Faculty and Staff

For general inquiries or to connect with Head of School Chris Brazell, please reach out to Susan West at wests@chbss.org.

Mr. Chris Brazell was selected to serve as the fifth Head of School at Cottage Hill Christian Academy in May of 2021. Mr. Brazell has faithfully served in many roles during his twenty years of service to the Cottage Hill Christian Academy school community; most recently as Athletic Director, Varsity Football Coach, and Varsity Baseball Coach. Brazell began his career at Cottage Hill Christian Academy during the 2001-2002 academic year serving as an assistant coach, then spent 13 years in the classroom as a social science teacher, coached various sports for two decades, and has been a fixture on the schools Administration and Leadership Teams. 

Brazell completed his Bachelor of Science in Social Science from the University of Mobile in 2002 where he was the team captain of the 2001 World Series baseball team. In 2004, Chris was named Head Baseball coach and garnered 339 wins on the diamond over seventeen seasons, (3) thirty-win seasons, and (31) student-athletes went on to play at the next level. In 2013 he was named Athletic Director, after serving as the assistant A.D. for five years. In 2016, he moved out of the Social Studies classroom and into fulltime administration, as he served as the Upper Schools Dean of Students. In 2018, he was tabbed as the Head Football coach and led the Warriors to the first Region Championship, 10-win season, and playoff appearance. During the span as head football coach for three seasons; the Warriors posted 24 wins, set numerous records, recorded many firsts for our football program, and sent at least one player to the NCAA Division 1 level in each. He has also been selected as “Coach of the Year” by various organizations, both as a head football and baseball coach respectively. Mr. Brazell continued to serve as a member of the leadership team in various capacities during his tenure.

In the twenty years of education experience, Brazell has grown to understand the many aspects that are involved in running and leading a school committed to Christian values. As he has shared with many of the athletes he has mentored over the years, Chris works to instill his personal motto of aligning priorities. He often shares with the student body his goal of keeping his walk with Christ first, family second, calling third, and then personal hobbies. Brazell seeks to lead Cottage Hill Christian Academy in its continual goal of being the choice for a Christ-centered, academically challenging education in the Mobile area. Brazell describes his excitement for the opportunity to lead saying, “I am honored to be selected to serve as the next Head of School at CHCA. I would like to thank the members of the CHCA School Committee and the leadership of Cottage Hill Baptist Church for this opportunity. The journey over the past two decades as a Warrior, has been a tremendous blessing for me both personally and professionally. My family and I look forward to what the Lord has in store for us in the days ahead.”

Mr. Chris Brazell is married to Charlie Brooke Brazell and they have one daughter, Chrislie- Anne.

Mrs. Jennifer Newton is entering her 21st year as a part of the Warrior family. In her role as West Campus Director, Mrs. Newton leads our high school students, faculty, and families. During her tenure at Cottage Hill, Mrs. Newton has also served as a teacher, coach, and admissions director. She understands the culture of Cottage Hill and is excited to help propel our high school to even greater heights.

Mrs. Newton attended Pensacola Christian College, where she double-majored in English Education and Physical Education and was a member of the Lady Eagles volleyball team. She and her husband Brad have twin daughters, Emily and Ashlyn (12th grade), who attend Cottage Hill. The Newtons are active members of Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

Dr. Todd Johnson has spent his entire career in education with over a decade in K-12 Education before earning his doctoral degree and joining the faculty at the University of South Alabama.  Dr. Johnson leaves the University of South Alabama as a tenured Associate Professor.  Dr. Johnson graduated from James Madison University with a B.B.A. in Human Resources Management, before going on to obtain his Master's Degree in Special Education from George Mason University. Doctor Johnson’s doctoral work has focused on teaching STEM content to students with and without disabilities, helping teachers break down difficult concepts to facilitate better learning outcomes for students.

Dr. Johnson and his wife Laura have two children (Noelle and Trey) and reside in Daphne.  The Johnson family attends Eastern Shore Baptist Church where they are involved in several different ministries.  The Johnsons love to spend time in God’s beautiful creation - especially the beach - but truth be told, you can more often find them at the ballpark, gym, or football field. 

Mr. Adam Thomas has served the Cottage Hill Christian Academy community for over a decade. During his time in private school education, he has worked in athletic administration and coaching for several years with two additional stops in independent education. He served as Associate Director of Athletics and Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach at Randolph School, Huntsville, Alabama from 2014-2017. He then served as the Head Varsity Boys Basketball Coach at St. Paul’s Episcopal School, Mobile AL from 2017-2019. Mr. Thomas is now serving as the Director of Athletics at Cottage Hill Christian Academy; he has a unique and well-developed understanding of private school education and is poised to contribute to the development of our student-athletes.

