NNPS Teaching & Learning
Kipp Rogers, Ph.D.
Chief Academic Officer
Darrell Pankratz
Executive Director
Secondary Teaching & Learning and K-12 Programs
Lori Wall
Director
Elementary Teaching & Learning
Phone: (757) 283-7850

Model Teachers: PreK
Meet this model teacher team and learn how college, career and citizen-ready skills come alive in their classrooms!
Charron Bournes
Grade: PreK
School: General Stanford Elementary
Years Taught: 9
Why are you passionate about supporting fellow teachers?
I am passionate about supporting fellow teachers because I remember the teachers who supported me early on in my career. I attribute my teaching success to the colleagues who poured into me to help me set a strong foundation.
What do you love most about teaching?
I love building relationships with students more than anything. Building relationships allows me to learn who each of my students are at their core, and not just as a student in the classroom. It is amazing to see how much each student has developed across the course of the school year academically and socially.
Lisa Bielenberg
Grade: PreK
School: Denbigh Early Childhood Center
Years Taught: 17
What do you love most about teaching?
Seeing the growth in each student and helping them become independent learners.
What is the best way to describe your classroom on a typical day?
Kids are learning through play, we have a structured routine and our class is a team!
Lisa Heidy Rodriguez
Grade: Dual Language Immersion PreK
School: Watkins Early Childhood Center
Years Taught: 10
Why are you passionate about supporting fellow teachers?
I truly enjoy connecting with other teachers and sharing ideas that make our work easier and more joyful. When I presented at a conference about building strong routines and positive learning spaces, I realized how much I enjoy empowering others. Helping teachers feel confident and successful impacts many students, and that’s what drives me every day.
What is the best way to describe your classroom on a typical day?
My classroom is organized, calm, and full of energy. Students know exactly what to do because routines are clear and every area is labeled for independence. We laugh, participate, and respect each other, making it a space where everyone feels safe and ready to learn Spanish.
Meet Our Model Teachers
Elementary School
Middle School