 at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married Yes Children Twin boys (23); daughter (21) Favorite movie Sound of Music Favorite TV show House of Cards Favorite restaurant/food Fish Market (Southside) Favorite app Solitaire

English ETHAN JOY Degrees B.S., Bowling Green State University; Teaching Certificate, University of Colorado at Boulder; Master’s and Ed.S., UAB Years in education Starting 2nd year, all at Pizitz Hometown Pittsburgh, PA Married Yes Children 2 boys Favorite sports team Pittsburgh Steelers Favorite music/group The Beatles Favorite movie Star Wars Favorite TV show M*A*S*H Favorite restaurant/food Asian cuisine Favorite app TED Pet peeves Being late

Social Studies BRIAN ELMORE Degrees Bachelor’s in Secondary Education Social Sciences, University of Alabama Years in education 1st year teaching!!! Hometown Homewood, AL Married Engaged! Getting married March 2016!! Children None Favorite sports team Alabama (college sports); San Diego Chargers (NFL) Favorite music/group Third Day; Dave Matthews Band Favorite movie Braveheart Favorite TV show The Big Bang Theory; The Walking Dead Favorite restaurant/food Saw’s BBQ ... BBQ is the best! Favorite app Plickers Pet peeves People’s hair in a bun (I can’t stand it!!)

Science KELCI MCCALEB Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education, Auburn University Years in education 3; all at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married Yes Children None Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers Favorite music/group I love listening to movie soundtracks Favorite movie The Lord of the Rings Trilogy Favorite restaurant/food Italian Favorite app Goodreads Pet peeves When someone does not take the time to clean up their own mess

8th Grade ~ Team Three Math LAURA MORRISON Degrees B.S., Auburn University; M.A., UAB Years in education 8; 1st at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married To Gregg Children 2 – one son; one daughter Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers ... War Eagle! Favorite music/group Kari Jobe; Rascall Flats Favorite movie Rudy Favorite TV show Madam Secretary Favorite restaurant/food Italian Pet peeves When drivers don’t move their car for an ambulance

English JOANNA MCCURDY Degrees B.S. in Secondary Education Language Arts Education, Auburn University Years in education 6; 1st at Pizitz Hometown Jasper, AL Married To a wonderful man, Sellars McCurdy! Children One furry child ... our dog, Junebug Favorite sports team Auburn Favorite music/group George Strait; Johnny Cash; Hillsong United Favorite movie Walk the Line Favorite TV show Homeland; Nashville; Scandal (I can’t pick just one!) Favorite restaurant/food Chicken Salad Chick; anything with sweet potatoes! Favorite app Pinterest Pet peeves I know I have some, but I can’t think of anything specific!!

Social Studies KATHIE KNICKREHM Degrees B.S. in Family & Child Development, Auburn University; M.A. in Education, UAB Years in education 11; all at Pizitz Hometown Huntsville, AL Married For 30 years to James Knickrehm, my high school sweetheart! Children 2 great kids – Jessica (Drew Hall) & Dustin; 2 amazing grandchildren – Lily (2) & Colton (1) Favorite sports team All sports, except basketball – Auburn University; Basketball – North Carolina, GO HEELS!; Major League Baseball – Red Sox! Favorite music/group Zac Brown Band Favorite movie The Sandlot Favorite TV show Modern Family; Scorpion Favorite 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!!

Science JENNY FIRTH Degrees B.S. in Education, Samford University Years in education 12; 8 at Pizitz Hometown Chattanooga, TN Married Yes Children 3 boys Favorite music/group Avett Brothers Favorite TV show Fixer Upper Favorite restaurant/food Saw’s BBQ Pet peeves Excuses

Fine Arts & Computer BRENT COLEMAN, Choral Music Degrees B.M.Ed., Auburn University Years in education 21; all at Pizitz Hometown Enterprise, AL Married To Andrea Coleman, 2nd grade teacher at VHEW Children Sophie (13) & Selah (8) Favorite sports team All Auburn University teams Favorite music/group The Eagles; country; Christian; Southern gospel Favorite movie Star Wars Trilogy (original); Indiana Jones Trilogy (original) Favorite TV show Castle Favorite restaurant/food Davenport’s Pizza Favorite app Evernote Pet peeves Nasty feet! If you wear shoes that show your feet ... WASH THEM FIRST!!

