Billie Clemens joined Mountain Discovery with 36 years of teaching experience as a history educator. Her passion for history, and for encouraging kids to challenge themselves led her to work with the Advanced Placement United States History program including serving on the Test Development Committee for the national exam, and leadership roles at the AP Reading.  Along with teaching, Billie served as the Director of the Gifted and Talented program for Swain County Schools and as a mentor to new teachers. Additionally, she taught aspiring history teachers at Western Carolina University.     As a Co-Director and Director of Teaching and Learning, ...

Tracy Wharton joins Mountain Discovery Charter School with over 16 years of experience in education. Her career in education began as a middle school math teacher. Varied experiences have afforded her the opportunity to work in diverse settings and grade levels from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Such opportunities included a Day Treatment setting that provided instruction in all content areas to at-risk students in 6th – 12th grades, an inclusion teacher with high school students,  and a Program Specialist and Behavior Specialist at the district level for the Exceptional Children’s Department. As the Director of Student Services and Accountability, Tracy ...

Londa Bohl joined our team of teachers in August 2010.  Prior to her arrival at M.D.C.S. Ms. Londa enjoyed a long and successful career as an entrepreneur.  From 1984 to 1996, she owned and operated a chain of small quantity and highly personalized printing boutiques.  Ms. Londa developed her signature operation, Quicker Than Ink, Specialty Printing Boutique, as a franchise company where she built and sold her printing boutiques in the Toronto, and Southern Ontario markets in Canada.  Ms. Londa sold her company and returned home, to Western North Carolina, in 1996, and joined the Merrill Lynch team of Financial ...

Lisa Monnat works as the school admin assistant and school nurse. On top of these duties, Lisa is also a middle school camp chaperone, Wilderness First Responder, and a certified bus driver.  Lisa has a bachelor's degree in Marketing with a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Troy University. She worked at Mountain Discovery as After School coordinator in 2017, before moving to the front office in 2021. There, she works hard to keep the school running smoothly and give the students a safe space. Lisa moved to North Carolina with her family in 2014. Her three children are graduates ...

Amy Jo is from Minnesota and graduated with a BSW from University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. She loves going back home each summer to see family and spend time in the beautiful lakes of this area! Shortly after college Amy Jo was in Peace Corps-Thailand working with children in rural health and traveling for several years. She has about 20 years experience working with children through teaching, mental health, Juvenile Justice and behavioral intervention. Amy's favorite part of her school day is getting hugs and smiles from kids and her favorite part of the after school day is swimming at Deep ...

Micheal is a father to Aaliyah and Ethan, both students at MDCS. He has been a Swain County resident for over 20 years and has been involved with MDCS in various aspects. He started as a bus driver in the mornings and then would go to his full-time job at Harrah's Cherokee Casino as a table games dealer. In 2021, Micheal left his job at Harrah's, after 10 years, to join MDCS full time as the Title I teacher and Tech. In 2022, he worked as an EC assistant and took on Technology and Transportation Director. This year Micheal will ...

Hello everyone! My name is Jessica, and I am from the charming town of Robbinsville, NC. I am a proud Mother of four wonderful children and a loving Nana to four delightful grandchildren. My career began in healthcare, where I dedicated 18 years of my life to caring for others and making a difference in their lives. I have an associate degree in general occupational technology and am currently pursuing an associate degree in school-age education. My passion for growth and learning eventually led me to embark on an exciting new journey in the field of education. Now, I am ...

Hi, I'm Nadallee Beasley! I am a proud mom to two amazing sons. I grew up in Robbinsville, North Carolina, and moved to Bryson City a few years ago. I love creating art, watching sports, spending time outdoors, and making memories with my family. I'm passionate about living life with creativity, kindness, and gratitude. I enjoy embracing every adventure that comes my way ...

I am Tammy Powers and I teach Exceptional Children.  I am so excited to be back at MDCS. I have taught since 1988. I have taught Band, Chorus, and Exceptional Children. I began teaching in Buncombe County and moved back home to Bryson City in 2011 with my son and daughter. I have a 28 year old daughter and a 23 year old son. My son attended school here at MDCS and graduated from Swain High School in 2018. My daughter attended and graduated from Swain as well in 2014.  I graduated from Swain High School in 1984 and Mars ...

Alexandra grew up on the southern coast of Massachusetts and moved to North Carolina when she heard about the beauty of its mountains and the warmth of its sun. She loves rock climbing and whitewater kayaking in both North Carolina and Tennessee. Alexandra has a B.A. in Psychology and Masters of Arts in Teaching; she wants to inspire students to develop and maintain positive social relationships and identities, and feel inspired to lead their own learning and lead others in learning. Alexandra started studying music in elementary school and continued her musical education through college. She is delighted to share not only ...

