Faculty & Staff

Hi! I'm MaKaiyah Amberson, and I'm so excited to be stepping into my new role as the Accounting Director at Hope Christian Academy this year! I'm thankful to continue serving our school while also being the Head Cheer Coach, which has quickly become one of my favorite parts of being at HCA. I love getting to build relationships, encourage our students, and be part of a community that points them toward Christ every day. When I'm not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going on walks, and reading. I'm so thankful to be part of the Hope Christian Academy family and can't wait to see what God has in store this year.

Go Saints!

My name is Courtney Arnold. I graduated from Shades Valley High School in Irondale, AL, then went on to get a bachelor’s degree at Jacksonville State University. While at JSU I was a Marching Ballerina with the Marching Southerners for five seasons. My husband Jared is an attorney, and we have three beautiful girls who also go to HCA - Madelyn will be in 10th grade, Myla will be in 7th, and Meredith will be in 5th. This will be my sixth year teaching, and I am very excited and blessed to be teaching at HCA!
 

My name is Amy Atkins. I grew up in Opelika, AL and currently reside in Pell City. I have a Masters degree in elementary education and interdisciplinary studies. I have a passion for teaching young minds. I love art and music. I plan to teach using these tools. I have a wonderful family. I've been married 19 years. I have 2 wonderful children! A 16-year-old son who I am very proud of! He is on the drumline and he has a tremendous calling on his life to be an evangelism leadership since he was 7-years-old. I have a beautiful daughter who is 9-years-old and does dances at our church for the Lord. I am so blessed! I am so excited to teach here at HCA!! It is a dream come true for me!!! HCA is a wonderful school!!! I am truly thankful to the Lord to be a part of it. 

I am Tonya Badgett and this is my 26th year in education. I have a Bachelor of Music degree and a Master's of Science degree in Elementary Education from Jacksonville State University.  In January 2026, I retired from Calhoun County Schools where I taught general elementary education for 12 yrs, 1 year in an alternative education program, and 12 years as an elementary music teacher in several schools in the Calhoun County School District.  Although I love teaching in the general education classroom, I know God created me to teach music to elementary children.  I am passionate about inspiring children to develop an understanding of music and how God can use it in their lives. Psalm 96;1 says "Sing a new song to the Lord! Let the whole earth sing to the Lord!" I want to teach children a song they can use to glorify His name.  When I am not teaching, I am spending time with my daughter, Julia, who is a student at Jacksonville State University, and Jill, who is a senior at Hope Christian Academy. I am so excited to be a part of Hope Christian Academy!!
 

Hello, my name is Kimberly Carter. I am a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and consider it a privilege to serve children in a Christ-centered educational environment. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve children and families at HCA. 

I am a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) and earned my Bachelor of Social Work degree from Jacksonville State University and my Master of Social Work degree from The University of Alabama. During my graduate studies, I was honored to be one of eighteen students selected to take part in a specialized internship program in Washington, D.C., through The University of Alabama. This experience offered valuable opportunities to work with children and families preparing to open their homes through foster care.

My earlier career experiences have led me to serve in a variety of roles, including Head Start, preschool and daycare programs, pre-K administration, substitute teaching, church summer camps, and social work services for children and families. Most of my career has involved working with children aged newborn to thirteen.
I am married to James Carter, and together we share five wonderful children and ten precious grandchildren. We live in Cleburne County, Alabama, and cherish spending time with our family. I am grateful for the opportunity to partner with families in nurturing each child's academic growth, Christian faith, and personal development as they begin their educational journey.

Favorite Verse
"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it." — Proverbs 22:6

Bio coming soon!

Hello, I am Mrs. Ginger Crowe. I am very blessed to teach. I have been
teaching since 2006. I have taught grades K2 - Kindergarten. Teaching is a
passion for me. I love spending my days with Gods little children. Christian
education is an essential foundation that I believe every child should have. My
favorite subjects are Bible and reading. I am a graduate of Gadsden State
Community College with an Associate in Applied Science Child Development.
I was born in Anniston and grew up in Weaver and Heflin, Alabama. I am
married to Sonny Crowe; we live in White Plains. We have two children and
four grandchildren. Spending time with my family making memories together
is a treasure and nothing can replace those memories. I also love to fish and
enjoy time at our creek and going to the beach.
I am a member of New Hope Ministries International church. I have a
wonderful church family. My favorite Bible verse is John 3:16.
I am extremely excited for this journey to teach at Hope Christian Academy.
Each year teaching is a new adventure and a treasure to have students who
become a class family. We will make memories together as we grow during
the year. I am looking forward to every adventure and treasured memories
made here at Hope Christian Academy!