MELISSA BONDS, 6th Grade Choir Degrees B.A. in Music Education, Auburn University Years in education 7; all at Pizitz! Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL – Go Rebels! Married To Austin Bonds Children A.J. (3); Addie (1) 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 Bones Favorite restaurant/food Taziki’s; Zoe’s Favorite app Pinterest Pet 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!)

KIM BAIN, Band Director Degrees B.S. in Music Education, M.A. & Education Specialist, University of Alabama; Master’s of Music, Bowling Green State University Years in education 25; 10 at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide Favorite music/group Cannonball Adderley; jazz saxophonist Favorite movie Lord of the Rings Favorite TV show House of Cards Favorite restaurant/food Bright Star Favorite app Prometronone Pet peeves People who drive in the passing lane!

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 Georgia Years in education This is lucky number 13; 5th at Pizitz Hometown Chelsea, AL Married To Jordan Children 1 daughter – Julia Favorite sports team St. Louis Cardinals Favorite movie The Holiday Favorite TV show Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt Favorite restaurant/food Shindigs Truck; Indian food Favorite app Instagram Pet peeves Spending time with friends that are constantly looking at their phones

Fine Arts & Computer KIMBERLY HUNTON, Spanish I & Unified Arts Spanish Degrees B.S. in CSFS, History & Spanish Secondary Education, Auburn University Years in education 21; all at Pizitz Hometown Miami/Ft. Lauderdale, FL Married To Kevin Hunton Children Mary Hanlon (14) & Hal (10) Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers Favorite music/group Violent Femmes (real band); Velcro Pygmies (cover band) Favorite movie Steel Magnolias Favorite TV show Reality TV ... I love it all! Favorite restaurant/food Gianmarco’s Pet peeves People/students who do not take personal responsibility for their actions

FRAU KATHY ROGERS, German Degrees B.S. in Speech Pathology with 48 graduate credits in Early Childhood-Special Education, St. Cloud University; Master’s in German, University of Florida in cooperation with Mannheim Universitaet (Germany) Years in education 23; 15 at Pizitz; started the German Program at VHHS in 1992 Hometown Belle Plaine, MI (Fun Fact ... There were more students enrolled at VHHS when I started in 1992 than the population of my hometown!) Married Happily for 26 years Children 2 – 1 son, a sophomore at Auburn; 1 daughter, a junior at VHHS Favorite sports team Pizitz Pirates! Favorite restaurant/food Chocolate; Coffee ... Is that a food? Favorite app EDMODO Pet peeves Pet peeves are annoying ... I don’t have any!

JOSH WADE, French & Newspaper Sponsor Degrees B.A. in French & B.A. in English, Samford University; M.A. in Educational Psychology, University of Alabama Years in education 16; 15 at Pizitz Hometown Gardendale, AL Married To the beautiful Dr. Stacy Wade for 9 years Children Noah (6); Bridger (2); Ellie (1) Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide Favorite music/group The Avett Brothers Favorite movie Gone Baby Gone Favorite TV show Hannibal; The Americans Favorite 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, over reactions & boiled shrimp (for my rising 8th graders!)

Fine Arts & Computer CASSIE TAYLOR, Family & Consumer Science Degrees Bachelor’s in Child & Family Studies & Master’s in Secondary Education, University of Montevallo Years in education 10; 1st at Pizitz Hometown Clanton, AL (currently live in Helena, AL) Married For 9 years Children 2 – Elana (6); Schaefer (2 in November) Favorite sports team Just like to watch a good game & eat good food with friends, but you might occasionally spy me in Alabama gear Favorite music/group Counting Crows; Coldplay; Alabama Shakes; John Mayer; Florence + The Machine; Van Morrison; a random selection of pop music Favorite movie Harry Potter; anything Disney/Pixar Favorite TV show Doctor Who; Good Eats; Outlander; Mysteries at the Museum; Monumental Mysteries Favorite restaurant/food Dinner at my house with my family Favorite app iBooks Pet peeves People are quirky, I like that about humans ... I appreciate people’s uniqueness

