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 Fourth 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!
Ms. Toston-Cisneros
Hello! My name is Ashley Toston- Cisneros and I am beyond thrilled to be transitioning to supporting the administration team this year. This is my seventh year as part of the FIA family, six of those years were spent teaching Kindergarten. 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!
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 nine 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. Lauren- Preschool Aide-
Hi! My name is Lauren, and I’m currently working towards my degree in education. I’ve loved working with children ever since I was in high school, but I also have a big passion for art and creating new things. I love expressing myself creatively and bringing that creativity into everything I do, especially teaching. I recently got married, and in my free time you’ll usually find me creating something new, going on hikes, or spending time outdoors enjoying nature. I also love hanging out with my German Shepherd puppy, who is truly the light of my life. I’m always excited to keep learning, growing, and exploring new ideas.
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 third year at FIA, and my 13th 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. 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 6th 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. 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.
Ms. Ellis
My name is Ann Ellis. I am excited to be joining FIA’s kindergarten team this year! This will be my seventh year of teaching and my fifth year in kindergarten. I earned my Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida in 2019 and then moved to North Carolina. Prior to that I served in the United States Air Force for 20 years. I’m originally from Missouri, the proud mother of one son and a cat named Emily. I love to craft, read, spend time outdoors and work in the garden.
First Grade Team
Ms. Dodt
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.
Ms. Bharrat
My name is Andrea Bharrat and am thrilled to be joining FIA as a first-grade teacher. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke and hold a North Carolina teaching licenses in K–6 Elementary Education and K–12 Special Learning Disabilities. After recently retiring from Cumberland County Schools following 30 years of dedicated service, I am continuing my passion for teaching by joining First Impressions Academy. In my free time, I enjoy reading, watching thriller movies, and spending time with my family.
Second Grade Team
Ms. Harry
My name is Jordan Harry and I am so excited to be joining FIA this year! I am originally from Denver, Colorado but moved to Texas to attend Baylor University. At Baylor, I received my B.S.Ed in Elementary Education with an emphasis in gifted and talented education. I also received my M.S.Ed in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus on literacy. I have taught 1st and 2nd grade in Texas and Colorado, and am looking forward to teaching in North Carolina! In my spare time I love hiking, reading, crafting, and spending time with my son Henry, husband Caleb, and two dogs. I can’t wait for all the memories that will be made at FIA!
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 Junior in college (she attended FIA middle school), my middle daughter is in 6th grade, and my youngest is in 2nd (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. Weldon
Third Grade Team
Ms. Runde
My name is Lauren Runde and I am so excited to be teaching 3rd grade at FIA. This is my 8th 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. Sturgis
Hi everyone! My name is Brooke Sturgis, and I’m so excited to kick off my Third 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!
Fourth Grade Team
Ms. Dale
Hi! My name is Jamie Dale, and I am so excited to teach fourth grade. This is my Eighth year at FIA. I have been a classroom teacher for the past 17 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. Cornell
Hi! My name is Julie Cornell and I am so excited to be teaching my second year with FIA! Teaching has been my passion since I was a little girl. I’ve taught in North Carolina for the past 13 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!
Fifth Grade Team
Middle School Team
Kristina Knowles- Mathematics/SGA
Ms. Moultrie-Stills- Literacy/Language Arts
My name is Abbie Moultrie-Stills, and I am thrilled to be joining the First Impressions Academy family. I look forward to partnering with fellow educators, students, and families to make this school year a meaningful and successful one. I bring 22 years of teaching experience to the classroom, having taught middle grades in the United States as well as students across all grade levels while living and teaching in Kuwait. I am licensed in English Language Arts and Social Studies and am a proud alumna of Fayetteville State University—home of the Broncos!
One of the things I love most about teaching ELA is the opportunity to dive into great literature and facilitate meaningful discussions. I believe that when students are encouraged to share their perspectives, ask thoughtful questions, and connect with what they read, authentic learning takes place. There’s also something special about ending a lesson with a good quick write, where students can reflect, respond, and find their own voice. My teaching philosophy is built on the belief that education is a fourfold partnership among students, parents, teachers, and administrators. When each member of that partnership works together, students have the greatest opportunity to thrive. I also firmly believe that every student can learn and succeed when they are supported, challenged, and encouraged. Just as importantly, I believe our responsibility extends beyond academics. Building positive relationships and nurturing students’ social and emotional growth are just as essential as helping them master academic content.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my adult children and grandchildren. I also love relaxing on my porch while watching the hummingbirds that faithfully visit my yard—a simple joy that never gets old. I am excited for the year ahead and look forward to getting to know each of my students and their families. Together, I know we can create a classroom where every student feels safe, valued, challenged, and inspired to grow. Looking forward to a new adventure.
Mr. Herrera- History
Mr. Brozovich – Science
My name is Kent Brozovich and I am passionate about helping students grow academically, personally, and emotionally in a supportive learning environment. I hold both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Business Administration from East Carolina University, along with a minor in Political Science. I have four years of teaching experience working with middle school students. My classroom emphasizes critical thinking, collaboration, hands-on learning, and meaningful discussions that prepare students for success beyond the classroom.
Before entering education, I worked in information technology, which allows me to integrate technology into engaging, real-world learning experiences. Outside of the classroom, I love to travel and experience new cultures. I have visited seven foreign countries and 28 U.S. states, and I enjoy bringing those experiences and global perspectives into my teaching whenever possible.
Ms. Redfoot- S.T.E.M
I am an experienced educator with over 20 years of teaching science and history at both the secondary and college levels. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and History and a Master’s degree in History. Throughout my career, I have taught AP Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science, and a variety of middle and high school science courses. In addition, I taught World History and Western Civilization at Trident Technical College in Charleston, South Carolina.
My love of science began growing up in Kansas, where my parents sent me to science camp every summer. Those experiences fostered a lifelong curiosity about the natural world and a sense of adventure—I often joke that I can catch a rattlesnake without getting bitten. Later, I attended boarding school, where two remarkable teachers, Dr. Rustad and Dr. Libbi, helped shape my life and deepen my passion for both science and history. Their influence inspired me to pursue a career in education and to share that same enthusiasm for learning with my students.
My teaching philosophy focuses on fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning experiences that help students connect classroom concepts to the world around them. I am passionate about inspiring young learners to explore science, ask questions, and develop the confidence and skills needed for lifelong success.
A New Leaf Academy Team
Ms. Patterson
Hello! My name is Jessica Patterson and I am excited to be a part of the FIA family! This is my 3rd year at FIA but I have 19 years of experience in education. Helping the young minds grow has always been a passion of mine. Due to my father being military I grew up all over, born in Maryland though my family is originally from Fayetteville. I married my high school sweetheart and we have a son in 7th grade. I am looking forward to bringing passion, dedication and excitement to the classroom for a successful school year!
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