Faculty & Staff

Susie joined St. Leo in 2025 and serves as Auxiliary Services Supervisor, overseeing After School Care and enriching the student experience beyond the school day. Her background in North Carolina 4-H gave her the opportunity to work with children and young adults through hands-on learning, leadership development, agriculture, and community service. She also worked at the NC State Dairy Farm, leading educational programs for visitors of all ages and helping others better understand agriculture. A St. Leo parishioner and OCIA sponsor, Susie serves on the Catholic Schools Week Committee and enjoys volunteering with PTO events. Outside of school, she loves crafting, gardening, and sharing flowers and fresh vegetables with family and friends.
 

Mrs. Griffin serves as St. Leo's School Counselor and is passionate about supporting the academic, social, and emotional growth of every student. She holds a bachelor's degree in Education, a master's degree in School Counseling from Salem College, and a North Carolina Professional Educator's License. Francesca serves on the School Leadership Team, School Leadership Council, and Accreditation Committee. She enjoys biking, spending time with her family, and is fluent in Spanish.
 

Francesca joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2016 and serves as the Director of Advancement. She earned her bachelor's degree from Notre Dame of Maryland University and spent five years working in marketing for an architectural firm in Baltimore before bringing her communications and fundraising expertise to St. Leo. Deeply involved in the school community, Francesca previously served as PTO Treasurer for three years, coordinated the school's Scrip program for many years, and currently volunteers as an Assistant Scoutmaster for St. Leo BSA Troop 958. She enjoys working with her hands, whether she's building something, creating art, or spending time in the yard. In her free time, Francesca loves traveling with her husband and two sons, both across the United States and internationally especially to Italy and is rarely far from her loyal four-legged shadow, her English Bulldog. 
 

Mrs. Nance joined St. Leo Catholic School as Principal in 2024 after teaching for over a decade she served in a variety of educational leadership roles, including Lower School Director, Director of Education, and Principal. She holds a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and Academically Gifted Education from High Point University, a master's degree in School Administration from Appalachian State University, and is Orton-Gillingham trained. Before coming to St. Leo, Katie served as the founding Director of Education for the Nido & Mariana Qubein Children's Museum, where she helped design exhibits, educational programming, and launch the museum. She is passionate about building strong school communities where faith, academic excellence, and meaningful relationships help every child thrive. A parishioner at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in High Point, Katie serves as a lector and faith formation volunteer. Outside of school, she enjoys reading and spending time with her husband, Ryan, and their two daughters, Addy and Ava. Mrs. Nance is also a certified scuba diver! 
 

Lori joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2022 and serves as Assistant Principal, bringing a wealth of classroom experience and a passion for student growth. Her extensive background includes teaching 5th Grade ELA/Social Studies, Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and 1st Grade Spanish Immersion. Lori earned degrees in Elementary Education and Spanish from Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa, and spent a summer studying abroad in Granada, Spain. She is Orton-Gillingham trained and is a member of the St. La Salle Leadership Academy through the Diocese of Charlotte. A dedicated member of the St. Leo community, Lori serves as Faith Committee Chair and supports new teachers as a mentor. She is also active in her parish through Frassati Young Adults and the choir. Outside of school, Lori enjoys music, playing the piano and ukulele, singing, and staying active through sports—especially basketball and pickleball. A former college basketball player, she also loves traveling with her family, especially trips to Disney World and pilgrimages to religious sites.
 

Mrs. Riccoboni serves as Director of Operations and is often one of the first people families meet when joining the St. Leo community. She has spent more than a decade supporting students, families, and faculty through admissions, enrollment, event coordination, and school operations. Misty is actively involved in parish life through St. Martha's Guild and enjoys volunteering at school and parish events. She loves spending time with family and friends, being around animals, and is always happy to share that she can clog dance.

