
Ant Assiduous has been teaching the value of diligence and hard work for many years. Ms. Assiduous teaches a strict integrated behavior curriculum. Her main lesson is rather an old-fashioned one that is highly pertinent in our current culture. She endeavors to reveal to our students a Proverbs 6:6-8 lesson: “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.” Ms. Assiduous’s desire is that all Chiefs would learn and apply the principles of diligence, without which, no commendable success is conceivable.
Raja Atallah teaches English 1, English 1 Honors, and English 2. He is also the webmaster for Northview's website. After Mr. Atallah had finished an undergraduate degree in English, he pursued a master's degree in English education. Later in 2003, he completed another master's degree in English literature. Mr. Atallah taught English college courses for eleven years, middle school English for two years, and high school English for three years. Besides teaching at Northview, he also teaches as adjunct faculty at Pensacola State College.
Vicki Baggett teaches English 2 and English 2 Honors. She also teaches 10th and 12th grade English through Escambia County's Virtual Academy, a certified program under the Florida Virtual School. She earned a Bachelor's degree in English Education from the University of Alabama and a Master's degree in English from Livingston University. She is also ESOL certified and has been teaching for 21 years. She taught in Alabama for nine years and Florida for ten years. She sponsors the 10th grade class and chairs the 10th grade Learning Community.
Anna Barry teaches World History, World History Honors, and Integrated Science. After graduating from Northview in 2000, Mrs. Barry attended the University of West Florida. There, she received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Health Education. She went on to be professionally certified in Middle Grades Integrated Curriculum (5-9), Health (K-12), Earth/Space Science (6-12), and Social Science (6-12). She has been teaching for eight years and is on her sixth year here at Northview. Mrs. Barry is Department Chair for History, a co-sponsor of SGA, and the director of the annual Miss NHS pageant. Her two favorite quotes come from the creative mind of Theodor Seuss Geisel, better known as, Dr. Seuss:
“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.”
“Think and wonder, wonder and think.”
Perry Byars has been teaching for 25 years. He teaches Agriscience, Agriscience Foundations, Agriscience Technology I, and Directed Study. While attending the University of Florida, Mr. Byars earned both his Bachelors degree and Masters degree in Agriculture. He also earned an Associates degree from Lake City Community College. Mr. Byars is the sponsor of the National FFA Organization.
Megan Carroll currently teaches Reading and English. She graduated from the University of West Florida. She is also a 2002 graduate of Northview High. She sponsors the junior varsity cheerleaders and the Interact club.
Joe Chastain teaches American History, American Government, Economics, Psychology and Sociology. He attended Valdosta State University where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science. Mr. Chastain is currently completing his Masters in Educational Leadership at the University of West Florida. He is certified to teach Social Studies, Health, and ESE. This is Mr. Chastain's fifth year at Northview. He is also an assistant baseball coach.
Captain Charlie Code, Senior Naval Science Instructor, teaches Naval Science 3 and Naval Science 4. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Eckerd College in 1977 and a Master of Arts degree in Business Management from Central Michigan University in 1984. Captain Code also co-sponsors Future Business Leaders of America.
Vicki Cook is the Family & Consumer Science instructor at Northview. This year Mrs. Cook will be beginning the Culinary Arts Academy as well as teaching Nutrition, Food Prep, Child Development and Family Dynamics. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Vocational Education at the University of West Florida. Mrs. Cook has been teaching for 15 years. She is also the FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America) sponsor.
Heather Crumm, the Guidance Department Chair, is a 1995 graduate of the United States Military at West Point, where she majored in Latin American Studies. She served as a Transportation Officer in the US Army until 2000, and then went to work for General Electric. Mrs. Crumm went through an Alternative Certification program in 2002 and earned her teaching license in Special Education in the state of Texas. While in Texas, she taught Middle and High School students served in special education. In 2006, her family relocated to Virginia, where Mrs. Crumm taught middle school English to students served under special education. She began her Master's of Education in 2006 at Cambridge College, and in 2008 earned her degree in School Counseling. Mrs. Crumm looks forward to enhancing each student's high school career through her role as the school counselor. As an advocate for students, she is eager to assist students with their academic, career, and personal/social goals.
Suzzane Dent teaches Spanish 1 and 2. Mrs. Dent has taught Spanish and English for a total of 23 years in Mississippi and Alabama. This is her first year at Northview; she is excited to now be in Florida at Northview High School! Mrs. Dent grew up in Mississippi and moved here from Birmingham, Alabama. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Southern Mississippi, and her graduate degree is from the University of Alabama. Mrs. Dent studied for a summer at La Universidad de Costa Rica in San José. She is married, has two children, four grandchildren, three step children, and four step grandchildren.
