Meet Midlands STEM Team

Hi! I'm Mrs. Salley, and I'm so excited to b? returning to the K4 classroom this year! I'm a certified paraprofessional and hold an Early Childhood Development Certificate from Midlands Technical College. I'm currently completing my associate's degree in Early Care and Education. I've been a proud part of the Midlands STEM family since 2014. This will be my second year teaching K4 at MSCS. At home, my husband and I stay busy with our three amazing daughters and our playful English Springer Spaniel! I can't wait for a fun-filled year of learning, exploring, and growing together!

Hello! My name is LeTichia Brown, and I have been a Kindergarten teacher at MSCS since 2014. After receiving an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education and Care from Piedmont Technical College, I later earned my Bachelor of Arts Degree from Newberry College. I have lived in Blair, SC all of my life. My joy and passion is teaching. I love the joy that children bring to me, and the love that I give in return to each child is unique and special. I treat them as if they were my own. The children have always and will always be my first priority.

Hi! My name is Susan Drabic. I live in Blythewood, S.C. I am looking forward to beginning my 26th year of teaching and starting a new chapter here at Midlands Stem Charter School! I was born and raised in Winnsboro, S.C. and graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelor's Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. I received my Master's Degree from Cambridge College. I have taught Child Development, Kindergarten, 1st Grade, 3rd Grade and also served as a Reading Interventionist. I am married to a wonderful husband, Kevin, and have a precious fur baby, Colby! I am looking forward to working with fellow educators at Midlands Stem and growing young minds for the future!

My name is Corissa Beckham, and I am excited to be joining the team at Midlands STEM Charter School in Winnsboro, SC! I bring 30 years of teaching experience and a deep passion for helping students grow both academically and personally, I am originally from Harrison City, Pennsylvania, a small town east of Pittsburgh, PA. I moved to South Carolina in 1998 and have loved calling it home ever since. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Edinboro University and my Master's of Education in Divergent Learning from Columbia College. Outside of the classroom, I am a proud wife to a retired Columbia firefighter, and a mother of boys, who are now grown, and if you ask me, they grew up too fast! I enjoy spending time with family and friends, going to the beach, boating, camping, and reading. I am truly looking forward to being part of this community.

I am delighted to become a part of the Midlands STEM family beginning the 2026/27 school year as a 3rd grade teacher. Added bonus: I get to teach at the same school as my daughter, Mrs. Salley! I hold a Masters Degree in Elementary Education from Converse College and a BA in Early Childhood Education from Columbia College; however, my past 30+ years teaching experience has molded me into the teacher I am today. I have enjoyed teaching 3rd grade at Richard Winn Academy since retiring two years ago. Prior to that, sixteen years of my career was spent at Windsor Elementary in Richland 2 and fourteen years at Fairfield Primary. Although I have retired, I am not quite ready to hang up my teaching hat. Children are my passion and hold a special place in my heart. I am familiar to many in the area as my family roots run deep in Winnsboro. In addition, I have four adult children and ten loving grandchildren who have all been active in the community. Others may recognize me from my years of coaching at Drawdy Park.

Yvette Addison is a native of Columbia, South Carolina and a product of the Richland School District. She earned a bachelor's degree of Education from Columbia College and Master's Degree from Cambridge College. Mrs. Addison has a SC teaching certificate in Elementary Education and National Board Certification as a Middle Childhood Generalist. With 35 years of experience, she has taught grades K, 3. 4, and 5. She has been teaching fifth grade Math and Science for the past twenty years. Mrs. Addison is married and has two children. She has a daughter, who is a sophomore in college and a son , who is a college graduate pursuing a career as a lab scientist. Her hobbies are cooking new recipes, reading, and collecting elephants. Mrs. Addison is looking forward to an exciting year of teaching and learning as a member of the Maverick Team.

My name is William Young. I have been at MSCS for 9 years now. I went to Columbia International University for my degree in Teacher Education and my Masters in Education. My wife's name is Lucy and we have four wonderful kids together! I have spent my whole life in South Carolina but I am a huge Georgia Bulldogs fan. I enjoy reading books like the Chronicles of Narnia and writing stories!

My name is Martie Newmyer, and I am thrilled to join the team at Midlands STEM Charter School. I am passionate about helping students build confidence in their learning and reach their fullest potential. Originally from Moscow, Idaho, I have also lived in Knoxville, Tennessee, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania before making Columbia, South Carolina my home 29 years ago. I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from Western Governors University and am a National Board Certified Teacher in Literacy. My husband, Bill, and I have been married for 35 wonderful years. We have two amazing children: Jillian, who lives in the Seattle area, and Kenny, who lives in Charleston. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, reading, and spending time with family and friends.

