Leadership
Meredith Rosenberg
Founder & Executive Director of Southern Raised Learning
Meredith brings more than 40 years of experience as a special educator and holds a Master’s Degree in Special Education along with Georgia teaching certification. Throughout her career, she has taught students from preschool through high school, as well as adults, in both public and private school settings. Her philosophy has always centered on recognizing each learner’s unique strengths and using those strengths as the foundation for growth.
While Meredith previously served in the classroom on a daily basis, she now focuses her time and energy on her role as Executive Director. In this capacity, she leads the vision and direction of Southern Raised Learning, supports and mentors faculty, develops programming, and works to ensure that every classroom reflects the school’s mission and values. Meredith is passionate about equipping and empowering educators so they can confidently guide the next generation of learners.
Her leadership continues to shape a school culture rooted in compassion, high expectations, individualized learning and small-group instruction, and joyful learning.
Lisa Christopher
Assistant Principal / Vocational Director
Lisa Christopher serves as the Assistant Principal and Vocational Director at Southern Raised Learning. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education from Valdosta State University and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Nova Southeastern University. She brings extensive experience working with students from preschool through high school as well as adult learners. Her educational philosophy focuses on recognizing each learner’s unique strengths and using those strengths as the foundation for growth.
In her leadership role, she supports school programming, mentors faculty, and helps ensure classrooms reflect the school’s mission of individualized learning and student success. Her work emphasizes compassion, high expectations, individualized instruction, and joyful learning.
Lisa is especially passionate about helping students develop confidence, independence, and life skills that prepare them for meaningful futures.
Jaqueline Jennings
Office Administrator
Jaqueline brings a diverse and accomplished professional background to Southern Raised Learning. She previously worked as a paralegal, served with a German company in New York City, and gained experience in the international tax department of one of the world’s leading audit firms. Her organizational expertise and attention to detail provide valuable support to the school’s daily operations.
In addition to her professional career, Jaqueline has devoted more than 15 years to volunteer service in church-based children’s ministries, reflecting her longstanding passion for supporting and encouraging young people. At Southern Raised Learning, she is able to combine her administrative experience with her heart for children, helping to create a welcoming and well-organized environment for students, families, and staff.
Outside of her role at SRL, Jaqueline enjoys spending quality time with her husband and their two children.
Faculty & Staff
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Erica Neal
Primary Teacher
Erica holds a degree in Elementary Education from Eastern Michigan University and has experience in both general and special education. While living in California, where her husband served in the United States Marine Corps, she taught kindergarten and discovered her passion for helping young learners grow academically and personally.
As the Primary Teacher at Southern Raised Learning, Erica creates a welcoming, supportive classroom where every child feels valued and encouraged. She partners closely with families and focuses on helping students build confidence, curiosity, and a genuine love of learning.
After two years at home with her daughter, Erica is thrilled to return to the classroom. Outside of school, she enjoys exploring the area and making memories with her family.
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Aubrey Ray
Lower Elementary Teacher
Aubrey holds a degree in Early Childhood and Special Education and began her career with a strong foundation in serving children through church and community programs. Her background reflects her heart for nurturing young learners.
As the Lower Elementary Teacher at Southern Raised Learning, Aubrey creates a safe and supportive classroom where students feel encouraged to explore, grow, and build early academic skills. She emphasizes patience, structure, and positive reinforcement in her teaching approach.
Aubrey is committed to helping each child feel valued and excited about learning.
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Nicholas Miller
Upper Elementary Teacher
Nic holds degrees in Linguistics and English and brings strong communication skills, creativity, and a passion for lifelong learning to his classroom. His background enables him to connect meaningfully with diverse learners while creating engaging and supportive learning experiences.
As the Upper Elementary Teacher at Southern Raised Learning, Nic is dedicated to helping students strengthen their academic skills, build confidence, and develop independence. He believes every child learns differently and strives to create a classroom where students feel encouraged, challenged, and successful.
Nic is currently pursuing his master’s degree in Special Education at the University of West Georgia, furthering his commitment to serving students with diverse learning needs. He also leads the school’s Running Club, encouraging students to develop healthy habits, perseverance, and teamwork both inside and outside the classroom.
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Linda Barkoot
Middle School Teacher
Linda brings more than 30 years of experience in education across a variety of settings. She holds degrees in Early Childhood Education, Curriculum and Instruction, and a Specialist degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment. Her extensive background equips her to support diverse learners with strong academic foundations and thoughtful instructional strategies.
Linda serves as the Middle School Teacher, where she emphasizes building confidence, strengthening academic skills, and fostering positive relationships within the classroom. She is committed to meeting students where they are and helping them grow through encouragement, structure, and individualized support.
Linda values lifelong learning and believes meaningful relationships are central to student success.
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Camille Jammes
Highschool Teacher
Camille brings more than 16 years of experience in special education and holds certifications in both general and special education. Her expertise in differentiated instruction allows her to effectively support students with diverse learning profiles.
