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MEET OUR TEAM
Dr. Kathryn DuBray, DSW, LMSW
Co-Founder, Chief Clinical Officer
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As both a Licensed Master Social Worker, and mother of an autistic son, I have experienced firsthand the gaps in traditional education models—the struggle to find a space where children are truly understood, supported, and given the tools to thrive in their own unique ways. My journey as both a parent and a professional has deepened my passion for inclusive education, neurodiversity, and holistic child development. My mission is to bridge the gaps between education and therapeutic support, ensuring that no child is left behind simply because they need something different to succeed.
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I built Anniston Academy to be a safe, supportive, and enriching space for children (and families!) who don’t always fit into or prefer traditional educational molds. I wanted to create a school that:
✅ Honors neurodiversity & different learning styles
✅ Provides built-in therapeutic supports within the school day
✅ Fosters independence, creativity, and self-confidence
✅ Empowers families as partners in their child’s education
✅ Celebrates each child’s unique strengths while providing the tools to navigate challenges.
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I am honored to bring this vision to life through Anniston Academy, and I look forward to building a school where every child—regardless of their learning style, diagnosis, or challenges—feels valued, capable, and set up for lifelong success.
Dr. Erin Crouch Mekkaoui, EdD
Co-Founder, Chief Academic Officer
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As an early childhood educator and mom of two boys, my passion for inclusive, child-centered education is both deeply personal and lifelong.​ I’m a proud Cookeville native with degrees from Tennessee Tech and Carson-Newman, including a Doctorate in Education. I'm licensed to teach PreK–3, Special Education PreK–3, and ESOL K–12. After seven years teaching kindergarten and first grade, I left the classroom and launched a curriculum company focused on providing literacy resources for K–3 educators.
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My journey into education began long before my professional career. My younger brother, Tyler, had autism. Growing up alongside him shaped my understanding of learning, communication, and connection in profound ways. I was the tag-along sibling at many of his appointments and witnessed firsthand how life-changing the right resources and support can be—for both children and their families. Though he has since passed away, his life and legacy continue to guide the heart of everything I do.
​​Throughout my work as a teacher, parent, and educational leader, I’ve seen the challenges families face when schools aren’t designed with neurodiversity in mind. I believe in student-led, hands-on learning experiences that are developmentally appropriate and designed to spark curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. That’s why I wholeheartedly believe in Anniston Academy and its power to reimagine what school can be for students who experience the world differently.
Team
Bluebelle "Birdie" Mekkaoui
Chief of Sass
Birdie may be small, but she’s the undisputed boss of Anniston Academy’s unofficial “Puppy Division.” Affectionately known as our wild child, she bursts into every room with boundless energy, charm, and just the right amount of mischief. When she’s not leading impromptu “zoomie breaks,” Birdie can be found supervising her humans.
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Full of confidence and personality, Birdie thrives on adventure and entertainment.
Her leadership style? Play hard, nap harder. Birdie makes sure our school community never forgets the importance of joy, laughter, and, of course, sass.
Magnolia Mekkaoui
Chief of Cuddles
Magnolia may be the quieter leader of Anniston Academy’s “Puppy Division,” but she’s every bit as important when it comes to running the show. She is affectionately known as our cuddlebug. When she’s not keeping her sister Birdie out of trouble or curled up in someone’s lap, Magnolia can be found shadowing her humans.
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Full of warmth and affection, Magnolia thrives on connection and comfort.
Her leadership style? Cuddle often, nap always. Magnolia makes sure our school community always feels cared for, calm, and surrounded by love.
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Oakley Marie Schwab
Chief of Snuggles & Smiles
Hello! My name is Oakley Marie! I am the most loving, calming, and playful companion around! I can’t wait to start serving at Anniston Academy this fall!
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Peyton Stewart
Occupational Therapist
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Hello!! My name is Peyton Stewart and I’ve been an occupational therapist for 7 years. My husband Keaton and I have been married for almost 4 years and we have a 2.5 year old daughter who keeps us busy.
Having grown up in the Upper Cumberland, I feel very fortunate to be able to serve the community that means so much to me. I’m passionate about meeting kids and families right where they are and helping them grow and thrive in ways that make everyday life a little easier and a lot more fun!
Taylor Maggart
Occupational Therapist
I have been an Occupational Therapist for four years, and I have been engaging in pediatric practice, at some capacity, for the entirety of my career. I have experience practicing in both school-based and outpatient pediatric settings, and I prioritize play-based and child centered interventions in natural environments. When I am not at work, I enjoy hiking and kayaking/paddleboarding with my husband and my dog, and we are looking forward to welcoming our first child very soon.
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Alyssa Harris
Board Certified Behavior Analyst
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As a BCBA, I am deeply passionate about working with children with autism because I believe in every child’s potential to grow, communicate, and connect with the world around them. Seeing the impact that individualized, evidence-based interventions can have on a child’s progress and a family’s quality of life inspires me every day to advocate for meaningful, compassionate care.
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THERAPEUTIC SERVICES
EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Amanda Carlen
Lead Teacher
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I grew up in Cookeville. After living in Nashville for 25+ years, I moved back with my daughter about ten years ago. As a teacher, I am passionate about creating a loving, supportive and engaging learning environment where my students feel safe, valued and inspired to grow. My goal is to empower my students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.
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Halley Schwab
Lead Teacher
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My name Halley Schwab and I will be teaching our youngest learners at Anniston Academy! I believe in student-centered education that values hands-on learning and exploration through play and nature. Outside the classroom, I enjoy growing food and flowers as a way to stay connected to the earth. My teaching style is rooted in the belief that curiosity and care cultivate lifelong learners.
