Kristine Travers
I am a former 6th grade social studies teacher at Union Middle School in Sampson County. I participated in the Rural Teacher Leader Network in the 2022-2023 cycle. I won teacher of the year at my school the year I finished the program and subsequently won teacher of the year for Sampson County. I am currently the school counselor at Union Middle School. I love working in a rural county and supporting my students and community the best way I can.
I have been teaching for 21 years in the public school system. I taught in NY prior to relocating to NC. I am currently a high school English teacher at Swansboro High School. I am the current Freshman Academy Team Lead and I facilitate the English I PLC meetings each week. I am currently pursuing my National Boards and planning a trip with students to visit Scotland and England in April 2025.
Betty Smith
Matthew Lococo
I am originally from Pittsburgh PA. I am a first-generation college graduate and the only person in my family to ever have an advanced degree. I am in my 19th year in education. I have been a Middle School and High School teacher. I have taught Social Studies (7-12) and ELA (8th Grade) as well as Computer Science (6-8) I have also been an AP at all three levels, and started my career teaching at an Early College. I had the opportunity to help start a charter school and be the Director for 2 1/2 years before returning to teaching. I have a BA in Social Science and an MS in Instructional Leadership, both from Robert Morris University in Pittsburgh, a k-12 Principal License from ECU, and an Ed.S in Curriculum and Instruction from Gardner Webb. I am in my 2nd to last semester in an MA in History program at UNCW. I love my current position as an Instructional Coach for Greene County Middle School and Early College. I have been married to my amazing wife Susan for 18 years in February, and we have 4 amazing kids (16,15,11,& 10).
After teaching 6th, 7th, and 8th grade language arts and social studies for 17 years in Wayne County, I have transitioned into a new position as a district instructional coach. I enjoy working with teachers to meet student centered goals and improve student achievement.
I share my home with my phenomenal husband, two teenagers, and a very senior, possibly senile cat. I enjoy reading mysteries, cooking new recipes, and taking trips to the beach. I am excited to rejoin RTLN as a mentor!
Jesi Knowles-Brock
Mykkia Combs
My name is Mykkia Combs and I am the 6th grade math teacher/Lead teacher/BT mentor at Jones Senior High School. I am married to my husband, Rob and we have 5 children and 1 grandchild. I am originally from Ohio but moved to NC from Vermont. I am in my 9th year as a teacher and 2nd year at Jones Senior High School.
Ashley Grant is in her 13th year as a social studies teacher. She teaches Social Studies and STEM Social Studies at Greene County Middle School where she serves also serves as Social Studies department chair. She is currently working on her National Board Certification. Ashley is a two-time graduate of Campbell University, earning a BA in history with teacher licensure and a MEd with a concentration in secondary social studies. She is a member of the North Carolina Council for the Social Studies and the North Carolina Association of Historians. Ashley is a passionate advocate for social studies, educational technology and global education. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, trying new foods, documentaries and exploring new places.
Ashley Grant
