Our History
First Impressions Academy was founded by Christy Pettit, when she renovated her home garage into a preschool in October 2008. After teaching for six years in three different states, she wasn’t impressed with the lack of education in preschools. She wanted to give children a quality educational foundation to properly prepare them for their educational careers. At that time, she was the sole employee and taught all of the half-day classes. Eventually, her three-year-old students were ready for kindergarten, and after completing much research on placement, the families asked Christy if she would open a kindergarten. She then began looking for commercial property, and within three months, she had her kindergarten up and running. Since then, First Impressions Academy has opened one grade per year through 8th grade ending with an amazing S.T.E.M middle school.
Our Staff
Meet our passionate, caring team of teachers!
Administration Team
Christy Pettit – Director/Founder
For as far back as I can remember, I wanted to be a teacher. My career took me to various schools and gave me the opportunity to teach a variety of grades at different academic levels. Although teaching was amazing, the settings and lack of imperative core values were missing. I was not willing to give up on my dream; however, I refused to be a part of something that was broken. I had a vision, and I made it my mission to create a school that encompassed all of the components that make learning and teaching successful.
Teresa Clayton- Assistant Director
My name is Teresa Clayton, and I am one of the first faces you will see as you enter First Impressions Academy. I have been with the school since shortly after it opened in 2008, when my oldest daughter attended the preschool program. As the school began to grow, I volunteered to help when I could, as I wanted the school to progress with my children and be the only school they attended during their elementary school years. I have worked as the administrative assistant since 2011 and later became the assistant director. I deal with every aspect of the school to help maintain the safe, loving, learning environment that my own children have been blessed to have. I am originally from New York State. My husband’s military career brought us here in 2005, and we plan on being here for quite some time. I have a passion for FIA as a parent first, and it is the reason why I chose to work here. It is truly my wish that every child should be granted the opportunity to have the same amazing start to their education as my 3 children have had.
Lindsay Quattrone- Office Assistant/Permanent Substitute
My name is Lindsay Quattrone and I am so excited to be a part of the FIA family for a third school year. I grew up in Florida, met my husband and have spent the past 16 years traveling where the military sends us. Most of my experience thus far has been working in elementary schools as a substitute and volunteering in preschool classrooms. I have a traveler’s heart and love experiencing new places and local foods. Some of my favorite things are home projects, coffee, being in the mountains or at the beach, making memories with family, and our Doberman, Cooper. I look forward to meeting everyone and having a great school year!
Resource Team
Justin Hubbard- Music
Sherry Young- Art
Hello there, I am Sherry Young, an innovative visual artist, and art teacher, blessed to be part of the FIA family of educators. I am grateful for the opportunity to teach and inspire our students to imagine with all their minds, believe with all their hearts, and achieve with all their might. I received my bachelor’s degree in Art at UNCP with many courses focused on education. My classes are built around the elements of art and the principles of design to enhance whole learning and personal development. Our projects are process-driven that allow the artist to develop their ideas and visual voice. We guide our students with a well-rounded exposure to see the beauty and possibilities all around them and tackle life’s challenges with creativity and enthusiasm, learning to think like an artist! I’m excited about this program! It’s a culmination of my years as an artist and years of teaching, education, and parenting!
Kate Meador- P.E.
I have been coaching here at FIA for seven years now. I Grew up playing every type of sport I could get my hands on. Basketball became my passion and I knew that I wanted to play it collegiately. In high school I was a 4 year letter winner in Basketball, Track and Field, as well as Tennis. I received All State honors in each one. I was a McDonalds All- American Nominee and TABC All- Star my senior year. My dreams of playing D1 basketball came true and I received a Scholarship to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. While there, I helped my team to an A-10 Conference Tournament Championship, birth in the NCAA tournament, and followed that up the next years with 3 post-season births in the WNIT. While playing for the 49ers, I became a team captain my junior and senior years. Once out of school I started working for a basketball personal training facility called Accelerate Basketball. While working there I was able to work with every type of athlete ranging from our NBA clients all the way down to our 5 year olds. In the summer of 2013 I was introduced to Crossfit and quickly became hooked. Shortly after, I received my Crossfit L1 Certificate. There is much to learn in the CrossFit world and at times it can be overwhelming but that’s what continues to drive me as a coach. There’s always something else to know and another way to do something, especially when working with young kids. I love working with our FIA students and helping to instill a love for fitness and sports. I have worked at FIA since 2015 and have loved working with our students to give them a love for fitness and health.
