Piedmont Elementary School

To conclude Piedmont’s black excellence spotlight, we shout out Yvonne Lee!

Yvonne Lee is the Community in Schools (CIS) worker for Capital High School. She has her PhD in Social Work, with a concentration in Family Intervention and Preservation. Yvonne is an entrepreneur while working in the community advocating for the people.

She works as a voter engagement organizer, fulfilling her passion of mobilizing people and getting them to the polls. She is dedicated to uplifting marginalized people and building community power to achieve change. Her most dedicated role is being Gigi and mom.

Thank you for being excellent, Yvonne!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is Torri Locke!

Torri T. Locke is a cosmetologist, CEO, and Alumnae of Piedmont Elementary. From the young age of 7, she began to idealize her father and his work as a cosmetologist, and she knew from then she wanted to do hair. Straight out of high school, she went to cosmetology school and mastered the trade of natural hair care.

Being a freedom-seeker who looks for flexibility at work and
a strong team spirit.
She wanted to create a place that's family oriented.
That others would have a place of work that's comfortable and sufficient to
provide for their families. In the midst of developing the business, she
was raising a son.

With a lifetime of experience, who takes pride in her craft.
Specializing in braids but versatile (a trendsetter). Torri has been able to
put her creativity and the natural born talent to good use. Over the years,
Torris strengths at hair on Locke have garnered some recognition by the local
community and surrounding states. Torri may spend her days at hair on Locke,
but it’s the passion and knowing she's going to help someone else feel and look
better that gets her up in the morning.

When not at hair on Locke, Torri loves visiting new places.
and would like to incorporate her business with traveling. When at home, you
can see her involved and giving back to her community.

Thank you for being excellent, Torri!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is our very own Mr. Beatty!

Ron Beatty was born and raised in Charleston, WV. He is married with four kids and seven grandkids. He graduated from Stonewall Jackson High School in 1983. He was a member of the 1982 boys’ AAA State Basketball team and was named to the All-State Basketball team in 1983. He graduated from West Virginia Tech in 1990 with a degree in Arts and Science, won two conference basketball championship tournaments, and was named to the first team All-Conference Team in 1988. Mr. Beatty started his teaching journey in Boone County at Van Elementary (1990), Portsmouth City Schools in Ohio (1990-96), and Kanawha County Schools (1996-present). He is currently in his 25th year at Piedmont Elementary School.

Mr. Beatty has coached basketball for more than 20 years at every level from elementary to college basketball; he has also been a private basketball and fitness trainer as well. He enjoys working with kids, which he considers the best job anyone can have because of the impact on our kids because they are the future. His goal is to continue to be an impact and a role model in the community in some capacity to our youth and continue to remind kids that role models wear a variety of hats, besides sports, and can have a major impact in your life if you allow them.

Mr. Beatty wants the kids to know, “You don't have to strive for perfection, but always give your best whatever you do, and you can be satisfied with the results. Never say you can't do something, because you are capable of accomplishing anything if you are willing to have faith, believe, put in the time, and stay focused on the goal. DREAM BIG.”

Thank you for being excellent, Mr. Beatty!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is Briana Washington!

Briana Washington is a three-time graduate from Marshall University, with her first in 2009 with a bachelor’s in Psychology and minor in International Affairs, 2017 with a Masters in Health Care Administration, and 2020 with a Masters in Social Work. Briana also has a passion for health, wellness, and fitness, which led to her becoming certified as personal trainer with additional specialties in glute strengthening, indoor cycling, and fitness nutrition. Briana currently works as a behavioral health therapist where she specializes in treating trauma, mood, and personality disorders. She also is able to explore her passion for fitness by working part time as a fitness instructor. Briana believes in approaching life from a holistic perspective and has the privilege to incorporate all her talents and passion across her endeavors.

This has led to Briana beginning her own business, Building With Bree, where her mission is to help people grow not only physically, but also mentally and emotionally. Seeing others heal and grow despite their experiences and circumstances is what fuels her work. She has been able to volunteer with local organizations such as The Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation, Our Future WV, and The YWCA, where she has helped create awareness, review grants, and push policy change in areas of criminal justice reform, domestic violence, and racial inequities. Briana believes her greatest calling is that of a parent to her amazing son who is active with their community’s swim and soccer teams. In their free time, they can be seen traveling, exploring eateries, connecting with family and friends, or relaxing at home.

Thank you for being excellent, Briana!

Round up information for both Preschool and Kindergarten!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is Larry Moore!

