My name is Kara Barwick and I am excited to be a part of the Combs family. I began my teaching career in 2014 and have worked in grades 3rd, 4th and 5th. I received my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from East Carolina University and my masters degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Western Governors University. I have a passion for teaching and shaping young leaders! Along with teaching, I love spending my time with my daughter, husband and dog. I can’t wait to have another amazing school year! 

My name is Andrew Charland, and I’m originally from Michigan where I spent the first five years of my teaching career in 4th and 5th grades. I am now beginning my 20th year at A.B. Combs.  With teaching experience that now spans more than two decades, I can attest that the atmosphere and enthusiasm found at Combs is truly special. I graduated with a B.S. in Elementary Education in 2001 from Western Michigan University and then obtained my master’s degree in 2004. As a big sports fan, I enjoy spending my free time watching or attending sporting events here and around the country. I'm a Michigan Wolverine at heart and make a point of seeing games in the Big House yearly, but I also have season tickets to Tar Heels football, basketball, and baseball. I also enjoy reading, cooking, gaming, collecting vinyl records, technology, and walking my dogs Bosco and Bowie. 

Hello! My name is Cayla Green. I was born and raised in Raleigh, North Carolina. I graduated from NC State with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education -- GO PACK. In my spare time, I love to spend time with my family and friends. I love to sharpen my saw by watching many different sports! I am so excited to have the opportunity to help my young leaders learn and grow over the school year.

Hello! I’m Abby Killion, and I’m absolutely delighted to be a part of the team at AB Combs Elementary. My journey in education began in Charlotte, NC, where I discovered my passion for teaching. I earned my undergraduate degree in Elementary Education from Appalachian State University, where my love for the Blue Ridge Mountains and the College of Education inspired me to stay and pursue a master’s degree in Reading Education. Before joining the wonderful community at Combs, I taught 4th grade at another WCPSS school. Beyond the classroom, I’m passionate about reading, staying active with workouts, playing volleyball, and spending quality time with my dog and husband. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of the AB Combs family and am eager to collaborate with you all, embracing and embodying the Habits together. Looking forward to a fantastic year!

Hi! My name is Deming McDowell-Ponce. I graduated from North Carolina State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. GO PACK! During my time at NCSU, I completed my student teaching at AB Combs and have loved continuing my teaching career here. I am from Charlotte and often enjoy going home to visit my family, traveling to new places with my husband David. During my free time, I also like to puzzle, read, bake, and attend NCSU basketball games. I cannot wait to see what this new school year has in store!