Mr. Thomas is married to Stacey Thomas, Payroll Manager at the University of South Alabama. They have three sons: Tyler (2023 Graduate), Trent (2023 Graduate), and Trevor (current Freshman) at Cottage Hill Christian Academy. The Thomas family are members of Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

Mrs. Selena Dressler graduated from the University of South Alabama with a degree in Accounting. Mrs. Dressler worked 27 years in trust and estate taxation and was a Vice President and Trust Tax Manager for Regions Bank. She attended Southern Trust School at Spring Hill College and Cannon Trust Tax School at the University of Notre Dame. Mrs. Dressler has been a member of the University of South Alabama Accounting Advisory Board and the Mobile Estate Planning Council.

Mrs. Dressler and her husband Tony are members of Downtown Church. Both of their children attended CHCA from K-3 through 12th grade and were very active in athletics. In her free time, Mrs. Dressler enjoys spending time on Fowl River and working in the yard.

Mrs. Selena Dressler joined CHCA in 2019.  As the Finance Director, she oversees all aspects of our Business Office and is responsible for the daily business and finance operations of CHCA. 

Beth Quave is part of our school's leadership team as the Assistant Director of the Church Campus. Mrs. Quave has been an educator since 2000. She graduated from Mississippi State University with a degree in Education and an emphasis in Science and Social Studies. She worked in public education and as a technology trainer for teachers before coming to CHCA. She has served CHCA as a middle school Science Teacher for seven years. Also, during her time at the Hill, she developed a STEM curriculum for our Middle School and led our National Junior Honors Society. She has been married to her husband Jason for 23 years and he serves on our Warrior Club Leadership team. She is a mom of two children, Aidan a 2023 CHCA graduate, and Laurel who is a sophomore.  

She has a heart for Christian Education and brings her talent for organization to her role. She is excited about the opportunity to work collaboratively with administration and staff, to support the vision and mission of Christian education, using her strong positive management skills, and help teachers and students in providing excellence in instruction through coaching and support.   
 

Mrs. Melia Butler earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees in K-6 Elementary Education from the University of South Alabama. She has experience serving as a first-grade teacher in the Mobile County Public School System and is passionate about building meaningful relationships with students, families, and staff while fostering a positive and supportive school environment.

Mrs. Butler and her husband, Cole, are both CHCA alumni, and their family is deeply connected to the CHCA community. Together, they are raising two daughters, Florence Tulou and Francie Jo, and are grateful to continue investing in the mission and ministry of CHCA.

Mrs. Martha Winter is the Director of Preschool at CHCA. She served as the Assistant Director of Preschool for six years before moving into the director position. Prior to CHCA, she served as a part-time K2 teacher for one year at Kidz Crossing. Martha graduated from the University of South Alabama with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.  She pursued her field at a computer software company located in Mobile for 13 years where she served as an Administrative Assistant, Software Engineer, and Engineering Manager. She is a native of the Mobile area and is married to Bo Winter and has three sons, Wilson, Houston, and Tucker. Their family attends Grace Community Church. Through having children of her own as well as teaching Sunday school at her church, the Lord grew a love for working with children and helping them grow academically, socially, and spiritually. 

Jill has over 18 years of experience in the field of childhood education. She was born and raised in Beaver Falls, PA, and received a Bachelor of Science in Education from Clarion University in 1994. Jill is certified with the American Association of Christian Schools and has been trained in multiple curriculums in both private and public school systems. She believes the key to a child’s learning potential begins with a strong Christ-centered environment, strengthened through clear communication between family, teachers, and support staff. Jill and her husband, Ben, have been blessed with three children- Samuel, Meg, and Max.

Mrs. Hall graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education with dual certification in Mathematics and Science. She has over 37 years of experience in public and private secondary education. Mrs. Hall previously spent 28 years at Mary G. Montgomery High School, before starting her time here at CHCA. Mrs. Hall has served as an honors mathematics and science teacher, UCA National Champion cheerleader coach and choreographer, high school Athletic Director, collegiate athletic liaison, and pageant coordinator during her career. She has coached Junior Miss, Distinguished Young Women, Azalea Trail Maid, and various pageant participants and judged DYW local programs in Mississippi and Alabama in addition to serving as an Azalea Trail Maid interview judge for many Mobile County High Schools.

Mrs. Hall and her husband Perry attend Christ United Methodist Church and have been married for 34 years. She considers her high-achieving triplets to be her greatest accomplishment: Marley, Preston, and Savannah Hall. Preston and Savannah are graduates of The University of Alabama and Marley is a graduate of the University of Montevallo. Mrs. Hall’s passions include traveling, spending time at the beach, coordinating social events, serving as a wedding coordinator, and assisting with various service projects throughout the county.

