Background:

Mrs. Summerfield was born and raised in Williamsburg, Virginia (a major family vacation spot due to attractions such as Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, Busch Gardens and Water Country :-)) Her family relocated to North Carolina during her freshman year of college where she attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Go Hokies!) for a year and a half before changing her major to education and relocating to North Carolina to be closer to family. Mrs. Summerfield attended North Carolina State University (Go pack!) and earned her undergraduate degree in Middle Grades Education with a concentration in Language Arts and Social Studies. Ms. Summerfield started her teaching career at Davis Drive Middle School. During her time at Davis Drive she earned her National Board Teaching Certification and took on numerous leadership positions which eventually led her to pursue a degree in educational leadership at the best university in North Carolina, NC State University to obtain her Masters in Educational Leadership. In March of 2012, Mrs. Summerfield transitioned to the role of Assistant Principal at Mills Park Middle. Mrs. Summerfield prides herself on intentionally building strong, positive and meaningful relationships with students, teachers, parents and community members. The quote, “People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care” guides her work and daily interactions with others. She believes that there is value and unique gifts and talents in each individual waiting to be recognized, utilized and celebrated. Outside of education, she absolutely loves and cherishes spending time with her husband, family, pomapoo, friends and church family.

Favorite Education Quote:

“No significant learning occurs without a significant relationship." ~Dr. James Comer

Favorite Activities:

I love spending time with my husband, family, pomapoo (Nathan) and friends. I also enjoy playing softball, traveling, decorating and cooking/baking.

Favorite Teams:

NC State - Go Pack! I also like the Indianapolis Colts (my husband’s favorite football team :-))

Favorite Book:

I love to read….too many to name!

Why Did I Become a Teacher:

I love to learn and grow and I also love children/young adults. Teaching gave me the opportunity to combine those two loves while also sharing that love of learning with students in the hopes of positively impacting and influencing the next generation.

If there was only one food left on Earth, what would you want it to be?

Some type of seafood! Shrimp, crab, lobster, mussels, scallops..I love it all!

Background:

Ms. Hester was born and raised in Oxford, NC. A small town just thirty miles north of Durham, NC. She attended "the illustrious" North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC (Eagle Pride!) where she obtained a K-6 Elementary Education degree with a concentration in English, as well as earned a master’s degree in Public Administration and an additional Masters in School Administration. Upon the conclusion of her studies, she made Durham, NC her new home. (Bull City Strong!) Ms. Hester is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Ms. Hester began her educational career as a fourth-grade teacher for five consecutive years. From there, she continued to grow in her leadership, becoming an Interventionist, a Teaching and Learning Coach as well as a Dean of Students. Ms. Hester has also worked at the Central Office with Granville County Schools in the Federal Programs department. Her keen leadership abilities with the school district were recognized by her then Superintendent, who tasked her with serving as Interim Assistant Principal while fulfilling her district role and responsibilities. Ms. Hester has a plethora of educational experience that spans sixteen years. My goal is to empower all students by promoting lifelong learning, critical thinking, and preparation for responsible global citizenship. I take pride in our individual and school identity, accept responsibility for our actions, build relationships, and commit to ensuring progress toward goals while maintaining an optimal learning environment. I pledge my support to ignite limitless potential in excellence because I believe our students are capable of great things.

Favorite Education Quote:

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela

Favorite Activities:

I love the beach, sorority activities, cheerleading, dining at new restaurants, online shopping =-) and spending time with my family, friends, and pup!

Favorite Teams:

NCCU (My Dear Alma Mater- Go Eagles!), Duke and "America's Favorite Team" The Cowboys!

Favorite Book:

The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison

Why Did I Become a Teacher:

I had great teachers on my educational journey that truly provided me with a positive educational experience. I wanted to be them. I vividly remember playing school (as a child,) with my Cabbage Patch Kids, Cricket doll, Teddy Ruxpin, etc. Smile. I just knew from those moments that I was born to teach; to positively impact and shape the lives of students; the BEST decision I ever made.

If there was only one food left on Earth, what would you want it to be?

Chips and salsa/Any type of chips and dip!

Background:

Mr. Mabe was born and raised in Kernersville, North Carolina.  He moved to Raleigh to attend NC State where he earned a degree in Business and Marketing Education.  Upon graduating, he started his teaching career at Panther Creek High School.  During his time at PCHS, he coached soccer and was the DECA adviser.  He also earned his National Board Certification and returned to school to earn a Masters in School Administration from  Appalachian State University.  He spent 6 years serving as an Assistant Principal at PCHS before coming to MPMS in 2021.  He values developing relationships with students to help them reach their full potential.  He is excited to continue to serve this community at Mills Park Middle. 

Favorite Education Quote:

“Be curious, not judgmental” – Walt Whitman

Favorite Activities:

Playing with my two boys, cooking and playing soccer.

Favorite Teams:

Chelsea FC and NC State

Favorite Book:

Soccernomics

Why Did I Become a Teacher:

 I love developing relationships with students.  I have a passion for helping them find success. 

If there was only one food left on Earth, what would you want it to be?

Anything I can throw on a grill!