Meet The Difference Makers

Mandy started The Grove School in 2019 and is honored to be a part of God's plan. Mandy has a passion for seeing students' lives changed through the power of education and God's amazing love. She has over 25 years of experience in many areas in the field of education. 

Carol is an amazing educator. She strives to make learning innovative and engaging. She is nationally known as a creative leader in the field of education. She loves to form relationships with each of her students to best guide them in their growth. She has over 30 years experience in the field of education.

Lydia is a lifelong learner and enjoys sharing her faith as she teaches at The Grove. Lydia grew up in a large family where teaching her younger siblings was the norm which is what inspired her love of teaching. Her over 38 years of experience  makes her an expert in her field. 

Shantel is a two time graduate of Samford with a Bachelor’s Degree in History with Spanish & Geography minors and a Master’s of Education Degree with a concentration in Social Studies. She came to The Grove with a desire to see the lives of students transformed, not solely through education, but by a true relationship with Jesus Christ. She has several years of ministry experience and is married to Trey Johnson (Mr. J) who mentors our male students. 

Rita and her husband, Mark, are both retired teachers. Rita has over 25 years of varied teaching experiences in both public and private settings. Her passion is in guiding children to become successful readers and to love God’s Word. 

RoseAnn has over 30 years experience in the special education classroom. RoseAnn is excited to help students one on one with their learning needs. 

Stan has traveled and shared the stage with some of the biggest names in the industry. Currently, he oversees the Genesis School of Music & Worship Arts, in Birmingham, AL, as well as the Exodus Group, a coaching and mentoring program for worship pastors and leaders.  Stan's passion is helping students love music and use it as an honor to God. 

Birki is a retired kindergarten teacher with many years of teaching experience. She loves helping kindergarten learn to navigate this beautiful world that God has created. Birki retired and is an amazing volunteer for The Grove helping our youngest students with their reading, writing, and math.