Above all, Mrs. Hall feels very blessed that the Lord opened this door for her to serve the students at Cottage Hill Christian Academy!

Maggie is excited to join the Warrior family and serve through communications. After spending 10 years in Louisville, she’s grateful to be back in Mobile and especially excited to be part of the school community. Outside of work, Maggie enjoys spending time with her husband, Adam, and their two boys. She loves photography, storytelling, and finding creative ways to connect people and share what’s happening across campus.

Mrs. Catherine McQueen is a graduate of the University of South Alabama, where she earned her bachelor's degree in accounting. With over 15 years of experience in accounting, she has served churches and nonprofit organizations across the country, combining her professional skills with a heart for ministry.

Before entering the accounting field, Mrs. McQueen worked in outside sales within the pharmaceutical industry. She is married to Jason McQueen and is the proud mother of CHCA student, Will Bowman.

Mrs. McQueen enjoys supporting the business office team and is thankful to be part of the Warrior family.

Mrs. Marie Sorel has been a vital part of the Cottage Hill Christian Academy staff since 2004. Before becoming a full-time office staff member, Mrs. Marie volunteered in the school office helping with many projects when her son, Zak Sorel, started attending K5 in 2001. Mrs. Marie is full of school spirit and is always ready to help with any registrar need you may have.  

Chase Allen has dedicated more than a decade to investing in the lives of children, teens, and families through ministry, foster care, and residential group homes for at-risk youth. He is also a certified life coach specializing in helping parents of teenagers strengthen relationships and navigate the challenges of adolescence. Chase is passionate about helping students know Jesus, understand God's Word, and develop a faith that is both personal and lasting. He serves as the Middle School Bible Teacher and Middle School Chapel Coordinator at CHCA, while also serving as the Director of Life Groups at Cottage Hill Baptist Church. Above all, Chase considers being the father of two young boys his greatest joy and greatest ministry, and he loves spending time with them crafting memories that will last a lifetime. 

Mrs. Bailey holds a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in Early Childhood Education. Throughout her career, she has taught students in public, private, homeschool, and virtual learning environments across multiple states, giving her a diverse range of educational experience.

Mrs. Bailey is passionate about helping students grow as thoughtful readers, writers, and communicators. She is committed to creating a supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to develop both academically and personally.

Mrs. Bailey and her husband have two children who attend CHCA, and their family is actively involved at Christ Fellowship Baptist Church. She considers it a blessing to teach in a Christ-centered environment and looks forward to investing in the lives of her students both academically and spiritually.

Mrs. Tracey Bonner has been part of the Cottage Hill Christian Academy family for over 15 years. Born in Birmingham and raised in Mobile, she attended Troy University, where she majored in Communications.

She is married to Richard Bonner and is a proud mother of three, as well as a grandmother to nine. Mrs. Bonner cherishes the opportunity to pour into the lives of her students every day.

Mrs. Angel Bouler moved from the EEC to K2 as a Teachers' Assistant to become a K2 teacher. She has worked with children for over 12 years. She and her husband, Cliff, have two children who attend CHCA. She is excited to continue at CHCA in the preschool department and see what God has in store for her. 

Mrs. Patty has taught preschool for over 15 years. She loves teaching preschool and has a lot of fun teaching hands-on. She believes K4 is a fun age as they are eager to learn. Mrs. Brieler has been married to her husband, David, for over 45 years, and they have three daughters and one granddaughter. Her youngest daughter, Anna Marie, is a graduate of CHCA. Mrs. Brieler's family attends Dauphin Way Baptist Church.

Ms. Kim Brinson attained her bachelor’s degree from Louisiana State University and went on to earn her master’s in education degree from Spring Hill College. She then went on to teach Kindergarten in the Mobile County Public School System for twenty-four years. She is happy to be here at CHCA where her son graduated in 2012. Ms. Brinson enjoys teaching in early childhood education and emphasizing learning by doing and providing hands-on opportunities. She wants children to problem-solve and think critically, as well as focus on responsibility and choice. Days in her classroom are often hands-on and include times with music and movement! Ms. Brinson enjoys sharing her love for the LSU Tigers with the children in her classroom.

With over 38 years of experience in early childhood education, Cindy Brown has dedicated her life to teaching in Christian schools, where her goal is to glorify God and reflect His love both in and out of the classroom. She has taught students from kindergarten through 4th grade, using music, movement, art, and humor to create joyful, engaging learning environments.

