Carolina Prep
Faculty & Staff
Marcus Allen
After School
Marcus Allen is a Spartanburg native and a huge Clemson fan! For almost 13 years, Marcus has been a role model for youth across the state of South Carolina. After receiving his Children’s Ministry Certification from the Children’s Ministries Institute in Missouri, Marcus traveled around South Carolina with the Children’s Evangelism Fellowship. He has also been a part of Fairforest Middle School’s After School program and was the Director of After School for the YMCA. Marcus co-owns Spartanburg Swing where he shares his passion for dancing! Marcus enjoys watching movies and longboarding during his free time as well. Click here to read the After School blog or email Mr. Marcus at mallen@carolinaprepschool.com.
Janice Beckett
Infants
Janice Beckett is a native of Seneca, South Carolina. Ms. Janice moved to the Greenville area after receiving her Bachelors Degree from the University of South Carolina Upstate. Ms. Janice began her love of education at USC Upstate while she was volunteering with various nonprofit youth organizations such as Big Brother Big Sister of the Upstate and Broken but Healed. After graduating, she began working at a local child development center as a morning floater and After School teacher. Ms. Janice is currently taking classes to complete her Masters Degree in Education. In her free time, Ms. Janice loves to travel, go to the movies, and spend time with family and friends. Email Ms. Janice at jbeckett@carolinaprepschool.com or click here to read the Infant blog!
Daniel Bentley
After School
Daniel Bentley is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana, but has called Spartanburg, South Carolina, his home since high school. Although spending most of his adult life in the Upstate, he still is a diehard LSU fan! Daniel studied Political Science at Morris College with a minor in History and has worked with youth of all ages for over 10 years. Over his career, he has worked with The Salvation Army, Boys and Girls Club of America, Big Brother, YMCA, and youth programs for the City of Spartanburg. Daniel is a big outdoor advocate for youth and has a passion for traveling. Click here to read the After School blog or email Mr. Daniel at dbentley@carolinaprepschool.com.
Colleen Briggs
Substitute Teacher
Colleen Briggs lives in Hendersonville, North Carolina and has worked in the field of Child Development for over 27 years. Colleen studied at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and earned a Preschool-Kindergarten Certification from North American Montessori. Most of her professional career has been spent administrating and teaching in Montessori schools in Buncombe County, North Carolina. Over the years, Colleen has continued her education in Early Childhood and loves learning new teaching methods to bring into the classroom. In her free time, Colleen enjoys spending time with her two sons and two grandchildren, gardening, and exploring the beautiful outdoor areas of South Carolina! Email Mrs. Briggs at cbriggs@carolinaprepschool.com or check out the toddler blog!
Sarah Brown
Music
Mrs. Brown is a native of Chicago who currently lives in Spartanburg. She attended Converse College where she earned her Bachelor of Music in Music Education. Mrs. Brown joined Carolina Prep as it opened in 2010 as the music teacher and after-school teacher. Most recently, she was a long-term substitute music teacher in Spartanburg County School District Two. She enjoys spending time with her husband, son Anthony and their pets. Read the Music blog or email Mrs. Brown at sbrown@carolinaprepschool.com.
Stephanie Bruce
First Grade
Stephanie Bruce has been an educator for thirteen years after receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts, and her Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Carolina. Stephanie has taught K5, First Grade, and Second Grade during her educational experiences in public schools. She lives in Fountain Inn with her husband, daughter Ella, son Whit, and her Morkie, Capone. She enjoys gardening, hot yoga, reading HGTV magazine, cheering for the Gamecocks, and rocking on her front porch! Stephanie’s parents, younger sister, and father-in-law also live close by so they enjoy plenty of family time! Email Mrs. Bruce at sbruce@carolinaprepschool.com and follow the First Grade Blog!
Susan Butler
Floater
Susan Butler was born in Greenville, South Carolina, and has called it home ever since! She graduated from Winthrop University with degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education. Susan spends her time at home reading, gardening, and working on do-it-yourself projects, but her most favorite time is spent with her wonderful nieces! At Carolina Prep, Susan enjoys working in several classrooms because she gets to know all of our children throughout the school!
