Welcome to 1st Grade! This is my 26th year teaching and my 2nd year at Busbee. I’ve taught first grade for 10 years, and 2nd grade for 9 years in Aiken County, and recently taught Prek for 6 years for Richland One. I am excited for this new year of adventures and accomplishments; and I firmly believe all children are capable of learning and will make gains in my classroom. 

In May 1998, I graduated Magna Cum Laude from Piedmont College in Demorest, Georgia earning a Bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education. In May 2004, I graduated with honors from Columbia College with a Master’s degree in Divergent Learning; and achieved National Board in November 2004.

I grew up all over the United States because my dad was in the Army. I went to 13 schools before I graduated. I’ve lived in Florida, Mississippi, Massachusetts, Washington State, Texas, North Carolina, Georgia, Arkansas, Hawaii, and South Carolina. I’ve lived in South Carolina since 1998.

 I live in West Columbia with my husband, Joseph Wingard, 4 cats, one dog, 5 ducks, and 2 ferrets. Also, I have two daughters, Christina, 33, and Brittany, 28, a son, Joseph, 25; along with two granddaughters; Vera, 7 and Kora, 1 1/2 years. I enjoy traveling & being with friends and family.