William Byrd Middle welcomes new faculty and staff

By Debbie Adams

William Byrd Middle School has welcomed several new faculty and staff members for the 2026-
2027 school year and some who have just switched positions. They include Jordan Persinger,
Alexis Griffith, Ty Christian, Daniel Letz, Carsyn Kotz, Ashley Huff Grubb, Sarah Skeen,
Jessica Rhodes, Samantha Wallace, Julia Ormandy, Hillary Jones, Mary Jo Niday, Elizabeth
Lyons, and Amy Canoles.

Jordan Persinger has been named assistant principal for sixth grade students at WBMS and also
athletic director. She is originally from Craig County and is a graduate of Craig County High
School. She earned her Bachelor’s in Business Finance from Hollins University, her Master’s in
Career and Technical Education from Virginia Tech, and her Master’s in Educational Leadership
from Radford University. She has been working in the field of education for 10 years, beginning
her teaching career at WBHS.

“I chose to become a middle school assistant principal because I wanted the opportunity to make
a broader impact on students, staff, and the overall school community. After nine years as a high
school marketing teacher, I was ready for a new challenge that would allow me to support both
teaching and learning while helping students build a strong foundation for future success. I am
grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve the Vinton community.

“Having previously coached softball and volleyball at the middle school, I had already built
strong relationships with some of the students, families, and staff. Since the middle school feeds
directly into the high school and is located on the same campus, the transition felt like a natural
next step.”

Alexis Griffith will be teaching at both WBMS and Northside Middle (homeschooling). Her
subjects are sixth grade US History and Civics and Economics.

She is originally from Tazewell and a graduate of Tazewell High School. She received her
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education PreK-6th with Middle School History
Endorsement from Liberty University. This is her seventh year of full-time teaching. She
transferred from teaching at Green Valley Elementary to a split position at Northside Middle and
WBMS.

“Since my very own Virginia Studies experience in the fourth grade, I have always loved
learning about history and the way it impacts us today. I taught Virginia Studies myself for years
in elementary school, but shared my time teaching other subjects. When the opportunity
presented itself to teach history and civics full time, I was excited to accept the challenge!”

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and 3-year-old son, whether that be
watching baseball, fishing at their favorite creek, or traveling to local historical sites.

Ty Christian is teaching seventh grade life science at WBMS. He is originally from Virginia
Beach, where he graduated from Colonial High School.

“I attended the Legal Studies Academy, and though I decided very quickly I did not want to be a
lawyer, I found a passion for science, studying the principles of Forensic Science and Criminal
Investigation.”

He graduated from Virginia Tech in the Class of 2024 with a BS in Biological Sciences.

“This is my first year as a teacher, but I have worked in education and outreach for Fralin Life
Sciences Institute at Virginia Tech for the past four years, running summer camps and programs
during the school year. I have also previously served as a judge for science competitions for the
National Science Teaching Association (NSTA).

He chose science as his subject area because “I am very passionate about how the natural world
around us works.”

As for how he came to teach at WBMS, “My wife, Mrs. Canino, is an eighth grade English
teacher at William Byrd Middle School. We attended high school together in Virginia Beach and
moved out to Southwest Virginia to attend Virginia Tech together. She joined the school as a
first-year teacher last year, and I decided to begin working as a substitute teacher at the school. I
loved working as a substitute and decided to take my passion in education and outreach and
become a teacher.

“I am a huge lover of all things insects. I studied Entomology at Virginia Tech, and I can’t wait
to share my passion for ‘creepy’ crawlies with my students.”

Daniel Letz is teaching sixth grade English at William Byrd Middle. He is from Roanoke and a
graduate of William Byrd. He earned his Bachelor’s in English Literature and Writing from
Liberty University. This is his second year in education and his first year in teaching.

“I chose middle school English because I loved WBMS growing up; English and helping others
has always been a passion of mine, so I wanted to combine the two interests. I went to WBMS as
a student, and worked here as an instructional assistant, as well.

“I am a published author of short stories and poems, and my mom taught in the county for nearly
30 years.”

He will be involved with the reading club at WBMS.