Her passion for excellence in education was recognized with the Golden Apple Award, and her love for students extends beyond the classroom. She has spent over 25 years coaching everything from T-ball to softball, helping young athletes build confidence and learn the value of teamwork.

Outside of school, she enjoys drawing, spending time with her dog, and finding creative ways to continue inspiring young minds.

Mrs. Chason loves living the life God has called her to with her husband Robby and 4 kids, Riley, Rianna, Zeke, and Xander. Mrs. Chason has a passion for Jesus, music, sports, and kids, and God allows her to minister to people every day using those things. Mrs. Chason has a degree from the University of Mobile in Music with a minor in Physical Education and English. She has been teaching and coaching in private Christian schools in the Mobile area for over 20 years, with over half of those being at Cottage Hill.

Mrs. Chatman brings with her an Associate of Arts degree and a background in Early Childhood Education. Originally from Navarre, FL, she began her career working at a daycare, where she specialized in caring for 2- and 3-year-olds. In 2017, she moved to Mobile, AL, after marrying Dambro Chatman, a CHCA alumnus from the Class of 2010. Their son, DJ, has been at CHCA since Pre-K2. She is eager to share the love and Gospel of Jesus with her students this year. Her favorite scripture is John 14:11-15.

Mrs. Ching graduated from the University of South Alabama with a degree in Elementary Education. She has taught Kindergarten for over 15 years. Mrs. Ching has three sons who also attend Cottage Hill. Her husband is a firefighter. She is excited about this new year! 

Coach Clinton is excited to be a part of the Cottage Hill Christian Academy community. He attended Holmes Community College before continuing his education at the University of Mobile, where he played collegiate baseball and earned a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology.

Coach Clinton is passionate about helping students grow both inside and outside the classroom. Through athletics and education, he seeks to encourage character, discipline, and a strong work ethic while investing in the lives of young people.

Outside of school, Coach Clinton enjoys fishing and playing the guitar and piano. He is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the CHCA family and looks forward to seeing all that God has in store in this new chapter. Go Warriors! 

I am excited to join the Cottage Hill Christian Academy family as a 7th and 8th grade science teacher. I earned a degree in Biology from the University of South Alabama and spent 13 years in the medical field as a cardiovascular sonographer, where I had the opportunity to see science in action every day.

I am passionate about helping students discover the wonder of God's creation through science while making learning engaging, hands-on, and meaningful. My goal is to inspire curiosity, encourage critical thinking, and help students develop a deeper appreciation for the world around them.

My spouse and I have been married for 11 years, and we are blessed with three children who also attend CHCA. I am grateful for the opportunity to teach, encourage, and invest in the next generation at Cottage Hill Christian Academy.

Cara Craig is excited to return to Cottage Hill Christian Academy as a Kindergarten teacher. After previously teaching preschool at CHCA, she moved to Georgia, where she spent the past three years teaching Kindergarten. She is grateful for the opportunity to return to the Cottage Hill family and continue her passion for early childhood education.

Cara and her husband, Adam, have a daughter, Nena, who is beginning high school at Cottage Hill this year. She feels truly blessed to be back and looks forward to a wonderful school year partnering with her students and their families as they learn and grow together.

Mrs. Wyconda Finney is a proud native of Mobile, Alabama, and a graduate of John L. LeFlore High School. She went on to attend the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is a wife and the proud mom of CHCA Warrior, Chloe.

Mrs. Finney has a deep love for teaching, crafting, worshiping, and discipling others in the truth of Jesus and the Word of God. She believes the classroom should be a child’s home away from home and that every child of God deserves learning experiences as big and meaningful as the God they serve.

Mrs. Terra Gibson is a K3 teacher at Cottage Hill Christian Academy and has been teaching for over 12 years. She loves teaching and sharing the love of Jesus with her students. Mrs. Gibson has been married for over 20 years and has three children. She has three children: Hunter, Lilly, and Chase. 

Mrs. Grace is thrilled to be joining the Cottage Hill Christian Academy family as a middle school History and English teacher. She earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees from Pensacola Christian College and has several years of experience teaching both middle and high school students.

Mrs. Grace is passionate about building meaningful relationships with her students and creating a classroom environment where they are encouraged to grow academically, spiritually, and personally. She is committed to helping students develop a love for learning while equipping them for success both in and out of the classroom.

Outside of school, Mrs. Grace enjoys reading, cooking, visiting historical sites, and spending time with her husband, Kevin. She is excited to become part of the CHCA community and invest in the lives of her students.

Ashley Hamilton is a proud alumna of CHCA. She has been married to her high school sweetheart for 18 years, and together they have four amazing children. Ashley enjoys crafting, cooking, and baking goodies, but her favorite activity is spending time with her family, whether it's on a baseball field or at the dance studio.

