Meet the Team

Mrs. Antwanette Shipman - Team Lead - Track 1

Mrs. Shipman here! I am a North Carolina native and a proud graduate of Wake County Schools. I graduated from North Carolina and I have a daughter who also attends Lake Myra. When I’m not in the classroom, I love crafting, trying new restaurants relaxing, and watching my favorite TV shows.

This is my 11th year teaching and my fourth year here at Lake Myra! My goal every day is to make learning fun, engaging, and meaningful. I truly believe in a strong home-and-school partnership—working as a team is the best way to help your child reach their fullest potential. Most of all, I want your student to feel successful every day and walk through our doors eager to learn!

I’m so excited for a wonderful year together! 😃

Mrs. LaDawn Pugh - Co-Lead- Track 3

Hello! My name is LaDawn Pugh. I was born in Newport News, Virginia (military brat). When I was still young my parents moved to Raleigh, North Carolina. I graduated from Winston Salem State University (GO RAMS!) and received my Bachelor of Arts in Science in 2008. After graduation I moved back to Raleigh to decide what I wanted to do with my life. I realized that teaching was what I was born to do! From there I went back to school at Salem College and received my Master of Arts in Teaching in 2014. I have been a teacher at Lake Myra for 12 years and have been teaching for 15 years. I believe that high expectations are the key to everything, and I can't wait to see how your children grow this year!

Mrs. Yesenia Wright - Track 4

Hi! My name is Yesenia Wright. I am from NJ, and I live in Clayton, NC. I speak English and Spanish. My family is from Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Nicaragua!

My husband and I have two daughters. We enjoy movie nights together and having family dance parties!

My mission is to create a classroom where every student feels seen, valued, and respected for who they are. I strive to cultivate a learning environment that is warm, welcoming, and safe—where curiosity is encouraged, voices are heard, and each child knows they belong.

Ms. Amelia Harrelson - Track 1

Hello! My name is Amelia Harrelson. I am originally from Shallotte, North Carolina, a small town by the coast. During most Track Outs, you can find me there enjoying the beach! I now live in Raleigh, with my dog Lilly. I graduated from North Carolina State University and love cheering on the Wolfpack. I have been teaching 2nd Grade at Lake Myra for the past 9 years and I am looking forward to a great year with lots of fun adventures!

Mrs. Zekia Powers - Track 4

I am pleased to welcome you to the 2026-2027 school year! I am looking forward to having your child as a student. Second grade is such a fun year with so many wonderful learning activities to celebrate. My most important goal is to create a family of learners in my classroom. I am committed to creating a classroom environment where your child is a valued, trusted, and vital part of our family of learners.

Mrs. Michelle Ybarra - Track 3

I am so excited to be your child’s teacher this year! I have had the privilege of teaching 2nd grade here at Lake Myra for the past fourteen years. I have previously taught kindergarten and first grade reading intervention. I was born and raised in California before moving here to North Carolina in 2007. My husband and I have two amazing children. Our son Devin graduated from NC State this summer. Our daughter, who was once a student here at Lake Myra, is a freshman at UNCW. We enjoy being out on the lake and trips to the beach with our dog, Apollo. I love to challenge students to be curious learners who take chances, work hard, and have fun!

Mr. John Cox - Track 2

My name is John Cox and I am excited to be joining the Lake Myra Community for the 2026-2027 School Year! I originally hail from Upstate New York and have been living in the Raleigh area since 2013. This is my 14th year as a classroom teacher and my 7th year as a 2nd grade teacher.

I live in Clayton with my wife and two daughters who will one day soon attend Lake Myra Elementary. As a teacher, I believe in a strong classroom community where every child feels safe and valued while also being held to a high standard. I look forward to working together this year.

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