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 Teacher
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 instruction, and joyful learning.
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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Linda Barkoot
Upper Elementary Classroom 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.
At Southern Raised Learning, Linda serves as the Upper Elementary 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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Kim Heist
Lower Elementary Classroom Teacher
Kim has over a decade of teaching experience in Texas, North Carolina, and Georgia. She holds a degree in Information Systems and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education, bringing both analytical and instructional strengths to her classroom.
As the Lower Elementary Teacher at Southern Raised Learning, Kim creates an engaging and structured learning environment that encourages curiosity and steady academic growth. She is passionate about helping young learners build foundational skills while developing confidence and independence.
Kim enjoys inspiring a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.
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Camille Jammes
Middle/Highschool Classroom 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.
At Southern Raised Learning, Camille teaches middle and 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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Aubrey Ray
Primary Classroom 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 Primary 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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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 Classroom 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.
At Southern Raised Learning, 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 brings nearly a decade of experience supporting students, particularly in reading and math. Before transitioning into education, he worked as an air traffic controller, demonstrating precision, focus, and responsibility in high-demand environments.
At Southern Raised Learning, Jim serves as an Instructional Paraprofessional, offering targeted academic support and helping students build essential skills. He is committed to patient instruction and consistent encouragement.
Jim values steady growth and practical skill development in his work with students.
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Tammy Callaway
Primary Classroom 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.
At Southern Raised Learning, Tammy supports primary 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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Ana Dean
Primary Classroom 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.
At Southern Raised Learning, 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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Beth Dickens
Middle/Highschool Classroom Paraprofessional
Beth brings 30 years of teaching experience across multiple states, providing her with a broad perspective on instructional strategies and student support.
At Southern Raised Learning, Beth supports middle and high 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.
At Southern Raised Learning, 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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Nicholas Miller
Lower Elementary Classroom Paraprofessional
Nic holds degrees in Linguistics and English and brings strong communication skills and creativity to his work in education. His background supports his ability to connect meaningfully with diverse learners.
At Southern Raised Learning, Nic serves as a Lower Elementary Paraprofessional, providing individualized support and helping students build foundational academic skills. He also leads the school’s Running Club, encouraging physical activity and teamwork.
Nic is passionate about fostering confidence, independence, and growth in every student he supports.
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Hanna Smith
Upper Elementary Classroom Paraprofessional
Hanna brings experience in both teaching and pediatric dental care, where she developed a strong passion for working with children.
At Southern Raised Learning, Hanna supports upper elementary 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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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.