Mr. Brown joined St. Leo in 2020 and brings a unique background in Catholic education, youth ministry, and faith formation. He studied Philosophy and Classics at the Pontifical College Josephinum and previously taught religion and language arts while serving in youth ministry. In addition to teaching, Colton serves as Parish Life and Evangelization Coordinator at St. Leo Parish and helps lead Confirmation preparation and OCIA. He enjoys spending time with his family, hosting trivia nights, exploring local coffee shops, and keeping up with the latest middle school trends.
 

Carolyn joined St. Leo in 2021 and brings a unique blend of experience in education and social work to her Pre-K classroom. She holds degrees in Sociology from Clemson University, Social Work from the University of South Carolina, and Birth to Kindergarten Education from UNC Pembroke. Before becoming a teacher, Carolyn worked in early intervention, supporting young children with developmental delays and their families. Her background helps her foster the strong social and emotional foundations that are so important in early childhood education. A St. Leo parishioner, Carolyn is also the proud parent of two St. Leo alumni. She enjoys traveling, reading, spending time with family, and cheering on her Clemson Tigers.
 

Sonja joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2025 and served as Instructional Support and Teacher Assistant before stepping in as the interim 5th Grade teacher for the 2026 school year. With more than 25 years of experience in elementary education, she has served as a classroom teacher, assistant teacher, long-term substitute, reading tutor, and small-group intervention teacher. Sonja holds both a Master of Arts in Teaching (K–5) and a Master of Education in Higher Education Administration. She has specialized training in Orton-Gillingham and the Augustine Literacy Project and is passionate about helping students build confidence and achieve academic success through individualized instruction. She is active in the St. Leo community through the St. Isidore Gardening Group, Bible Study, Catholic Charities, and Room at the Inn, and also volunteers as a Love Literacy tutor. Outside of school, Sonja enjoys spending time at the beach, playing pickleball and Mahjong, walking her dog, Milly, and traveling with family and friends. She is excited to once again work alongside the wonderful students and families of St. Leo Catholic School.
 

A St. Leo alumna, Ms. Krull joined the faculty in 2025 after serving the school as a substitute teacher and After School Care staff member. A proud graduate of UNC Chapel Hill, Ms. Krull previously taught students in grades 2-5 at an English-Hungarian bilingual school in Budapest, Hungary, an experience that inspired her to pursue teaching as a career. Sarah is active in parish life as an OCIA sponsor and member of Frassati Young Adults and volunteers with organizations that support mothers and children. She loves traveling, learning about different cultures, and has visited more than 30 countries.

Mrs. Manning has more than 20 years of experience teaching in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. Since joining St. Leo in 2013, she has been committed to creating a nurturing and engaging classroom where students feel supported, encouraged, and challenged to grow. Courtney values building strong relationships with her students and families. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.
 

Mr. Miller brings extensive middle school teaching and leadership experience to St. Leo. He is certified in social studies, language arts, and special education and previously served as a Social Studies Department Chair and presenter for the North Carolina Council for Social Studies. At St. Leo, he serves as Student Council Advisor and has contributed to curriculum and accreditation initiatives. Kevin is also active in youth ministry at Holy Family Catholic Church. He enjoys volleyball, following sports, and spending time with his wife and two young sons.
 

Ms. Palmer joined St. Leo in 2025 and brings extensive experience teaching in kindergarten, first grade, and second grade. She holds a Master's degree in Reading Education and has served as both a teacher mentor and district teacher leader. At St. Leo, she serves on the Faith Committee and ELA Standards Committee. A lifelong Winston-Salem resident, Holly enjoys gardening, growing vegetables, and spending time with family, friends, and her corgi, Roxie.
 

