Christi Crittenden | Executive Director
University of Alabama - B.A. in Psychology |
Christi has a diversity of experience in early childhood education including board leadership, serving as an Executive director for multiple programs and as teacher. She is passionate about children, her family and her faith. She brings a strength of business management coupled with a deep desire to encourage families as they navigate the early years of childhood. She has a B.A. in Psychology from the University of Alabama (Huntsville) with a minor in math. As well as being a member of Rotary International and The Chamber of Commerce (The Voice of Business Committee), Christi has volunteered for many other organizations including serving as the Chair for numerous committees.
She and her husband Tom have been married for over 30 years. They have four children and two rambunctious pups! "In an ideal world, children and adults should always be learning and growing. In the course of opening Anna's House, I have found myself learning more than I ever imagined. We need to respect the process of learning in all individuals and model this to our children if we are going to change the world. We joy in doing this here at Anna's House!" |
Anna’s House is our child’s educational home, and all of the parents feel that our voices are heard, our values are appreciated, and that our families have come together to form an amazing community."
- Gessner Harrison
Caryn Utz | Pre-School Teacher
Marymount University - Bachelors of Arts |
Ms. Caryn is a former Virginia State licensed childcare provider from Northern Virginia and is experienced with infants through school age children. She has a Bachelors of Arts from Marymount University in Arlington, VA and over 20 years of experience in childcare and continuing education. In 2019, she moved to Staunton, VA and has worked for several families in the area as a traveling nanny and a POD teacher during the pandemic. She also worked for several preschools in the area as a substitute and floater in her available hours, including the Augusta County Head Start program.
Caryn is currently working towards a formal certification in early childhood development. Her philosophy towards early childhood is that it is the most important age. She is very passionate about unlicensed childcare issues. She believes that the school family is something great to build on to gain trust, love and respect from the children. She has enjoyed making lifelong friends throughout this journey. Caryn encourages children in getting enough time for play and nature. When the two come together, it's perfect! Learning is happening all the time. She also believes in big hugs. Taking care of children is her choice and she enjoys caring for kids and watching them grow. Caryn is married with two daughters; Auggie, a student at Longwood University, majoring in elementary and middle school education with a specialization in science and art, and Abigail, who attends Staunton High and is involved with the band, drama, and cheer. Both Auggie and Abi assisted with Anna’s House Summer Camp 2022. She loves to take long drives with her husband on less traveled roads, collecting spring water, spotting wildlife and chasing sunsets. They have a variety of animals in their home including four furry foster fail cats, one spoiled little bunny, a fast tiny hamster and a very old hermit crab from an impromptu rescue along the boardwalk of Ocean City, MD. |
Ms. Caryn is an incredibly caring, patient, and committed educator who goes above and beyond for her students (and their families). She skillfully weaves her knowledge of childhood development into her teaching in a way that not only inspires curiosity and a love of learning, but also facilitates the development of social skills and life skills. She is adept at meeting each child where they are and addressing their individual needs. Her students adore her, and parents know the children in her classroom are both cared for and learning new concepts and skills every single day. Ms. Caryn knows that young minds are ready to absorb a whole lot, and she is committed to helping them reach their full potential.
Cora Leigh Clark | Pre-K Teacher/Spanish Teacher
Bachelors of Spanish Bachelors of Arts Management with concentration in Music |
Hello! My name is Cora Leigh Clark, but children usually call me Ms. Cora Leigh. I have had quite a varied teaching career. My husband was in the US Army for 23 years, so our family moved regularly and often. I began teaching Spanish to middle and high school students in a couple of different places. After our first daughter was born, I switched to preschool, first as a music teacher and then as a Pre-K teacher and I’ve never looked back! I believe very strongly in the fun of learning and that every child can learn, in their own time.
My husband, Lee, and I have 2 daughters, Porter Grace and Savannah Faith. We also have 2 dogs, a cat and a turtle-there’s never a quiet moment at our house! |
Ms. Cora Leigh is an extraordinary educator whose passion for teaching radiates in every interaction with her students (and parents). With a wealth of experience and a diverse repertoire of teaching strategies, she effortlessly connects with each young student, guiding them on their unique learning journey. Beyond the classroom, her spirit extends to offering invaluable parenting advice, a testament to the trust and admiration she inspires in families. Ms. Cora Leigh embodies the essence of a dedicated teacher, seamlessly blending expertise with genuine care.
- Mandy Drumheller
Carolyn Holland | Kindergarten Teacher
James Madison University - Degree in Early Childhood Education |
What an exciting teaching career I am having and it keeps getting better! I started teaching first grade at Keister Elementary School. This was so rewarding because I student taught at Keister and loved the school community! After 7 years at Keister our family moved to Augusta Co. Virginia where I was blessed to teach second grade at Cassell Elementary. The following year, there was an opening at Riverheads Elementary where my 3 children attended. I was thrilled to be at such an excellent school, and to teach so close to home. While at Riverheads, I taught kindergarten, third grade, and fourth grade. When we moved to Staunton in 2015, I transferred to Verona Elementary where I taught second grade. After 30 years of teaching I decided to retire.