With 15 years of experience as a Radiologic Technologist, Ashley has spent the past five years at home with her kids. 

Mrs. Hipp has an Associate's degree in Applied Science with a focus on paralegal studies and a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Mrs. Hipp has two sons, Kyle (CHCA Class of '22) and Max (11th). Mrs. Hipp loves teaching and considers it an honor and blessing to play a significant role in her students' lives and be a part of their success in life. 

Coach Carvel Jones was born in Birmingham, Alabama but was raised in Mobile, where he developed a lifelong passion for athletics. He played high school football at St. Paul’s Episcopal School before continuing his academic and athletic career at Troy University, where he played football and majored in Social Science.

He has been married to his wife, Candis, since 2013, and together they have four children: Kennedy, Cali, Kobie, and Champ. Coach Jones is proud to be part of the Warrior family and is passionate about building a program rooted in discipline, teamwork, and Christ-centered values

Ms. Jordan has been teaching for over 20 years, with a majority of those years spent at Cottage Hill Christian Academy teaching 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. She also taught for three years in the country of Panama, where she spent most of her childhood. Ms. Jordan has a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Language Arts Middle School Endorsement from the University of Mobile. Ms. Jordan enjoys reading and has always found it difficult to put a book down once she has started it. She is excited about helping another class of students develop a passion for learning. In addition to reading, Ms. Jordan enjoys baking and spending time with her nephew, James. 

Mrs. Tori LaBombard grew up in Chalmette, Louisiana right outside of New Orleans. She moved to Mobile with her husband in 2005 and has two sons, Mason and Tyler. She is currently pursuing a degree in Elementary Education and has been teaching preschool for seven years. In her spare time, Mrs. LaBombard likes to spend time with her family and friends, travel, and go to the beach. 

Mrs. Paula McDaniel has been a teacher here at CHCA for twenty-five years. She taught K5 for three years before teaching first grade. Mrs. McDaniel graduated with a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Alabama in May of 1991. She and her husband, Kyle, have four grown children, a grandson, a granddaughter, and a sweet dog. 

Ms. Anna Kate Moorer grew up in Monroeville, Alabama, before moving to Mobile in 2025. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from The University of Alabama and is passionate about sharing her love of reading and writing with her students.

Ms. Moorer is dedicated to helping students develop strong communication skills, think critically, and discover the joy of literature. She strives to create an engaging classroom environment where students are encouraged to grow academically and personally.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Moorer enjoys reading, watching college football, and spending time with friends and family. She is excited to be a part of the CHCA community and invest in the lives of her students.​

Mrs. Morley attended the University of Mobile. She has been a teacher for over 20 years, teaching middle school history, K4, 2nd grade, and 1st grade, but K4 is her passion. Mrs. Morley has a passion for music and uses it daily in her classroom to enhance the students' learning experiences. She is married to Tracey Morley, and they have two children: Heath Ames, who graduated in 2021, and Grace, who graduated in 2024. Mrs. Morley and her family LOVE being a part of the Warrior Family.

Angela has been teaching K3 for over 10 years. Prior to teaching K3, Mrs. Angela worked for the Mobile County Public School System for nine years. She has always had a love and passion for teaching children. Seeing them learn and grow academically and spiritually brings her the greatest joy. Mrs. Moore has been happily married to her husband, Shawn, for over 30 years, and they have two sons, Bradley and Zack. Bradley will be graduating is a graduate of South Alabama with a degree in Sports Management and broadcasting. Zack is fulfilling his dream by working full-time at a machine shop and paint and body shop after a year-long apprenticeship. Mrs. Angela and her family attend Dayspring Baptist church. 

Mrs. Ashlynn Myers has deep roots in the Cottage Hill community. She earned her degree from the University of Mobile in 2021 with a dual major in Early Childhood and Elementary Education and is certified to teach grades PreK through 6th.

Teaching has been a lifelong calling for Mrs. Myers, inspired by her large family of educators across all grade levels. Many of her relatives have taught at or graduated from CHCA, making it a special place for her both personally and professionally.

She joined the CHCA staff in 2021 through the Early Education Center and soon transitioned into her current role as a first-grade teacher. She is married to Zachary Myers, a 2016 CHCA graduate.

Mrs. Myers is grateful to be part of the Warrior family and considers Cottage Hill a foundational part of her faith, her family, and her future as an educator.

Mrs. Neese graduated from Alabama Southern with a degree in Business Technology. Before serving in a full-time role, she was an active substitute teacher at CHCA. She and her husband, Darryl, have two daughters who are part of the CHCA family. Mattie is a graduate, and Macie is in 11th grade. She and her family are members of Cottage Hill Baptist Church. Mrs. Neese enjoys entertaining, decorating, and boating with her family.

