Meet Our Team

Richelle Sutton | Kindergarten Teacher

Greetings! My name is Miss Sutton and I’ll be teaching the K-Tastic Kinders for the 2024-2025 school term! I’ve had the privilege to teach Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, First, Second, Fourth, Fifth and Sixth Grades along with ESL for students located in China. I possess a Bachelor’s Degree of Science in Elementary Education K-6 with a Concentration in Psychology. I’m extremely passionate about Elementary Education as it is the foundation of all knowledge. My passion is to help children open their minds to a whole new world to truly begin seeing the world for the first time through new experiences. In my spare time I enjoy cuddles with my furbaby Mr. Bentley as well as traveling with my spouse (especially to the beach). I also enjoy dancing, visiting family, cooking and embracing all that life has to offer. I look forward to meeting all of the K-Tastic Kinders over in KinderLand!

Allyson Demay | Second Grade Teacher

My name is Allyson DeMay and I am a Second Grade Teacher for Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy. I earned my Bachelors degree in Elementary Education from East Carolina University in 2011 and my Masters in Reading Education from E.C.U., as well, in 2018. I am also a National Board Certified Teacher in Literacy. 

This will be my 13th year as a teacher, and I have experience teaching grades 1-4.

I enjoy spending time with my husband and two boys by taking trips to the beach, going geocaching, taking camping trips, and playing board games. I am very excited to be one of the founding teachers at PSPVA this year!

Samaria Trimble | Second Grade Teacher

I’m thrilled to be teaching second grade at PSPVA! I graduated from East Carolina University with a Bachelor’s degree in 2018 and a Master’s degree in Elementary Education in 2019. I recently continued my educational journey, earning an Education Specialist Degree in Instructional Technology from Kennesaw State University in 2023.

I have several years of experience teaching 2nd grade, and I’m passionate about creating a classroom environment where students are excited to learn. I love building relationships with students and using innovative tools to make learning both fun and effective.

When I’m not in the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family, trying out new recipes, and working in my garden. I look forward to a fantastic year of learning and growing together!

Ashley Sales | 3rd grade teacher

My name is Ashley Sales, and I’m thrilled to start this year at PSPVA. Since 2014, I’ve been passionate about teaching, and I’m excited to work with you and your child this year! I’m originally from Asheville and graduated from A.C. Reynolds and UNC Asheville. In my spare time, I love reading, gardening, and spending time with my dogs. I’m also a big sports enthusiast, cheering on Georgia Football, Duke Basketball, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Traveling and being with family and friends are some of my favorite things to do.

Whitney Hummons | 5th Grade Teacher

My name is Whitney Hummons and I was born and raised in midcoast Maine. I made my way south where I met my husband and landed in North Carolina when our family got stationed here. I graduated from Coastal Carolina University with my Bachelors in Elementary Education and my Masters in Instructional Technology. This is my 8th year teaching, with experience in both virtual and brick and mortar classrooms. I love to teach AND learn! I strive to pursue new and fun ways to create engagement, facilitate positive collaboration, or differentiate my methods to meet the needs of all my students. My hobbies include spending time with family and friends, traveling, interior design, and trying new foods! I am so excited to be a part of PSPVA and I cannot wait to “meet” you. 

Seth Sosebee | High School Social Studies Teacher

I am thrilled to join the PSPVA staff for the 24’-‘25 school year. I have worked in education since 2014 as a high school and middle school social studies teacher, coach, and in education technology. I’ve taught AP Human Geography, US History, and World History.
Originally from Lexington, NC, the barbecue capital of the world, I earned my BA from Elon
University and my master’s degree in teaching from The Citadel. Before entering the classroom, I held various jobs, including writer, waiter, barista, musician, construction worker, landscaper, and baseball stadium scoreboard operator. These experiences give me a well-rounded perspective that helps me teach students about the world and their potential roles in it. My family lives in Winston-Salem, NC. I’m a husband and father to two amazing children, ages two and five. In my free time, I enjoy exploring nature with my family, playing guitar, reading, and participating in an adult men’s wood bat baseball league. I’m excited to share my passion for learning with the PSPVA community!

Alexander Marler | Secondary Science Teacher

Hello, Pine Springs Family! My name is Mr. Marler, and I’m thrilled to join this new school as your high school science teacher. I just graduated this May from UNC-Chapel Hill with a B.S. in Biology and a Minor in Environmental Science. Before coming to PSPVA, I was a K-8 tutor and worked in two cancer research labs.

I believe in making science interactive and accessible for everyone, and I’m all about creating a classroom where you can explore, ask questions, and experience experiments. When I’m not teaching, I am attempting to learn more Spanish and German. I can’t wait to get to know all of you and explore the world of science together!