After retiring it wasn’t long before I was really missing the students and being in the classroom! This is when I joined the Stuart Hall Community substituting and helping out with Dragon’s Den. I was later hired to teach kindergarten at Stuart Hall and loved every second of this amazing school! I am so excited to continue my teaching career in our new facility at Anna’s House! |
Dedicated teacher who gives great feedback and expects her students to work hard but the positive love she gives back is twice as great! Any student is lucky to have her ️ and will be better leaving her class
- April Pannell
James Balser | 1st Grade Teacher, After School Director & Summer Camp Director
James Madison University - Master's in Early Childhood Education, Bachelor's in Music |
Hello Everybody! My name is James Balser and I am the First Grade Teacher here at Anna’s House School. I have two degrees in education: a bachelors degree in music education from Bridgewater College and my Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education from James Madison University. I am blessed in many ways including my wife, Julia, my daughter, Penelope and my loving family and community! I always look forward to teaching at Anna’s House School and as always “let’s make it a great year!” |
Mr. B is a compassionate, gentle soul. His approach to teaching instills confidence in his students. He successfully tailors his lessons to meet their individual needs. The whole class is empowered to explore the world and grow.
I’m very grateful for his kindness and care. My son’s reading and writing has improved exponentially under James’ tutelage.
Lois Ocheltree | 2nd & 3rd Grade Teacher
James Madison University - BS in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education |
Lois was born and raised in Augusta County and now resides in Churchville, Virginia, with her husband, Dr. John Ocheltree, Jr., where they have lived for many years. They have 6 children. Lois attended Beverley Manor Elementary School and Wilson Memorial High School. Before attending college, Lois worked in banking and thought business was her future. After subbing for a friend at Churchville Elementary, Lois decided she wanted to be a teacher. She embarked on her new career by attending Mary Baldwin College (University) and transferring to James Madison University. She graduated from James Madison University with BS degrees in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education.
Her teaching career began in Augusta County Schools at Riverheads Elementary, where Lois taught 1st grade and 2nd grade. She moved to Churchville Elementary and taught 1st, 2nd, and 4th grades there. She later transferred to Clymore Elementary. Lois transferred to Wilson Elementary to teach 5th grade and then retired from teaching. Retirement was lovely, but after a couple of years, Lois felt like she needed something more. She began working at the Loft in Waynesboro. But teaching is her passion, and she missed working with little people and watching them learn and grow. She is excited to begin her career again and to teach here at Anna’s House. In addition to working and being a wife, mother, grandmother, and now a great-grandmother, Lois has many interests. She is the treasurer of Mission of Harmony (a medical mission group that goes to Honduras twice a year) and is an Augusta County Credit Union board member and serves as the secretary. They attend Jerusalem Chapel United Brethren Church in Churchville, where Lois is a member of the lady's fellowship group and helps with activities at the church. Lois loves to travel, read, shop, and attend sporting events that her grandchildren participate in during the year, as well as watching sporting events on TV (in her spare time). |
Donna Hamric | 4th & 5th Grade Teacher
Virginia Commonwealth University- Bachelors in Elementary Education |
As an educator for many years, Donna’s love for teaching and observing students learning and reaching their full potential gives her a fulfillment of joy. Her teaching career took place in North Carolina and Virginia with experience in kindergarten through eighth grade. She was a remedial reading specialist for 1st-8th grades and a remedial math specialist for 1st-5th grades during her career. Donna also taught regular 1st, 4th, 5th, 6th and 8th grades. Her "sweet spot" is 4th and 5th graders which is what she has been doing for over 20 years in Staunton, Virginia.
She currently lives in Staunton, Virginia and loves this community. Donna is involved in her Church community and loves singing in the choir and also helps on several committees, doing whatever she can to help her church family. Some of her other interests include music, reading, traveling, and playing golf. Most of all she enjoys spending time with her family. She has two sons, a daughter in law, and son in law. She is also blessed with boy/girl twin grandchildren, "the love of Mimi’s life". Donna noted that truly, she is beyond excited to be a part of the staff at Anna’s House. She looks forward to being an integral part of this wonderful school community, helping students become excited in their educational journey in the fourth/fifth grade combination. |
Debra Pitsenbarger | Language Arts Specialist
James Madison University- Bachelors in Early Childhood Education and Masters of Arts in Early Childhood Education, specializing in Reading |
Debbie Pitsenbarger has taught school for 41 years and retired at the end of COVID year 2020. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from James Madison University. And later returned to JMU and received a master’s degree in in Early Childhood Education specializing in Reading. She also has an endorsement in Gifted Education and served many years as the Gifted Coordinator at Riverheads Elementary School.