Renet joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2026 and serves as our 4th Grade Teacher. She brings 30 years of classroom experience from Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, where she taught multiple elementary grade levels and spent many summers teaching in enrichment and remedial education programs. During a 13-year career break, Renet worked as a flight attendant for US Airways and later served as a flight attendant instructor at the airline's Charlotte training facility. She is excited to become involved in the St. Leo community as opportunities arise and is honored to be part of the school family. Outside of the classroom, Renet enjoys traveling internationally, organic gardening, baking, and studying the French language and culture. She and her husband have hosted a French exchange student and continue to visit France. Active in her church, Renet teaches Sunday School and serves on both the Christian Education and Preschool Committees. She looks forward to learning more about the Catholic faith and building lasting relationships within the St. Leo community.
  

Debra joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2011 as a substitute teacher and now serves students across the elementary grades. With 46 years of teaching experience in three states, she brings a remarkable depth of knowledge and dedication to the classroom. Debra holds two National Board Certifications as an Early Childhood and Middle Childhood Generalist, as well as a Master of Arts in Education with additional graduate study. Since joining the St. Leo community, she has faithfully served as both a substitute teacher and volunteer. Outside of school, Debra is active in her parish and community through Bible study, Catholic Charities, daily Mass as a lector, her parish counting team, and the Cursillo movement. She also enjoys the traditional art of hand spinning, transforming wool into yarn. Debra believes God has a wonderful sense of humor in calling her back to the classroom at this stage of life, and she brings that joy and sense of humor to her work with students every day.
 

Mrs. Schoen joined the St. Leo faculty after years of service as a dedicated school volunteer and PTO leader, serving in nearly every PTO leadership role, including President. Her deep commitment to Catholic education and the St. Leo community helps create a welcoming and nurturing environment for young learners. Cody has also served on the school's accreditation efforts and remains active in parish life. Outside of school, she enjoys gardening and caring for her growing collection of plants.
 

Mrs. Archer brings a diverse educational background and extensive teaching experience to St. Leo. Her career has included classroom teaching, coaching, tutoring, curriculum leadership, and serving as a district PLC leader. She is passionate about helping students discover the wonder of science while building critical thinking skills. Christina also serves on the Science Curriculum and Uniform Committees. Outside of school, she enjoys sewing, crafting, and reading.

Nicole joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2021 and serves as the Middle School Math Teacher and Grades 6–8 Instructional Leader. Before coming to St. Leo, she taught middle school math for four years at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic School in Greenville, South Carolina. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Middle School Education with a concentration in Mathematics from Western Carolina University and brings nine years of classroom teaching experience, along with experience as a private math tutor and Mathnasium instructor. Nicole is passionate about helping students build confidence and find success in mathematics through personalized instruction and a variety of learning strategies. She and her husband are active members of the St. Leo parish community, participating in the Adult Choir and Frassati Young Adult Group. Outside of school, Nicole enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing volleyball and pickleball, traveling, singing, and reading.
 

Mr. Brock has served as St. Leo's Music Teacher since 2012 and brings decades of experience in both music education and church music ministry. He holds degrees in Music Education and Church Music and has worked in schools, churches, and the music publishing industry throughout his career. John helps lead student choirs for school Masses and plays an important role in many school performances and celebrations. He enjoys sharing his love of music with students and fondly remembers his days as a water skier.
 

Mrs. Connelly serves as St. Leo's Academic Achievement Coordinator and brings extensive experience in special education, advocacy, and student support services. She holds a degree in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts and has worked in applied behavior analysis, special education advocacy, and educational consulting. Heather is passionate about helping students receive the support they need to thrive academically and personally. Outside of school, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, reading, visiting farmers markets, and attending vintage car shows with her husband.
 

Mrs. Davis serves as St. Leo's Librarian and Reading Specialist and is trained in Orton-Gillingham instruction. She is passionate about helping students develop strong literacy skills and a lifelong love of reading. Caroline also coaches the St. Jerome Book Battle team and works closely with students to foster confidence and growth as readers. Outside of school, she enjoys reading and attending musical theater performances.
 