Dr. Jonathan Matthews | Secondary Principal

Born and raised in Fayetteville, NC, Dr. Matthews graduated from Terry Sanford High School and pursued higher education at East Carolina University, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education in 2006 as a NC Teaching Fellows Scholar, followed by a Master’s in School Administration in 2013. He also holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Liberty University, graduating with High Distinction. His academic achievements include memberships in Kappa Delta Pi and Omega Nu Lambda honor societies. Dr. Matthews is also a featured listee in the Marquis Who’s Who and a recipient of the Marquis Who’s Who Top Educators Award.

Dr. Matthews’s educational career began as a high school band director in eastern North Carolina, where he spent six years at South Central High School, and prior to that, taught at New Bern and Southwest Onslow High Schools. His dedication to music education led to numerous accolades for his students and bands, including a Grand Champion Award at the Crystal Coast Band Classic in 2009.

Beyond teaching, Dr. Matthews has been involved in mentorship and leadership roles, serving as a Clinical Teacher through East Carolina University and the Latham Clinical Schools Network, and participating on the leadership boards of the Onslow Winds Community Band and the North Carolina Music Educators Association. Dr. Matthews’s commitment to education is also reflected in his service with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. as Director of Educational Activities.

Prior to his role as High School Principal at Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy, Dr. Matthews served as principal of Bertie High School, where under his leadership the school saw significant improvements in its School Performance Score and growth metrics. Before leading Bertie HS, he was an administrator at Topsail High School, noted for its high graduation rates and consistent performance.

Dr. Matthews lives in Jacksonville, NC with his wife and their three children, ages 13, 12, and 7. They love to travel, discover new adventures, and play games together. They also love to host gatherings of their friends and family in their home. The Matthewses are also a very musical family. Mrs. Matthews is a flautist and middle school band teacher. Dr. and Mrs. Matthews’s son plays the euphonium, their daughter sings in the school chorus, and Dr. Matthews plays drums for their church!

Dr. Matthews is extremely excited and honored to serve as the High School Principal at Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy! He is eager to leverage his experience and passion for education to foster a dynamic learning environment where we all can be Pioneers in education to forge our I’mPACT on tomorrow!

Victoria Lockhart | Middle School ELA Teacher

My name is Victoria Lockhart, born and raised in New Bern, NC. For several years I have focused my career path and academic pursuits on being an educator in the education field, which developed into a passion to serve both in and out of the public school classroom. I obtained my BA in English from Elizabeth City State University, my M.Ed in Administration, Supervision, and Leadership from Averett University, and my EdD in Educational Leadership from Capella University. My educational philosophy is every student, every time, with the realization that I haven’t taught until they have learned. I have a true passion for teaching and empowering young people and mentoring my fellow colleagues as well. In the education field, I have served as a middle and high school ELA teacher, licensed in NC and VA, for 7 years. I have served as an online tutor for 9 years. I have served as a leader in many capacities, including 8th grade team leader, 9th grade ELA team leader, 8th grade ELA team leader, as well as serving on the leadership team at 3 of the 5 schools in which I have taught. A few of my achievements include being nominated 2022-2023 O Trent Bonner Middle Teacher of the Year, voted OTB 2022-2023 8th Grade Superlative Teacher, OTB Leadership Team, 2021 PIE Grant Winner, 2020 Duke Energy Grant Winner, 2019 Donors Choose Grant Winner, 2020 WITN Teacher of the Week, 2020 ECU Alana Scholar Honor Society, 2023 Averett University Kappa Delta Pi National Honor Society, Sister of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., ECSU NAACP Secretary, and a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success. With a genuine and nurturing nature, combined with a professional and ambitious approach, experience in interacting with diverse populations has given me in-depth understanding and awareness of differences in both individuals and organizations. These qualities will contribute greatly to the district’s mission while positively highlighting my professionalism and competencies!

Mary de Jonge | Fourth Grade Teacher

Born and raised in the beautiful Shenendoah Valley of Virginia, I stayed close to home to attend Radford University for my undergraduate degree in elementary education. After taking my first teaching job as a 3rd grade teacher in Virginia, I continued my education and earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Averett University. In 2006, my family and I moved to the Charlotte area in North Carolina where I gained experience as a 4th and 5th grade teacher. Most recently, I have been a virtual tutor for Stride and have experience working with K-6 learners from all over the country. 

My husband Brendon and I have three children and now live on a mini-farm outside of Charlotte. If I’m not somewhere on the sidelines of a soccer pitch watching our two teens play, I enjoy reading and hiking in my spare time. 

I am thrilled to have the opportunity to be part of PSPVA and can’t wait to meet you all!

