Third Grade Teachers

My name is Leanne Baird. I'm proud to be a Norton Cougar and work with our students each day. Norton is a place that provides high expectations and a positive learning environment. We work together as a community to excel! I have been teaching in JCPS for 20+ years whilst both of my children attend JCPS schools. I love spending my time outside hiking, boating, and back porch sitting.  

I am a passionate educator with an exciting 40+ year teaching career, spanning the countries of Guyana, Saint Lucia, and the United States of America. Blessed with an international perspective on education, I am very enthusiastic about shaping young minds and helping them to foster a love for learning. My extensive experience has enabled me to hone my knowledge and skills to connect with students from diverse backgrounds. My educational goal is to continue to seek relevant, researched-based professional development, create rich and inclusive classroom environments, and leave indelible marks on all the students I teach. I firmly believe that all children can learn at high levels. No EXCEPTIONS! NO EXCUSES! In my free time, I enjoy traveling with my family, shopping, and cooking. Summer is my favorite time of the year because I adore the blissful warmth and exuberant freedom. Despite the summer break from the classroom, I am always eager to return. Teaching is truly my passion. What’s yours? 

Hello! My name is Tabitha Hardison and I am a third grade teacher. This will be my 11th year with JCPS and my first year as a Norton Cougar! I received my Bachelor’s degree from Murray State University and my Masters degree from Spalding University with a focus in leadership and literacy. I have taught 1st-4th grade and spent three years as an Academic Instructional Coach. My husband and I have two daughters named Heidi (3) and Catherine (5 months). I love spending time outside, reading, traveling, and scrapbooking. Teaching is one of my greatest passions and I look forward to an exciting year of learning together! 

This will be my 22nd year of teaching in JCPS, and my 18th year specifically teaching at Norton. In 2003, I graduated from the University of Kentucky with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, specializing in Creative Arts. In 2006, I graduated from Indiana Wesleyan University with a Master of Arts degree in Education. I love spending my free time creating music and art, as well as spending time with my family. I also enjoy reading or writing with a great cup of coffee. One of my favorite passions is playing a good game of Chess! I believe that all students have unique capabilities and talents, and that part of my job as a teacher is to help each child discover those things, and learn to love the gifts they have. 

Hello! My name is Stefany Lawson and I am a third grade teacher this year at Norton Elementary. I am starting my 21st year with JCPS and have had the pleasure of teaching K-1, 2, 3, 4 grades, along with 6 years experience as an Instructional Coach.

 I was born and raised in Louisville, KY. I married my high school sweetheart 19 years ago and we are the lucky parents of two middle schoolers: Landon (13) and Aly (11). We also have a high energy, sock eating dog, Tank, at home. When we are not at the baseball field or at dance competitions, we are busy traveling, camping, or relaxing on our patio! 

I am excited to be working with another amazing group of students and staff this year and look forward to all the learning that will take place!