Hello! My name is Mrs. Heather Sawkiewicz. I live with my husband, Mike, my sons, Casey (14), Owen (11) and Mason (19 months), and our dog, Shadow. I enjoy running, obstacle course racing, reading, and pretty much anything outdoors! This will be my 21st year teaching. I have spent most of my years in first grade! I also was an editor for McGraw-Hill working on elementary math textbooks for 2 years. I have my Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Literacy and am a National Board Certified Teacher. 
I am so excited to make this a wonderful school year!

I’m excited to join the 1st grade team at BRES after 6 years at Lincoln Heights. I’ve worked in public education since 2015, taught 1st grade since 2017, and am a National Board Certified Teacher. I’m passionate about early literacy and the power of play-based learning to support young children’s development. I’m a North Carolina native—raised from Asheville to Wilmington—and earned both of my degrees from ECU. I live in Lillington with my husband, our 2 children, 3 cats, and 1 dog. I’m excited to partner with your family to make this a joyful and successful year of learning!

I grew up in Asheboro, NC, and currently live in Holly Springs with my husband and four boys. I graduated from UNC Greensboro in 2010, and this will be my 16th year of teaching. I have taught 2nd, 3rd, and 4th grades, but I have spent the last nine years teaching 1st grade.  I spend all my spare time with my boys, and we love being outside, especially at the pool or beach.  

This will be my 3rd year teaching, and I’m so excited for another amazing year! I love making learning fun through hands-on activities, creativity, and connection. I have a four-year-old son named Caiden and a fur baby named Piper. In my free time, I enjoy reading, traveling, spending time at the beach, and binge-watching TV shows. I’m passionate about helping students grow, feel confident, and love learning. I believe every child deserves a warm, engaging classroom where they can thrive. I can’t wait to meet my new students and make this year the best one yet!

My name is Sarah Trujillo and I’m excited to be entering my 10th year of teaching first grade. I can’t imagine doing anything else! I was born and raised in New York. I’m married to my wonderful husband, Chris and a proud parent of two sweet kids, Jace and Brooke, who keep life fun and busy. We also have one dog and two cuddly cats. I enjoy cooking, listening to music and spending time with friends and family. I’m looking forward to a great year of learning and growth together.

Hi! My name is Nicole Gadd and this is my 16th year teaching 1st grade! I’m passionate about creating a learning environment that’s fun and engaging, leaving a lasting impression on students! I grew up in Maryland and received my bachelor’s degree from Campbell University and my master’s degree from NC State. I currently live in Morrisville with my 2 dogs and 4 cats. When I’m not teaching, I work as a professional balloon artist which allows me to combine imagination, art, and fun- just like I do in my teaching every day. I’m thrilled to be a part of BRES and look forward to a fun, memorable, and rewarding year!