LARRY GIBSON, Art Degrees B.S. & M.Ed., University of Montevallo Years in education 31 years; also completed my student teaching at Pizitz Hometown Decatur, AL (born in upstate New York) Married Wife is also a teacher at a private school Children 2 boys – 24 & 26 years old Favorite sports team Bama football Favorite music/group Zac Brown Band Favorite movie Tin Cup Favorite TV show College Game Day Favorite restaurant/food Ichiban Favorite app Pinterest Pet peeves Bullying and rude people

NANCY TURPEN, School Technology Specialist Degrees B.A., BirminghamSouthern College; Master’s & Ed.S., UAB; National Board Certified Years in education 37; 19 at Pizitz Hometown Tuscaloosa, AL Married Yes Children 2 Favorite sports team Alabama Favorite music/group Too many to name! Favorite movie The King’s Speech Favorite TV show Anything British Favorite restaurant/food The Pita Stop Favorite app Explain Everything

DENA MONCRIEF, TechEd & Digital Photography Degrees M.Sc. in Education Media Design & Education, Full Sail University; Teaching Certification, AUM; B.S. in Computer Science, Alabama A&M University Years in education 18; 1st at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married Divorced/single Children 2 – Kara; Kayla Favorite sports team No favorite ... Just enjoy watching games with friends & family Favorite music/group Mary J. Blige; Andre3000 Favorite movie Hitch; Pitch Perfect Favorite TV show CSI: Miami; The Sing Off Favorite restaurant/food Carrabba’s Italian Grill & many more! Favorite app Upper Room; Pinterest Pet peeves Dirty kitchens & bathrooms

Physical Education & Sports KATIE MATCHEN, 7th Grade Basketball & Volleyball Coach; Girls PE Degrees Bachelor’s & Master’s, Jacksonville State University Years in education 2; 1st at Pizitz Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL Married Negative Children None Favorite sports team Jacksonville State Gamecocks (1st & foremost); Auburn Tigers; Carolina Panthers Favorite music/group Elvis Presley; Sam Smith; Jessie J Favorite movie A League of Their Own Favorite TV show Friends Favorite restaurant/food P.F. Chang’s Favorite app Instagram Pet peeves Lazy people; smacking food!

JOHN RUSH, Asst. Athletic Director; Head Football Coach; Boys PE Degrees B.S., University of Montevallo Years in education 35; 34 at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married No Children 2 boys Favorite sports team Auburn Favorite music/group Eagles Favorite movie Saving Private Ryan Favorite TV show Fox News Favorite restaurant/food Fish Market; any good seafood restaurant Pet peeves Making excuses; not taking responsibility for your actions!

TIM MCCALEB, Assistant Football & Track Coach; PE & Health Degrees B.S., University of Alabama; M.S., University of Montevallo Years in education 35; 13 at Pizitz Hometown Fayette, AL Married To Debbie Children 2 boys Favorite sports team Alabama Favorite music/group Alison Krauss & Union Station Favorite movie Forrest Gump Favorite TV show M*A*S*H Favorite restaurant/food The Red Bar (seafood) Pet peeves Lazy people

MANDY BURGESS, Assistant Cross Country & Track; Girls PE Degrees Bachelor’s in Human Performance & Kinesiology, Huntingdon College Years in education 16; first 6 were at Pizitz, then 10 at VHHS ... returning to Pizitz to begin my 17th year Hometown Hoover, AL Married To Tyler Burgess Children Joshua (8); Millie (7) Favorite sports team That is tough, I don’t have a favorite Favorite music/group Matchbox 20, but I like a wide variety Favorite movie Toy Story Favorite TV show The Voice Favorite restaurant/food Seafood Favorite app iTunes Pet peeves Blaming others

STEVE GAYDOSH, 7th Grade Football Coach; Boys PE Degrees B.S., Springfield College (where basketball was invented); M.S., University of Tennessee Years in education 39; 26 at Pizitz Hometown Amityville, NY Married Wife of 41 years, Linda, teaches English at VHHS Children 4 children; 6 grandchildren Favorite sports team OSU Wrestling; Alabama Football Favorite music/group Jason Gray Favorite movie Cool Hand Luke Favorite TV show Blue Bloods Favorite restaurant/food Brio