Ashley is married to her husband, Casey, and they have two children. Mobile is her home, and she has been a part of our Cottage Hill family for over 17 years. Her family started attending Cottage Hill Baptist Church when she was 14 years old. During her middle school and high school years, Mrs. Ashley volunteered with Sunday school classes as well as VBS every summer. 

Before becoming a preschool teacher, Mrs. Ashley worked in our extended care program as well as our Mom’s Day Out Program for over 5 years. It was then that she found her passion for working with children, and she knew it was something she wanted to make into a career.

Scott Plair graduated from the University of South Alabama with a Bachelor's degree in History. After retiring from the Coast Guard with 21 years of service, he transitioned to education, serving as a substitute teacher before taking on a full-time role at Cottage Hill Christian Academy. Scott has been married to his wife, Misty, for over 17 years, and they have two daughters, Addison and Alaina. He is also a member of the varsity football staff. In his spare time, Scott enjoys watching his daughters compete in volleyball and traveling with his wife.

My name is Lexi Prescott. I have a bachelors degree in Elementary Education from Spring Hill College. I earned my masters degree in Elementary Education from the University of West Alabama. I spent eight years at O'Rourke Elementary in Mobile County Public School System, where I taught first grade for six years and second grade for two years. Building relationships with my students and their families is very important to me. I enjoy creating an engaging classroom through movement, song, and repetition. 

I am married to my loving husband Zack, and together we have two children, Grady and Madelynn Joy. Our family attends church at First Baptist Tillman's Corner, where our faith continues to shape our lives. 

I am excited to combine academic and spiritual growth in my classroom and be apart of the CHCA family. 

Tanner Rowell is from Citronelle, Alabama, and has been serving in ministry since 2016 after answering God's call to ministry at the age of sixteen. While he did not know exactly where God would lead him, he trusted His direction and has remained committed to sharing the Gospel ever since. Tanner currently serves as the Senior Pastor of Hill Spring Baptist Church and is excited to begin his first year at Cottage Hill Christian Academy.
Tanner and his wife, Adrianna, were married in 2021 and enjoy spending time together. Outside of ministry and teaching, he enjoys watching Alabama football, hunting, and fishing. His favorite Scripture is Joshua 1:9. 

Mrs. Elizabeth Shepard joined our team as a second-grade teacher in 2019. Elizabeth taught at East Central in Hurley, Mississippi for 5 years before coming to Cottage Hill. She is a native of Mobile who graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with a degree in Elementary Education. Mrs. Shepard, her husband Gabriel, and her son Hudson attend South Coast Church in Mobile.

Ms. Zoe Stokes joins the CHCA elementary staff with experience in both special education and early elementary instruction. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Alabama and began her teaching career at Hutchens Elementary School, where she served as a Pre-K Special Education teacher before most recently teaching first grade. Ms. Stokes is actively involved in her church’s Children’s Ministry and is passionate about providing a Christ-centered education that supports students’ academic growth and spiritual development.

Mrs. Hannah Stringfellow joins the CHCA elementary team with a strong background in both special and general education. She most recently served at Dawes Intermediate School as a Special Education teacher, where she focused on strengthening students’ academic progress and supporting positive behavioral outcomes. Prior to that, she taught in General Education at Nan Gray Davis Elementary School. Mrs. Stringfellow earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Alabama. She and her family are actively involved in ministry at their local church, and she brings a deep passion for serving and supporting students to the CHCA community.

Mrs. Andrea Still earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Before joining Cottage Hill Christian Academy, she taught fourth and fifth grade at North Delta School, where she served as librarian, computer teacher, and Junior Varsity cheer sponsor.

She is married to Parker Still, and they have two children, Hays and Brooks, who both attend CHCA. The Still family are members of Dayspring Baptist Church.

Mrs. Still is excited to bring a Christian perspective to the art program and to share the love of Jesus with her students through creativity and learning.

Mrs. Stirm is a graduate of the University of Mobile and teaches technology to our Church Campus students. She and her husband, Graham, have a daughter, Heidi, who attends CHCA. Mrs. Stirm and her family attend Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

Mrs. Mitzi Wiggins was born and raised in Mobile, AL. She graduated from Murphy High School in 2000 where she played softball and volleyball all four years. She earned numerous awards in softball which led to an athletic scholarship to Springhill College in Mobile. Mrs. Wiggins completed her degree at the University of South Alabama. She graduated from USA in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Criminal Justice and minored in Sociology. Mrs. Wiggins is married to Spencer Wiggins, and they have four children who attend CHCA: Caden, Emerson, Harper, and Charlotte. They have all attended CHCA since K5. The Wiggins family also attends Cottage Hill Baptist Church.