Carsyn Kotz will be teaching sixth grade math at William Byrd Middle. She is originally from
Roanoke and a graduate of WBHS. She earned her degree in Elementary Education PK-6 from
Virginia Tech. This is her first year of teaching.

As for why she chose to teach math, “Math isn’t always everyone’s favorite subject, but it has
always been a passion of mine. I believe every student can succeed in math when they feel
supported and engaged, and my goal is to create a classroom where learning is interactive,
enjoyable, and builds confidence along the way.

“I have always wanted to teach middle school because I enjoy helping students build confidence
during such an important stage of their education. I also wanted to teach in the Vinton area
because of its strong sense of community. I am excited for the opportunity to make a positive
impact on students while being part of a community that values education.

“I graduated from William Byrd High School, where I played volleyball and had the honor of
being named Dogwood Queen during my senior year. It is incredibly meaningful to now be
coaching volleyball and teaching in the same community where I learned, grew, and developed
as both a student and an athlete. Being able to give back to the school and community that helped
shape who I am is truly special to me.

“My mom (Shawna Kotz) is also a sixth grade teacher at WBMS!”

Ashley Grubb is an eighth grade math/Special Education teacher at Byrd. She is originally from
Lynchburg and a graduate of Brookville High School. She received her Bachelor’s in English
and her Master’s in Special Education from the University of Mary Washington, and her
Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Lynchburg. She has been
working in the field of education for 17 years.

“Math is my favorite subject to teach and I love getting the opportunity to support students in
any way that helps them to learn the best.

“I worked at WBHS a few years ago, but continued to coach after I left. I really missed the
community feel that Vinton has, and really wanted to get back to working in the county and
especially in Vinton. When a position opened up here at WBMS, I jumped at the chance to
return.

“I live here, as do my brother-in-law and sister-in-law with their families, so we all have children
who are either WBHS grads or current elementary school students. Most of my extra time is
spent coaching and spending time with my husband, daughter, and our extended family.”

She is currently the head coach of the WBMS girls soccer team.

Sarah Skeen is working at William Byrd Middle, Glenvar Middle, Glenvar High, Burlington
Elementary, and Mount Pleasant Elementary Schools as the 504 Facilitator and provides testing
support across multiple schools.

“My family is originally from Southwest Virginia, but as an Army brat, I moved frequently,
growing up and spending much of my childhood in Texas before eventually returning to
Virginia.”

She earned her Bachelor’s in English Literature from the University of Texas at Austin, her
Master’s in Literacy Education from Radford University, and her Ph.D. in Curriculum and
Instruction from Virginia Tech.

“This will be my 13th year in education. I spent five years as an elementary classroom teacher in
Austin, Texas, and Roanoke City, followed by four years as a reading specialist. For the past
three years, while earning my doctorate at Virginia Tech, I worked as a university supervisor,
mentoring student teachers in Roanoke City, Roanoke County, Salem, and Montgomery County.
I also taught an undergraduate literacy course and served as a teaching assistant for graduate
seminars.

“I’ve always been passionate about helping students succeed by removing barriers to learning.
Throughout my career, I’ve enjoyed collaborating with teachers, families, and school teams to
support students’ individual needs. The 504 Facilitator role allows me to continue advocating for
students while working across multiple schools and grade levels.

“After completing my Ph.D. at Virginia Tech, I was looking for an opportunity that would allow
me to combine my classroom experience and knowledge of student supports. Roanoke County
Public Schools felt like a great fit and I was excited for the opportunity to work in my
community.”

Outside of work, Skeen enjoys running, gardening, reading, and spending time with her family.

Jessica Rhodes is the counseling administrative assistant this year for grades 6-8 at WBMS. She
is originally from Catawba but graduated from William Byrd High School and has family from
the area. Her mother, Molly Rhodes, was the school nurse at WBMS.

She received her bachelor’s degree in Health Science from Ferrum College. This is her fifth year
working in education. She chose her field “to build relationships and connections with my co-
workers and community.”

As for her other interests, “I am very interested in the ethical treatment of animals and the
environment. I have enormous respect for and cherish all living things.”