Wanda Gafford teaches Algebra IB, Liberal Arts, Math for College Readiness, and Informal Geometry. She has an Associate of Art degree in Business from Pensacola Junior College and a Bachelor of Art degree in Accounting Education and a Bachelor of Science degree in Computers from the University of West Florida. She has been teaching for ten years. Mrs. Gafford sponsors basketball and tutors students in math.
Kelly Gurganus teaches English 3, and English 3 Honors. After graduating from Northview, she attended Auburn University where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education Language Arts. She has been teaching for nine years. She also sponsors the junior class and co-sponsors the Interact Club.
Elaine Holk is currently teaching Guitar, Chorus, Theater, Instrumental Techniques (beginning band), and Band. Ms. Holk graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of West Florida with a BA in Music Education. She has been teaching in Escambia County School District since 1993.
Sue Jernigan teaches Reading 180. She has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Exceptional Student Education/Elementary Education with ESOL Endorsement from the University of West Florida.
Terri Jernigan is also affectionately known by her students as the "Dragon Lady." Mrs. Jernigan has been teaching for 29 years and has taught at Northview since its opening in 1995. Mrs. Jernigan attended the University of West Florida and has a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction with emphasis in secondary English, as well as a Bachelor's degree in History. In addition, she is a faculty leader and National Board certified. Mrs. Jernigan teaches English III, English IV, English IV Honors, Dual Enrollment 1101, and Dual Enrollment 1102. She is certified in English, American History, and ESOL. She sponsors FCA, Rho Kappa, and the senior class.
Laura Johnson teaches Biology and Biology Honors. She attended Troy State University where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. She has been teaching for nine years. She also sponsors the Student Government Association as well as the sophomore class.
Robert Lambeth teaches Algebra 2, Algebra 2 Honors, and Precalculus at Northview. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from the University of West Alabama. Mr. Lambeth has been teaching for 31 years. He is also a member of the CIM Team.
Martin Lister teaches Drafting/Construction Technology. Mr. Lister graduated from Pensacola High School (90), studied at Jefferson Davis JC, and received his B.S. degree in Computer Science/C.I.S. from the University of West Florida. Mr. Lister holds the following certificates: Florida State University - Web Page Design; University of Kentucky - Digital Electronics (Engineering); Duke University - Introduction to Engineering Design (Engineering). Mr. Lister taught for five years at Escambia High School before coming to Northview. Mr. Lister also coached at Escambia High School: Varsity Baseball (4 years); 9th grade Head Football (2 years); Varsity Football (running backs coach) (1 year); Boys Weightlifting Coach (1 year); Assistant Baseball/Pitching Coach at Pensacola State (2011-2012). Awards/Accolades: College Baseball 1st Team All-American; Drafted in 7th round by the Cincinnati Reds. Played with the Cincinnati Reds, Houston Astros and Arizona Diamondbacks.
Barbara Luker teaches 9th and 10th grade Reading. She has her Bachelor's of Science degree in Elementary Education and a Master's degree in Reading from the University of West Florida. She has seven years of teaching experience and is a member of Northview's Literacy Team. She also teaches as an adjunct instructor for the University of West Florida. Mrs. Luker serves as the RTI chairperson and assistant volleyball coach for NHS. Mrs. Luker is a member of the Atmore chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma, an organization that promotes higher education of local and ALL women. She co-sponsors FCA, Teens for Christ, and S.W.A.N.S., a new sorority.
Derek Marshman teaches Geometry, Geometry Honors, and Math for College Readiness. He graduated from the University of West Florida. This is his 3rd year at Northview. Coach Marshman also coaches football and basketball.
Gary Mattes is the Athletic Director at NHS. Mr. Mattes also teaches Driver's Education. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Health, Leisure, and Sports Science from the University of West Florida and a Master of Arts degree in Education Administration from Grand Canyon University.
Larry McDonald teaches Integrated Science, Integrated Science Honors, Environmental Science, Integrated Science II, and sponsors Northview's Expedition science club.