Larry Moore lives in Charleston. He is a product of Kanawha County Schools. He graduated from Capital High School. Larry also graduated from Marshall University with an undergraduate and master’s degree with an autism endorsement. He also has a master’s degree from West Virginia State University. Larry works at Capital High School, where he is the Behavioral Interventionist, football coach, and track and field coach. He is also the announcer for the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams at Capital High. Larry is a member of The Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated. He sits on City Council for Charleston, representing Ward 4, which is located on the Westside of Charleston.

Larry was the chair of the Parks and Recreation Committee for the city of Charleston. Now, he is the chair for the Urban Renewal and Economic Development Committee. Larry is a member of Keep Your Faith Corporation. Keep Your Faith Corporation is highly active in the city of Charleston. The programs they offer are community gardening, work force initiative, and mental health outreach. Keep Your Faith Corporation also hosts an annual community Thanksgiving dinner every year. Larry loves to help others and see them be great.

Thank you for being excellent, Larry!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is LaKeisha Barron-Brown!

LaKeisha Barron-Brown is the Program Manager, College Links of INROADS in the Charleston, WV market. She is a longtime resident of Charleston, WV. She comes to the INROADS organization as an INROADS Alumni with extensive professional background in developing, implementing and evaluating the effectiveness of programs. Ms. Barron-Brown first learned about INROADS during her 10th grade year of high school. She recognized early on the opportunities that INROADS would provide as a link to college preparation and attainment. As a first-generation college student, Ms. Barron-Brown benefitted from the soft skills and career readiness that she gained while being in INROADS. The skills obtained allowed her to have a greater appreciation of education and the global workforce.

Ms. Barron-Brown has a Master of Arts in Correctional Counseling from Marshall University. She has over 20 years of experience working alongside government and non-profit organizations that serve the needs of at-risk youth and at-risk populations. Ms. Barron-Brown is an author and motivational speaker. She has a passion in community outreach, mobilizing and engagement. Her motto is, “Everyone has the potential to succeed even when they may not believe in themselves.”

Thank you for being excellent, LaKeisha!

My apologies – I have been out sick this week. Make up post!!!!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight are Courtney Campbell-Williams, Dr. Michelle Foster, Lindsey McIntosh, and Elder Bobby L. Robinson, Jr.!

Thank you all SOOOO MUCH!!!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is TR Dues!

TR is 39 years old. He has 3 sons: Tyshawn, Laron, and Angelon. He graduated from South Charleston High in 2001. While in high school, he played three sports. He earned football scholarship offers, as well as breaking Randy Moss’ record in the 100m dash running a 10.62. He attended Fork Union Military Academy after high school and signed a scholarship to play at JMU . Family is first for TR. When his father was sick, he came home and played three years at WVWC. He was All Conference two years and All American one year. He played professional football in the NFL, CFL, and AFL. He currently owns a business called Trainrek Training, where he continues to give his knowledge and experiences to help the youth and many others of all ages to become successful in life through sports.

Thank you for being excellent, TR!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is Scott Canada!

Mr. Canada is 44 years old. He is the father of 5 young men, 2 dogs (Duke and Delilah), and married to his amazing wife, Whitney. He graduated from THE Capital High School in 1997 where he was a member of the football team and VIPS. He attended Ben Franklin Career and Technical Center in 1998 and obtained a certification in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design. He went on to graduate from West Virginia State University in 2013 with a Bachelor of Science in Education and in 2021 a Master of Science in Sports Studies. He is currently finishing a Master of Education in Instructional Leadership at WVSU.

He has worked for Kanawha County Schools for 10 years as a Physical Education and Health Teacher in both the South Charleston and Capital feeder areas. He has coached youth sports for 22 years at the Biddy, Middle School, and High School levels. He is currently the Behavioral Interventionist at West Side Middle. “Dare to be different! Be yourself and walk your own trail. The road less traveled isn’t always the wrong path.”

Thank you for being excellent, Mr. Canada!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is our very own Mrs. Ashley Peoples-Dooley!

Ashley Peoples-Dooley was born and raised in Charleston, WV. She is a two-time graduate of Marshall University. Mrs. Ashley earned her bachelor's degree in Communication Disorders in 2014 and her Masters in Counseling in 2020. Ashley is passionate about holistic healing and wellness. During her personal time, she enjoys reading, writing, dancing, listening to music and podcasts, meditation, taking care of her plant babies, and yoga. Ashley personally believes that everyone is equipped to be their own hero through self-love and empathy for others.

