Luminaries

I am thrilled to be teaching 6th grade Language Arts at New Dimensions, a community that has held a special place in my heart for the past ten years. While this is my third year in the classroom as a full-time teacher, I’ve been a dedicated part of the NDS family as a parent, volunteer, and substitute teacher. I earned my B.A. in English Literature from Berea College in Kentucky and went on to complete my M.S. in Information Science at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. My husband and I are proud to be raising two fierce daughters along with a joyful border collie, two laid-back cats, and a flock of 19 spirited chickens.

As a Language Arts educator, I believe that literacy is the foundation of all learning. Reading, writing, speaking, and listening empower students not only to succeed academically, but also to connect meaningfully with others and express their unique voices. I strive to create a classroom environment where students feel confident exploring literature, developing their ideas, and growing as thinkers and communicators. I'm excited to partner with families this year to help our students discover the power and joy of language.

Explorers

Hi! My name is Heather Hollifield. I'm excited to be teaching at New Dimensions this year as part of the 6th Grade Team. I enjoyed my first twenty-five years in education at St. Stephens HS and Arndt Middle School in Catawba County. I taught History/Social Studies before becoming an AP at SSHS. My husband Pete and I moved to my parents farmhouse in Salem after they passed away. I was fortunate to work the last three years for Burke County Public Schools and I just retired as the Principal of Table Rock Middle School. I look forward to getting back into the classroom and spending summers visiting family (3 children and 7 grandchildren) across the US. I enjoy spending time by the pool, working in my Sunday School class at PRBC and helping Pete around the farm. I look forward to meeting all of you!

Motivators

My name is Jo Harris.  I am a retired teacher from Burke County Schools. I taught one year of math at Freedom High School and the rest of my career I have been teaching math at Heritage Middle School. I am National Board Certified in Middle School math and a graduate from Western Carolina University. I bring 30+ years of experience into the classroom. I love math!  I live in Burke County with my wonderful husband and have two adult children.  I love water aerobics, outdoors and attending High Peak Baptist Church. I am looking forward to a great year with my Warrior family.