Staff & Teachers

Mindy Elkan

David Bouie joined the MDE School staff as Dean of Students in 2023. He has dedicated his 25-year career to educating students and teachers, focusing on educational pedagogy and social-emotional learning.

David has experience working in elementary, middle, and high schools as a school counselor, assistant principal, principal, central office administrator, and school developer. He also worked as a crisis counselor just before the pandemic.

Not only is David well-rounded as an educator, but he is experienced in all aspects of special education law, school budgeting, finance, board governance, and strategic planning. David comes to MDE School as an Atlanta Public Schools interim school administrator, an adjunct online professor for teachers and future administrators working on their state certifications, and an ABA therapy provider for children with autism. His experience is extensive and vast.

David shared, “My educational philosophy is that children are most productive when learning in a caring and safe environment. Children also thrive when there is structure and teacher accountability. At MDE School, I will support the teaching staff in creating an ideal learning environment for students so they can blossom.”

David is a proud HBCU graduate of Grambling State University, where he received a BS in Psychology. In addition, he earned a Master of Education degree in Counseling and an advanced certification in Educational Administration from the State University of New York at Brockport. David also earned an Ed. S degree in Administrator Leadership from Waldren University.

Originally from Rochester, New York, David has also worked in schools in Maryland and Pennsylvania. He moved to Atlanta, Georgia, in 2020, vowing never to shovel snow again. He remains loyal to New York sports teams and is a passionate fan of the Buffalo Bills, New York Yankees, and Syracuse Orange. David enjoys hiking, exercising, live music, Italian food, and movies, especially romantic comedies (shhh, don’t tell anyone). He is a father to two Atlanta-based adult children and has one granddaughter.

“I’m excited to excited to share my passion, enthusiasm and desire to help special needs children grow and pursue their goals and aspirations,” David said.

Beth Mooney

Beth Mooney joined the staff at MDE School as the Development Director in 2021. Beth is a marketing and fundraising specialist. She sharpened her advertising and marketing skills working for companies like Chick-fil-A, AT&T, and Bellsouth. In addition, Beth gained fundraising and events experience serving on volunteer boards at The High Museum of Art and The Circle for Children charity.

Beth’s duties for MDE School include producing marketing materials, donor newsletters, social media posts, public relations, donor development, rallying support for the Annual Fund Day of Giving campaign, and executing an annual fundraising event and silent auction for the school.

Beth graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Communications from Rutgers University in New Jersey.

She has a soft spot for children with special needs as her sister had Downs Syndrome. “I absolutely love working at MDE School. It’s a special place, and I’m thrilled to help raise funds for things that will positively impact these precious children,” Beth said.

Donna Racher

Donna Racher was the first teacher MDE School hired when the doors opened in 2009. She has been in the classroom helping our students reach their full potential ever since then.

In 2022 Donna shifted gears and became MDE School’s Operations Manager. She enjoys her new role and ability to interact with all of the students and parents at MDE.

Donna holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Elementary Education and Child Psychology. She also has a certification from the Infant/Toddler Development program at Temple University and an Integrated Listening System (ILS) certificate.

Donna said, “MDE is a unique school that sees each child as an individual. I’ve enjoyed working in an environment that enhances a student’s academic, social, and life skills.  

She continued, “The last 13 years have been a journey. I have loved each of my roles at MDE and working with so many different children over the years.”

Donna enjoys traveling, hiking, and cooking in her free time.

Ms. Chelsea

Ms. Chelsea joined the MDE School teaching staff in 2021. Before that, she taught kindergarten at another private special needs school in Atlanta, Georgia. Ms. Chelsea holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s degree in both Social Work and Special Education with a Certification in Autism.

Ms. Chelsea was drawn to the special education field in high school. In high school, I made it a point to interact and play with the special education students in the gym. My commitment to serving special needs children grew in college when I took an Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) course. I have a heart for this because I naturally connect with people, and children with special needs are no different. I love to try and understand them in ways others may be unable to,” she said.

Her goal for her students is for them to read more. Ms. Chelsea is also dedicated to helping improve their communication skills with others and increase their autonomy.

Ms. Chelsea enjoys gardening and playing with her cat and dog in her free time.

Ms. Corey

Ms. Corey joined the MDE School teaching staff in 2021. Before that, she worked as a special education paraprofessional in the public school system. Ms. Corey is completing her Bachelor’s degree in psychology and then plans to pursue a Master’s degree in applied behavior analysis.