Ashley's most important role in her life is being a mother. When she is not at work, she spends most of her time with her daughter and husband. She and her family enjoy having time together traveling, hiking, watching movies, eating, playing games, and baking. Ashley has worked at Piedmont Elementary for two years. She feels that her greatest reward as a school counselor is witnessing the students implement strategies and skills to problem solve and regulate their emotions. Ashley firmly believes that confidence comes from the ability to self-regulate. She strives to help all Piedmont students build their confidence to be who they are.

Thank you for being excellent, Mrs. Ashley!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is Donteako Wilson!

Donteako Wilson, 41, is a native of Charleston and grew up on Charleston’s west side. He attended Glenwood Elementary, where Mary C. Snow was his first principal, shaping the way he viewed himself and his community. He also attended Stonewall Jackson Junior High and then graduated from Capital High in 1999. After high school, he attended Marshall University, but he moved back to Charleston after one year to pursue a career in retail clothing. He started his first business, Reflexionz Clothing LLC, in 2002. He later developed a clothing line, “Tech Neek,d.” He eventually closed those businesses to start a career in the insurance business in 2008.

He worked for Fortune 500 company New York Life, and he set West Virginia sales records for most insurance policies sold in the first year of working for the company. After four years with New York Life, he became an independent agent and also began selling home, auto, and business insurances. After six more successful years of selling insurance for a local agency, on February 1, 2017, Don created Capital Insurance Group (CIG), a full-service independent insurance agency located in downtown Charleston. He was one of only two employees that first year. CIG now has 22 offices in 15 states, writes insurance in over 25 states, and has over $18,000,000 of business written. CIG has grown to be one of the largest, black owned insurance agencies in the country.

Thank you for being excellent, Don!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is Alecia Allen, MA LPC!

Alecia is an independently Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia serving as Clinical Director and supervisor to a diverse behavioral health staff with a variety of licensure. She is the founder of West Virginia’s first fully established black-owned and operated Licensed Behavioral Health Center acting as a group therapy practice.

Alecia has more than 10 years of experience in counseling and nonprofit leadership. She is passionate about working to address social and health disparities in Appalachia. She continues to move forward community wellness and improved economic development efforts to help individuals and communities apply a strength-based approach in order to achieve goals that promote health and wellness.

Thank you for being excellent, Alecia!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is Shante Ellis!

Shante Ellis is an accomplished educator, trainer, and facilitator who is no stranger to being a community thought leader and is a prolific public speaker. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, Shante continued her schooling and received her Master’s degree in Education with a focus on Curriculum and Instruction. Shante is a certified diversity professional contributing to the diversity, equity and inclusion space on a local and national level.

A native of Brooklyn, New York, Shante has lived in West Virginia since 2016. She is the proud mother of a teenage son and is currently working as the Racial Equity and Inclusion Director for the YWCA of Charleston, West Virginia. In 2018, Shante was the first recipient of the Big Fish award. Shante earned this award as she was instrumental in improving the culture and successfully achieving results within a program based on the FISH Philosophy core values of improving teamwork, customer service, employee engagement, and leadership.
Shante was awarded the Legacy of Women Award of the Elizabeth Mason Harden Gilmore Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion Award in 2022 for her work as a state and national-level role model for future leaders.

Shante creates, implements, and facilitates curricula that guide learning experiences for all. She has trained and facilitated discussions for hundreds of leaders, educators, and administrators across several states in various settings, paving the way for fruitful, constructive discussions. In addition, Shante has created module series that has become the module of choice for local employers’ administration and leadership.

Shante has the experience, organizational and communication skills, introspection, and work ethic in training development, instructional design, project management, and teaching to accomplish any goal. She is a big picture, bold and visionary leader who is a proactive problem- solver that can quickly change course, adapt and deliver positive results in a fast-paced environment across multiple partners.

Thank you for being excellent, Shante!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is our very own Ms. Staci Ponder!

Ms. Staci Ponder was born on February 5 in Princeton, West Virginia. She moved to Charleston, West Virginia in 1994, and she was a student at Piedmont Elementary for 3rd through 6th grade. She then attended Horace Mann Junior High School, followed by Capital High school. After graduating from Capital High, she attended Marshall University and graduated with a bachelor's degree in psychology in 2008. She later returned to Marshall University Graduate School and graduated with a master’s degree in counseling in 2018. As soon as she graduated, she was lucky enough to immediately begin working as the school counselor at Piedmont Elementary. It was an amazing feeling to work as the counselor at the elementary school she went to when she was a child!

