Staff
Rachel Atwell
Teacher
Hi, I’m Rachel Atwell. I graduated from Texas A&M Texarkana with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a specialization in Special Education (PK-12). My journey in education started with teaching Resource classes in public schools, but I later took time off to focus on being a stay-at-home mom. Over the past 22 years, I’ve had the joy of teaching in many different settings, including public schools, Classical Conversations, One Day Academy, and homeschooling my own children. Education is my true passion, and I’m especially dedicated to helping struggling learners find their confidence and succeed.
Training and Certications:
Certified in Special Education
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Linda Clark
Teacher
My name is Linda Clark, and my career reflects a deep commitment to education and student support. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree and an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice, which have provided me with a diverse skill set valuable in my roles as an educator and mentor. My professional journey began as a Juvenile Correction Officer with the Texas Youth Commission, where I was responsible for monitoring student behavior during their learning periods. This role taught me the importance of managing challenging situations with empathy and discipline. Following my time with the Texas Youth Commission, I spent eight years as a paraprofessional at College Station ISD Oakwood Intermediate. There, I worked with both adaptive behavior and general education students, focusing on providing positive motivation and tailored support through one-on-one and small group instruction. I am now in my third year at Renner Academy, teaching Social Studies. In this role, I continue to apply my extensive background in education to create an engaging and supportive learning environment. Looking forward, I remain dedicated to furthering my professional development and making a meaningful impact in the field of education.
Training and Certificatoins:
CPR and serve on the CPR team at Renner Academy
Seizure First Aid Training
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Donna Gessner
Dyslexia Teacher
Greetings Renner Roadrunners! My name is Donna Gessner and I am newly retired from Anderson- Shiro CISD. Dyslexia and Dysgraphia are my specialties. I have 22 years of experience in the classroom in grades Kindergarten, 2nd, 4th, Reading Specialist and District Dyslexia Specialist. I have advanced degrees as a Legacy Master Reading Teacher- MRT, Masters of Education- MEd, Certified Academic Language Therapist- CALT and a TX Licensed Dyslexia Therapist- LDT. I embrace my gift of teaching as an opportunity to inspire and empower my students to be lifelong learners. I have goals that guide me as an educator: Students will feel safe in my classroom. When students feel safe, the mind is open to learn new concepts. Students will feel successful. A plan of action is researched and designed for each individual student. Students are empowered with skills to accomplish their goals. Creating fun and enjoyment allows students the freedom to express themselves. Music and movement brings concepts to life and smiles on faces. Students are given freedom and independence to make choices for themselves which gives them a sense of ownership in their learning. Students are valued and have purpose. To bring students together to create value by making contributions to themselves and others. Students will experience a sense of belonging to a community. My classroom is a place of nurturing and supporting students on an on-going basis.
Trainings and Certifications:
Seizure First Aid Training
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Ashley Grimaldo
Teacher
Leslie Kurtz
Teacher
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Sarah-Beth Lednicky
Teacher
Hello! My name is Sarah-Beth Lednicky and I am so excited to be returning to Renner Academy to teach Math this year. During my undergrad time at Texas A&M, I was placed in various styles of classroom environments that helped me get where I am today. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Education and Human Development under University Studies in Education Psychology with and emphasis in Child and Professional Services with a Minor in Sociology and in Creative Studies. I have used my degree and knowledge in multiple applications which include everything from assisting our Special Needs and Kids ministry at Central Church to homeschooling my own 2 children.I love all subjects, but my passion is with Math. I have taught grades 1st through 5th and have enjoyed all of them. I think being able to help a student discover the best way for them to learn is what brings me the most joy as a teacher. Everybody learns in a different way, so it is up to us as teachers to help students find that way and help them get excited about learning!
Trainings and Certifications
Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) and serve on the CPI team for Renner Academy
Seizure First Aid Training
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Laurie Parker
Teacher
Hello, my name is Laurie Parker. I am excited to be part of the Renner Academy team. Before Renner, I served as a supervisor for an afterschool educational enrichment program, serving grades PreK-6 for a 4A independent school district, providing a commitment to supporting youth development.