Psalm 127:3 Children are a blessing and a gift from the Lord.

Mrs. Heather Davis is a passionate and dedicated educator who strives to create a classroom culture that is supportive, encouraging, engaging, and one that provides a creatively empowering environment for all students. Along with her love for education she holds a bachelor’s degree in integrated studies with a concentration in Education and English Literature from Jacksonville State University, where she is currently pursuing her master’s degree in English Literature.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Mrs. Davis has always put God first in everything. She has served in the church faithfully for over 25 years at her home church, where she has held leadership roles as a youth leader and worship leader. Her commitment to positive mentorship and spiritual development reflects her deep belief that students should be encouraged daily and supported always.

Mrs. Davis is also a proud wife and mother of five amazing children, and she brings the same energy, compassion, and creativity to her family life that she brings to her work in the classroom and in her ministry.

1 Thessalonians 5:11: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing” 

Hey there! I’m Chase Farley, and I am so excited to teach at Hope Christian Academy! I graduated with my bachelors degree in Public Relations from Jacksonville State University. After graduating, I moved to North Carolina with my husband, and we have two daughters who make our hearts shine with their imagination and the love they share. I graduated with my Masters in Teaching from University of North Carolina Wilmington and taught second and third grades in Jacksonville, North Carolina. In my classroom, I strive to make learning fun, inclusive, and equitable for all my students. I believe that every student deserves a safe place to learn and grow, and I can’t wait to share this experience with my students.

My name is Deshila Gowan. I grew up in a small town in Iowa and moved here two years ago. My family and I now currently reside in Weaver. My husband and I have been blessed with two wonderful boys. Our oldest plays baseball and soccer and our youngest was just born in April. I have my Bachelors degree in elementary education and middle level education. I am excited to begin my journey here at HCA. I am so blessed that the Lord has shown me where I am supposed to be in my teaching journey. Go Saints!

My name is Kevin Hamrick. I have been married to my wife, Brittney for 16 years. We have two girls Arabella (12) and Madelyn (6). We have two dogs, Chloe and Myla and an outside cat, Tigger and several fish. I have been a sports official for 13 years, in which I officiate youth, junior high, junior varsity, and varsity games. I am an Alabama and an Atlanta Braves fan. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, my church family, close friends, and I enjoy watching sports. My family and I are members at Life Worship Center in Anniston, Alabama. I was a substitute teacher in the Calhoun, Cleburne, and Jacksonville City School Systems. I have a Bachelors Degree from JSU, and I am currently enrolled at JSU working on my Master’s in Education. I will be teaching 7th Grade Science (athletes), 7th Grade English, 8th Grade Math, and 9th Grade Science this year. I am excited to be part of the Hope Christian Academy family, and I look forward to working with the students, staff, and families here.

GO SAINTS!!!
 

Bio coming soon!

Glori Whitaker Hart is a dedicated High School Math and STEM instructor with a talent for inspiring curiosity and critical thinking in her students. Holding AS, BS, and MS degrees, she expertly integrates her knowledge of environmental and geographical mathematics, spatial data analysis, and GIS into engaging lessons that bridge theory and real-world applications. Passionate about earth’s natural systems, particularly climate and weather, she draws inspiration from her interests in archaeology, global travel, and cultural studies to provide foundations for those real-world applications from within the classroom. She also enjoys gaming, using it as a fun way to connect with her students. An active member of Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church in Anniston, Glori brings warmth, professionalism, and a commitment to fostering transformative experiences for her students. 