Shawna Byrum
Toddlers
Shawna Byrum was born and raised in Virginia, and recently moved to Greenville in the spring of 2015. Shawna studied Early Childhood Education in college and is currently pursuing her CDA. She has been teaching in Pre-Schools for over 5 years and has fallen in love with caring for and educating young children. Shawna is also a 2nd degree blackbelt and spent several years as a children’s karate instructor. In her spare time, Shawna enjoys spending time with her family and friends, reading, drawing, crafting, and cooking. She is always looking for a new recipe to try! Read the Toddler blog or email Ms. Byrum at sbyrum@carolinaprepschool.com.
Julie Camposano
Pre-Preppers
Julie Camposano is a native of Greenville, South Carolina and has worked with pre-school through after school aged children for over 18 years. Julie attended USC-Upstate where she studied both Early Childhood Education and Psychology. She volunteered at The Meyer Center working with children with special needs, and was a peer tutor for the Rainbow Games. During her free time, Julie enjoys painting and diving into a good book. Julie’s favorite activity is spending time with her husband and beautiful son, Mayes! Email Ms. Julie at jcamposano@carolinaprepschool.com or read the pre-prepper blog!
Michele Coad
Spanish
Michele Coad graduated form Lander University in Greenwood, S.C. with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She is the daughter of missionaries to Mexico and was born and raised there along with her two older sisters. Her first language is Spanish and she loves everything about her Mexican heritage. Visit the Spanish blog or email Ms. Coad at mcoad@carolinaprepschool.com
Bree Cooke
Fourth Grade
Bree Cooke is a native of California. She moved to Greenville in 2005 and graduated from the University of South Carolina Upstate in 2009 with a Bachelors degree in English Education. Mrs. Cooke was chosen as the student teacher of the year in December of 2009 by USC Upstate. She has taught in the Greenville County School District for the last 3 years. Mrs. Cooke holds certifications in Advanced Placement Language, Advanced Placement Literature, and has her Gifted/Talented endorsement. Before working at Mauldin, she worked for Greenville County Recreation as part of the after school program. Mrs. Cooke lives with her husband, daughter, two dogs, and a horse. In her spare time, she likes to train and show horses, hike, and read. Read the Fourth Grade Blog or email Mrs. Cooke at bcooke@carolinaprepschool.com
Kristin Eppinger
Assistant Director
Ms. Kristin Eppinger is an enthusiastic and positive woman who incorporates her love for nature, health, and creativity into her teaching! Originally born in Philadelphia, Kristin has since lived in California and England before moving to Greenville, South Carolina. She has been caring for and teaching children for over 11 years as a camp counselor, sports coach, volunteer, and Pre-School teacher. Kristin attended Winthrop University where she studied Sociology and is currently working on her CDA for Infants and Toddlers. Through free exploration of all materials in their environment, Ms. Kristin helps promote creative freedom and independence in every child’s young life! Email Ms. Kristin at keppinger@carolinaprepschool.com.
Brenda Hammonds
Housekeeping
Brenda Hammonds has lived in the Mauldin/Simpsonville area since 1985. She graduated from Hillcrest High School and worked for the Greenville County School District for four years in the dietary department. She also worked at Riverside Nursing Center and Westside Nursing Center for five years, and was with Palmetto Prep for six years. Brenda lives in Pelzer with her husband. She has a daughter, a son, and five grandchildren. She has been with Carolina Prep since August 2010. Email Mrs. Hammonds at bhammonds@carolinaprepschool.com.
Erika Heath
Third Grade
Erika Heath is an Upstate native and USC Upstate graduate. Erika began her teaching career in a local Pre-School and continued her degree in Education. Erika completed her practicum teaching hours in both Second Grade and Fourth Grade classrooms. She absolutely loves coffee, the beach, and shopping, but her favorite activity is spending time with her 14 month old son! Email Ms. Heath at eheath@carolinaprepschool.com and follow the Third Grade Blog!