Blake Ramsey | Secondary Social Studies Teacher

My name is Steven Blake Ramsey, and I am excited to be a founding social studies teacher at Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy! Born and raised in Monroe, North Carolina, I earned my B.A. in History from Wingate University in 2017. During my undergraduate studies, I was an active member of the university’s ethics debate team, served as the academic chairman for the Delta Sigma Phi social fraternity, and earned membership into both Phi Alpha Theta and Phi Sigma Tau—honor societies in the fields of history and philosophy. Currently, I am also pursuing an M.A. in History from Eastern Washington University, with an anticipated completion date of December 2024. 

Prior to joining the PSPVA faculty, I taught courses in world history and contemporary America at Union County Public Schools for six years (2018-2024). When it comes to social studies, my teaching philosophy is to spark students’ curiosity and critical thinking about the wider world around them. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy reading, traveling, and the outdoors. I am looking forward to being part of the PSPVA Pioneer community!

Kristine Caroppoli | Middle School Counselor

Hello! My name is Kristine Caroppoli (Mrs. Caroppoli). I am the Middle School Counselor at Pine Springs Preparatory VA. I graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a master’s in counseling education. In addition, I am a National Certified Counselor (NCC).

I spent the last 10 years working as an elementary school counselor (PreK-5). In addition, I have prior experience working with adolescents and young adults in an outpatient counseling setting where I focused primarily on mental health and substance abuse/addiction. I have spent most of my career working with children and adolescents. I enjoy helping young people navigate life’s journey.

I enjoy getting to know students and families by building genuine relationships. I would like to share a few personal things about my hobbies and interests. I have many, but photography, yoga, beachcombing, stand-up paddle boarding, reading, and spending time with family are among my favorites. I live on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, so sand and salt are part of my daily life.

I look forward to meeting and working with all of you

Brittany Holland | K-8 Principal

Mrs. Holland is thrilled to be a part of the Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy team as the K-8 Principal! She began her educational career teaching middle school Math and Science in Iredell County. During her teaching career she was named a NC Kenan Fellow. She pursued a Master’s Degree from Gardner-Webb University where she was a member of Kappa Delta Pi, an educational honor society. Mrs. Holland became a curriculum coordinator and then Assistant Principal in Wake County and for the last eight years she has been a K-5 school administrator in Davie County, NC. In 2018 she was named the NC National Assistant Principal of the Year.

In her spare time, Mrs. Holland enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter hiking in the mountains or relaxing at the beach!  

Theresa Clark | Special Education Teacher

Hi, my name is Theresa Clark. I live in Lenoir, NC. I am a Special Education teacher. I have been teaching for 18 years. I received my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Lees McRae College. I received my master’s degree from East Carolina University. This is my 3rd year teaching Special Education. I have taught Special Education classes in kindergarten through 5th grade. I love working with young children and helping them reach their potential. My hobbies include riding bicycles, hiking and spending time with my family. I have three children. My two daughters are both married and live close by. My son and his family live in Nebo, NC. I have a grandson who is 4 and will be starting Pre-K this fall. I am so excited to be teaching at Pine Springs Prep Virtual Academy! We are going to have an amazing year!

Sarah Trinidad | High School Science Teacher

Hello scholars and family! I’m so excited to join PSPVA! I grew up in the small town of Mount Olive, NC, where my love for science first took root in high school. That passion led me to the East Carolina University Honors College, where I earned a biology degree and completed research on coal ash and its effects on microbial respiration in river sediments.

I’ve spent the last eight years teaching chemistry, biology, physical science, and earth/environmental science. I have also had the honor to create and implement curriculum for programs such as ENC STEM hosted by the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics and the Research Triangle Nanotechnology Network housed at NC State.

When I’m not teaching, I love spending time with my family, traveling, and learning new languages—Swahili is my favorite so far! I’m all about fostering a love for learning, encouraging a growth mindset, and sparking creativity in the classroom. I can’t wait to get to know each of you and start this new adventure together.”

Sue Falotico | First Grade Teacher

Hello! My name is Sue Falotico and I am excited to teach First Grade at Pine Springs Preparatory Virtual Academy! This will be my 11th year teaching and my 4th year teaching in a virtual learning environment. My teaching credentials include a B.A. in Elementary Education and an M.A. in Early Intervention Special Education from St. Joseph’s College in N.Y. I’m originally from Long Island, N.Y. and have been living in N.C. for 11 years with my family. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, our 2 dogs, and our bunny. My interests include going to church, going to the beach, listening to audiobooks and podcasts, and relaxing around a fire pit. I look forward to meeting you and exploring the world of learning together!