– Spanish
– Character Education
Preschool Team & Kinder Prep Team
Ms. Kim- Preschool Lead/Aftercare Lead
Hi, my name is Kim Hall and I am very excited to be teaching Pre-K. I am also the lead of FIA’s before and aftercare program. I have been at First Impressions Academy since 2014. Previously I have completed a total of six years as a Family Child Care Provider, where I earned my CDA (Child Development Associates). I was an assistant teacher for seven years at Jackson Elementary School. I love learning and have a passion for teaching children to have that same love and excitement towards learning and school. I love how rewarding it is to watch children grow and help them reach their full potential. Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my husband, my family, and friends.
Ms. Jae- Preschool Aide-
I’m Mrs. Jae, a proud transplant from sunny San Antonio, TX, a military spouse, and a supermom to two amazing big kids! Working with children is truly one of my superpowers. From coast to coast and in all kinds of settings, I’ve had the joy of working with kids of all ages, but it’s the tiniest tots who light me up the most. I lead with heart, laughter, and a whole lot of love. Creating a safe, happy space where little ones can learn, grow, and just be their awesome selves is what I’m all about.
Ms. Lia- Preschool Lead
Hello! My name is Lia McNeill, and I am truly honored to be a part of the FIA Family. This is my second year at FIA, and my 12th year in education. I taught for seven years in the Exceptional Children’s Department K-5, two years in Kindergarten, and one year in third grade. My favorite part of teaching is watching students experience “AHA” moments. I am married to a giant (he’s 6’8), and together we have four beautiful children. When I’m not teaching, I am usually hanging out with family, serving my community, or on some sort of ball field with my children. In my free time, I watch a LOT of sports (Go Commanders, Orioles, Blackhawks, and Bulls!) and cooking shows. I am looking forward to a spectacular year!
Ms. Nakia- Preschool Aide
Hello, my name is Nakia Smith. I’m fairly new to North Carolina, originally from New Jersey. I have a passion for kids and always wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl. I’ve been in the education field for 14yrs with various positions such as, after school teacher, camp counselor, substitute teacher and teacher assistant. I have my Associates degree in Early Childhood education and plan to go back to school for my bachelors degree. I hope to own my own daycare one day. I’m looking forward to a fantastic year here at FIA!!!!
Ms. Sarah- Kinder Prep Lead
My name is Sarah Ferry. I am a mother of 2 boys. I taught at FIA for the 2019-2020 school year then had to PCS. I have experience in all elementary grades except kindergarten and I homeschooled my oldest son. My degree is in elementary education from Northern Michigan University. I am so excited to work in Kinder prep again this year!
Ms. Ashley- Kinder Prep Lead
Hey there, my name is Ashley Milewski and I am so excited to be part of the FIA family again! Since I was little, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, and I truly feel so lucky that I get to do what I love every day! I received a Masters in Elementary Education from UNCP, and this is my second year teaching K-Prep at FIA, and my 5th year teaching overall. I enjoy spending time with my husband, our 3 kiddos, and 3 dogs (full house!) I love reading, being outdoors, gardening, and doing anything crafty. Like most teachers, coffee is my best friend! I’m looking forward to an awesome year together!
Kindergarten Team
Ms. Toston
Hello! My name is Ashley Toston and I am beyond thrilled to be teaching Kindergarten at FIA this year! This is my sixth year as part of the FIA family, and I am excited for this new journey with your children. I moved to North Carolina from California. I received my bachelor’s and Master’s degree in elementary education and an administrative credential from California State University Channel Islands. I have previously taught in the California public school system as a kindergarten teacher for six years. In my free time I love to work out, play with my dogs, hike and enjoy the outdoors. I am looking forward to another amazing year at FIA!
Ms. Davis
Hi, my name is Courtney Davis. I am so excited to be teaching kindergarten here at FIA and be a part of your child’s education! This will be my fourth year teaching at FIA but my 8th year teaching overall. I received my bachelor’s in Early Childhood Education from Mayville State University. I am originally from Texas but moved to North Carolina due to the Air Force. In my free time, I love to spend time with my husband and two children, being outside, and traveling. I look forward to having another great year at FIA!