Mrs. Emily Zube moved from the EEC to be a K2 assistant this year. She has spent the past 6 years teaching in early education in the Florida panhandle, and she loves sharing the love of Jesus with her classes. She moved to Mobile this past fall when she and her husband got married. She enjoys crafting, baking, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

Miss Olivia Andrews is a Mobile native and a proud graduate of Cottage Hill Christian Academy. She went on to attend the University of South Alabama, where she earned a degree in Biology with minors in Spanish and Related Sciences.

During her time at South Alabama, Miss Andrews was actively involved in campus life through the USA Southerners, Mortar Board, Alpha Epsilon Delta, Wilmer Hall Tutoring, and research opportunities. She also had the privilege of studying abroad in Spain, where she further developed her Spanish language skills and gained valuable cultural experiences.

Miss Andrews is passionate about learning and is excited to invest in the lives of her students both academically and personally. Outside of school, she enjoys playing and watching sports and spending time with family and friends.

She is grateful for the opportunity to return to CHCA and serve the community that helped shape her journey.

Mrs. Crain teaches Biology as well as Anatomy and Physiology. She holds a Bachelor of Education with a focus in science from Southeastern Louisiana University. Prior to joining CHCA, she spent several years teaching 7th grade science and 9th grade physical science.

She and her husband, Ted, have been married for four years and are proud parents to two wonderful toddlers who also attend CHCA. Outside the classroom, Mrs. Crain enjoys spending time outdoors and making memories with her family. She is passionate about helping students explore God’s creation through the lens of science.

Lee Everett graduated from the University of South Alabama with a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and a Masters of Education from the University of West Alabama. He has been teaching and coaching football for 30 years and began teaching Driver’s Education in 2002. The most rewarding part of teaching Driver’s Education is instilling proper and safe habits while observing students as they gain confidence in the driving task. He and his wife, Wendy, proudly have five grown children. Although they are empty nesters, they have two golden retriever dogs who keep them very busy!  In their spare time, they enjoy boating, hiking, and traveling to new places. Everett is excited to join the Warrior family and teach in a Christian environment.

As a veteran English teacher, Mrs. Jones has taught middle school and high school English in several states, in Europe, and online for the Alabama State Department of Education. Her teaching assignments encompass regular, honors, and advanced placement language arts. Upon graduating from the University of Mobile, she began her teaching experience at Davidson High School and subsequently moved to a Georgia school system. Almost two years later, her husband’s new assignment in West Point, New York gave her an opportunity to start graduate school at the C.W. Post Graduate School of Long Island University. After three enriching years in the Hudson Valley area, she moved to Germany where she taught high school English for the Department of Defense. While living in Bavaria, she enjoyed touring most countries in Western Europe before moving to Washington, D.C. During her husband’s tenure at the Pentagon, she experienced a diverse classroom of international students as an English teacher in Fairfax County.  Before professionally relocating to a rural Louisiana school system, she enhanced her teaching certification with additional graduate classes from the University of Virginia and George Mason University. Mrs. Jones returned to “Home Sweet Alabama” to teach English at Murphy High School as a highly qualified English teacher. In 2020, she retired from the Mobile County Public School System. Her Alabama home is now close to Cottage Hill Christian Academy where she says she is blessed to be a faculty member. 

Mrs. April Murphy joins the CHCA high school faculty with a diverse and global teaching background. She has previously taught in George County, Mississippi, as well as internationally in South Korea, bringing a wide range of instructional experience to the classroom. Mrs. Murphy will be teaching ACT Prep, Forensics, and Zoology. We are grateful for her experience and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our students.

Alex was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama. He graduated from Davidson High School with AP Honors before attending the University of Alabama in Huntsville, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. Alex is beginning his first year at Cottage Hill Christian Academy and is excited for the opportunities ahead. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games and exploring new technology.

Mrs. Olsen has a degree in Math and Middle School Education from Meredith College, an all women’s college in Raleigh, North Carolina, and has been a teacher for over 20 years. She and her family moved to Mobile in 2008 after living in North Carolina and Guatemala. Her husband, Bob, is a professor at the University of Mobile, where her two oldest kids, Anna and Peter, both graduates of CHCA, attend. Their twins, Ellie and ZZ, attend CHCA.

Prior to her transition to the West Campus, she previously taught Math and Spanish for 6 years at the Middle School.