Mr. Eric Hawkins serves as a History and Social Sciences instructor at Hope
Christian Academy, where he teaches courses including U.S. History, World History,
Geography, and other social science disciplines. He is passionate about helping
students understand the hand of God throughout history while developing critical
thinking skills that prepare them for college, careers, and Christian service.
A native of Oxford, Alabama, Mr. Hawkins graduated from Oxford High School
before earning an Associate of Science degree from Central Alabama Community
College, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in
Integrated Studies with Honors from Jacksonville State University and completed a
Master of Arts in History at Jacksonville State University. In addition, he has earned
university micro-credentials in both Teaching College U.S. History and Teaching College
World History.
Before entering education, Mr. Hawkins served his country in the United States
Army as a Military Police Sergeant. During his military career, he was stationed in Korea
and deployed in support of operations in Djibouti, Kosovo, Qatar, and Iraq. Following his
military service, he served with the Talladega Police Department as a Patrol Officer,
SWAT Team member, Field Training Officer, and Field Training Officer Instructor. These
experiences continue to influence his teaching by providing students with real-world
perspectives on leadership, citizenship, government, and history.
Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins joined the Hope Christian Academy family approximately six
months before the school’s doors officially opened in 2023. During those early months,
they worked alongside other founding faculty members to prepare classrooms and
learning spaces, organize instructional materials, and help transform an empty campus
into a welcoming environment where students could learn, grow, and thrive. As
members of the school’s founding faculty, they have had the privilege of witnessing
HCA’s growth from its earliest days into the thriving Christian school community it is
today.
Mr. Hawkins believes that history is far more than memorizing dates and events. His
classroom emphasizes historical thinking, critical analysis, contextualization, continuity
and change over time, and the development of sound arguments supported by
evidence. He strives to make history relevant and engaging by helping students connect
the lessons of the past to the challenges of the present.

A lifelong learner and avid reader, Mr. Hawkins is also a published historian. His
master’s thesis, In the Hull of the USS Disregard, has been widely downloaded through
Jacksonville State University’s Digital Commons and reflects his passion for historical
research and scholarship.
Beyond the classroom, Mr. Hawkins has served as the voice of Saints athletics since
Hope Christian Academy’s very first athletic event. As the press box announcer for HCA
athletics, he enjoys supporting student-athletes and contributing to the sense of
community that makes Christian education unique.
Mr. Hawkins and his wife, Wendy, are committed to Christian education and helping
students develop both academically and spiritually. Together they have dedicated their
lives to serving young people and encouraging them to pursue God’s calling for their
lives.
When he is not teaching, Mr. Hawkins enjoys reading, historical research, visiting
historical sites, spending time with family, and serving in ministry at his local church.

Mrs. Wendy Hawkins is originally from Talladega and a graduate of Talladega High School. She lives in Oxford and is married to Eric Hawkins, who is our Secondary History Teacher and a Senior at Jacksonville State University. They are the proud parents of a daughter, Kadi, who is a student, also at JSU, double majoring in Forensic Investigations and Cellular and Molecular Biology. 

Mrs. Hawkins is passionate about teaching and learning. She has an enthusiastic personality and truly loves working with and helping others. Her goal in the classroom is to provide a positive learning environment and assist students in discovering their unique writing style while learning how to properly use the mechanics of grammar and rhetoric. Her goal for all students is effective communication when speaking and writing. Aside from writing, she has a love for Literature, and this is where her appreciation for History plays a major role in her lessons. With looking at the historical value of a work, her students can analyze the author, his or her intentions within the piece of writing, and the plot more in depth. 

Mrs. Hawkins attended Jacksonville State University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in History. While working on her Master of Arts in English, she worked with the Learning Skills Department at JSU and began adjunct teaching for Central Alabama Community College. She has taught English, Literature, and Orientation courses for CACC since 2007, and she remains as one of their adjunct instructors. Mrs. Hawkins has also worked for Gadsden State Community College, and she taught English, Business and Technical Writing, and History courses, served as an English teacher with the GSCC Upward Bound Program, and served as an Academic and Transfer Advisor with GSCC Student Support Services where she offered seminars and presentations on life skills, including Finance and Etiquette. While teaching, she returned to Jacksonville State University and earned her Graduate Studies Certification in History, where she concentrated in African American and Southern History.

During her years of teaching and working on furthering her education and experience, she has also taught for and assisted in Grant writing for the Talladega College Upward Bound Program and taught Spanish for Victory Christian School.  While teaching, Mrs. Hawkins wanted to learn more and explore another passion, and that is her love for God and ministry. She participated in several semesters of courses and completed a Biblical Studies Certification through Samford University’s Ministry Training Institute. 