Ms. Corey is following in her grandmother’s footsteps working with special needs children. “When I was growing up, my grandmother was a special education teacher in a high school close to where I lived. I loved going to her classroom and helping her out. My favorite time of the year was when they held their Special Needs Dance. I would work hard all year to be allowed to go to those dances. Those dances are some of my favorite childhood memories. Ever since then, I felt the call to work in the special education field,” Ms. Corey said.

She continued, “I always aim to create a safe and expressive space where my students feel as if they communicate whatever they feel or want. I want  to help them reach their highest potential academically.” 

Ms. Corey doesn’t have much free time because she is working on her Bachelor’s degree, but she enjoys relaxing with family and friends when she does have the time.

Ms. Frankie

Ms. Frankie joined the MDE School teaching team in 2022. Before that, she worked for Child Care Careers helping in their classrooms and at Primrose School, teaching science. In addition, Ms. Frankie is currently earning an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education.

Ms. Frankie has always had a passion for teaching since she was a child. “I was close to my teachers growing up. I loved the teachers who made learning fun and were also compassionate to students who had challenges outside the classroom to deal with. So I knew I wanted to help children as my career,” she said.

Ms. Frankie continued, “I love working at MDE School. I can see how all of the teachers love the students and try their best to help them progress. My goal is to help my students progress academically and grow as individuals.”

Ms. Frankie enjoys spending time with family and friends in her free time. Stone Mountain park is one of her favorite places to relax on the weekend.

Ms. Heather

Ms. Heather began teaching at MDE School in 2022. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Hofstra University and a Registered Behavior Technician certification. She worked in a self-contained special education classroom setting for ten years in New York.

Ms. Heather is no stranger to special needs. Her son has level one autism spectrum disorder. She is very proud of his incredible progress over the years. He is now a senior in college, which is a very different picture than what was painted for his future as a little boy. “After working and advocating for my son for so many years, I continue to channel my passion and love into helping children with special needs realize their capabilities and potential,” Heather said.

She continued, “I hope to foster and create an environment where my students can take pride in realizing their abilities in order to reach their goals. I aim for my students to feel safe, loved, and have fun during the learning process.”

Ms. Heather is a busy mom of two who moved to Georgia with her family from New York. She likes to explore the beauty of Georgia with her husband and kids. In her free time, Heather enjoys seeing musicals, cooking, laughing, collecting inspirational quotes, singing and watching reruns of Friends.

Ms. LaRae

Ms. LaRae began teaching at MDE School in 2023. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Education and Psychology. Ms. LaRae has worked in several education settings, including roles as a certified Registered Behavior Technician and Lead Behavior Therapist.

“I have a vested interest in unique learning and believe that all students should have an opportunity to find which learning style works best for them,” commented Ms. Simes. She continued, “I want to provide an encouraging environment and help my students find ways to learn to help them achieve their goals.”

In her free time, Ms. LaRae loves spending time with her family. She is busy raising identical twin six-year-old boys who love basketball and superheroes.

Ms. Leslie

Ms. Leslie joined the teaching staff at MDE School in 2023. Before teaching at MDE School, she was a registered behavioral technician (RBT) providing ABA therapy in multiple settings. Ms. Leslie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology/ Pre-med and is currently working toward pursuing a Master’s in Occupational Therapy.

Ms. Leslie says she discovered her passion for helping people on a mission trip to Jamaica. “I realized there was more I could do to help children and became an RBT soon after. I fell in love with every child I worked with and realized that working with children with special needs was my passion. Every child deserves a loving environment where they can gain skills and grow, and I look forward to always providing that,” she said.

Ms. Leslie enjoys spending time with her family, exploring beautiful places, and crafting in her free time. She is also a member of the teen program at her church and volunteers her time on weekends.

Ms. Lori

Ms. Lori joined the teaching staff at MDE School in 2017. Before that, she held teaching positions in California and Massachusetts. Ms. Lori holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and a Master’s degree in Education.

“I always do my best to meet my students where they are and help them progress toward their individual goals,” Ms. Lori said.

Ms. Lori enjoys spending time with her own boys in her free time.

Ms. Michelle

Ms. Michelle joined the MDE School teaching staff in 2022. Prior to teaching a MDE School she worked as an RBT providing ABA therapy at a center for children with autism. Ms. Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in early childhood education.