I served as a behavior specialist for the past 7 years, and look forward to utilizing my training in Ross Greene's collaborative problem-solving approach, Crisis Prevention Intervention, and Zones of Regulation as the enrichment/social-emotional learning teacher at Renner. I also hold a certification for Mental Health First Aid.
Along with my experience in education and working with kids, I have over 36 years of experience as an entrepreneur, owning my own successful accounting business.
The blend of skills in entrepreneurship, education, and mental health enables me to be a versatile and impactful leader.
Trainings and Certifications:
Seizure First Aid Training
Certified in Crisis Intervention Prevention (CPI) and CPR and serve on the CPI/CPR team at Renner Academy
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Terry Snow
Teacher
My name is Terry. Snow. I started at Renner Academy in 2024. I have over 18 years of teaching experience STEAM in Arizona. My career began in 2005 when I graduated from Arizona State University with a degree in art education. I taught art for 7 years at K-8 schools in Arizona. I earned my masters degree in 2014 from Grand Canyon University where I studied educational technology. I was provided the opportunity to develop a STEM program that earned a national STEM certification. I enjoy using hands-on learning in my classroom with real world problems to help make learning more meaningful and impactful. I enjoy watching students go from “I can’t” to “I can”. I have spent my teaching career working with students grades kindergarten through eighth grade. I love to see how much they grow and change over the years. I look forward to growing along with the staff and students at Renner Academy.
Training and Certifications:
Certified in Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) and serve on the CPI team at Renner Academy
Seizure First Aid Training
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Megan Schwartz
Teacher/Dyslexia Teacher
Hello my name is Megan Schwarz. My experience in teaching literacy is primarily from Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes. There I worked intensively with students of all ages, mostly young children, with dyslexia, dysgraphia, and many other learning challenges, using individualized plans for building skills in reading and writing. I am trained in their phoneme sequencing, symbol imagery, and reading comprehension programs. As a consultant for Lindamood-Bell, I introduced their programs to teachers and worked with student groups in Title I schools.
I am also certified in Reading by Design dyslexia intervention. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Cross-Cultural Sociology from Westmont College and a Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults.
I home educated my two children in their early years of learning to read and write. Walking alongside students as they build confidence that they can learn in their own unique ways has been some of the most fulfilling work of my life. I look forward to helping your child find joy in learning.
Trainings and Certifications:
Certified in Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) and serve on the CPI team at Renner Academy
Seizure First Aid Training
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Madison Summey
Teacher
Hello, my name is Madison Summey. I hold a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, along with two Master's degrees in Criminal Justice and Educational Psychology. My teaching experience includes working as a Kindergarten teacher and as an Instructional Assistant. Currently, I tutor students from Pre-K to 12th grade at Sylvan Learning Center, focusing primarily on English and Math, with occasional lessons in science and history.
I am passionate about helping students realize their potential both inside and outside the classroom. I’ve recently expanded my qualifications by earning training and certification in Reading by Design, further enhancing my ability to support students with dyslexia. Teaching brings me immense joy, and I love guiding kids to discover what they’re truly capable of achieving.
Trainings and Certifications:
Certified in CPR and CPI (Crisis Prevention Intervention) and serve on the CPR/CPI team at Renner Academy
Seizure First Aid Training
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Dana Wagner
Math Teacher
Hello my name is Dana Wagner. I am very excited to be part of the Renner Academy team! I come to RA with a 30-year career in public education that has been built on a foundation of expertise and a commitment to student success. I am a proud graduate of Sam Houston State University, earning a Generalist degree for grades 1-8 with a specialization in history, along with a certification in English as a Second Language.