JOHN WYMAN, Head Basketball Coach; Boys PE Degrees B.S., BirminghamSouthern College & UAB Years in education 25; 22 at Pizitz Hometown Chicago, IL Married No Children 25-year-old twins Favorite sports team Vestavia Rebels Favorite music/group Rascal Flatts Favorite movie Field of Dreams Favorite TV show Friday Night Lights Favorite restaurant/food Pizza; Mexican Pet peeves People who don’t pick up after themselves

Exceptional Education SONYA JOHNSON, 7th Grade Exceptional Ed. Degrees B.A. in Psychology, University of Alabama; M.Ed. in Special Education, West Georgia College Years in education 25; 7 at Pizitz Hometown Pensacola, FL & Birmingham, AL Married No Children One furry, 4-legged child Favorite sports team Alabama Roll Tide! Favorite music/group Melody Gardot Favorite TV show The Big Bang Theory Favorite restaurant/food Vecchia Pizzeria; The Pita Shop Pet peeves Not doing what you say you will do

MEGAN HOSKIN, 8th Grade Exceptional Ed. Degrees Bachelor’s, University of Alabama; Master’s in Educational Leadership, UAB Years in education 10; 8 at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married Yes Children 2 girls Favorite sports team Roll Tide Favorite music/group Michael Franti; Spearhead Favorite movie The Labyrinth Favorite TV show Parenthood Favorite restaurant/food Surin Favorite app Timehop Pet peeves Whiners

LAURA PRESTON, 8th Grade Exceptional Ed. Degrees Bachelor’s in Mild Learning & Behavioral Disabilities & Master’s in Autism & Behavioral Disorders, Auburn University Years in education 13; 1st at Pizitz Hometown Talladega, AL Married To Ben for 12 years Children 2 – Claire (9); Mary (5) Favorite sports team AUBURN!! Favorite music/group I love it all, especially 80s, 90s & R&B Favorite movie Steel Magnolias Favorite TV show Game of Thrones Favorite restaurant/food Seafood Favorite app Pandora Pet peeves Laziness (I believe in hard work); clutter; people who don’t use their manners (especially while eating); dry feet

JENNIFER GREER, Exceptional Ed. Life Centered Degrees B.S. in Special Education K-12, Troy State University Years in education 21; 20 at Pizitz Hometown Born in Canada; raised in Clearwater, FL Married Yes Children 5 Favorite sports team Troy Football; Tampa Bay Bucs; Tampa Bay Devil Rays Favorite music/group Hillsong United Favorite movie A Christmas Story Favorite TV show Undercover Boss Favorite restaurant/food Steak; sushi Favorite app Dubsmash Pet peeves Negative attitudes

MELINDA FAGIN, Speech/Language Therapy Degrees Master’s, Our Lady of the Lake University Years in education 15; 5 at Pizitz Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL Favorite sports team Texas Longhorns Favorite music/group Sam Smith Favorite movie My Fair Lady Favorite TV show Cooking shows Favorite 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

CATHY HORTON, Intensive Student Support Degrees B.S. in Family & Consumer Science, Georgetown College; M.Ed., University of Georgia Years in education 18; 11 at Pizitz Hometown Air Force Brat ... USA/Ft. Walton Beach, FL Married To Mike Children 3 children; 2 in-law children; 1 precious granddaughter Favorite sports team University of Alabama; University of Florida; University of Georgia ... Go SEC!! Favorite movie O Brother, Where Art Thou? Favorite TV show The Big Bang Theory; Downton Abbey Favorite restaurant/food Fresh blueberry pie Favorite app iBooks Pet peeves Not taking responsibility for your actions

Exceptional Education STRATTON BROCK, Gifted Education Degrees B.A. in English, Auburn University; M.A., UAB Years in education 8 years at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married To Heather Brock Children Harper (8); Hayes (5) Favorite sports team Pizitz Scholars Bowl Favorite restaurant/food Sushi Pet peeves Clutter; slow walkers; busy work

SUSAN CASTLEBERRY, 6th Grade Gifted Social Studies; Powerline Sponsor; Dance Team Degrees B.S. & M.Ed., Auburn University Years in education 23; 19 at Pizitz Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL Married Yes Children Son & daughter Favorite sports team Pizitz Pirates; Auburn Tigers Favorite music/group U2 Favorite movie The Notebook Favorite TV show The Big Bang Theory Favorite restaurant/food Ruth’s Chris Steak House Favorite app Evernote Pet peeves Failing to take responsibility for one’s actions