In Ms. Staci's free time, she enjoys watching movies, going to the beach, and hanging out with her daughter, friends, and her family. She also enjoys playing board games, singing, doing mindful coloring, and painting and decorating her fingernails. She loves talking to people and spreading her love and light to others. She believes that if she is able to make a difference or impact in a child's life, she has done a good job and feels fulfilled. She loves working at Piedmont Elementary and feels that all of the children are special and it is a joy to see their smiling faces every day!

Thank you for being excellent, Ms. Staci!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is Rashaun Poore!

Rashaun was born and raised on the west side of Charleston. She has three beautiful children and a wonderful husband. She attended elementary school at both JE Robins Elementary and Tiskelwah Elementary. She went to Stonewall Jackson Junior High (Now West Side Middle). She received her high school diploma from Capital High School, where she is currently the girl's assistant basketball coach. She obtained her bachelor’s of science degree in Finance from the University of South Florida, where she also played on the women's basketball team.

After graduating college, Rashaun was employed with WVU Physicians of Charleston for over 10 years from 2008 - 2019 and held the position as the Director of Budgets and Financial Operations. While working, she started her master’s program at the University of Marshall and later received her MBA. In 2019, she was appointed as the first African American woman Director of Parks and Recreation for the City of Charleston. Her passion for people is what drives her to always put her best foot forward.

Thank you for being excellent, Rashaun!

Next up in our black excellence spotlight is Dr. Jerica Wesley!

Dr. Jerica Wesley is a Licensed Professional Counselor in West Virginia and has provided services to the Kanawha valley for nine years. She has worked in various roles serving youth and adults as a school counselor and community mental health provider. Dr. Wesley received professional training at Marshall University and Ohio University where she earned her doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision. She is currently an assistant professor of counseling at her alma mater, Marshall University.

Since July 2022, she has served as the president of the West Virginia Counseling Association and supports the community through various leadership and volunteer roles. Dr. Wesley is the owner of Restored Wellness Life Enrichment Services, LLC, a company seeking to restore the village through consultation, continuing education, culturally sensitive counseling, and clinical supervision. Dr. Wesley currently lives in Dunbar with her husband and daughter and is a member of the Alpha Omicron Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

Thank you for being excellent, Dr. Wesley!

Up next in Piedmont’s black excellence spotlight is none other than Mr. Woody Woods!

Woody "Woodrow" Woods, also affectionately known as Uncle Woody, has been a pillar of the Charleston, WV community for over 25 years. He began his career as a radio host on the night show at WJFX Foxy 107.9 in Fort Wayne, Indiana before taking the reins of his own afternoon show, "The Woody Woods Show", on 98.7 The Beat in Charleston. With over 18 years as the Program Director on WRVZ, 98.7 The Beat has been one of the top radio stations in Charleston WV!! Woody's impeccable timing, witty humor, and unwavering work ethic have made him a household name. As a trailblazer, he became the first African-American Male in West Virginia to host a full-time FM radio show, and as a member of the world-renowned CORE DJ'S, he has shared the stage with major artists like Snoop Dogg, Dr. Dre, Ice Cube, Boyz II Men, and Lil Wayne and more.

Beyond his professional achievements, Woody's true passion lies in giving back to the community. As an active mentor for at-risk youth and honorary coach for local little league and high school teams, Woody dedicates his time to positively impact the lives of those around him. He also visits schools to read to children, and is a driving force behind the annual 98.7 The Beat Back Pack Attack, providing school supplies to hundreds of young students. A proud father of five, Na'Syia, Iverson, Armani, Peyton, Kaydence and one grandchild Nasir! Woody's unwavering commitment to the Charleston area is evident in his tireless efforts to support children with cancer through his advocacy for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Uncle Woody truly embodies what it means to be a dedicated and community-focused individual.

Thank you for being excellent, Uncle Woody!

Today’s black excellence spotlight shines on one of Piedmont’s very own, Ms. Aquila Cunningham!

Aquila Cunningham is a 4th grade Teacher at Piedmont Elementary School. In her classroom, she creates a student-centered learning environment where students are able to thrive! This is her 3rd year teaching at Piedmont. Aquila was born and raised in Charleston, West Virginia. She is an alumna of South Charleston High School, West Virginia University, where she obtained a bachelor’s of science in exercise physiology and a master’s of science in safety management, and Grand Canyon University, where she obtained her Masters in Elementary Education.