My name is Lou Anne Atkerson and I will be teaching Math and Science for our middle school. I am so excited to be a part of the Midlands Stem family. I was born and raised in Winnsboro and proudly still call it home. I have taught at many different schools in the county and look forward to teaching these talented students at Midlands Stem. I have over 40 years of teaching experience and I am a certified teacher with a Master’s degree in elementary and middle school education. I am married to Ken Atkerson and we have 3 children, 8 grandchildren, and 3 great grandchildren. Children are my passion! I look forward to meeting my students and their parents and look forward to a wonderful year at Midlands Stem.

Tim Garifalon brings 35 years of experience in education to Midlands STEM Charter School. He is also known as, “Coach G.”. He has worked in several school districts as a secondary social studies teacher and as an assistant principal. He received his BS Degree from East Carolina University. He also has certifications in Gifted and Talented and AP US History. He has also coached several different sports including baseball, football, basketball, soccer, and lacrosse. While coaching football, he was a varsity assistant on three State championship teams, two at Fairfield Central and one at Blythewood High. While at Blythewood High School, he was on the varsity staff for the baseball team that was State runner up for the 2019 season. In his spare time, he likes to spend time with his family, going to church, and going on vacation. He has been married 26 wonderful years to his wife, Carol Ann Garifalon. They have two sons: Daniel, who attends MUSC studying physical therapy and Jordan who attends USC in civil engineering. Coach Garifalon looks forward to working at Midlands STEM Charter School, and he is one “proud” Maverick.

Hi! My name is Sara Coleman and I will be joining the Midlands Stem Faculty for the 2026-2027school year. This school year will be the start of my 15th year of teaching and my 8th year in the science classroom. I am passionate about bringing real-world science into the classroom and encouraging a love for science. I hold a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Columbia College and aim to help students see the connections between science and their daily lives. I am a local to Winnsboro, where I reside with my husband of 18 years, Justin and our two boys, Ryan and Brady. In my free time, I enjoy going to the beach, watching sports and spending time with my family. I look forward to building relationships this coming year with the parents and students of MSCS.

Passionate and dedicated high school Math teacher with 23 years of experience, strong content expertise, and a proven record of driving student success. Currently the sole high school Mathematics teacher at MSCS, managing multiple courses while supporting students with diverse learning needs through effective instruction and strong classroom management. A proud Teacher of the Year (2023-2024, Midlands STEM Charter School), I consistently achieve strong EOC results, with students even earning perfect scores. In my role as High School Lead Teacher, I facilitate PLCs, mentor staff, and support school-wide initiatives. Recognized for leadership, including organizing International Day 2023, I am committed to fostering student growth, collaboration, and a positive learning environment.

Mrs. Campbell has been with MSCS since its opening in 2014 - first as a parent, then in 2023 as a teacher. Her first two years were in Art and STEM for K-8, but this year, she has become the Computer Science teacher for 7th - 9th grades. Mrs. Campbell is also the High School CTE Digital Art & Design teacher. She has an Associates in Telecommunication Systems Management and a Bachelors in Psychology. She is passionate about teaching and hopes to give students the tools and knowledge they will need to be successful and happy in life.

I am a veteran English teacher with a passion for literature and a genuine love of teaching. I have a bachelor's degree in English with an emphasis in education from Columbia College as well as a master's degree in English with an education emphasis from Grand Canyon University. I'm certified and considered highly qualified to teach in South Carolina. I have earned the honor of being a South Carolina Independent School Association Master Teacher and was named Reading Teacher of the Year in Kershaw County. In my spare time I enjoy playing the flute, singing, reading, and spending time with my husband, our four adult children, and their families. I taught music and art at STEM back in 2016! I love the Winnsboro community, and I am excited about this new chapter as a Maverick.

Coach Padgett, a seasoned basketball coach and physical education teacher, driven by a deep passion for the game and a commitment to developing student-athletes. I was born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina, and have spent years honing my coaching skills and fostering a love for the game of basketball among young people. Professional Journey My journey in the world of basketball camps and clinics began at Andy Poplin Basketball School in Charlotte, North Carolina. For over 10 years, I served as a top camp counselor, helping more than 2,000 kids improve their basketball skills. My mission has always been to assist student athletes in developing their athletic abilities, regardless of age or skill level, and to provide them with a strong foundation in technique and a passion for the game. Driven by my commitment to sports and education, I became an assistant men's basketball coach at Catawba College from 2011 to 2014. During my tenure, I successfully contributed to the development of a robust athletic program, instilling a sense of discipline in the student athletes. I also served as an Assistant Men's Basketball Coach at Cannon School and Hickory High, where I not only focused on athletic prowess but also prioritized academic excellence and personal growth for the student-athletes. My experience continued at Lake Norman Christian School, where I held the roles of Athletic Director and National Head Basketball Coach from 2019 to 2021. Through building strong relationships and fostering trust, I established a nationally recognized basketball team, which is a testament to the dedication and teamwork that I instill in my players

Mrs. Tolar is a South Carolina native. She has a professional background in marketing (B.S.), strength training and conditioning. She enjoys volunteering, reading a good book, and spending time with her family. She thoroughly enjoys working with the children at MSCS and alongside her coworkers.