MADELINE BEAVERS, 6th Grade Resource Degrees B.S. & M.A., University of Alabama Years in education 37; 12 at Pizitz Hometown Gadsden, AL Married Yes Children 2 – Elizabeth; Will Favorite sports team Alabama Favorite movie Pride and Prejudice Favorite TV show Masterpiece Favorite restaurant/food Mr. B’s Bistro (New Orleans, LA)

KAREN MCCUTCHEON, 7th Grade Resource Degrees B.S. & M.A., UAB Years in education 17; 15 at Pizitz Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide Favorite music/group Hilary Hahn; Alabama Symphony Favorite movie The Sound of Music Favorite TV show So You Think You Can Dance Favorite restaurant/food Alexander’s; salmon Favorite app Beats Music Pet peeves Loud car commercials

JOYCE TALBOT, ESL (English as a 2nd Language) JILL CLARK, 6th Grade Special Education Degrees B.S., University of Alabama; M.Ed., University of Nebraska-Lincoln; National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Years in education 37; 29 at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married Yes Children One daughter Favorite sports team North Carolina Basketball Favorite music/group Barry White; Dolly Parton Favorite movie Voyager Favorite TV show NCIS Favorite restaurant/food Steak; jumbo fried shrimp Favorite app Too hard to chose a favorite Pet peeves Drivers that do not pull over for emergency vehicles & squeezing toothpaste from the middle of the tube

Degrees M.S. in Audiology, University of Wyoming Years in education 24; 15 at Pizitz Hometown Elmont, NY (home of the Belmont Race Track) Married Just married a wonderful guy, Jim, in January of 2015 Children One son at the University of Montevallo studying history & political science Favorite music/group Beatles; Van Morrison; Neil Diamond; and many more Favorite movie I like a lot ... It’s hard to pick a favorite Favorite TV show Nashville Pet peeves Slow drivers, ones who do not go through the traffic light fast enough to allow you to also make the light

Paraeducators DANNA MOSS, 6th Grade Pirate Support Degrees B.S. in Early Childhood/ Elementary Education, University of Alabama; Master’s, Early Childhood/Elementary Education, UAB Years in education 20; all at Pizitz Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL Married To Mitchell Moss for 15 years Children None Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide Favorite music/group Maroon 5 Favorite movie Serendipity Favorite TV show Modern Family; The Voice Favorite restaurant/food Donut Hole (Sandestin) Favorite app Fashion Police Pet peeves People who are not on time

DAVID BLACKMON Degrees B.S., Jacksonville State University; M.B.A., University of Alabama Years in education 7th year at Pizitz Hometown Sylacauga, AL Married Yes Children 2 children; 4 grandchildren Favorite sports team Alabama Crimson Tide Favorite music/group Robert Cray; Eagles Favorite movie American Sniper Favorite TV show NCIS Favorite restaurant/food Costa’s (Italian) Favorite app al.com Pet peeves Disorganized people

JULIE MARTIN DONNA WATKINS, 7th Grade Pirate Support Degrees B.S. & M.Ed., Mississippi State University Years in education 23; 20 at Pizitz Hometown Jackson, MS Married Yes Children 2 sons Favorite sports team Pizitz Pirates; Shelby County Wildcats; MSU Dawgs Favorite music/group Oldies ... Motown through 80s Favorite movie The Wizard of Oz Favorite TV show I Love Lucy; Everybody Loves Raymond Favorite restaurant/food Seafood Favorite app Solitaire Pet peeves Rudeness

LISA CHEEK Degrees B.S. in Business Administration, Auburn University Years in education 9; all at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married Yes Children 2 – one at VHHS; one at VHEC Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers Favorite music/group Zac Brown Band Favorite TV show The Middle Favorite restaurant/food Chicken Pet peeves Bad drivers

Degrees Auburn University Years in education 16; 9 at Pizitz Hometown Leighton, AL Married No Children Same (18); Layton (15) Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers! Favorite music/group Alterbridge; Kings of Leon; anything rock, hard rock or alternative ... no country, please Favorite movie A Time to Kill; Under the Tuscan Sky; Lincoln Lawyer; Enough, plus many more! Favorite TV show Criminal Minds Favorite restaurant/food Bottega; Mug Shots; Famous Fred’s Favorite app I don’t do apps ... I do chocolate! Pet peeves Bad manners and loud; obnoxious people