Formal Education:
Mississippi State University – Masters Geosciences (2007-09)
University of West Florida – Bachelors Environmental Resource Management & Planning (1984-86)
Other universities and colleges attended – Oklahoma State University (Fire & Emergency Management Administration) (2003)
Miami-Dade College (Earth Sciences, Mass Media) (1981-83)
Pensacola Junior College (Earth Sciences) (1983-84)
Professional Experience:
Northview High School (6th year science department teacher and voted Northview's 2009-2010 Teacher of the Year) (6 years)
Ecology & Environment, Inc. (domestic security planning and exercising) (1 year)
West Florida Regional Planning Council (domestic security, hazardous materials, and natural hazards planning and exercising, land use planning) (15 years)
Miami-Dade County Parks and Recreation Department (park guide and interpreter) (2 years)
James Moretz is Northview’s In-School Suspension (ISS) Instructor. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the University of West Florida and two Associate degrees from Pensacola State College. He is certified to teach social sciences in grades 6-12. Mr. Moretz previously worked as a School Resource Officer with the Escambia County School District at Carver/Century K-8, Ernest Ward Middle, Northview High, Ransom Middle and Tate High Schools.
He is an U.S. Navy veteran; Mr. Moretz served our country for 23 years retiring as a Limited Duty Officer Lieutenant Commander in 2004. His naval sea tours include service with Amphibious Construction Battalion TWO and duty aboard six warships: USS Talbot (FFG-4), USS Sellers (DDG-11), USS Joseph Hewes (FF-1078), USS Sumter (LST-1181), USS Austin (LPD-4), and USS Nashville (LPD-13). Ashore, he served as a navy recruiter with Navy Recruiting District Jacksonville, Florida and as an Officer in Charge of two units assigned to Naval Air Station Pensacola. His naval accolades include Sailor of the Quarter and Year 1985 (USS Talbot), Top 10 Recruiter 1987 (NRD Jacksonville), and Atlantic Fleet Junior Officer Ship Handler of the Year 1995 (USS Austin). He has been awarded two Meritorious Service medals, six Navy Commendation medals, five Navy Achievement medals, and numerous other service medals, ribbons, and letters.
Favorite quote: "I can imagine no more rewarding a career. And any man who may be asked in this century what he did to make his life worthwhile, I think can respond with a good deal of pride and satisfaction: 'I served in the United States Navy." President John F. Kennedy, August 1, 1963
Natalie Nall is currently teaching freshman reading classes. Mrs. Nall attended the University of Central Florida where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education in 1992. She also earned a Reading Master's Degree from the University of West Florida. She has been teaching for 17 years. Mrs. Nall is the head coach for the girls and the boys Cross Country team, the girls Track team, and the girls Weightlifting team.

Gail O'Neal is the 9th and 10th grade counselor. Mrs. O'Neal has been a teacher for 11 years and this is her first year at Northview High School. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Pittsburgh and her graduate degree is from Troy University. Mrs. O'Neal is excited to help all students in the areas of academic achievement, personal/social development and career development, helping to ensure her students become the productive, well-adjusted adults of tomorrow.
Rachel Pleasant has been teaching for 14 years. She is currently teaching Chemistry, Chemistry Honors, and Anatomy. She attended the University of West Florida where she received her Bachelors degree in both Microbiology and Pre-Med Biology and a Masters degree in Secondary Education. Ms. Pleasant also has a Bachelors in Psychology from the University of Maryland. She is certified in Chemistry, Physics, Biology, Math, and is ESOL empowered. Ms. Pleasant also sponsors the blood drives and the Minority Culture Club. She is also a member of the CIM Team, RIT team, School Advisory Council, and the Data Entry Team.
Alison Robinson is the Library Media Specialist. She attended the University of South Alabama where she received a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education and an M.E.D. degree in Reading K-12 and an M.E.D. in Educational Media. She has been teaching for 26 years. She also sponsors the Beta Club, advises the Tribal Spirit Yearbook, and is SIP and CIM Chairperson.
Leslie Sellers teaches DCT, World History Honors, and Compass Lab. After graduating from Northview, she went to Jefferson Davis Community College and then to Auburn University where she received her Bachelor of Science and Master’s of Education degrees in Business Education. Mrs. Sellers has taught business education for 10.5 years in Alabama. Mrs. Sellers has also achieved National Board Certification and was named Alabama Business Education Association Business Teacher of the Year in 2008. She sponsors CECF and the senior class.
Chief Jeffrey Simpkins teaches NJROTC. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences and a Masters of Arts degree in Education/Early Childhood Development both from TUI University. This is Chief Simpkins first year at Northview. He has served 20 years in the U.S. Navy.