Ashley Honeycutt
Rotator
Ashley Honeycutt rotates between our youngest classrooms at Carolina Prep School. Ashley has a Bachelor’s degree from Kansas State University in Elementary Education and a degree in Psychology from Fort Hays State University. Ashley has spent 4 years working with young children, primarily with infants and toddlers. For Ashley, the most rewarding part about teaching young children is watching them grow and learn from the beginning and knowing she was a part of it! Email Mrs. Ashley at ahoneycutt@carolinaprepschool.com!
Martha Keaton
Infant 1
Martha Keaton grew up in Greenville, South Carolina, and is proud to call it her home. She attended the University of South Carolina where she received her B.A. in Journalism and Advertising. She then earned her Master’s Degree from Converse College in Special Education and Early Childhood Education. Martha absolutely loves being outside hiking, biking, and swimming on the weekends. She also enjoys crafting at home where she makes sensory and art tools to use in her classroom! As an Infant 1 teacher, Martha sees her students learn new skills every week and enjoys watching them grow physically and socially with each other. Email Martha at mkeaton@carolinaprepschool.com and visit the Infant 1 blog!
Jodi LaBlanche
Preppers
Jodi LaBlanche is originally from Minneapolis, MN, but has lived in SC for 3 years. Ms. Jodi has worked with children for 11 years and has specialized in working with children that have special needs and mental illness. She has also assisted in helping families and children in crisis. While in Minneapolis, Ms. Jodi studied Child Development at MCTC and she is currently working on her Associates Degree in Child Development. Working in a Pre-School setting is Ms. Jodi’s passion. She has worked with Pre-School children ages Infant through Pre-K. In her free time, Ms. Jodi enjoys spending time with her sweet children, Selina (11) and Mylo (5). She loves outdoor activities, concerts, yoga, and spending time with family and friends. Click here to read the Prepper Blog or email Ms. Jodi at jmarino@carolinaprepschool.com.
Kelly Latham
Second Grade
Kelly Latham is a native of Greenville, South Carolina. She has over thirteen years of teaching experience. This is her thirteenth year teaching second grade. Mrs. Latham received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Lander University as well as a Master’s degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Furman University. She is certified with the South Carolina Department of Education and trained in the Orton-Gillingham Approach. She enjoys reading, shopping, and spending time with her family. Read the Second Grade blog or email Mrs. Latham at klatham@carolinaprepschool.com.
Tracey Marshall
Fifth Grade
Tracey Marshall is a native of Maryland, but moved to Greenville in 2010 from Birmingham, Alabama. Tracey attended Southeastern University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Minor in Business. Mrs. Tracey Marshall completed the Teach for America program in 2007 and became certified in teaching that same year for the state of Florida; she holds her teaching certification for the state of South Carolina as well. While teaching at Andrew Robinson Elementary in Florida, she was chosen as Co-Grade Level Chair & model classroom for the 2009-2010 school year. She was also awarded the Merit Award in 2009 & 2010 for Student Gains. Before teaching at Andrew Robinson, she worked for Sylvan Learning Center as a teacher for the After-School program. Mrs. Marshall lives with her husband, two sons and a black lab, and in her spare time she likes to travel, enjoy family time, run, and read! Read the Fifth Grade Blog or email Mrs. Marshall at tmarshall@carolinaprepschool.com!
Maria Mason
Substitute Teacher
Maria Mason is a substitute teacher for Carolina Prep School and has worked with young children for over 12 years! She earned an Early Childhood Credential from Piedmont Tech in 2004, and received her Teacher’s Aide in July of 2014. Maria believes the most rewarding parts of teaching are the smiles she sees when a child accomplishes a task. In that moment, she knows her students truly learned the skill they worked so hard on. Maria enjoys teaching in every Pre-School classroom at Carolina Prep, as well as spending time with her sons and husband at home!
Joy Motz
Pre-Preppers
Joy Motz was born and raised in Greenville, SC. Mrs. Motz has worked in childcare since 1999. She has served as an after-school teacher, after-school site director and day camp director at the Eastside Family YMCA. Most recently she was an after-school/day camp teacher at Palmetto Prep. Joy enjoys working with children and spending time with her family. Read the Pre-Prepper blog or email Mrs. Motz at jmotz@carolinaprepschool.com.