Paraeducators LISA CROSS Degrees B.S. in Elementary Education, Auburn University; B.S. in Early Childhood Education, UAB Years in education 6; 2 at Pizitz Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL Married To my high school sweetheart Children 4 – Ally (16); twins Andrew & Jay (14); William (8) Favorite sports team Auburn, but I live in a house divided so I cheer for Alabama when they are not playing Auburn Favorite music/group Chris Tomlin; Hillsong United Favorite movie The Blind Side Favorite TV show Dancing with the Stars Favorite restaurant/food Niki’s West Favorite app Bible Gateway Pet peeves When the toilet paper roll is on backwards

SHAWN FIELDS Years in education 1st year! Hometown Oceanside, CA Married No Children One Favorite sports team Cleveland Cavalier’s Favorite music/group Earth, Wind & Fire Favorite TV show Power/Empower Favorite restaurant/food Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

SABRA ROGERS Degrees B.S. in Retail/Marketing, University of Alabama Years in education 5; all at Pizitz Hometown Birmingham, AL Married Yes Children 2 Favorite sports team Roll Tide (both of my children attend Auburn) Favorite music/group Ed Sheeran Favorite movie Forrest Gump; The Help Favorite TV show Criminal Minds; NCIS Favorite restaurant/food Zoe’s chicken salad Favorite app Pinterest Pet peeves People stopping in the middle of the hall to chat

KEVIN WALDROP Degrees B.A. in Journalism, Auburn University; M.S. in Therapeutic Recreation, University of South Alabama Years in education Starting my 2nd year Hometown Honeycomb Valley (on Lake Guntersville) Married 21 years Children 2 daughters, Zoe (11) & Keelani (8) Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers; Boston Red Sox; Miami Dolphins; Golden State Warriors Favorite music/group Marc Cohn; Johnny Cash; Big & Rich Favorite movie Nobody’s Fool; A River Runs Through It; The Book of Eli Favorite TV show The Office; The Red Green Show; The Andy Griffith Show Favorite restaurant/food Chicken gizzards; any gas station/convenience store that serves poultry products Favorite app The Holy Bible Pet peeves Haters of Bigfoot & the Loch Ness Monster

BETSY WILSON Degrees B.S. in Education, Auburn University Years in education 10; all at Pizitz Hometown Vestavia Hills, AL Married Yes Children 3 Favorite sports team Auburn Tigers Favorite music/group James Taylor Favorite movie Somewhere In Time Favorite TV show The Big Bang Theory; Scandal Favorite restaurant/food Amore; lemon icebox pie Favorite app Dubsmash Pet peeves Lying

CONNIE BUTTS Hometown Dayton, OH

Treasure Map

Important Information Sign Up for Daily Announcements

Carpool Etiquette

https://webmail.vestavia.k12.al.us/mailman/listinfo/ pizitznews

It is considered bad manners to pull in front of others at the curb or to handle drop-off/pick-up from a left lane. Always pull up as far as space allows to accommodate others lined up behind you.

Extended Care The 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.

IMPORTANT!!

2015-2016 Pizitz PTO Executive Board President Cindy Cherry, 205.979.3441 President Elect Missy Armstrong, 205.823.7573 VP, Membership Leigh Ann Smyth, 205.587.7812 VP, News Cinnamon McCulley, 205.823.5553

Students should label ALL personal items brought to school. Items often forgotten include: jump drives (data travelers), cell phones, purses and wallets.

Recording Secretary Lisa Jones, 205.979.3154

Parties

Treasurer Elect Andrea Parker, 205.969.0678

Sixth graders will have their own party in September; Seventh and eighth graders in October. Other parties are held during the year that are open to all students. Holiday Parties will be held in December. The Red, White and Blue Bash for all grades will be held in January.

Living History Day Please help us continue to Pizitz tradition of honoring our veterans with one of the best Veterans Day programs around! Living History Day will be Thursday, November 5, 2015. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Jenny Waters ([email protected]; 205.903.9566).

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

Parking When 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.

Corresponding Secretary Kristen Comer, 205.972.9165 Treasurer Megan Gerace, 205.332.1314 Parliamentarian Lindy Walker, 205.967.6743