In addition to her education and experience in the classroom and with students, she and her husband and daughter have participated in living history events across the state. Mrs. Hawkins has a few publications which contribute to her resume, and she is currently working on a Christian Historical Non-Fiction book about a World War II Prisoner of War and Veteran and serving as an Editor for a Christian Children’s book. 

Mrs. Hawkins loves to share the Word, and she refers to many Scriptures in her daily walk, which is Isaiah 41:10, “Fear not, for I am with you. Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, and I will help you. I will uphold you with my Righteous right hand.” This reminder is displayed in her home where she, her family, and all who visit can see it. 

My name is Savannah Johns. I am the Elementary School Nurse here at Hope Christian Academy. I am a Registered Nurse, with an Associate’s degree from Gadsden State Community College. I have been married to my husband, Jonathan, for three years now and we are about to welcome our first baby boy, Elliot, into the world! I am so excited to be here at Hope Christian and so blessed with the ability to help and care for your children. This opportunity has been the biggest blessing for me and my family, and I can’t wait to be a part of the Hope family!

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

Mrs. Julie Johnson is serving as the Kindergarten Teacher at Hope Christian Academy. She has served in a variety of educational settings including public, private, and the homeschool community over the past twenty years. Mrs. Johnson has a servant’s heart and such a sweet personality that is welcoming and brings a smile to those in her presence. She has a God given talent and passion for working with the young children, and her approach and personality are both calming and enthusiastic!

Her experience, while mostly in preschool through third grade, has also included elementary through adult education. Having operated a professional tutoring ministry has afforded Mrs. Johnson with many unique opportunities and experiences. These include combination classes, foster parenting, mentoring younger teachers and women, leading women's Bible studies, running an online used curriculum store, and various other experiences. She has a strong working knowledge of the Abeka curriculum, and she brings additional and interactive lessons for her students. 

Mrs. Johnson graduated from Jacksonville State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education. She holds certificates in both Early Childhood and Elementary Education. She has completed Master’s courses with the University of Phoenix in Diagnostics. Along with these accomplishments, Mrs. Johnson has the equivalent of an Associates in Business degree from Gadsden State Community College. 

Mrs. Johnson is the wife of Reverend Steve Johnson, who has served as the pastor of Cheaha Baptist church for the past seventeen years. Therefore, she has taken on and volunteered in various roles within her church over these years, which include her serving as a Sunday School teacher, a Children's Church teacher, working as the Vacation Bible School Directory, and serving alongside her husband with a passion and dedication to God and His kingdom. This has also afforded her the opportunity to serve on and work with multiple committees, such as the financial, publicity, and planning committees.
Mrs. Johnson and Reverend Johnson have been married for thirty-seven years, and they are blessed with two wonderful grown and married children and three biological grandchildren. Through the ministry and with God’s blessings, Mrs. Johnson says that she has many spiritual children and grandchildren.

Mrs. Johnson believes her experiences have been varied and unique due to her desire to serve wherever the Lord leads. She believes in growing where God plants her, and she is excited and blessed by her position at HCA.

Bio Coming Soon!

Morgan McMillan is thrilled to join the HCA family as a fourth-grade teacher. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology from Auburn University before attending Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry, where she developed a heart for discipleship and helping others recognize God's voice and purpose for their lives. Morgan is passionate about creating a classroom that inspires curiosity, cultivates wonder, and encourages students to grow in wisdom, character, and faith. Outside the classroom, she enjoys serving at Church of the Highlands, spending time with her family, and scuba diving every chance she gets.

Bio coming soon!

Bio coming soon!

Bio Coming Soon!

Hello! My name is April Noel and I am excited to be joining Hope Christian Academy. I have been teaching for 30 years and truly love helping students learn and grow. After retiring, I felt God leading me back into the classroom, and I am thankful He has placed me here. I have been married to my husband for 27 years, and together we have 3 children and 4 wonderful grandchildren. Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and I am truly excited to meet my students and begin this new journey together!

My name is Matthew Pfledderer, and I am excited to join the HCA faculty this year teaching 7th and 8th-grade World History and assisting with the football program.
I graduated from Columbus State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Physical Education, where I also served as a two-year track and field team captain. My passion for athletics began at Piedmont High School, where I was fortunate to win two football state championships and set the school record in the pole vault. After college, I had the privilege of coaching the pole vaulters at Columbus State, leading them to a conference championship title.
I am incredibly excited to bring my academic and athletic experience to HCA, and I look forward to being a part of something great!