Brad Pariseau
Operations
Born and raised in Massachusetts, Brad Pariseau is graduate of Boston College, where he holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing. Mr. Pariseau was the general manager of Palmetto Prep responsible for all aspects of running the school, including growth, expansion, personnel, financials, and operations. He previously worked with investors as the general manager of Right Source. In that capacity, he grew the education/learning services business, opened five state-of-the-art technology learning centers, developed and implemented the educational business plan, and managed global sales and marketing initiatives and learning services. Brad also served as the Vice President of Availant, Inc. in Cambridge, MA. He was responsible for all aspects of running and developing the business including strategy, direction, growth and profitability. Brad has also owned and operated his own businesses, including a temporary staffing agency and retail store. Brad enjoys golf, watching sports, and spending time with his wife Lee, son Jake, and dog Millie.
Lee Pariseau
Executive Director
A native of Moncks Corner, SC, Lee Pariseau is a graduate of Winthrop University. She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education. Mrs. Pariseau began working at Classy Kids with all ages before becoming the teacher of their certified Kindergarten program. She then became director of the location in Simpsonville. Mrs. Pariseau had the opportunity to be a part of Palmetto Prep. She was a key member of the original start-up team. She became a director responsible for the Pre-School and Primary School. Mrs. Pariseau was responsible for choosing, implementing, and monitoring curricula for infants through 5th grade. She developed and implemented ongoing training for the entire staff, as well as, maintained scheduling, human resources, accounting/deposits, and all requirements for state agencies. Mrs. Pariseau enjoys golf, watching sports, and spending time with her husband Brad, son Jake, and dog Millie.
Chrissy Phillips
Substitute Teacher
Chrissy Phillips is originally from Florida, but she and her family spent the last ten years living in Asheville, North Carolina. While living in Asheville, they enjoyed learning about sustainability, camping, and hiking, and are currently developing their own farm on their property in South Carolina. She holds her Early Childhood Certificate from Haywood Community College with specified study in infant and toddlers as well as health and nutrition. She has over 7 years of childcare experience with children of all ages. Email Ms. Chrissy at cphillips@carolinaprepschool.com!
Lindsey Phillips
Pre-Preppers
Lindsey Phillips is a native of Greenville SC. While Attending high school at J. L. Mann, she worked as a nanny part-time, became full-time after graduating, and stayed with the family for 9 years. Lindsey saw to the daily schedules of the children, planned outings and activities, and kept the children for long periods while the parents were out of town. She loves working with children and hopes to continue here at Carolina Prep. In her free time, she enjoys watching her favorite Gamecocks play any sport! Lindsey also enjoys spending time with family, and friends. Email Ms. Phillips at lphillips@carolinaprepschool.com or read the pre-prepper blog.
Jessica Ramsey
Substitute Teacher
Jessica Ramsey is a native of Spartanburg, South Carolina. She holds an Associate of Arts Degree in Middle Level education from Spartanburg Community College. She is currently seeking her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Middle Level Mathematics and Social Studies at USC Upstate. Before committing to education as her career path, Ms. Jessica was a health major and received her certification in Phlebotomy. After much consideration, she decided she would have a much more rewarding career in education. She is a former member of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Organization and volunteer for the South Carolina School for the Deaf and Blind. When she is not in the classroom, she is outside enjoying nature. She enjoys many outdoor activities including kayaking, surf fishing, and stand up paddle boarding. Click here to read the After School blog or email Ms. Jessica at jramsey@carolinaprepschool.com.
