Katy Stone inspires enthusiasm, engagement and critical-thinking skills in her science classroom. As a "Double Dawg," graduating from the University of Georgia with a bachelor's of science in biology and a master's degree in secondary science education, Mrs. Stone uses her former veterinary pharmaceutical sales experience to foster abilities that can be applied to the workforce. Having taught every level of biology ranging from English Language Learners to Advanced Placement, Mrs. Stone scaffolds the learning process to ensure the success of all of her STEM students.

Beyond the classroom, the importance of community involvement is paramount. As both a cross country and track coach, Mrs. Stone runs with students to cultivate their love of competition. As the announcer at the 2024 GHSA State Track Meet at East Jackson and leader of the Student Section Club- a student-run organization that hosts tailgates and pep rallies to promote school spirit, she speaks frequently at FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) and various events that engage athletes and students in the community.

In her free time, she teaches a youth bible study and she tutors UGA Biology 1107 students. Mrs. Stone has received the honor of District Teacher of the Year at Jackson County. Her mission remains the same: to continue to grow in her ability to pour into students and to hone their love for science.

Contact: katelyn.stone@jcss.us

Trent Rayburn is a certified Secondary Mathematics teacher from Gainesville, GA. Mr. Rayburn is a proud "Double Dawg," having graduated from the University of Georgia with a B.S. in Mathematics and an M.A.T. in Math Education.  He is also currently working on his STEM Certification and Gifted Endorsement. Mr. Rayburn has a heart for working with students and helping them develop a positive outlook on learning and experiencing mathematics.

Mr. Rayburn's goal is to develop mathematical proficiency in students, which is evident by fluidly moving between mathematical representations, engaging in discourse with peers, and demonstrating a self-motivated interest in learning. To enjoy and use mathematics at its fullest potential, Mr. Rayburn pushes students to think about their own thinking and pushes learning in the classroom to become more student-centered. 

The East Jackson community has welcomed Mr. Rayburn and has prepared him to confidently and deeply immerse himself into the learning experience and school community as a whole. Mr. Rayburn looks forward to building strong relationships with his students and helping them to refine their skills as problem-solvers, change agents, and productive members of society.

Contact: trent.rayburn@jcss.us 

Coach Brannon, a dedicated Special Education Co-Teacher with nearly a decade of experience, joined the teaching profession in the fall of 2014. With a strong background in literature and language arts, Coach Brannon is passionate about helping students discover their unique voices and succeed in their learning journeys.

In addition to his role in the classroom, Coach Brannon brings his competitive spirit to the mat as an assistant coach for the middle school wrestling team. When he’s not teaching or coaching, you can find him cheering on the UGA Bulldogs or enjoying quality time with friends and family.

Contact: rpbrannon@jcss.us 

Michael Shawler has spent 25 years in education as a science teacher, administrator, computer science teacher, basketball coach, and robotics coach.  Mr. Shawler is the STEM / Engineering teacher and Coordinator for our STEM program at East Jackson High School.  For years, he was all about the academic side of education, focusing on rigor in the classroom.  However, coaching robotics showed him the importance of making learning rigorous and relevant for our students.  This is where his excitement and passion for the STEM program at East Jackson High School derives from.  Mr. Shawler wants his students to have relevant learning experiences and opportunities that connect our academic courses and to our engineering program.  This also allows for an increase in the depth of material and knowledge that the students are getting in their classrooms.  Mr. Shawlers hopes for students to leave the STEM program equipped to be successful to prepare for all post-secondary opportunities.  

Contact: mshawler@jcss.us 

Mr. Malone is an English/Language Arts teacher in his second year of teaching, both at East Jackson and as a whole. He graduated in May of 2023 with a Bachelor's in English Education and a Minor in Linguistics. In addition to his classroom role, he coaches the school's academic team. 

In his free time, he enjoys playing retro Nintendo games and practicing martial arts, through which he has earned two second degree black belts and is currently working towards another degree at Karate RX in Braselton. His favorite book series of all time is the Harry Potter series, which he has read over twenty times, and he is a weekly listener of the "Through the Griffin Door" podcast.

"Stories are what make us human. The more stories we experience, the more human we become."

Contact: caleb.malone@jcss.us