Ms. Decker

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Degrees and Certifications:

Ms. Decker

Kindergarten Track 4
 
 
eMail: mdecker@wcpss.net
 
I began teaching as a special educator and fell in love with teaching kindergarten early in my  career.  I received my B.A. from Illinois State University, my M.Ed. from National Louis University and received National Board Certification in 2003. In addition to teaching, another passion of mine is mentoring teachers new to the profession.  I’m married to Greg (principal at Sanderson High School) and we have two adult children, Josh and Molly. Josh is a social worker in Philadelphia and Molly is a first grade teacher at Scott’s Ridge Elementary. Molly married Mason Carper in December, 2018 and we're excited to have him in our family. We've lived in Cary since 1998 and are originally from the Chicago area.  I LOVE my job and I’m so thankful to be able to teach kindergarten children. They make me smile every day!  In my free time, I like to read, ride bikes, walk, paddle board and play with Tilly, our sweet puppy.
Ms. Thornton

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Email:

Degrees and Certifications:

Ms. Thornton

Track 3 Assistant

eMail: mathornton@wcpss.net

Hello, kindergarten families!  My name is Mary Ann Thornton and I am excited to join the Olive Chapel Elementary team this year.  I hold undergraduate and graduate social work degrees from Campbell University and East Carolina University.  My work experience has centered on early childhood development.  Most recently, I have had the joy of teaching and assisting in four year old and kindergarten readiness classrooms.  I consider it an honor to love and encourage young children as they learn and grow.   

When I am away from school, I enjoy hiking, volunteering, traveling, listening to music, and talking with friends.  My favorite moments are spent with my family and my kitty.    

I am grateful to join the OCE family, and I look forward to sharing a year full of happy times.