“I have always had a passion for working with children with special needs which is why I chose this field. I absolutely love the feeling of satisfaction, knowing that I am making a difference in someone’s life. Working with special needs children is close to my heart because one of my sons has autism,” she said.

Ms. Michelle hopes to make a positive difference in her student’s lives by making sure they each reach their highest academic potential by mastering the goals we set for them and achieving new ones.

In her free time, she enjoys exercising, reading and spending time with her three teenaged boys.

Ms. Nancy

Ms. Nancy joined the teaching staff at MDE School in 2016. Before that, she taught special education in the public school system. Ms. Nancy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a Master’s degree in Technology in Education.

In 2022 Ms. Nancy transferred to MDE Vocational Academy to become a vocational coach.

“When I discovered MDE School, I was very impressed by their educational philosophy. I knew it would be a good fit for me and that I could use my skills to make an impact on the students,” she said.

Ms. Nancy continued, “My goal is to create a nurturing environment for my students and help them gain the ability to become independent, contributing members of society.”

Ms. Niecha

Ms. Niecha joined the teaching staff at MDE School in 2022. Before that, she worked as a behavioral specialist for Marietta City Schools and served as a Pre-K teacher for several years. Ms. Niecha holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and is also a Registered Behavior Technician.

Ms. Niecha commented, “There is nothing better than helping students reach their full potential. I always feel great knowing my students learned something new because I was able to teach them in a way that made sense to them. In addition, it’s rewarding knowing I am part of creating successful independent students each year.

“I want to inspire my students to love math and science as much as I do. I also want to help them build meaningful relationships and become the positive, independent, and goal-oriented young adults they are capable of being,” she said.

Ms. Niecha enjoys spending time with her spunky, silly, sassy daughter, who loves to dance, sing and cook. In addition, Ms. Niecha is very involved with her church and volunteers with middle school and college-aged girls. She also loves wowing friends and family with vegetarian recipes. For example, some of her guests thought tofu was chicken in a recipe she recently made.

Ms. Sati

Ms. Sati began teaching at MDE School in 2023. She holds a Bachelor’s in English with a minor in psychology. Before joining MDE School, she taught both regular and special education at East Side High School and The Gramon Family of Schools.

Ms. Sati’s mother inspired her love of children and her desire to teach. She was drawn to special education because she wanted to help neuro-divergent children successfully navigate the myriad of issues they face every day. “I want to support and validate my students while creating the necessary structure needed to have a transformative impact on their lives,” she said.

She continued, “My objective is to create an environment that advances student’s growth both academically and socially. I also want to encourage their individuality, independence, and confidence.”

Ms. Sati enjoys brunch, traveling, watching movies, and spending quality time with family in friends in her free time.

Ms. Shaconna

Ms. Shaconna joined the MDE School teaching staff in 2023. Before that, she taught at the elementary and college levels in Palm Beach County, Florida. Ms. Shaconna holds a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s in organizational communication. She wants to continue her education by completing her teaching certification in Georgia.

Ms. Shaconna has a heart for teaching special education because her brother Corey was born with Cerebral Palsy and passed away when he was 17 years old. “It is his smile and joy that inspires me to postively impact the lives of children with special needs. This is my way of keeping his name alive and his spirit on earth,” she said.

She continued, “I hope to enrich my students academically, physically, and emotionally. I hope to leave a positive imprint on their lives through our daily affirmation: I am smart, a work of art. I am kind, with a really big heart. I’ve got great teachers on my journey. I value peace, love, and learning.”

Ms. Shawn

Ms. Shawn joined the teaching team at MDE School in 2017.  Before that, she taught general and special education students for over twenty years at area schools. Ms. Shawn holds a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development and is currently pursuing a certification in child life.

Ms. Shawn says teaching special needs children is in her heart. “I have a heart for teaching special needs children. It is gratifying to equip them with tools that support their academic journey and positively impact their lives. I view myself as an advocate for my students. Serving a population that many people don’t understand has enabled me to see the world through a different set of eyes which has changed my heart in ways I never thought it would.” Ms. Shawn said.

She continued, “I hope to inspire my students to be engaged in learning, become independent, and exceed their goals.”

Ms. Shawn enjoys Latin dancing and watching movies in her free time. She is a massive fan of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Ms. Tacara

Ms. Tacara joined the MDE School teaching team in 2015. In addition to over ten years teaching special needs children, her past jobs included working for CNN’s employee child care, overseeing and teaching summer art and group play classes, and time spent as a behavior analysis consultant. Ms. Tacara holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mass Media Communication with a minor in Elementary Education with a Special Needs concentration.