She is currently the Health Sciences and Technology or HSTA Teacher at South Charleston High School. HSTA is a one-of-a-kind mentoring program in the state of West Virginia that helps participating high school students enter and succeed in STEM-based undergraduate and graduate degree programs for students that are facing social and financial challenges. Aquila is also the cheerleading coach for Horace Mann Middle School. She became a member of the illustrious Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated in May of 2021, where she strives to be of “Service to All Mankind”. During her free time, she enjoys going on hikes, kayaking, kickboxing, and relaxing.

Thank you for being excellent, Ms. Cunningham!

Today’s black excellence spotlight shines on Nakia Austin, M.A.!

Nakia is a native of Cleveland, Ohio and the Founder and CEO of Nakia Austin Coaching and Inspirations, LLC. Nakia is an Inspirational Speaker, Professional Counselor, and Certified Life Coach offering over 15 years of experience in strategic thinking and tactical approaches to overcoming adversity.

Nakia has been blessed to speak on local and national platforms, sharing her message of healing and hope. As the self-proclaimed “Trauma Queen,” she is also passionate about educating trauma survivors on the importance of healing and self-worth.

Thank you for being excellent, Nakia!

Today’s black excellence spotlight shines on Maritiza James!

Maritiza has a Bachelor’s Degree in psychology and a Minor in Learning Disability education. She is also an Ordained Pastor, DONA Certified Full Spectrum Doula, ADA Advocate, and a Life Coach who assists people become healthy, whole, and liberated.

Maritiza runs an outreach program called Speak Life Outreach and they serve the Kanawha Charleston communities. She recently Co-authored a book with 11 other amazing African and African American writers called “I Lived To Tell It” the Anthology. Writing is her passion and she is an accomplished author, poet, and playwright.

Thank you for being excellent, Maritiza!

Day 4:
Today’s black excellence spotlight shines on Mr. William Scott!

Mr. Scott is 44 years old and has 3 children, 4 dogs, and 1 cat. He graduated from George Washington High School in 1996 and is a member of the GW Basketball Hall of Fame. He attended the University of Charleston on a basketball scholarship. He went on to graduate from West Virginia State University with an Education Degree, as well as a Masters in Educational Leadership.

He is now a Wellness teacher at West Side Middle School, as well as the basketball and soccer coach. Mr. Scott says, "I never gave up, even when it seemed like I should. I kept fighting to be successful and made it happen." His favorite quote is, “You can't truly appreciate success until you experience failure.” Mr. Scott aspires to become a principal one day. His passion is teaching, coaching, and mentoring our youth.

Thank you for being excellent, Mr. Scott!

As a part of Piedmont's first annual Black Excellence Festival/Celebration Month, every day in February, we will shine our spotlight on a local, Kanawha County, black business owner, entrepreneur, or public figure!

Don't forget to complete your application for the Christmas Bureau by November 5th if you are in need of assistance.https://www.uwcbwv.org/media/attachments/2022/08/25/kanawha-county-application-2022.pdf

Congratulations to our students, their families, and our staff for raising nearly $110,000 for the Piedmont Elementary playground! Thank you to the City of Charleston and Charleston Rotary for coming together to fund a great playground and space for all kids in the community to enjoy. A great day for our school and for Charleston!

https://www.wvgazettemail.com/news/kanawha_valley/new-playground-announced-for-charlestons-celebration-station/article_f63e3602-f51b-57a5-b0c4-145e06f4bd9a.h

New playground announced for Charleston's Celebration Station East End’s Celebration Station is finally getting a makeover

Great to see so many people at the East End Yard Sale today! If you missed buying pepperoni rolls, we still have some for sale! One for $3 or two for $5 - comment below with how many you want and we will coordinate pick up or delivery!

If you grew up in West Virginia, you know the best school lunch was pepperoni roll day. Relive those glory days and support Piedmont Elementary School!

We are selling school-made pepperoni rolls at the East End Yard Sale on Saturday, October 9th from 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

Join us near 1573 Quarrier St. to buy pepperoni rolls, water, donuts, raffle tickets for art work made by local artists and more!

We ❤️ year-round education. We are so happy to have our students back!

Piedmont Elementary back in the classroom for year-round education Tackling the learning loss for students during the pandemic has become a priority at one Kanawha County school that is already back in session. Piedmont Elementary School on Charleston's East End is the only school in the state to have year-round learning, which is helping its students get back on t...