My teaching journey has been marked by versatility and innovation. Having taught 1st through 5th grades, I have covered all subjects in 1st grade, focused on third-grade math, and served as a math interventionist for grades K-5. I have completed full training through Neuhaus and was mentored by Susan Bohan from Region 6 in teaching math. This training included expertise in abstract, concrete, and pictorial components of math, all of which weaves together to provide a robust and cohesive approach to math instruction.
My approach to teaching goes beyond academics, fostering a supportive environment where every child can thrive. Now, in this exciting phase after retirement, I am thrilled to bring my wealth of knowledge to Renner Academy and eager to continue making a profound impact on students and colleagues alike.
Trainings and Certifications:
Seizure Training
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Lorretta Walthall
Dyslexia Teacher
Hello, my name is Loretta Walthall, and I’ve had the privilege of enjoying a rewarding career in education for over 30 years.
I graduated from Yoe High School in Cameron, Texas, in 1975, and went on to earn my Bachelor of Science in Education from Texas A&M University in 1979.
My journey began as the teacher and director of a private kindergarten in Lancaster, Texas, where I spent five enriching years. Afterward, I transitioned to public education, teaching 5th and 6th-grade science and social studies, but it was in my hometown of Cameron, Texas, that I discovered my true passion: dyslexia intervention.
For 26 years, I have had the joy of working with students of all ages in dyslexia intervention, a calling that has brought me immense fulfillment. There is nothing more rewarding than helping a child with dyslexia realize that they are intelligent and capable of mastering reading, spelling, and even cursive writing. Watching these students grow in confidence as they grasp skills that once seemed impossible never ceases to inspire me.
After a five-year break from education, my passion for working with dyslexic students was reignited through the rewarding experience of teaching at Renner Academy over the past four semesters. Encouraging their growth and learning has brought immense joy and fulfillment.
My commitment to dyslexia intervention is supported by extensive training, including courses at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Dyslexia, multiple programs through the Region 6 Service Center’s Dyslexia Intervention programs, along with training in Reading by Design. I am always seeking new opportunities to deepen my expertise, as empowering dyslexic students to unlock their full potential is the cornerstone of my teaching career. Simply put, I am passionate about this work—and I truly love every moment of it!
Trainings and Certifications:
Seizure First Aid Training
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Toni Varisco
Teacher/Dyslexia Teacher
My name is Toni Varisco, and I have had the privilege of teaching for 34 years in both Bryan and Franklin Independent School Districts. Over the years, I have gained a wealth of experience in various roles, and I’m thrilled to bring that expertise to this vibrant community.
My teaching journey has been diverse and fulfilling. I spent 17 years teaching in Kindergarten, where I developed a deep understanding of the foundational skills young learners need. I also have experience teaching middle school reading, theater, and technology, all of which have enriched my approach to education. For the last 10 years, I have been a reading interventionist, dyslexia specialist and directed three musicals at the elementary level.
I am truly passionate about helping students find success and joy in learning! I love having the opportunity to work with our students, providing them with the support and strategies they need to thrive in their academic journey.
Trainings and Certications:
Reading by Design
Seizure First Training
TBRI & Trauma-Informed Classrooms training:
Trauma & The Brain: The Impact of Trauma at School
Empowering Our Students: Meeting Physical Needs
Connecting in the Classroom: Creating Relationships that Matter
Correcting Behavior: Rethinking Classroom Management
Bandit
Chief Happiness Officer
Hello my name is Bandit. I am able to come to school and be with the most amazing kids and teachers. I fit in so well, and I love being the Chief Happiness Officer at Renner. I get to visit classrooms, sit with boys and girls that may need some happiness if they are feeling sad, listen to kids read, and be part of an amazing school team! I love to be petted, and I love to get special treats, but most of all I LOVE kids!
Ren the Roadrunner
Renner Mascot
Hello my name is Ren. I am the school mascot at Renner Academy. I get to participate in so many fun events, such as birthday celebrations and family outreach programs. What makes me special is I was chosen to be the school mascot by the student body. Not only did they choose me, a roadrunner, but they named me as well. Being the school mascot is the best job ever! It's a great day at RA!