I am a lifelong learner, obsessed with animals and plants, and a lover of film documentaries, too. I've been deeply interested in science and the natural world for as long as I can remember. I've taught all science courses grades 6-12, and I'm also certified to teach Exceptional Children grades K-12. In the classroom, I use a whole human approach to learning. I love to discover the best qualities in every student, and as a result, I practice the art of differentiated instruction. I'm super excited to be a part of the Mountain Discovery Community that values children, authentic learning, and ...

I grew up here in the Bryson City/Cherokee area. I lived in Florida for 8 years, but I enjoy being back in the mountains and having my children grow up in the same place as I did.  I love working with children and helping them learn, grow, and develop confidence in the classroom. I enjoy helping create a positive, encouraging environment where every child feels valued and supported. I believe that the kindergarten years are an important foundation for a child’s academic and social development, and I love being part of that journey. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband and ...

Jen Thomas has an extensive background in education with a Bachelor's degree from Western Carolina University in Birth-Kindergarten, with a concentration in music, and holds a K-6 teaching certification. She has dedicated 22 years to teaching at Swain in kindergarten and 2nd grade, which highlights her experience and commitment to education. She also has experience teaching at the Eliada Children’s Home and Murphy Montessori. As an early elementary educator, Jen enjoys meeting students where they are and watching them grow and truly grasp learning and the moments that come with it. Jen's passion for teaching younger elementary students shines through ...

A North Carolina native, Brittany has worked in Haywood and Jackson County schools and colleges for over 13 years, gaining experience with students of all ages, including exceptional children. She is committed to creating a safe, welcoming classroom where children can learn, grow, and feel supported each day. She values kindness, patience, and building positive relationships with both her students and their families. Outside of the classroom, Brittany enjoys spending time with her baby boy, Charlie, taking walks, gardening, and making the most of time with family and friends ...

Hi, my name is Kestral Welch. I graduated from Western Carolina University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Psychology with a focus on child development. I completed my teaching internship in first grade at MDCS, where I quickly fell in love with both the school community and teaching first grade. Coming from a family of teachers, I have always known that teaching was the path for me. My goal as a teacher is to create a warm and welcoming environment where all students feel supported, encouraged, and excited to learn. I value teaching through collaborative, ...

I grew up in Bryson City, NC and just love living here in the mountains.  I have a daughter, Autumn, who will be an 8th grader this year at MDCS.  I was blessed enough to be a stay at home Mom with her until I took a part time job at MDCS in Nov. 2018-May 2019 as a Kindergarten assistant.  I continued working at MDCS as a substitute teacher (mainly in the KG classroom) until Dec. 2023 when I was fortunate enough to expand my employment to a full time position.  It's a great joy being able to help the ...

Gabby is excited to join Mountain Discovery Charter School as a second grade teacher for the 2026-2027 school year! Gabby has a Business Administration degree from North Carolina State University, and recently has completed the Educator Prep Program at East Carolina University. She joins MDCS with 3 years of experience teaching special education in grades 3-5. Gabby grew up in the mountains of western North Carolina, graduating from Swain County High School in 2015. She is passionate about working with students in the community and helping them build confidence in themselves. Because of her background in special education, she understands ...

Hello, my name is Natalie! I was born and raised in Murphy, NC, tucked right here in these beautiful mountains, though I was lucky enough to travel most summers growing up, which gave me a real love for exploring new places. I graduated from Western Carolina University with a degree in K-5 Elementary Education and a concentration in Psychology, which gave me a strong foundation in both teaching and understanding how children grow and learn best. When I'm not in the classroom, you can usually find me out on a hiking trail. There's something about being outdoors, breathing in fresh ...

Jennifer Cutler holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a concentration in Sociology from Western Carolina University. Her education, coupled with her 19 years of teaching experience in Swain County Schools and 3 years here at Mountain Discovery, has provided her with a comprehensive understanding of effective teaching practices and an innate ability to connect with students.   For Jennifer, teaching is not merely a job; it is a calling that she wholeheartedly embraces. She takes immense pride in fostering a safe and nurturing classroom environment that encourages creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking. Jennifer ensures that her students actively engage ...

Steve is thrilled to embark on a new chapter, bringing with him a wealth of experience from the world of business. With a passion for inspiring young minds and fostering growth, Steve is dedicated to creating a dynamic and engaging learning environment where every student feels valued and empowered. Prior to entering the field of education, Steve has spent 25 years in the Outdoor Industry with a decade as a Whitewater Kayak Instructor and Guide and most recently, the last 15 years as a Sales Representative for the largest manufacturer of paddle sport equipment in the world. He has honed ...

Hi, my name is Chloe Plesset. I was born in LA, California, but was pretty much raised outside of Raleigh, North Carolina. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my 3-legged mutt named Roo. We go on long hikes, take trips to the dog park, and chase sunsets! Dogs have always been a great part of my life and I started volunteering/fostering dogs when I was about 12 years old and to this day continue to help where I can. My goal is to contact animal shelters in the area in order to set up teen volunteers for ...