Candice Lucas has been with Midlands STEM going on 10 years next year and loves it. She has had the privilege to work with the kindergarten class for the first few years and with the SPED department as an assistant for the last 7 years. She has 3 kids which currently 2 attend Midlands STEM and her oldest graduated valedictorian from Midlands STEM almost 3 years ago. Her daughter is currently first in her class in 10th grade at this time and Candice is super proud of all her kids achievements here at Midlands STEM and can’t wait to see where they go from here and what Midlands STEM can offer them and their future.

Bio coming soon!

My name is Pamela Forgang, and I have been a special education teacher for 21 years. I am passionate about supporting diverse learners and creating inclusive, engaging classrooms. I look forward to working at Midlands STEM and helping students grow and succeed.

Mrs. Kelly Brown is a native of Winnsboro. Where she was born and raised here in Winnsboro. She looks forward to returning for her eleventh year here at MSCS. She is paraprofessional and on the PTO Broad. She is married to Roderick Brown Sr for 25 years. They have been blessed with 3 sons and 1 daughter. They stay busy with their children and grandchildren.

Hi! My name is Lori Yarborough and I live in Ridgeway, SC. I am so excited to begin my 40th year in education and my first year at Midlands STEM School! I am looking forward to working with teachers and growing young readers! I grew up in Lancaster, SC and graduated from Winthrop University with a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master's degree in educational administration. I also graduated from USC with a master's degree in early childhood education. Go Gamecocks! I am a National Board teacher since 2012. My husband and I love playing catch with my dog, Beatrice, boating on Lake Wateree, reading, and spending time with my family (especially my mom) and friends! We enjoy playing cards and board games.

I am Crystal Berry Smith, a veteran educator of thirty-nine years who is excited to be back working in my hometown. I am a native of Fairfield County and a graduate of Winnsboro High School. After graduating from the University of South Carolina with a Bachelors of Art in English with Secondary Certification, I began teaching at Fairfield Central. During my fifteen-year tenure at Fairfield Central High School, I taught English, Special Education, and Teacher Cadet. In 1992, I received a Masters of Education in Special Education from Winthrop University, and in 2003, I received a Masters of Library and Information Science from the University of South Carolina. I began my career as a librarian at Fairfield Intermediate in 2002. In 2005, I helped open Blythewood High School as one of the two library media specialists at the new school. During the last twenty-one years at Blythewood High School, I received National Board Certification in 2007 and National Board Recertification in 2017. Along with my colleague, Amy Whitfield, we received the South Carolina Association of School Librarians Program of the Year in 2018, and in 2019 we were a finalist for the American Association of School Librarians National School Library Program of the Year. As the Middle and High School Reading Coach at Midlands STEM Charter School, I want to encourage students to find joy in reading because as research shows there is a direct relationship with students who read to those who are successful academically. Also, I look forward to using my expertise as a school librarian to support all teachers as they plan and teach lessons, as well as encourage all students as they strive to be successful in all academic areas. I am very thankful to be a part of the Maverick family!

My name is Laura “Lolly” Branham. I am very excited to join Midlands Stem Charter School for the upcoming school year. I most recently served as a librarian assistant at an elementary school in Blythewood, South Carolina and I am bringing decades of experience in public education. I began my career in education in 1992, including 11 and 1/2 years teaching 4 year old kindergarten at The Children's Center in Winnsboro. I left there to work a few years at Fairfield County School District and 21 years with Richland School District Two as a first grade assistant, RTI instructor and a library/media center assistant. I am a lifelong resident of Winnsboro and will be "coming home" to serve the community where I was born and raised my family. I hold an Associate's Degree in Radiologic Technology and worked in the medical field while also working in the school system. I officially retired from my x-ray work in 2013. My husband Chip and I are the proud parents of 3 sons, blessed with 3 daughters-in-love and are the proud grandparents to 5 amazing grandchildren with one more blessing on the way. I love working with children, sharing my passion for books and reading and helping young learners develop a love for reading. In my free time, I enjoy reading (of course), singing at church, traveling, playing Pickleball and spending time at the beach especially with my grandchildren. I'm so grateful for the opportunity to join Midlands Stem. See you in August!

Coming soon.

Coming soon.

My name is Catherine Younts, and I am honored to be a member of the Midlands STEM Charter School faculty, where I have served as an Instructional Assistant for the past five years. Having resided in Winnsboro for 42 years, I am deeply committed to this community, which has also been the setting for my three children’s education within the Midlands STEM system. My role allows me the privilege of supporting students across various classrooms, and I find the work exceptionally rewarding. I am particularly passionate about facilitating student growth and witnessing the transformative "aha" moments when a student masters a challenging concept. It is a true pleasure to contribute to the academic journey of our students and to support the mission of Midlands STEM Charter School.