Ms. Tacara channels her creative energy into teaching her students. “Nothing is more rewarding than seeing my students grow. As an educator, I believe it is my responsibility to help each child discover their potential through hands-on differentiated learning experiences.”

She was inspired to become a teacher because of one of her childhood teachers. “I teach because I’m still inspired by an awesome teacher that inspired me as a child. I embrace as a teacher that what we do every single day truly matters. Every child deserves a teacher who will never give up on them, understands the power of connections, and insists they become the best they can possibly be,” said Ms. Tacara.

Ms. Tacara loves to travel, go to the spa, and belt out karaoke in her free time. She is also an avid foodie.

Ms. Taylor

Ms. Taylor joined the teaching staff at MDE School in 20xx. Before that she “I chose to become a teacher because as teachers (and parents), it’s our responsibility to provide our children with the BEST childhood experiences and education possible to influence growth toward their fullest potential,” she said.

Ms. Taylor continued, “Our children are born as little blocks of clay. Environments, people and experiences will mold them into who they will be in the future. I want to be a part of positively molding my students.”

I am a positively motivated and energetic professional with the ability to work with children of all ages, backgrounds, and disabilities.

Our children are born as like little blocks of clay. Certain environments, experiences and people will mold them into who they become in the future. I want to be a part of positively molding the minds of our future.

With my energy and creativity, I am able to create memorable experiences for my students. Seeing my former students’ excitement when they see me shows me that I’ve made a positive impact in their lives, and I am extremely excited to work alongside the MDE team to do the same for yours.

“Make a wish, take a chance, be the change”

Ms. Taylor

Ms. Taylor joined the MDE School teaching staff in 2022. Before that, she worked as a Pre-K inclusion teacher in Atlanta Public Schools. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in biology and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Special Education.

Ms. Taylor is a champion for special needs children. “I am passionate about watching all children grow, especially children with many obstacles to overcome. I believe that all children can learn the same skills in the right environment. Every child should be given a chance to succeed and a teacher that will fight for them,” she said.

She outlined her goals for her students. Ms. Taylor commented, “I hope my students gain the skills they need to help them be successful in school and life. In addition, I want to instill a love of learning and education while providing a calm and nurturing classroom environment.”

Ms. Taylor loves to do puzzles or chill on the couch with a good Netflix series or a book.

Ms. Andrea

Ms. Wilson began teaching at MDE School in 2021. Andrea holds an Associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor’s degree in Child Development with a specialization in Early Childhood Education.  She has worn many hats throughout her two-decade-long career in education, including teaching, tutoring special needs children, and serving as a curriculum coordinator, education director, and school director.

Babysitting her cousins as a young girl ignited her passion for working with children. “I love working with children. In my eyes, all children are unique. Each child has their own special qualities. As an educator, I believe my responsibility is not only to teach and educate but to love them and create a nurturing environment for them to grow in maturity and academically. This is what brought me to MDE School. I want my students’ parents to know that they drop their children off at school that their children are in good hands. Hands they can trust. Why? Because as a parent, I want the same thing for my own child, “said Andrea.

Andrea enjoys spending time with her pre-teen daughter, husband, family, and friends. She loves entertaining, playing cards, listening to music, and trying new restaurants, which has become one of her favorite weekend hobbies.

Ms. Sharde

Ms. Sharde joined MDE School in 2024, bringing with her a wealth of experience and dedication to education. She holds an Associate’s degree in Child Development and an Inclusive Certification for Youth in Special Education. Before joining MDE, she worked as an elementary teacher at the Howard School and as a Pre-K teacher at the Goddard School.

When asked about her passion for working with students with intellectual disabilities, Ms. Sharde shared, “I have always had a love for shaping and teaching children. I am passionate about ensuring every child receives the best care and education, regardless of their abilities.” She strives to create an environment where her students feel supported and excited to learn.

Outside of work, Ms. Sharde enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. She also loves choreographing dance routines, working out, reading, and writing.

Ms. Alexis

Ms. Alexis is a committed educator who became a part of the MDE School teaching team in 2024. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education (P-5) and Special Education (P-12), along with certification in Orton-Gillingham. Before joining MDE School, Ms. Alexis gained valuable experience teaching Special Education in several Georgia school districts, including Savannah, Roswell, and East Cobb.