Kathy Ryan
Infant 2
Kathy Ryan was born and raised in New Hampshire and after living in Texas, moved to Greenville seven years ago to be near her grandson. She has over six years of experience working with children. In her free time, she loves to bake, shop and spend time with her husband, three children and grandson. Read the Infant 2 blog or email Ms. Kathy at kryan@carolinaprepschool.com
Melissa Sharpless
Pre-K
Melissa Sharpless grew up in Sumter, South Carolina and graduated from Laurence Manning Academy. She received a BA in Elementary Education from Southeastern University in Lakeland, Florida. Mrs. Sharpless taught pre-school in Sumter for three years before moving to Greenville. She taught K4 for four years at Trinity Methodist Kindergarten. Melissa was most recently a Prepper teacher at Palmetto Prep, where she taught for 3 years. She enjoys spending time with her family. Read the Pre-K blog or email Mrs. Sharpless at msharpless@carolinaprepschool.com.
McKenzie Stokes
Art
McKenzie Stokes always knew that art was going to play a major role in her life. From the time she was a young child, she spent her days drawing and creating new things. She graduated from Anderson University where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree with dual concentrations in Studio Art and Graphic Design. McKenzie has worked with children ranging in ages from 2 to 11 years old in schools, churches, and art camps. In her free time, McKenzie dives into a good book or stays up late watching movies with her twin sister. Follow the Art Blog or email McKenzie at mstokes@carolinaprepschool.com!
Jynne Stowe
Physical Education
Jynne Stowe is a native of Gastonia, North Carolina, where she grew up on her family’s 100 year old farm! While a country girl at heart, Jynne has lived in cities all over the east coast and the world. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Athletic Training from Erskine College and her Master of Science in Health and Movement Science from Virginia Commonwealth University. Her teaching career began in China where she taught English to elementary and middle school students. Following her time in China she embarked on an almost 15 year career as a Certified Athletic Trainer both on the collegiate and secondary school levels. During this time she also taught Sports Medicine, Health, and Physical Education. She continues to hold her National Athletic Trainers Association Board of Certification license. Jynne is very active in the Children’s Ministry at Bridgeway Church where she teaches in the elementary classroom every Sunday. She is a huge football and basketball fan, so in the fall you can see her wearing Clemson Orange and in the winter Carolina baby blue! Email Ms. Stowe at jstowe@carolinaprepschool.com and visit the Physical Education blog at https://cipsrun.wordpress.com!
Courtney Turner
Toddlers
Courtney Turner was born and raised in North Carolina. She graduated from Appalachian State University with a Bachelors in Elementary Education and a minor in English. She went on to work for the state of NC as an Assessor of early childhood centers. After moving to South Carolina, Mrs. Turner taught toddlers at Palmetto Prep before her most recent position as the Director of Education at the Goddard School in Simpsonville, SC. She has 14 years of experience working with children ranging from infants through Kindergarten. Courtney enjoys writing, crafts, and spending time with her husband and daughter. Read the Toddler blog or email Mrs. Turner at cturner@carolinaprepschool.com
Nicole Wardlaw
Infant 2 Teacher
Nicole Wardlaw rotates between our youngest classrooms at Carolina Prep School. Her favorite things to do in the classroom are dancing with her students and helping them learn independence skills. Born in Pickens, South Carolina, she now raises her daughter there. On the weekends, Nicole travels with her daughter competing in pageants. Nicole also has a passion for interior design and enjoys bringing her creative ideas into the classroom! Email Ms. Nicole at nwardlaw@carolinaprepschool.com!
Misty White
Kindergarten
Misty White graduated from USC Upstate with a B.A. in Education, and holds her certification in Early Childhood Development by the South Carolina State Board of Education. While completing her degree, Misty volunteered in Greenville County classrooms, as well as led weekly classroom reading programs. She has worked in Kindergarten classrooms at both Brushy Creek Elementary and Mountain View Elementary schools. Mrs. White was also an Elementary School Age Children’s Director at a local church, where her responsibilities included, but were not limited to: curriculum development, teaching, and scheduling. Misty has a passion for helping children learn and grow, and she has been a part of the Carolina Prep team since January 2011. Read the Kindergarten blog or email Mrs. White at mwhite@carolinaprepschool.com.
A Note
About Our Board
Carolina Prep is fortunate to have a Board of Directors who come from all walks of life. They are doctors, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and others. They are gifted visionaries and energetic leaders. But first and foremost, they are parents.