Spotlight

Dawn Batts, Principal, Chestnut Grove Elementary School shares her love of books.

"My passion began with my students as a classroom teacher, driven by their growth and success. Now, as Principal, my "why" includes our students, staff, and the community. I’m proud and excited to be part of CGES."

- Dawn Batts, Principal

Welcome Carson Scott to the Chestnut Grove family. Carson will teach 3rd grade.

"I plan to create an engaging learning environment for my students. I want to connect with my students by getting to know them on a personal level. My classroom will be positive and welcoming."

- Carson Scott, 3rd Grade Teacher

Welcome Kim White to the Chestnut Grove family. She is part of the AIM program

"My favorite way to engage and connect is to make it fun. I love finding ways to put a purpose to learning and finding real world applications for the material."

- Kim White, AIM

Welcome Briana Caudle. She will be part of AIM at CGES.

"My main goals are to create a welcoming environment that will contribute to the growth of each student."

- Briana Caudle, AIM

Jacob Tinsley, First Grade Teacher, CGES

"Teaching is more than a job—it’s a calling that shapes futures. Each day brings a chance to inspire, support, and challenge students. By fostering growth and collaboration, we create a lasting impacts on generations."

- Jacob Tinsley, First Grade Teacher

Ruby De La Peña, 2nd grade teacher, CGES

"My path to teaching was unique. As a single mom, I returned to school after a failed marriage, juggling two jobs while maintaining a high GPA to earn scholarships. Now, I share my story with students, showing them that no matter their struggles, they can rise above."

- Ruby De La Peña, Teacher

Andrea Cohn, Reading Specialist, Chestnut Grove Elementary School

"Seeing kids reach their "lightbulb" moment is why I have stayed in this job for almost thirty years. Not all kids blossom at the same time. I try to encourage students to work hard and be the best that he or she can be at all times."

- Andrea Cohn, Reading Coach

Kristi Adams , teacher, Chestnut Grove Elementary School

"My students motivate me. I love watching them discover new information and being able to correct any misconceptions they have about a topic. My coworkers are also a blessing to be around daily!"

- Kristi Adams, Teacher

Emmeline Bishop, Teacher, Chestnut Grove Elem. School

"I want to know my students and their interests and I will also tell my students about me in order to engage and connect positively."

- Emmeline Bishop, Teacher

Maddie Grace Gladden, Teacher, Chestnut Grove Elem. School

"I want my students to know that they have a teacher who loves and cares for them."

- Maddie Grace Gladden, Teacher

Katelyn Duke, Guidance Counselor, CGES

"A smile and eye contact go a long way. I like to keep things fun and interactive."

- Katelyn Duke, Counselor