Her deep passion for supporting neurodivergent children comes from her personal experiences growing up with family members who had intellectual disabilities.

When asked about her goals for the year, Ms. Alexis shared, “I aim to help my students build confidence, reach milestones, and develop a love for learning through hands-on experiences.”

Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending time with her husband and their three young children. As a busy mom, you can often find her cheering on her kids at their various sports events.

Ms. Rhonda

Ms. Rhonda joined the MDE School staff in 2020. Ms. Rhonda holds an Associate’s degree in Education and is currently earning a Bachelor’s degree in Education. Before teaching at MDE School, Ms. Rhonda was a Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Difficulties paraprofessional at Chalker Elementary and a Pre-K teacher for Primrose Schools.

Ms. Rhonda says she has always connected with special needs children and young adults. So much so that many times when she is in public special needs children will approach her to communicate with her. “Special needs children are amazing and are my passion. I can’t imagine myself anywhere else.”

This year brings changes for Ms. Rhonda at MDE School. In previous years she split her time between teaching reading and music. This year she will only be teaching reading. “My goal this year is to spend more time with each child I am assigned, enhancing their reading education in a fun yet educational way. With new materials and curriculum, I am anxious to see how our program grows, and our students succeed.

In her free time, Ms. Rhonda spends time with her husband of 35 years, her three grown children, many grandchildren, and foster grandchildren. She also loves gardening, traveling, sewing, and crafting. In addition, she is proud to volunteer with various animal rescue groups, including the Puppy Rescue Mission and the Kabul Animal Rescue.

Ms. Monica

Ms. Monica joined the MDE School teaching staff in 2020. Ms. Monica holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication and Comparative Ethnic Studies. In addition, she has a Master’s Degree in Business Education and is working on a second Master’s Degree in Early Elementary Leadership. Before MDE School, Ms. Monica taught Kindergarten and a variety of other grades at an Atlanta Public School charter school. 

Ms. Monica believes that working with special needs children is her calling, leading her to MDE School. “I remember searching for new employment during the pandemic. MDE School kept coming up on my feed. At first, I didn’t pay attention because I had never heard of the school. Then I decided to do some research on the school. Once I realized that this school is solely for children with special needs, I sold. During my experience teaching in public, charter, and private schools, I had always thought it would be great if the special needs students had a school dedicated to them. I have a heart for teaching children no matter what their needs. It’s not always easy, but I find joy in it.”

“My goal is always to create a healthy and safe classroom environment for my students. In addition, I am looking forward to doing more special projects with my students this year. For example, they really enjoyed it last year when we decorated a pumpkin in October. I hope to engage them in more activities like that this year,” said Ms. Monica.

Mr. Ranier

Joining MDE School in 2024, Mr. Ranier brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to his role as a Reading Specialist. With a degree in Human Services focused on Social Engagement and Advocacy, he has earned numerous certifications through the Cox Campus, including Early Childhood Development, The Power of Language, The Foundation for Literacy, and more.

Mr. Ranier’s professional journey includes teaching at the Atlanta Speech School, Stepping Stones Academy, and YELLS. He has also worked as a respite provider for neurodivergent children at Your Respite, gaining invaluable experience supporting students of all abilities.

His inspiration to work with children with developmental delays began in high school, where he participated in a peer facilitator program that paired neurotypical and neurodivergent students. This meaningful experience continued through college, shaping his commitment to helping students progress both academically and personally.

As a Reading Specialist, Mr. Ranier aims to empower his students with a deeper understanding of phonemes and the transformative power of language and reading, helping them thrive academically and achieve their goals.

Ms. Loretta

Ms. Loretta joined MDE School in 2024, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience. She holds Bachelor’s degrees in Educational Psychology, Human Services, and Early Childhood Special Education, and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Before joining MDE, she gained invaluable experience working with students with moderate intellectual disabilities and emotional behavior disorders in the Cobb County School district.

Her passion for special education stems from her personal connection—her brother is intellectually disabled. This inspired her belief that “All students, regardless of ability, can learn, given the opportunity to do so in their own way.” Ms. Loretta is dedicated to fostering a positive classroom environment where students can grow and thrive, striving to help them become their best selves.