Coach Dell serves as St. Leo's Physical Education teacher and Athletic Director. In addition to his work in education, he has spent more than three decades as a sportswriter for the Winston-Salem Journal, covering events including the Masters Tournament. John has coached numerous St. Leo athletic teams and remains actively involved in youth sports throughout the community. He and his wife, Laura, are proud parents of two St. Leo graduates and enjoy staying connected to the school that helped shape their family.
 

Mrs. Hackl has been teaching technology at St. Leo since 2015 and brings more than 15 years of experience helping students develop technology skills. Her teaching career includes working with both adults and students in a variety of settings, from business schools to elementary and middle schools. At St. Leo, she supports students in Pre-K through eighth grade and serves on the Events Committee. Christina enjoys crocheting, playing piano, and volunteering through several ministries at her church. She also spent six months working at Walt Disney World through the Disney College Program and was even a synchronized swimmer and coach in her younger years!
 

Melissa joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2024 and serves as our Spanish Teacher, sharing her love of language, culture, and faith with our students. Born and raised in Honduras, Melissa earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the Universidad Tecnológica de Honduras and has lived in Honduras, Costa Rica, and the United States, experiences that have deepened her appreciation for the Spanish language and Hispanic traditions. Before entering education, she spent more than 20 years in the insurance industry, developing strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills. Melissa’s Catholic faith has always been central to her life, and she has served as a catechist, Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, lector, and volunteer in parish ministries in both Honduras and the United States. She is blessed to serve at Holy Family Catholic Church, where she continues to support the faith formation of children and families. Outside of school, Melissa enjoys reading, singing, cooking, taking walks outdoors, and spending quality time with her family. She is grateful for the opportunity to combine her passion for education, faith, and the Spanish language at St. Leo.
 

Mrs. Scales began her educational career after graduating from UNC Greensboro and spent nearly three decades teaching in Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools. Throughout her career, she mentored new teachers and helped foster strong instructional practices in her school community. At St. Leo, she supports students through the Learning Support Program and serves on both the Curriculum and Little Flower Committees. Vivia enjoys reading, movies, peaceful walks, and volunteering in the community.
 

Mrs. Wooten joined St. Leo in 2017 and brings a wealth of artistic and educational experience to the classroom. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching in Art Education from the Rhode Island School of Design and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Alfred University. Mrs. Wooten encourages students to explore creativity through connections between art, history, technology, and community. She serves on the Fine Arts and Events Committees and helps coordinate Arts Night each year. Katie enjoys gardening and caring for her many animals, including a dog, cat, rabbit, and chicken.
 

Sarah joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2021 and serves as a Teacher Assistant, supporting students in the early elementary grades. With a background in Psychology and a K–6 teaching license, Sarah brings a strong understanding of child development and a passion for helping young learners grow. She enjoys supporting students as they build confidence in math, strengthen their reading skills, and make progress as writers. Sarah especially values the opportunity to incorporate St. Leo’s Catholic identity into daily learning and classroom experiences. She is actively involved in the school and parish community through the St. Isidore Gardening Committee, OCIA sponsorship, and the SLCS Faith Committee. Outside of school, Sarah enjoys collecting brooches, especially designs that celebrate her Catholic faith. 
 

Cathy joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2026 and serves as a Teacher Assistant, supporting students across multiple grade levels. Prior to coming to St. Leo, she worked for two years at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic School, where she also served as Athletic Director for spring sports and PTO Volunteer Coordinator. She has additional experience tutoring 3rd grade math and volunteering with Vacation Bible School at St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church in Greensboro. Cathy looks forward to becoming involved in school committees, athletics, and special events at St. Leo. Outside of school, she enjoys walking, reading, cooking, attending concerts and plays, and cheering on her favorite teams—the Buffalo Bills, New York Knicks, and New York Rangers. She also serves as Vice President of the Ladies Ancient Order of Hibernians, an Irish Catholic women's organization dedicated to charitable outreach. Cathy treasures time with her husband, two daughters, seven grandchildren, and two beloved dogs, Zoe and Ireland. A fun fact: her very first job was portraying Disney characters at Walt Disney World, including Pinocchio, Dopey, Happy, Mr. Smee, the White Rabbit, and a dancing mouse in the original Electrical Parade.

