- Matt Elementary
- Meet the Teachers
Kindergarten

Phone: 280113
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Michelle Echols
Hello, my name is Michelle Echols and I have been teaching since 2000. I earned my bachelors degree in teaching from Brenau University and my masters in Educational Technology from Lesley University. I have taught 3rd, Pre-K, and Kindergarten. Kindergarten is my favorite grade to teach because I love to see children learn to read and learn to love to come to school. I have a wonderful husband, Kenny, and three sweet children. I also love to garden and cook for my family and friends.

Phone: 280128
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Ellen Hill
I live in Gainesville, GA with my dog, Tucker. In my free time, I enjoy sewing, reading, watching movies, volunteering, and traveling. My favorite things include Harry Potter, Disney, Marvel, Chick-fil-A, the Dalmatian Coastline, Fall, puppies, and elephants. I have taught Georgia Pre-K for 9 years and Transitional Kindergarten for 1 year. I have a M. Ed., a dual-B.S. in Early Childhood Education and Special Education, as well as extensive experience and training in working with young learners. I am looking forward to working together this year to give your students the best kindergarten experience. If you ever have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to me!

Phone: 280117
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Amanda Martin
Hi! My name is Amanda Martin and this is my tenth year of teaching here at Matt. I graduated from the University of North Georgia with a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Special Education. I love spending time with my friends and family. I am looking forward to another amazing year!

Phone: 280118
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Vanessa McBrayer
I graduated, Cum Laude, from the University of North Georgia with my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education as well as ESOL and Reading Endorsements.
My two sons, Matt and Dan, will be joining me at Matt! In our spare time, we love to read, hike, fish, and play with our dogs and turtles!
I am dedicated to helping students build confidence in learning and believe that all students have their own special gifts. I believe learning should be fun and strive to create a classroom environment conducive to students supporting each other and engaging in meaningful activities together.
I love rainbows and a lot of times when strengthening Literacy and Math skills, it takes certain elements to come together to see the magic happen. I am eager to make friends, memories, and rainbows at Matt!

Phone: 280114
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Brandi Smith
Hi Mariners! My name is Brandi Smith, and I am so excited to be joining the kindergarten team this year! This will be my 10th year in kindergarten. I have lived here all my life and I am a product of Forsyth County Schools. When I am not at school, I am spending time with my family. I am looking forward to a great year at Matt!

Phone: 280104
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Courtney Smith
Hi, my name is Courtney Smith. This is my 20th year teaching in Forsyth County Schools and my first year at Matt. I have taught Kindergarten, First Grade, Second Grade, Literacy Support, and EIP. I LOVE teaching Kindergarten, where we get to be active, make messes, and learn while having fun. I have a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Georgia Southern University and a master’s degree in Elementary Education from Nova Southeastern University. I live in Forsyth County with the cutest dog in the world, Hugo. I can’t wait for an amazing year.

Phone: 280134
Email:
Degrees and Certifications:
Michaela Tillery
I graduated from the University of West Florida with a degree in Early Childhood. I have a K-middle grades Math Endorsement certification. I am so excited to be teaching kindergarten this year!