Hello! My name is Erin Highley. I have lived in Raleigh since I was 3 years old and attended Wake County Public Schools from kindergarten through high school! For college, I attended Appalachian State University. I have been at Jeffreys Grove since 2006. I have a rescue pitbull named Randall. I love taking him on hikes around the Triangle. I am also interested in photography and DIY house projects. 

Hello! My name is April Christie, and I am proud to be part of the Jeffrey’s Grove community. I am originally from Wilmington, Delaware, but college brought me to North Carolina, and now I happily call it home. I have been teaching for 18 years, with 16 of those years in kindergarten. I earned my undergraduate degree from St. Augustine’s College and my graduate degree in Curriculum & Instruction from North Carolina Central University.

Teaching young learners is my passion, and I love helping children grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Outside the classroom, I enjoy watching sunsets, taking walks with music, and visiting Delaware to spend time with family and friends. We love family vacations, boat rides, and plenty of laughter when we are together. I also enjoy thrifting and finding creative ways to give items a new life.

Hello everyone!

My name is Estefania Careaga, and I’ve been teaching since 2015. I joined the Jeffrey's Grove family in 2021, and it’s been such a joy to be part of this amazing community.

For college, I studied at Escuela Normal Del Estado in Mexico, where my love for teaching really took root.

I am married and a proud cat mom to four cats who keep life fun and interesting. In my free time, I enjoy taking long walks and spending time reading.

I’m excited for another year of learning, growing, and having fun together! 

Hello! My name is Maricenia Rojas, and I was born and raised in Costa Rica. I attended  Universidad Federada de Costa Rica (university) . I started at Jeffreys Grove in 2020-2021 school year.  I am married and have four kids and one fur baby. 

Outside of school, some of the things I enjoy are going to the beach, spending time with my family, and exercising. 

Hello! My name is Nicole Piro and I have been at Jeffreys Grove since 2022! As an IA, I have a passion for supporting our students as they learn, grow, and discover their unique strengths. I appreciate how much I learn from them every day too! In my free time, I enjoy reading, cooking, and spending time with my family.

Hello Jeffrey's Grove families. I'm excited to meet everyone and begin our learning journey together. I'm from Venezuela, where I earned my bachelor's degree from the University of Carabobo, Valencia, and my postgraduate degree. I've been teaching for 30 years. I love working with children because of their contagious energy, enthusiasm, and creative minds. I have two children and four grandchildren. I like animals, spending time with my family, reading, and listening to music with my husband.

Hello! My name is Vanisha Etheridge. I have over 10 years of public school experience. I have been employed with Jeffreys Grove since 2013 as an IA in EBS II Special Programs. In the past, I was Autism IA for Durham School of The Arts. I was also a Program Manager for Mental Health and Substance Abuse. I’m from North Carolina and have one daughter. I enjoy spending time with family and friends.

Education: 

BA in Sociology/Social Work

Master’s of Health Services Administration