Samantha Wallace is the school counseling coordinator at WBMS this year, overseeing the
counseling office while working with students who have last names A-F.

“I am so excited to help support our kids in my new role.”
She is originally from Roanoke and attended WBMS and WBHS, graduating in 2009.

“I earned a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology from Liberty University in 2014. I became a
TDT counselor through a local counseling agency for nine years where I worked with both
Roanoke City and Roanoke County schools (including WBMS). I earned my master’s in school
counseling from Liberty University in December 2022.

“I love building relationships with my students, seeing their progress/growth, and helping them
through life’s toughest moments.

“In my free time, I enjoy trying new restaurants, working out, going for walks, reading, cleaning,
cuddling with my cat, watching new shows, and spending time with my
husband/friends/family.”

Julia Ormandy is the school counselor at WBMS for students with names ending in G-O. She is
originally from Vinton and a graduate of WBHS. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from
Concord University and her Master’s in Education in School Counseling from Liberty
University. This is her 11th year working in the field of education.

“I chose school counseling because I enjoy helping others. I’ve worked at every level of
education and middle school is my favorite age group to work with. I completed my internship at
WBMS in 2016. Life took me different places, but I’m excited to be back in Terrier Nation.”

Hillary Jones is the library circulation specialist at WBMS this year. She is originally from
Spokane, Wash. She earned her Bachelor’s from Boise State University and is finishing up her
Master’s in Library and Information Science at Old Dominion University, set to graduate in
December.

“I taught at a private school right out of college for one year; then I taught English in France for
a year before staying home with my children. I have been substituting for RCPS for the last three
years, including in the library at WBMS.”

She chose her position because, “I love the library! The library is a unique third space in school
that allows students to make decisions, explore new points of view, and learn in ways that aren’t
feasible in a traditional classroom. With its huge makerspace, green room, and extensive
collection, WBMS library is a great example of how libraries serve school communities.”

Mary Jo Niday is serving as a front office instructional assistant at WBMS, supporting students,
families, teachers, and administrators while helping keep the front office running smoothly.
She is originally from the Roanoke Valley and graduated from WBHS in the Class of 2001. She
played soccer throughout her years at Byrd. She is currently working toward her Bachelor’s in
Psychology at Liberty University.

“I have worked as a substitute teacher with Roanoke County Public Schools since 2023. After
my subarachnoid brain bleed in 2021, I spent several years away from the workforce while
focusing on my recovery. One of my best friends, Lindsay Hastings, who worked for Roanoke
County Public Schools for more than 10 years, encouraged me to try substitute teaching when
she felt I was ready to return to work. It turned out to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever
made, and I owe it all to her!

“I quickly fell in love with the students, the staff, and the sense of community within Roanoke
County Schools. The kindness, encouragement, and acceptance I experienced– especially within
the William Byrd community– made me realize I wanted to build a permanent career here. I’m
incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a supportive school family and look
forward to making a positive difference every day.

“My family has deep roots in the Roanoke/Vinton area. It feels like coming home to be able to
serve the same community that helped shape me.”

In her spare time, “I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, and decorating and
organizing spaces. I also love supporting students and building relationships with the people
around me. I have five wonderful children and a Golden Retriever service dog named Honey, who has become an important part of my daily life since my brain bleed. I am excited to become
part of the William Byrd Middle School family and look forward to getting to know everyone.

“In addition to my front office responsibilities, I will be helping coach the William Byrd High
School varsity boys soccer team.”

Amy Canoles will be an instructional assistant at WBMS this year.

Elizabeth Lyons will be working as a one-on-one instructional assistant in subjects such as
science and social studies.

She is originally from the Roanoke area and a graduate of William Fleming High School, but is
moving back home from Portland, Ore. Most of her immediate family lives in the Vinton area.

“I was lucky enough to find this opening in a school where I will know a lot of students coming
from an elementary school I worked at previously.”

She has a degree in Science from Tidewater Community College and has been in the field of
education for three years.

“I have worked in many grades and subjects over the years, and I feel like this year I’m getting to
really utilize my degree in Science, which is so exciting for me!”

As for her outside interests, “I love to spend time with my family, travel, and I love to crochet!”