Krystal joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2023 and serves as a Pre-K Teacher Assistant. She earned an Associate in Arts degree from Randolph Community College and a Dental Assisting degree from Guilford Technical Community College. Before joining St. Leo, Krystal volunteered in the community and worked in dental care, including serving twice weekly at a community care clinic. She is an active member of the parish community through St. Martha’s Ministry and has served as an OCIA sponsor for those preparing to enter the Catholic Church. Outside of school, Krystal enjoys traveling, attending concerts, especially Dave Matthews Band performances, watching meteor showers, and collecting salt and pepper shakers. She and her husband of 24 years are the proud parents of two daughters, Gracie and Lola, and their Australian Labradoodle, Merle.
 

Ms. Hooker joined St. Leo in 2023 and serves as a teacher assistant. She brings more than 25 years of experience as an optician, specializing in serving infants, children, and older adults, along with her childcare credentials. Kathryn serves on the Catholic Schools Week Committee and enjoys helping create meaningful experiences for students and families. Outside of school, she loves fly fishing, watercolor painting, and is currently writing a book about Adoration.
 

Paloma joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2022 and serves as a Teacher Assistant in Pre-K, where she brings warmth, patience, and a love for children to the classroom. After 22 years of being self-employed, Paloma joined the St. Leo community and has enjoyed supporting young learners while also assisting with after-school care. She is deeply committed to her faith and serves as a catechist at Divine Redeemer Catholic Church in Boonville, where she has been a member of the Neocatechumenal Way for over 20 years. A proud St. Leo parent, Paloma has three graduates and two current students at St. Leo. She and her husband, Sergio enjoy spending time with their five children. Outside of school, Paloma loves cooking Mexican food, gardening, taking long walks, and creating special moments with her family. She feels blessed to be part of the Pre-K community and enjoys the people she works with every day.
 

Annie is a proud St. Leo alumna who attended the school from preschool through eighth grade before graduating from Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School. She brings a unique background that includes experience as a university teaching assistant, and tutor. She is grateful to serve in the community that helped shape her faith and educational journey. Annie is active in Frassati Young Adults and enjoys building relationships with students and families. Outside of school, she enjoys watercolor painting, reading about the lives of the saints, and spending time with her nieces and nephews.
 

Janice joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2021 and serves as a Teacher Assistant, supporting students across all grade levels and subject areas. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Arts from California State University, Fullerton, and also studied at the Bellas Artes art school in Lima, Peru. Fluent in English and Spanish, with proficiency in French, Janice has extensive experience as a tutor, substitute teacher, long-term Spanish teacher, and Teacher Assistant. She is also a member of St. Leo's Art Committee and enjoys incorporating creativity into learning whenever possible. Outside of school, Janice loves exploring art, writing stories and songs, learning Italian, listening to music from around the world, and spending time by the ocean, where she never misses an opportunity to admire sea turtles. 
 

Sophie joined St. Leo in 2026 and brings a lifelong appreciation for Catholic education, having attended Catholic schools from kindergarten through college. Her experience working as a nanny reinforced her passion for supporting the development of children in mind, body, and soul. Sophie recently joined St. Leo Parish and looks forward to becoming more involved in parish life and service opportunities. A former St. Leo student herself, she is excited to return to the school that helped inspire her love of education. She enjoys reading and recently started a book club to share that passion with friends.
 

Statia joined St. Leo Catholic School in 2013 and serves as a Teacher Assistant, supporting students in Pre-K through 2nd grade. She studied at UNC Greensboro, NC State University, and Duke University, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to the classroom. In addition to her work at St. Leo, she has volunteered with Hospice of Davidson County and Wake County, reflecting her commitment to serving others. Outside of school, she enjoys hiking, gardening, and traveling.