Jessica “Jess” Queen is proud to call Bryson City home, having lived in the area most of her life. With more than 20 years of teaching experience, she is passionate about helping students grow as readers, writers, and lifelong learners. Jess holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Birth-Kindergarten Education with add-on licensure in Elementary Education and Middle School English. She is also AIG certified and National Board Certified in Literacy. One of her greatest joys as an educator is helping children discover books they truly enjoy and can get lost in. She values building meaningful relationships with students and ...

Zuzana grew up in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and was drawn to Bryson City by the abundant rivers. Zuzana and her husband, Michael, spend time on the water with their daughter, Monika, and work to create opportunities for Swain County kids to build confidence and skill in the natural world through the local nonprofits Need More Outdoors and Nantahala Racing Club.  Zuzana is excited to help MDCS middle schoolers grow as readers and writers. Her ELA classes are grounded in the conviction that reading and writing are essential tools for the 21st century—and can be a source of great ...

As a kid I spent my time reading books about early American history and Native American culture.  This lifelong interest in culture, history, and society led me to study Anthropology and Sociology in college.  While working on my degree from Clarion University of Pennsylvania I worked with AmeriCorps programs that helped me develop a service ethic and a love for teaching and working with children.  About the same time I began to study the craft of blacksmithing.  In the years since I have worked as a professional artisan and teacher.  I have also held various positions providing therapeutic support to ...

Dr. Valerie Feathers joins Mountain Discovery Charter School with a varied educational background. A native of Elizabethton, Tennessee, Valerie grew up in the mountains and loved the outdoors. She attended East Tennessee State University and graduated with a B.A. in Anthropology and Foreign Languages. She decided to expand her horizons and moved to Louisiana where she attended Louisiana State University. She received a M.A. in Anthropology as well as a PhD in Anthropology and Geography with a concentration in Archaeology.  After graduating with her PhD, Valerie joined the Louisiana Division of Archaeology as their Outreach Coordinator. While there, she attended ...

David Doughty brings Mountain Discovery Charter School a wide range of educational and professional experience. David grew up in central Georgia but attended Western Carolina University graduating with a B.S. in Geology. He then went on to receive a M.S. in geology from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. After graduating, David worked in Naples, Florida as a coastal geologist specializing in beach management. He then relocated to Atlanta, Georgia where he continued working as a geologist before eventually changing careers and forming his own real estate lending company along with his brother. After eight years of successfully running ...

Brook Stillman is a graduate from WCU with a degree in Elementary Education and certification for Middle School math.  She was born and raised in a small town in Upstate NY.  After graduating, she decided to stay in the area and began substituting in Swain county and for MDCS.  She was initially hired at MDCS as a teacher assistant and Title I teacher.  After 2 years, an opening came available to teach Middle School math and she was the woman for the job.   Brook has been with MDCS 22 years.  She has a passion for math and athletics.  In 2006, ...

Betty is from Coral Gables, Florida, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology. She is retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, Florida where she served veterans for 37 years as a Laboratory Medical Technologist, Supervisor, and Instructor for Nursing Personnel. In 2013, she and her husband Jim relocated to Bryson City, where they made their home in this beautiful section of Western North Carolina. She began working at MDCS as a substitute teacher, tutor, and was the Teacher Assistant in 4th grade, 5th grade, and Middle School. She is currently the Title ...

Melissa is a great fit for our new K-5 STEAM program. From galaxies to tiny insects, your child will learn about the world in which they live. Melissa believes all students are young scientists full of inquiry, ideas and solutions.  Melissa grew up in her family’s horticulture business surrounded by plants and observing the natural world. She also followed her passion for science by obtaining a BS in Geology from Western Carolina University.  These experiences have given her an appreciation for the environment, science and taking learning outside. Building on these experiences, she gets kids involved in environmental stewardship, science ...

Grace Knapp joined MDCS with an eclectic background. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Western Carolina University. She is an outdoor enthusiast and also has her Forestry Skills certification from the Appalachian Holistic Institute. She has had several years of experience in working with children with disabilities. Her daughter also attends MDCS and is in 1st grade. She previously worked in Alaska as an underwater gold miner for three years before moving back to North Carolina. Her passion is traveling and scuba diving. She spent most of her life visiting every state except Hawaii (which is still on ...

Mr. Luke always wanted to be some kind of artist. When he was young, his mother, a studio artist and teacher, would create paintings and mixed media work in the basement of their house. She would sometimes appropriate his Masters of the Universe action figures as materials in her sculptural compositions. This was bittersweet for young Luke, as he loved playing with his toys but also appreciated the art. However, being exposed to artistic practice at a young age turned out to be formative stuff. Through the years Mr. Luke has pursued a multitude of arts-related interests, but becoming a ...