Jeri Pledger is so excited to be a part of the HCA family. Jeri has a heart for children and is excited to help mold them into who God has created them to be. Jeri and her husband Josh are members of Lighthouse Church. Jeri has faithfully served in this ministry for the past three years. She is currently enrolled in Andersonville Theological Seminary pursuing her degree. She is so thankful that at HCA she will be able to incorporate biblical teaching to these young and precious minds. Outside of her teaching duties, Jeri enjoys several outdoors activities, gardening, serving in church and spending time with her family. She finds joy in spreading the love of Jesus in all areas of her life. With her unwavering faith and dedication she is extremely grateful for the opportunity that God has placed before her and looks forward to leaving a Godly impression on the lives of these children.

Bio coming soon!

Mrs. Kennedy Stone is a dedicated and welcoming professional who is passionate about serving the students, families, and staff of Hope Christian Academy. As the Front Office Manager, she strives to create a positive, organized, and supportive environment while ensuring the day-to-day operations of the school run smoothly. Her friendly personality, strong organizational skills, and commitment to excellence make her a valued member of the HCA community.

Outside of work, Mrs. Stone enjoys reading, traveling, attending sporting events, and spending time with her family. She is married to Mr. Chris Stone and lives in Anniston with their great dane Luna.

Mrs. Stone believes in the power of Christian education to shape lives and is honored to support the mission of Hope Christian Academy by serving students, families, and faculty each day. In addition to her role in the front office, she serves as the Assistant Cheer Coach, where she combines her passion for cheerleading with a commitment to mentoring young athletes and developing character, leadership, and school spirit.

Bio coming soon!

Hi! I’m Savannah Thompson, and I feel incredibly blessed to be part of the Hope Christian Academy family. My husband is Coach Thompson, and together we have two wonderful children, Kendrix and Kiri, who keep life full of joy. I’m currently a student at GCU, and I’ve had a passion for working with children since my teenage years. I truly can’t imagine doing anything else. HCA has become such a special part of our family’s life, and I’m thankful for the opportunity to love, encourage, and help each child grow in a Christ-centered environment.

My name is TJ Thompson and I will be teaching 5th and 6th grade at Hope Christian Academy. I am currently attending Jacksonville State University. Where I am obtaining a degree in Integrated Studies. I will graduate from Jacksonville State this summer on August 4th. Upon graduation I will go back and work on receiving my Master’s in Education. I’ve had an amazing support system through this, from my mother who is a teacher at Donoho, my two sisters, one who just graduated from the University of Alabama, and most importantly from my soon to be 2-year-old daughter Kiri James. I am also the boys’ basketball coach and will be coaching that when the season comes around. I have plenty of experience in both areas, from student teaching and internship courses through Jacksonville State in addition to years of being an assistant coach and head coach of various sports.

Teaching children no matter the age has always been my ministry. There is no greater feeling than to be able to see a child reach his or her full potential. Whether that be in the classroom or on the playing field. My goal at Hope Christian is to not only inspire children to be their best but, to be their best in everything they while knowing and understanding the love of Jesus Christ has for them. 

My name is Caitlin Uptain, and I am excited to serve as a Pre-K teacher at HCA. My husband, Gary, and I have three children—Lawson, Holland, and Watson—all of whom attend HCA. Gary serves as the youth pastor at Edgewood Church in Anniston, where our family enjoys serving and sharing the love of Christ with students. Before joining the Pre-K classroom, I had the opportunity to substitute teach at HCA and teach high school math. Those experiences gave me an appreciation for our school’s Christ-centered mission and the unique needs of students at every stage. I have a passion for creating hands-on learning experiences that help children grow academically, socially, and spiritually. I look forward to partnering with families in their children’s journey here at Hope Christian Academy. Go Saints!

Hello! My name is Mrs. Kristyn Weston, and I am excited to be in my fourth year of teaching. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and my Master’s degree in Elementary Education, and I am passionate about helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally.

Outside of the classroom, I am happily married to my husband, Todd, and together we have a fun-loving 3-year-old daughter named Rosie. As a family, we enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling, and cheering on our favorite teams at baseball games.

I look forward to partnering with families to make this school year a positive, engaging, and successful experience for every student!

Bio coming soon!