Outside of the classroom, Ms. Loretta is a mother, grandmother, and the author of the fiction book “Love Found Me When I Wasn’t Looking” and its companion journal. She is also a passionate singer and loves sharing this talent with her grandsons.

Ms. Surina

Ms. Surina joined the MDE School teaching staff in 2019. Before that, she volunteered over 1,500 hours in elementary and middle schools in Cobb, Cherokee, Gwinnett, and Forsyth countries while working on her degree.

Ms. Surina’s love for helping special needs people developed at a young age. “I grew up in a live-in home for special needs adults. So I’ve been around special needs children and adults my whole life. I’ve been blessed to grow up with some of them for over 20 years.

She continued, “I love watching my students prosper while reaching their goals on the road to becoming as independent as they can be. I get so much pleasure from seeing both small and big improvements in my students. I really enjoy being around my students and special needs adults. I encourage each of my students to dream big and plan the necessary steps to reach their goals.

In her free time, Ms. Surina enjoys hiking, kayaking, dancing, and cooking a variety of cuisines.

Mr. Walter

Mr. Walter joined the teaching staff at MDE School in 2015. In 2021 he became part of the teaching team that launched and currently teaches at MDE Vocational Academy.

Mr. Walter’s teaching journey began in 2002 as an intensive interventionist for the Cobb County School system working with children with emotional and behavioral disorders. He received several certifications during that time, including Prevention and Management of Aggressive Behavior, Human Empowerment and Leadership Principles, and The Person Brain™ Model. 

He is passionate about teaching special needs children. “The authenticity of each special needs child is magical to see. Each child has their own way of learning, seeing, and communicating with the world. I’m honored to help these young adults unfold their potential every day,” Mr. Walter said.

Mr. Walter continued, “My goal is to create a safe, fun, and loving environment for all my students. I want them to look forward to coming to my class every day.”

In his free time, Mr. Walter enjoys cheering on the Braves and Georgia Bulldogs with friends, family, and his dog Paco.

Mr. Bobby

Mr. Bobby has worked with general and special needs children and adults in the West Indies, New York and Georgia. A certified Phlebotomist, EKG Technician Nursing Assistant, Licensed EMT, Bobby brings 12 years plus experience with a specialty in brain health. Bobby has also served as a music coordinator at several local churches.

Ms. Michelle

Ms. Michelle joined the MDE School teaching staff in 2018. Before that, she worked as an inclusion teacher in the Dekalb County School System for sixteen years, where she was selected as the Teacher of the Year for the 2011/2012 school year. Ms. Michelle holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education.

“Over my teaching career, I’ve always enjoyed helping students with disabilities reach their goals. I believe that all students can achieve their goals in a loving and nurturing setting,” she said.

Ms. Michelle enjoys watching movies, walking in the park, and traveling, in her free time.

Ms. Crystal

Ms. Crystal joined MDE Vocational Academy in 2024 as a dedicated educator. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a specialization in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in ABA with a focus on Organizational Behavior Management. Before joining MDE, she gained valuable experience working in the Paulding County School District.

When asked about her passion for working with neurodivergent students, Ms. Crystal shared, “I have always loved working with children and helping them succeed in life. Teaching was my first passion, and ABA has provided me with the tools to help neurodivergent children reach their goals.” Her primary mission at MDE Vocational Academy is to equip students with the job and life skills needed to foster independence and confidence in their daily lives.

Outside of work, Ms. Crystal enjoys reading, watching movies, and spending time at the beach.

Ms. Jaffee

Ms. Jaffee joined MDE Vocational Academy in 2023 as a dedicated educator. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation with a focus on Therapeutic Recreation and brings a wealth of experience as a recreational therapist in the senior living industry. Her previous roles included serving as an Activity Director for Independent, Assisted Living, and Memory Care communities in the Atlanta area.

Ms. Jaffee’s passion for working with the special needs community began during a college internship, where she had the opportunity to support neurodivergent students. Now at MDE, she is thrilled to reconnect with this community. “I enjoy making a difference in the lives of young adults, particularly by helping them learn to advocate for themselves and navigate work and community life,” she shared.

Looking ahead, Ms. Jaffee is excited to build partnerships with businesses willing to host MDE Vocational Academy students, providing them with opportunities to develop and practice essential job skills.

Outside of work, Ms. Jaffee is an avid outdoor enthusiast. She loves RVing, hiking, fishing, kayaking, and enjoying vacations by the beach or lake. Spending quality time with friends and family is also one of her greatest joys.