Ms. Baker
Hi! My name is Tiffany Baker and this is my fourth year teaching kindergarten but my 11th year teaching. I’ve also taught prekindergarten for a year and 1st grade for six years. I am originally from Pennsylvania. I have my Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education from Pennsylvania College of Technology and my Bachelors in Pre-K – 4th Grade/ Early Childhood Education from Lock Haven University. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, being outside, and watching movies.
First Grade Team
Ms. Dodt
Ms. Reynolds
Hi! My name is Shianne Reynolds, this will be my 6th year teaching and my fifth year at FIA! I have had the opportunity to be in many different roles while being part of the FIA family and I am so happy and excited to be part of the the first grade team again this year! I am originally from Iowa, where I received my Bachelor’s in Elementary Education, with math and STEM endorsements, and I also have a Master’s in Special Education. In my free time I love to work out, play with my dogs, Winston and Lilah, read, and explore new places with my husband and daughter. I am looking forward to another amazing year with my FIA family.
Second Grade Team
Ms. Runde
My name is Lauren Runde and I am so excited to be teaching 2nd grade at FIA. This is my 7th year at FIA and I’m so happy to be a part of the FIA family! I am originally from Kansas City, Missouri where I received my Bachelors in Elementary Education and Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Northwest Missouri State University. I have moved around a bit since marrying my husband, but I have spent most of my career teaching 2nd and 3rd grade. I love spending time outdoors with my husband, our two boys, and our dog, Cash. I am looking forward to an amazing year at FIA!
Ms. Kelley
Hello! My name is Jennifer Kelley and I am ecstatic to be part of the FIA family in second grade! I am originally from New York, but life has granted me a fortunate set of circumstances that have allowed me to settle in North Carolina for the foreseeable future. I graduated from SUNY Oswego with a B.S. in Elementary Education and have received a M.A. Human Services Counseling from Liberty University. In my free time, I enjoy working with paint and clay, exercising, being outside, and spending time with my family. I am looking forward to a wonderful second year at FIA!
Ms. Cornell
Hi! My name is Julie Cornell and I am so excited to join the FIA family! Teaching has been my passion since I was a little girl. I’ve taught in North Carolina for the past 12 years, teaching kindergarten and third grades. I am originally from California, where I graduated with a Bachelor’s degree from Dominican University of CA. My husband and I have made a home here with our son and many pets. In my free time I enjoy being active, crafting and reading. I am so excited to be a part of our students’ success story!
Third Grade Team
Ms. Cooper
Hi, my name is Kristine Cooper. My degree is in elementary ed with a concentration in special education. I hold a gifted certification as well. I have previously taught in the public school system for a few years in 3rd grade and then taught 2nd grade for 3 years at FIA. I took a hiatus from teaching full time after having my youngest daughter. I subbed at FIA, coached gymnastics, ran a small business, and was a SAHM during that time. However, I am super excited to be back to teaching full time at FIA! I am a girl mom, with 3 daughters. My oldest is a sophomore in college (she attended FIA middle school), my middle daughter is in 5th grade, and my youngest is in first (both at FIA). I have a love and passion for teaching children and this shines through with my enthusiasm in the classroom and sometimes “extra” personality.
Ms. McMillian
Hello! My name is Gwen McMillian, and I am super excited to be apart of FIA. My degree is in elementary education, this is my 5th year of teaching and my first year at FIA. When I’m not in the classroom teaching, I enjoying spending time with my family. I am a mom of 3 including a lively set of twins and an adventurous 5 year old. With a passion for education, I believe in creating a positive, engaging learning environment where students feel inspired to grow.
Fourth Grade Team
Ms. Dale
Hi! My name is Jamie Dale, and I am so excited to teach fourth grade. This is my Seventh year at FIA. I have been a classroom teacher for the past 16 years. I have taught a variety of grades and coached middle school softball and HS cheerleading! Children have been my passion for as long as I can remember! I started babysitting at the age of 13 and that was all it took for me to realize I wanted to make a difference in the lives of children!! I am married and have three amazing children who keep us very busy. We are a softball, football, and cheerleading family. We love to be outside doing pretty much anything and we are HUGE Carolina Panthers fans! We love going to games, tailgating and enjoying family time together! I am so excited to add all of you to my “family”! It’s going to be an amazing year!
