Faculty and Staff | Anniston Academy

MEET OUR TEAM

Dr. Kathryn DuBray, DSW, LMSW

Executive Director

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.

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.

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.

Alyssa Harris, M.A., BCBA, LBA

Principal

As principal of Anniston Academy, I am honored to lead a school built on the belief that every child deserves to be understood, supported, and empowered to succeed. With over 10 years of experience in leadership roles, I bring a collaborative, data-driven approach to school leadership-one that is always guided by compassion, purpose, and a deep respect for each child's unique journey.

My background as a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) strongly shapes both my leadership philosophy and my heart for this work. I am deeply passionate about serving children with diverse learning needs because I believe in every child's potential to grow, communicate, and connect meaningfully with the world around them. Witnessing the impact that individualized, evidence-based, and compassionate support can have on students-and on the families who love them-continues to inspire my work each day.

At Anniston Academy, I am committed to honoring every journey by ensuring that academic instruction, behavioral support, and social-emotional development are thoughtfully integrated. I believe the strongest outcomes occur when educators, clinical teams, and families work together as a united village of care. Through collaboration, transparency, and data-informed decision-making, we can create learning environments where students feel safe, staff feel valued and supported, and families feel confident and included.

My goal as principal is to foster a warm, structured, and nurturing school community-one where high expectations are paired with empathy, growth is celebrated, and every child is empowered to thrive. I am proud to serve alongside a dedicated team that shares a common mission: honoring every journey, empowering every mind, and building a village of care

Team

Jennifer Hart

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

I am a Board Certified Behavior Analyst with experience supporting learners with special needs in a variety of roles. My passion is helping students develop skills that foster independence, communication, self-advocacy, and positive social interactions. I value working closely with teachers, staff, and families to create individualized supports that make the classroom a place where every child can feel confident and thrive both academically and socially.

Jenny Jaynes

Board Certified Behavior Analyst

Brittany Rush

Clinical Intern

Hi! My name is Brittany Rush, and I recently earned my Master’s degree in Behavior Analysis Practice. With 7 years of experience in behavior analysis, I’m currently working toward my BCBA certification by logging my experience hours.

I’m thrilled to join the Anniston Academy team and support students in their growth by providing ABA services. Helping children develop essential skills is my passion, and I look forward to making a positive impact!

Victoria Raimondi

Clinical Intern, Lead 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!

Hunter Davis

Clinical Intern

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!

Peyton Stewart

Occupational Therapist

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.

THERAPEUTIC SERVICES

EDUCATIONAL SERVICES

Halley Schwab

Lead Teacher

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 Herriott

Lead Teacher

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!

Niki Reed

Lead Teacher

Autumn Haygood

Enrichment Teacher/Specials

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.

Lydia Billings

Music Therapy

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

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

Hello! My name is KaylaAnn and I'm a dedicated RBT with one year of experience. As an RBT, I bring both professional expertise and deeply personal insight to the field of Applied Behavioral Analysis. As a parent to three incredible children, all of whom are on the autism spectrum, my work is not just a career- it's a calling rooted in empathy, advocacy, and lived experience. Balancing the roles of caregiver, clinician, and student, I am currently pursuing my Master's degree in Applied Behavioral Analysis with the goal of becoming a BCBA. This journey has strengthened my commitment to evidence-based practices and inclusive support systems that empower neurodivergent individuals and their families. I believe that meaningful change starts with compassion and I strive everyday to bridge the gap between clinical knowledge and real world understanding. Whether in the therapy room or at home, I'm passionate about creating environments where every child can thrive.

Spencer Hutchings

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Rebecca Kovall

RBT/Assistant Teacher

I’m Rebekah most call me Becky. I’ve been an RBT for 3 and half years. I’m from Chicago, IL, and moved to Tennessee 2 years ago. I love working with kiddos of all ages and I’m excited to be apart of the company.

Jasmine Wright

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Melody Beltran

RBT/Assistant Teacher

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

Hello, my name is Brooklynne Lichtle. I am 28 years old and teaching is my passion! I am a Huge Disney fan! One of my favorite quotes from Walt Disney is “If you can dream it, you can do it.” And that nothing is impossible.

Matthew Williams

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Chloe Johnson

RBT/Assistant Teacher

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.

Carson Reels

Behavior Technician, SLP-A

Melody Morgan

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Ali Novak

Assistant Teacher

Hey there! I’m Ali, a special education major at Tennessee Tech and a future Speech Language Pathologist! I am so blessed and thankful for this opportunity to work with the staff and students at Anniston’s Academy! I have always had a passion for working with children and I look forward to learning and growing in this position!

Amanda Ragland

Para Professional/RBT

My name is Amanda Ragland. I have a Technical Degree in Early Childhood Education, and have worked in education/childcare for 9+ years. I have always loved working with children and fostering a love for learning through play. I am born and raised here in Cookeville, TN, and come from a large family. When I’m not working I can be found reading, hiking, gardening, crafting, sewing, or taking photos. I have a million hobbies and love keeping busy with them. I am so excited to be a part of the Anniston Academy Team, working in an inclusive environment to help children thrive.

Laila Rochelle

Assistant Teacher

Ruth Ellen Sells

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Hello, my name is RuthEllen Sells. I am 29 years old. I graduated from Tennessee Tech in 2021 with a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. I earned my RBT certification in August of 2024. I have been married for 3 years. I have one brother that has autism. I am passionate about helping children learn and succeed.

Alfredo Legowski

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Joy Aikens

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Kaitlyn Bright

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Paris Callahan

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Victoria Allen

BT/Assistant Teacher

Lexi Caldwell

BT/Assistant Teacher

Baleigh Foutch

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Lupe Moore

RBT/Assistant Teacher

Becky Hammons

BT/Assistant Teacher

Makayla Scales

BT/Assistant Teacher