Camille teaches high school students, focusing on individualized instruction and skill development that prepares students for continued academic and personal success. She is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where students feel supported, capable, and valued.
Camille believes strong relationships and high expectations are key components of meaningful growth.
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Tina Lake
Instructional Paraprofessional
Tina transitioned into education after a career in communications and public relations, bringing strong organizational and interpersonal skills to her role. Her professional background supports her ability to collaborate effectively within the school community.
At Southern Raised Learning, Tina serves as an Instructional Paraprofessional, providing individualized support to students and assisting teachers in maintaining a structured and encouraging learning environment. She is dedicated to fostering confidence and growth in every student she supports.
Outside of school, Tina enjoys traveling and spending time outdoors with her family.
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Paula Baizabal
Vocational Paraprofessional
Paula brings experience from her work with the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services and her volunteer involvement in vocational classrooms. Her background reflects her dedication to supporting families and helping students develop life skills.
Paula serves as a Vocational Paraprofessional, assisting students in building practical skills and confidence for life beyond the classroom. She values structure, encouragement, and meaningful preparation for independence.
Paula is passionate about helping students recognize their abilities and potential.
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Jim Bridgeman
Instructional Paraprofessional
Jim comes to Southern Raised Learning with nearly 10 years of experience working with children from K-5, but the path that led him here was less than typical.
After a career as an air traffic controller, he began to volunteer at the elementary school his now adult aged children had attended. What began as about 5 hours a week quickly morphed into 15-20 hours a week for over 8 years. Jim spent the majority of that time working as a paraprofessional. He taught across all grade levels, both individually and in small groups, with a focus predominately on reading and math support. He strives to help all students believe they are capable of accomplishing difficult things in order to help them reach their maximum potential.
Jim lives in Fayetteville with his wife, Debbie, and two dogs.
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Ana Dean
Primary Paraprofessional
Ana began her work with children in a Montessori setting and has continued serving students through years of hands-on classroom experience. Her background reflects her appreciation for individualized learning and development.
Ana provides support to primary students, helping maintain a nurturing and organized classroom environment. She is known for her patience, warmth, and attentiveness to student needs.
Ana lives in Fayetteville with her family and enjoys spending time outdoors and connecting with nature.
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Tammy Callaway
Lower Elementary Paraprofessional
& After School Program
Tammy has more than 20 years of experience in special education and is a Fayette County native. Her long-standing involvement in the community reflects her dedication to serving local families.
Tammy supports lower elementary students and contributes to the After School Program, helping create a structured and caring environment for learning and enrichment. She focuses on building trust, promoting positive behavior, and encouraging steady academic growth.
Tammy is passionate about guiding students as they develop socially and academically.
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Hanna Free
Primary Paraprofessional
Hanna brings experience in both teaching and pediatric dental care, where she developed a strong passion for working with children.
Hanna supports primary students by assisting with instruction and reinforcing positive classroom routines. She values patience, structure, and encouraging student confidence.
A Fayette County native, Hanna lives on a farm and enjoys animals, hand embroidery, and visits to the beach.
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Beth Dickens
Middle School Paraprofessional
Beth brings 30 years of teaching experience across multiple states, providing her with a broad perspective on instructional strategies and student support.
Beth supports middle school students by meeting them at their level of need and helping them develop practical academic and life skills. She emphasizes independence, responsibility, and preparation for adulthood.
Beth enjoys reading, spending time with family, and cheering on her favorite college team.
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Sharon Gheen
Instructional Paraprofessional
Sharon is a licensed educator with extensive experience working with diverse learners. After relocating from North Carolina, she returned to education to continue serving students’ academic and developmental needs.
Sharon supports classroom instruction and provides individualized assistance to students, helping create a steady and structured learning environment. She values consistency, compassion, and skill-building.
Outside of school, Sharon enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time with family.
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Lynn Harrison
Art Teacher
Lynn holds a background in human growth and development and classroom instruction, bringing both creative and developmental insight to her work.
As the Art Teacher at Southern Raised Learning, Lynn provides opportunities for students to express themselves through creative exploration. She believes artistic expression supports confidence, emotional growth, and overall well-being.
Lynn is active in her community and enjoys supporting her children’s activities and local events.
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Michael Dwyer
Music Teacher
Michael is a board-certified music therapist with degrees in World Arts and Cultures and Music Therapy. His background combines artistic performance with therapeutic application.
At Southern Raised Learning, Michael provides music instruction that supports both creative expression and developmental growth. He believes music can be a powerful tool for connection, communication, and confidence-building.
Originally from New York, Michael now lives and works in Georgia as both a teacher and performing musician.
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Heather Allen
Physical Education Teacher
Heather holds a degree in Health and Physical Education and has extensive experience teaching and coaching in Fayette County.
As the Physical Education Teacher at Southern Raised Learning, Heather promotes physical wellness, teamwork, and confidence through structured and engaging activities. She encourages students to develop healthy habits that support lifelong fitness.
Heather brings energy, enthusiasm, and a commitment to positive growth into every class she leads.