Ms. Modlin
Fifth Grade Team
Ms. Knowles
My name is Kristi Knowles and this is my second year teaching fifth grade at First Impressions Academy, and I am so excited to be here! This will be my eighth year teaching. I have taught both fourth and fifth grade. I also helped run the musical program at my last school. I completed most of my teaching degree at the University of Central Florida in Orlando, where I am originally from. I finished my degree at New Mexico State University in 2007. My degree background is in Music Education, but after moving to Utah I became licensed to teach grades 1-8. Being in a military family, I have moved several times over the past seventeen years. My family and I recently moved to Fayetteville from Ogden, Utah. My husband is in the Air Force, and we have three sons together. They are excited to be living on the east coast. My past students will tell you how much I enjoy singing songs to encourage learning in my classroom and also, singing just to have fun!
Ms. Sturgis
Hi everyone! My name is Brooke Sturgis, and I’m so excited to kick off my second year at FIA as a fifth-grade teacher! Teaching is truly my passion, and I’m beyond grateful to continue this journey with such a vibrant and supportive school community. This is my fourth year in the classroom, and I’ve had the joy of teaching third, fourth, and sixth grades along the way. Each experience has helped shape the educator I am today. I earned my bachelor’s in elementary education, my master’s in curriculum and instruction, and recently completed my doctoral degree in educational leadership, all through Liberty University. It is my life’s mission to ignite a love for learning in every student who walks through my door. Outside of the classroom, I’m a proud mom to three amazing kids and two lovable dogs, Redd and Jack. I love to travel, cook, and be adventurous—and I can’t wait to see what this school year brings!
Middle School Team
Ms. Berube- Mathematics/SGA
My name is Brittany Berube and I teach Middle School Math and History. This will be my seventh year at FIA! I worked in classrooms as a paraeducator, substitute teacher, and lead teacher for the last nine years. Teaching, for me, is about igniting a love for learning within each child that comes into my room. I am originally from Colorado where I began my education at the University of Northern Colorado. After accepting a position as a Paraeducator, I transferred to Grand Canyon University where I received my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education (K-8). After graduation, I began my career as a fifth-grade teacher in Cherry Creek School District in Colorado. I then moved to North Carolina, I found FIA, and the rest is history! I am honored and blessed to be part of the FIA family and look forward to another amazing year!
Freda Smith- Literacy/Language Arts
I am excited to be starting my 7th year at FIA. My elementary through middle school years were spent here in Fayetteville and I attended high school in Germany, due to my father being in the military. My teaching career started here in North Carolina in the Fall of 1990. I’ve taught in Scotland and Cumberland County. I earned my Elementary Education degree from North Carolina Central University in Durham. My husband of 30 years is a retired Fayetteville firefighter and we have two grown children. I have always enjoyed listening to music and reading. I thoroughly enjoy watching others (children, and adults as well) learn and grow into the best versions of themselves. I’m looking forward to helping students continue on their path of being lifelong learners.
Ms. Wilson- Science/S.T.E.M
My name is Andrea Wilson. I bring five years of dedicated science teaching experience to the classroom, where her passion for both science and working with young people shines through in every lesson. Originally from South Carolina, I am committed to inspiring the next generation of scientists and critical thinkers. When I am not in the classroom, I enjoy spending quality time with my beloved dog, Luna. My enthusiasm for science education and genuine care for my students drive my commitment to making learning engaging and meaningful for every child I teach.
A New Leaf Academy Team
Ms. Creasey
Hello! My name is Maire Creasey, and I am so excited to start my first year at FIA. I received my Bachelor’s degree in elementary education, and my Master’s in special education. My teaching career has spanned approximately 18 years where I taught in Baltimore and Northern Virginia. I have experience in both public and private settings. Also, I was even an IEP coordinator my second year in Baltimore. Before accepting this position, I spent the summer completing RBT training. When I am not working, I love traveling and playing with my 3 dogs and 2 cats. My favorite places have been Ireland and France. I am so grateful to be joining such a welcoming team!
For more information about any of our staff, or to schedule a tour with us, contact us today at 910-339-0524!
Call today to Schedule a Tour: 910-339-0524
Call today to Schedule a Tour: 910-339-0524