Taya Herriot
Lead Teacher
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Hi! My name is Taya! I’ve always had a passion for working with children and helping others. I love seeing the progress children make and being part of those meaningful moments of growth. Outside of work, I enjoy reading and being outside. I’m looking forward to learning and growing in this role and building strong connections with the individuals and families I support!
Autumn Haygood
Enrichment Teacher/Specials
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My name is Autumn Haygood and I am so excited to join the fantastic team of educators and advocates at Anniston Academy as an Enrichment Teacher. I graduated from Tennessee Tech in 2021 with my teaching license and Bachelor's in Elementary Education, and then again in 2023 with my Master's in STEM Education. I firmly believe that education should be accessible and equitable to everyone. I'm ready to help students achieve and celebrate success in and out of the classroom.
Lori Chaney, LCSW
The Insight Lab -- Social Emotional Learning with Insightful Pediatric and Family Therapy
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker facilitating group therapy. In group, we focus on building emotional awareness and regulation, exploring options for communicating emotions, learning to distinguish between feelings and behavior, and developing healthy coping strategies. My approach is healing-centered, neurodiverse, and rooted in evidence-based principles. I am excited to bring my passion and expertise to help children and families grow into their most authentic selves, strengthen their communication, and build emotional confidence.
As co-owner of Insightful Pediatric and Family Therapy, I bring both clinical expertise and personal experience to my work with children and families. At the heart of my work is the belief that when kids feel safe, seen, and understood, they thrive!
Isha Chaney, LPC-MHSP
The Insight Lab -- Social Emotional Learning with Insightful Pediatric and Family Therapy
Hi, I’m Isha Chaney, LPC-MHSP, and I'm excited to be a mental health resource for Anniston Academy. I have been working with kids, teens, and families for over ten years. I am passionate about creating safe, inclusive spaces where students feel seen, heard, and empowered.
I am also a co-founder of Insightful Pediatric and Family Therapy. I am working toward my Ph.D. in Counseling and Supervision, with a focus on improving resources and access for neurodivergent families. My goal is to help families feel supported and students thrive—emotionally, socially, and academically.
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Lydia Billings
Music Therapy
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Mattie Allen
RBT/Assistant Teacher
I’ve been passionate about working with children with various needs for as long as I can remember. I chose to expand my knowledge by becoming an RBT shortly after highschool graduation, and I’ve been an RBT ever since . I’m now nearing the completion of my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education, where I’ve deepened my understanding of child development and inclusive learning. My heart is in helping every child thrive and feel seen. When I’m not working or studying, I love reading, being outdoors, and spending quality time with my friends, family, and my mini goldendoodle, Lola. Can’t wait to meet you all!
Melody Beltran
RBT/Assistant Teacher
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Kimber Clark
RBT/Assistant Teacher
My name is Kimber Clark. I have a Bachelors in Early Childhood Education. I truly love watching children grow and learn through play (and you best believe I will play right alongside them.)
I just got married back in April this year. I am ecstatic to get to know our children and families at Anniston Academy and get to be a part of their lives.
Samantha Clark
RBT/Assistant Teacher
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Dallas Flewelling
RBT/Assistant Teacher
Hello! I’m Dallas. I’ve been dedicated to mental health advocacy for as long as I can remember, and I’m proud to contribute to an initiative that prioritizes inclusivity and meaningful support!
Kayla Ann Hamby
RBT/Assistant Teacher
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Chloe Johnson
RBT/Assistant Teacher
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Haley Kellar
Assistant Teacher
Hello, my name is Haley. I was born in Louisiana and moved to Nashville, for the first time, at the age of three. I am a strong advocate of children with special needs. Since graduating High School years ago, my goal and deep passion has been to work with
this population. I am on the Autism Spectrum myself, and can connect with family and
children who have disabilities. One of my Idols, Temple Grandin, quotes “Different But
Not Less.” It is one of my favorite statements because it describes perfectly those of us
who are “atypical.” I am very excited to be given this opportunity to work at Anniston
Academy!
Rebecca Kovall
RBT/Assistant Teacher
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Diana Laquerre
RBT/Assistant Teacher
My name is Diana Laquerre, and I am a proud mother of 4 children, one of which is special needs. I have worked as a substitute teacher for the Putnam County Schools for the past year. I enjoy working with children of all ages to help them progress and succeed. I look forward to meeting and working with our students this year!
Amber Lee
RBT/Assistant Teacher
I am Amber and I have been working with children and adults who have Autism since 2014. I have worked in residential, schools and centers through out NY, CT and TN. I have been a registered behavioral technician for 3 years and have had an additional 4 years as a behavioral technician. I have a son who will turn 1 in July and I also have an associates degree in early childhood development. I am so happy to join the team!
Brooklynne Lichtle
RBT/Assistant Teacher
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Leticia Moreno
RBT/Assistant Teacher
My name is Leticia Moreno. I have 7 years experience as an RBT in the ABA field. I love being an RBT because it’s such a rewarding job! I get to see and be apart of my clients growth and watch them achieve their goals.
Melody Morgan
RBT/Assistant Teacher
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Ali Novak
Assistant Teacher
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Victoria Raimondi
RBT/Assistant Teacher
My name is Victoria Raimondi, I am a Registered Behavior Technician who is currently completing a masters program in ABA at Florida Institute of Technology. I am a former teacher with five years experience in the classroom working with children. I am dedicated to helping children learn, grow and supporting them in achieving their goals!
Laila Rochelle
Assistant Teacher
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Matthew Williams
RBT/Assistant Teacher
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