Mrs. Roberts attended the University of Mobile, where she earned a degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Art. She has served as an art educator for the past 10 years, including eight years at Cottage Hill Christian Academy's Lower School and two years at Baker High School.

Mrs. Roberts is passionate about fostering creativity, encouraging self-expression, and helping students develop their artistic gifts. She strives to create a classroom environment where students can grow in confidence while exploring the beauty of art and God's creation.

Mrs. Roberts is married to Chris Roberts, and they have a son, Carson, who attends CHCA. Their family is also excited to welcome a daughter in October and have another little Warrior join the CHCA family.

Mrs. Shaw teaches biology, zoology, and forensic science. She has a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Auburn University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama. She also has an Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts. In 2022, Mrs. Shaw earned an Alternative Master of Education: Secondary Science from the University of South Alabama. She loves to learn and share her love of science with her students. Mrs. Shaw and her husband, David, have been married for 25 years and have 5 children, three of whom attended CHCA.

Mrs. Brooklyn Smith is a Mobile, AL native who loves The Lord, her city, and her students. After graduating high school, she stayed local to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Secondary English Education from University of South Alabama. While in college, she worked on the USA Football staff as an equipment manager and at Saraland Middle School as a Paraprofessional Educator. Prior to teaching at Cottage Hill, Mrs. Smith taught at W.P. Davidson High School, her alma mater. She is excited to still be able to say, “Go Warriors!”  

Mrs. Smith is married to her husband, Collier Smith, and together they have a sweet golden retriever named Murphy. Mrs. Smith loves the Warrior family and looks forward to many more years of teaching young believers and those who will one day come to faith in Christ. She believes that there is no greater joy than planting Gospel-centered seeds of encouragement in teenagers, one class period at a time.  

Mrs. Kimberly Tharp loves being a Cottage Hill Warrior!  A lifelong Mobilian, she attended Cottage Hill Baptist School from K4 through the 8th grade. Mrs. Tharp remained a Warrior at Davidson High School through graduation, when she became a University of Southern Mississippi Golden Eagle. A passion for technology led Mrs. Tharp to the University of South Alabama for her Master's degree in Instructional Design with technology. Mrs. Tharp and her husband Randy have been married 25 years and have 3 children. Mrs. Tharp believes she is blessed to have Cottage Hill as an important part of her life as a student, a parent, and now a teacher for over 15 years.

Amber Threadgill graduated from the University of South Alabama with bachelor's degree in secondary education and history, with an Honors Program distinction. She has been a middle school educator for the tenure of her career, teaching 6th through 8th grades at three different schools, but she is beyond excited to begin a new journey of teaching high school students.

Mrs. Threadgill is married to her husband of almost 15 years, Kevin, who is also an educator. She has three daughters. A great passion of Mrs. Threadgill's is music-she plays the clarinet and currently serves in the worship ministry at Cottage Hill. She also plays in the Mobile Pops. When she's not at school, Mrs. Threadgill loves to spend time with her family, her dog Lulu, and gardening (or trying to save all the plants).

Krista Womble is a native of Mobile, AL where she graduated from John Shaw High School as a standout softball and volleyball player winning many awards including Mobile County Athlete of the Year, Mobile All-County Team (3 years), Mobile Press-Register Super 12, Kiwanis Club Player of the Year, and United States Marine Corp Distinguished Athlete Award under Coach Kathi Smith. She teaches high school history and serves as the Varsity Softball Coach. 

Krista studied and played junior college ball for Bishop State Community College in Mobile, AL, and was a NJCCC All-American. She then transferred and played NCAA softball at Huntingdon College in Montgomery, AL winning 2 conference championships, and completed her Bachelor's in Political Science with minors in English and History. Krista also has a Master's Degree in Public Administration from Troy University.

Post graduate school, Krista met her husband Seth while working in advertising at AT&T. They have four children. After establishing residency in Georgia and briefly in Louisiana, she and her family made their way back home to Mobile in 2020. As a family, they love to attend Cottage Hill Baptist Church and volunteer in the children's ministry. The Womble kids also love staying active in all CHCA Sports activities including YDL Cheer, Softball, Football, Soccer, and Baseball and Football. 

Prior to teaching at CHCA, Krista spent 15 years working in advertising, marketing, and corporate training for AT&T, along with coaching elite travel softball across the country. She is now a part of the Marucci Patriots organization, where she heads up the Gulf Coast region and handles college recruiting and social media for the entire organization.

Krista has loved the relationships she has been able to build with her students and the athletes she coaches at CHCA. She looks forward to being able to make an impact on our young adults by leading them through their studies of the government in a Christian environment and teaching our athletes to be Christ-like leaders and mentors as they venture out into the world.