Mindy Elkan

Art Cohen

Scott Garber

Scott retired from a 28-year accounting career in early 2022 and has been a substitute teacher in the Cobb County School District and a referee for youth soccer games in and around Atlanta since retiring.

Scott is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and worked in Arthur Andersen’s audit practice in Atlanta for nearly six years after graduating from the University of North Carolina with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and a Master’s in Accounting. After Arthur Andersen, Scott held corporate accounting and finance positions with increasing responsibilities at various Atlanta-based public and private companies, including EarthLink (an internet service provider), Newell Brands (a manufacturer of consumer products), and EmployBridge (a staffing company for manufacturing and logistics companies).

Scott grew up and met his wife, Mandy, in Stone Mountain, Georgia. They have lived in the East Cobb community for over 20 years and have three adult children: Nicholas, Lillian, and Charlotte. Scott enjoys exercising, traveling, and hanging out with family and friends in his free time.

Ben Needle

Ron Chanin is the founder of Riverwood Properties, a full-service real estate development, management, and leasing company. His company has developed over 1,000,000 square feet of unanchored retail centers in the southeast. The company owns and manages commercial properties primarily in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina. 

Ron started in real estate at Arthur Andersen, worked for Wilma, a Dutch development and investment company, and later was President of Kern Realty Services, where he was involved in managing and developing over 6,000,000 square feet of office, industrial and commercial properties. 

Ron Chanin is the founder of Riverwood Properties, a full-service real estate development, management, and leasing company. His company has developed over 1,000,000 square feet of unanchored retail centers in the southeast. The company owns and manages commercial properties primarily in Georgia, Florida, Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina. 

Ron started in real estate at Arthur Andersen, worked for Wilma, a Dutch development and investment company, and later was President of Kern Realty Services, where he was involved in managing and developing over 6,000,000 square feet of office, industrial and commercial properties. 

Ron is a CPA and has a real estate license. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from Georgia Tech and a Master’s degree from University of Georgia. Ron resides in Marietta, GA, with his wife, Gail, and has four children, three stepchildren, and four grandchildren.

Leslie Kehoe

Leslie Kehoe is a senior wealth strategist at CIBC Private Wealth with over 25 years of industry experience. In this role, she works closely with relationship managers, clients and their advisors to develop and implement comprehensive wealth transfer strategies as part of CIBC Private Wealth’s integrated wealth management process.  

Prior to joining CIBC, Leslie was an attorney at Cohen Pollock Merlin & Turner in Atlanta for more than 15 years, where she focused on estate planning, charitable planning and trust modification strategies.

“I find my job fulfilling because I am helping my clients to achieve important goals, whether it is obtaining tax-exempt status for a brand-new charity or implementing a well-designed estate and charitable plan for an individual.”

Leslie’s practice includes tax, wealth and charitable planning for individuals and charitable institutions as well as the representation of fiduciaries, both individual and institutional.

EDUCATION

• Duke University, Juris Doctor
• Emory University, Bachelor of Arts

HONORS, AWARDS AND COMMUNITY

• Leadership Cobb – Class of 2019
• Cobb Community Foundation, member and former chairman of board of directors
• Georgia State Bar Association
• Atlanta State Bar Association
• Order of the Coif – Duke University
• Phi Beta Kappa – Emory University

OUTSIDE OF WORK 

Leslie lives in Cobb County with her husband, Jim.  Leslie and Jim have two adult children, Ashley and Andrew.  In her free time, Leslie likes to run, read, and travel with her family.

Jeremy Fort

Alicia James

Alicia began her professional career in Washington, D.C., as an Operations Manager for a hotel sales and marketing representation company that catered to the meeting planning community.

She and her husband were transferred to the Atlanta area, where she worked for Sprint Communications in the event marketing department, supporting sales meetings, award programs, and corporate trade shows.

After three years, Alicia started a job in the event marketing department at MCI Communications, where she managed board meetings, customer events, and employee charity volunteer programs.

Wanting to stay closer to home, Alicia became the Office Manager/Assistant to the President of a niche real estate firm in Buckhead. Additionally, Alicia has volunteered with various nonprofit organizations and credits her years of meeting planning experience to help organize successful fundraisers, such as the Pope High School Foundation Gala.

Alicia received her undergraduate degree from Virginia Tech. She lives in Marietta with her husband, Chris. They have two adult children, Madison and Tyler.