Meet our Kindergarten Teachers



Mrs. Jones

Greetings! My name is Ms. Jones, and I am one of the kindergarten teachers here at LHES. I have a very vibrant and joyful 7-year-old daughter. I graduated from NCCU with a B.S. degree within Family & Consumer Sciences with a Concentration in Child Development and Family Relations. I also graduated from Shaw University with a M.S. degree in Curriculum & Instruction with BK Licensure.

I completed several research studies that surround literacy equity, family engagement, mindfulness meditation, conscious discipline, and childhood resiliency. Aside from academics, I own a side business, I am a mentor for at-risk youth in rural communities, and I'm a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. I love to laugh, create things, and fulfill community service projects.

I have taught students of all ages for over 18+ years, and I am super passionate about bringing the classroom to life! I love to incorporate hands-on activities that bridge real-world experiences. I bring my love of teaching, community, and learning into the classroom each day, and I make it a priority to ensure that everyone in my class feels supported & included within the school community. 







Mrs. Christy Dickerson

Hi! My name is Christy Dickerson and I am so honored to be a Kindergarten teacher here at Lincoln Heights! I have both a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and Master’s degree in Elementary Education from NC State University. I was a scientist for many years before going back to school to become a teacher. I feel so thankful that I get to bring my science background and passion to elementary school students through our environmental magnet theme. I am a very experiential teacher and am excited that our magnet theme encourages observation, experimentation and inquiry for students in every subject area.

I have three wonderful children. My oldest son graduated from NC State last year and is currently serving our country in the United States Navy. My middle son is a junior at Appalachian State University and my youngest daughter is in 10th grade.

I love spending time with my husband and children grilling out, going to the beach, and hiking. We have lived in Fuquay for over 13 years and feel this community is a tight knit, vibrant, wonderful place to live!

Mrs. Brandi Gozy

Hi! My name is Brandi Gozy and I am delighted to be teaching Kindergarten at Lincoln Heights Elementary! I have enjoyed working with young children for as long as I can remember. I proudly hold a degree from Appalachian State University in Elementary Education. I have over 11 years of experience teaching first grade and Pre-K, but Kindergarten is my passion! Kindergarteners bring such a refreshing view of the world and their enthusiasm is delightful. Over the years I have discovered my love for nurturing lifelong learners by teaching students to become active agents in their own learning experiences. I work hard to make learning fun and engaging every day. Lincoln Heights Environmental Magnet’s theme provides the perfect opportunities for students to grow and learn in a meaningful and authentic way while experiencing the natural world around them. I am thrilled to be part of the Lincoln Heights Family!

Outside of the classroom, I am mom to three teenagers! My husband and I stay very busy with all their activities, including soccer, theater, and chorus. In my spare time I love going to the Theater (musicals are my favorite), gardening, laughing, playing games with friends and family, researching the amazing places of the world, traveling, and making memories with my family.

Mrs. Melissa Bambule

Hi, My name is Melissa Bambule, I am elated to be a kindergarten teacher at Lincoln Heights Environmental Connections Magnet. I wholeheartedly believe that children learn best when immersed in nature-based environments.

I have been teaching for over ten years in early education where I actively engaged in teaching using the whole child approach. I believe that children should be exposed to a wide array of learning opportunities to encourage them to be active thinkers, problem solvers, empathetic collaborators, curious investigators, and confident decision-makers. I discovered Lincoln Heights during my student teaching and felt a sense of belonging from day one.

I live in Apex with my husband and two high school-aged daughters who keep me on my toes. I enjoy reading, cooking, gardening, and agility training my rambunctious dutch shepherd, Gabbie.

Mrs. Mary Blankenship

Hi, My name is Mary Blankenship. I have been teaching in early education for the past 15 years. I have been at LHES for the past 9 years. I love working at an environmental magnet school. I believe children should be connected to nature and a great way to get them excited and involved in nature is during the school day while learning.

I live in Willow Spring with my husband and our three dogs and cat. My son is currently taking a gap year and my daughter is in Raleigh working as an editor. I enjoy spending time with my family & friends, walking, cooking, and traveling to new places.

I look forward to meeting your child, getting to know them and helping them begin their journey of learning through actively engaging in the environment.