Elementary School Classes

Meet the fabulous staff working with our youngest students

Room 314

Photo of Room 314 Classroom Staff
Room 314 Staff:  Tracie Curtis, Kelly Altman, Maria Lee

Teacher

Kelly Altman

Years teaching:  

11 years

Education

Carson Newman University

About Kelly

Kelly loves travelling, drinking coffee, Law & Order marathons and doing Orange Theory.  She has just completed her 5th year at Key Center.

 

Classroom Wish List:

bean bags and books

Room 305

Photo of Kim Hudson's classroom staff
Room 315 Staff: Jinsun Kim, Sarah Waller, Kim Hudson

Teacher

Kim Hudson

Years teaching:  23

 

Education

BS:  Radford University, MEd:  George Mason University

About Kim

I have lived in Springfield since I was in the 5th grade. I was born in Newport Rhode Island.

I enjoy watching a variety of sports. I like to read and cook.

I have two children. My son just graduated from York College of PA and my daughter is entering her senior year at Bridgewater College. I teach using various instructional strategies. I consider student learning styles and I actively engage students in learning. I feel communication with parents is a key for student success.

Classroom Wish List:

  • Lysol wipes and lysol spray
  • Educational books
  • Fine Motor manipulatives

Room 327

Photo of Room 321 staff
Room 327 staff:  Durdelly Betancourt,Shannon Hacker, Amina Jamai Sarah Payne

Teacher

Sarah Payne

Years teaching:  

5 years

Education

BS: Shenandoah University

M.Ed.:  George Mason University

About Sarah

Sarah is from Annandale, VA.    She enjoys music, stand up comedy, the outdoors and creative activities. 

Sarah says, "Teaching at Key Center has been the most rewarding job I have and all the kiddos are truly amazing!"

Classroom Wish List:

  • Clorox wipes
  • laminating pouches
  • kids cups
  • snacks (healthy)
  • sensory items
  • bean bag
  • dry erase markers
  • cooking ingredients
  • storage bins
  • anything is useful!

Room 322

Photo of Room 322 staff
Room 322 staff: Vivian Tutu, Kristen Simpson, Melissa Westphal

Teacher

Melissa Westphal

Years teaching:  

4 years

Education

B.A.- University of South Carolina Aiken

MEd.- George Mason University

About Melissa

Melissa is from Springfield, VA.    She enjoys climbing, practicing yoga, playing sports, and traveling.

Melissa says, "This will be my 6th year at Key Center. Our theme for this school year in room 322 is to "Keep Calm, and Climb on!" I got into teaching special education because I have an affinity towards kids with disabilities. They hold a special place in my heart and their successes continue to remind me of why I do what I do every day."

Classroom Wish List:

  • Clorox Wipes
  • Snack items
  • Sandwich size Ziploc Bags