People

As a dedicated school leader, I am passionate about creating engaging, inclusive learning environments where young children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

I oversee both traditional and nature-based programs, guiding curriculum development, standards-based progress reporting, and instructional alignment across divisions. My work emphasizes meaningful family engagement, building strong partnerships between home and school to ensure families feel connected and valued in their child’s learning journey.

When educators feel supported, families feel included, and children feel known, learning flourishes and school communities thrive.

I am a teacher at a public charter school in Michigan's upper peninsula that has an environmental focus.

I have worked in the  Virgnia Beach City Public Schools (VBCPS) for 31 years, and my badge says "Teacher"; yet, I have never taught in a traditional classroom. I complete developmental assessments with a team of five professionals in both arena-style and in a diagnostic classroom style. I have always felt I had settled by doing what was expected of me and choosing the safe/easy path as a career. While I have provided for my family, enjoyed my experiences, and grown immensely, it is time to discover myself. 

My name is Katherine (Kate) Highsmith and I live in Cabarrus County.  I am a passionate STEM teacher who brings curiosity and creativity into everything I do. Working at two elementary schools, I strive to inspire young learners not only through science and technology, but through hands-on exploration and imagination. I love creating art in all kinds of media, and journaling and reading help me reflect and grow.

Outside the classroom, I feel most at home in nature—hiking and traveling across North Carolina, throughout the United States, and around the world. I’ve visited over 15 national parks, and each one has deepened my appreciation for the beauty and diversity of our natural world. Sharing that sense of wonder with young children and my own family is one of my greatest joys. Through STEM and outdoor exploration, I hope to nurture curiosity, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning in every student I teach.

I has always enjoyed spending time outdoors and learning all I can from nature. As a lifelong learner and outdoor enthusiast, I am passionate about teaching the science of nature to help others foster a deeper understanding and appreciation for our natural environment. I attained a B.S. in Environmental Studies and a B.S. in Mathematics from Shenandoah University. Continuing my education, I went on to complete a M.S. in Environmental Science and Policy with a concentration in Aquatic Ecology at George Mason University. 

I have been a Head Start Teacher for 23 years.  I have been teaching my friends, siblings and stuffed animals my entire life.  I have been active in many Nature Orgaizations through out my years.  I live in an urban area where the natural settings are being gobbled up by corporations.  My goal going forward is to equip and educate the next generation to preserve and prepare for the futrue on this earth that is rapidly changling.