Donna Smith, instructor for the Graphic Arts Academy, teaches Introduction to Information Technology, Digital Design I, Digital Design II, Digital Design III, and Business Ed. Directed Study. She attended the University of West Florida where she received a Bachelor's Degree in Business Teacher Education and a Master's Degree in Vocational Education/Business Teacher Education. Mrs. Smith has been teaching for 28 years and has achieved National Board certification and industry certification: Adobe Certified Expert in Photoshop CS3, Adobe Certified Associate in Visual Communication using Adobe Photoshop CS4, Adobe Certified Associate in Web Communication Dreamweaver CS4, Microsoft Certified Application Specialist in Using Microsoft Office Word 2007, PowerPoint 2007 and Outlook 2007. In addition, Mrs. Smith is a faculty leader, senior sponsor, FBLA sponsor, and Vocational Department Chairperson.
Obreonne Smith teaches ESE Reading. She has been teaching for ten years. She attended the University of West Florida where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Teaching for the Emotionally Handicapped (EH). She has also received her Reading Endorsement.
Coach Thompson joined the Northview HS Chiefs as the assistant coach for Women's Track and Head Coach for Boys Cross Country in August 2012.
Thompson spent the 2007 season as the assistant coach at Neosho County Community College (NCCC) in Chanute, Kan., before returning to UNCP to finish up his graduate degree. Thompson worked with the middle to long distance runners at NCCC. He helped coach 14 NJCAA All-Americans, two NJCAA National Champions, and two national runner-ups. The Neosho men's indoor and outdoor teams posted top-10 finishes in the National Championships while the women's indoor and outdoor programs each posted top-25 finishes in the National Championship. After spending a year in Kansas at Neosho Community College, Thompson coached at St. Andrews Presbyterian College in Laurinburg, North Carolina for two years. The Men's Cross Country team won the Conference Carolinas Champions, and had two runners qualify for the NCAA Division II National Championships. Thompson also coached 6 individual Conference Champions in Outdoor Track & Field at St. Andrews Presbyterian College.
Prior to joining NCCC program, Thompson was an assistant coach for both the Okaloosa Express and Angel Elite Youth Track Team. In his three years of coaching at the A.A.U. level, Thompson qualified a total of 38 National Junior Olympic athletes. Thompson had a successful collegiate career originally signing a track scholarship with Lees-McRae College in Banner Elk, N.C., before transferring to UNCP. As a Sophomore, Thompson posted the second fastest 300-meter hurdles time in the Bobcats school history. In his final two collegiate seasons with the Braves, Thompson was a 7-time finalist at the Carolinas Championships. Coach Thompson capped off his career as a 6-time medalist at the North Carolina State Games.
Thompson has a high school state finalist in both the 300-meter hurdles and 4x400m relay. As a junior in high school he competed at the A.A.U. National Junior Olympics in the 400 meter hurdles. Thompson is a USATF Level 1 Certified Track and Field coach that has also completed 11 marathons, and one 50-mile race. A graduate of UNC Pembroke, Thompson has a Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise & Sports Science and Recreational Management/Administration. He completed his Master of Arts degree in Physical Education (Sports Administration) at his alma mater in 2008.
Thompson, a native of Pensacola, Fla., currently resides in Beulah with his wife Rachel and son Levi.
Charles Tucker teaches World History at Northview High School. Mr. Tucker also teaches Band and Chorus at Ernest Ward Middle School. His hobbies include model railroading and flying. As a pilot, he has logged over 1800 hours and is instrument rated. He attended Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, and Southern Methodist University in Dallas, Texas. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in European History and also a Minor in Music at Purdue University. Mr. Tucker has also earned a Cooperative Education Certificate in Chemical Engineering from Purdue and a Master of Theology and Master of Sacred Music degrees at Southern Methodist University. He has taught for 21 years at the middle school and high school level and also has 4 years of college teaching experience.
Bill Welch, the On the Job Training Coordinator, also teaches Science. Mr. Welch has a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Design from Auburn University. He taught at the Bureau of Prisons for seven years. Most of Mr. Welch's career has been in wood products and manufacturing. He is certified in Special Education, middle grades integrated curriculum, OJT and has recently passed his Technology Certification test. This is his fifth year at Northview.
Sid Wheatley teaches Physical Education. He has been teaching for 13 years. Coach Wheatley attended the University of Southern Mississippi where he received a Bachelor's degree in Coaching and Sports Administration. Coach Wheatley is also Northview's head coach for football and baseball.
Brandy White is currently teaching Algebra 1 and Algebra 1B. Mrs. White completed her B.S.B.A. in Accounting. Mrs. White has been teaching for five years.
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