She taught extended Kindergarten at Valley Elementary School in Bath County and while there was trained in the Gesell method of teaching. Throughout her teaching career, she taught K-2 and 4th grade at Riverheads Elementary School. When the program was departmentalized, she taught 4th grade Reading. She ended her career as a Reading Specialist. Mrs. Pitsenbarger is also trained in the Orton-Gillingham method of reading. Married to her husband, Ray, they live in Churchville. They have two grown children and three grandchildren. Besides enjoying the grandchildren, she likes music, camping, gardening, crafting, and reading. She is also active in her church. Through her many years of experience, she believes all children deserve the best education possible and should grow into the individual God intended them to be. Each child has a gift that needs to be unlocked and explored. She is excited to be helping at Anna’s House and watching the children grow in their Reading knowledge. |
Harvey Almarode | Math Specialist
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As a lifelong teacher and enthusiast of mathematics, Harvey has always enjoyed teaching and sharing lessons, strategies, and techniques in the instruction of mathematics and instructional technology to all who were involved in the education of students and teachers. He taught high school mathematics and computer programming for 17 years for Augusta County Schools and was the Mathematics and Instructional Technology Curriculum Supervisor for the county for another 16 years. Following his retirement from Augusta County Schools in 2005, he was indeed blessed to teach courses in Elementary Mathematics for another 5 years in the College of Education at James Madison University. His experience during these years led him to become involved with mathematics education and instructional technology organizations that afforded him the opportunity to share lessons and strategies at various conferences and staff development sessions. His research while at James Madison University was in the effective utilization of the interactive whiteboard and Brain-based learning. Harvey was invited by SMART Technology to join them as a trainer and conference speaker. In this role he was able to share his expertise as he traveled across the United States and Canada training teachers and administrators in the effective use of SMART boards, Brain Based Learning, and the instruction of Mathematics. Harvey has spoken at three international conferences (ISTE) as well as numerous national, state, and local math conferences as well as technology conferences. He continues to do research in brain-based learning and developing SMART board lessons to share with others. Harvey’s goal is to assist schools with helping teachers to provide the best methods and strategies in the instruction of mathematics, brain-based learning, and the integration of technology.
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LuAnne Leonard | Science Specialist
Penn State - BS in Animal Science |
LuAnn Leonard joined us as Science Specialist for the 4th and 5th class. She has a BS in Animal Science from Penn State. Mrs. Leonard was a National Champion Intercollegiate Equestrian in 1978. She was a Cattle Embryologist from 1979-1990. Mrs. Leonard got her Teaching Certification from Mary Baldwin and taught in Augusta County Schools from 2000 -2023. Her awards while at Augusta County Schools include: Teacher of the Year, Environmental Teacher of the Year ( Soil and Water Conservation Service), Riverheads Elementary School (RES) recognized as A Virginia Naturally School for 10 years, RES Science Fair Lead Teacher, and Trout in the Classroom program leader for 18 years. Ms. Leonard is also a volunteer at the Glenmore Hunt and Pony Club. We are truly lucky to have her at Anna’s House School.
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Stephanie Taylor | Physical Education Teacher
Owner of the local Stretch-n-Grow |
Stephanie is the owner of the local franchise of Stretch-n-Grow, a children’s fitness program. She offers classes at a range of schools across the area for ages 2-12. Her goal is to provide children with physical fitness that involves proper form, motions, and names, while still being fun and exciting for the kids.
She originally worked as a veterinary technician before deciding to switch to a path working with children. When she first started as a part-time coach for Stretch-n-Grow, her goal was to finish out her degree in early childhood education at Mary Baldwin. Of course, that changed when she was offered the chance to buy the business in 2014! She has 2 children of her own, as well as quite a few pets. When she’s not in classes, she enjoys hiking, camping, reading, and catching up on Netflix shows. |
Katie Horst | Technology Teacher
James Madison University - Masters in Educational Technology Eastern Mennonite University - Bachelors in Early Childhood Education |
Katie has spent over a decade teaching technology in elementary schools. Since 2015, she has served as Stuart Hall School’s Director of Technology Integration. She holds an M. Ed. in Educational Technology from James Madison University and a B.A. in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Mennonite University.
She and her husband have two loving children and two cuddly pets. Katie loves to spend her free time being outside, reading, running, and being with her family and friends. Katie is excited to be a part of the Anna’s House family and is looking forward to a marvelous year! |
Greg Moody | Music Teacher
Shenandoah Conservatory at Shenandoah University - Bachelor of Music |
Greg Moody grew up just outside of Staunton. He attended the Shenandoah Conservatory at Shenandoah University, where he earned a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Studies. He has performed with groups such as The Temptations, the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, and Richmond-based Salsa group Bio Ritmo. He performs regularly as a freelance saxophonist and woodwind specialist, and is a member of the Vosbein Magee Big Band. He is also a member of the Queen City Porch Swingers, a traditional New Orleans jazz group based in Staunton. Greg is also a composer of works for concert band and jazz ensemble- one of his recently published works was selected for Bandworld Magazine's prestigious Top 100 list of compositions for 2023.
Greg is the band director at Fishburne Military School; he also serves as the saxophone and guitar instructor and jazz combo director at Mary Baldwin University, and teaches woodwinds and guitar at Valley Music Academy in Waynesboro. Greg lives in Staunton with his wife, Holly, and his daughters, Anne and Claire. |
