Instructional Assistant

Ms. Orcine (last name pronounced Or-See-Knee), is a Filipino by nationality with a little Italian mixed in. She was born and raised in American Samoa. Ms. Orcine majored in Behavioral Sciences at Assumption College San Lorenzo in Makati, Philippines, followed by Jessup University after moving to San Jose, California. Later she met and married her husband, and together they have raised four sons. In 2021, Ms. Orcine relocated to North Carolina with her husband and two youngest sons, eventually settling in Holly Springs. 

Since 2009, she has been working in education, where she has developed a deep passion for helping children grow and succeed. Ms. Orcine is dedicated to building meaningful connections with children, rooted in mutual trust and respect.

My Play-losophy:

"Play is our brain’s favorite way of learning." - Diane Ackerman

Instructional Assistant

Instructional Assistant

Mr. Skinner is a native of Raleigh. He has worked on many activities in different resorts in Myrtle Beach, Orlando, and Wrightsville beach. Mr. Skinner joined Powell in 2021. Prior to working at Powell, he worked at the YMCA for eighteen years for Track Out and different summer camps. During that time he taught sports, fishing, art, and target sports. 

My Play-losophy:

Play can teach life skills, reduce stress, boost confidence, and it is just fun!

Instructional Assistant

Mr. Simmons was born in Savannah, Georgia, and later moved to Virginia in 2008 with his parents and two siblings. He is currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Sociology at Norfolk State University.

After relocating to North Carolina, Mr. Simmons met and married his wife, and together they are raising their son. He is passionate about working with children —from coaching sports and mentoring to supporting education and teaching life skills.

Powell Elementary was the first school to welcome Mr. Simmons into the world of education, and he is proud to be part of the first-grade team. His goal is to build meaningful relationships with students and to be the kind of educator who has a lasting, positive impact on their lives.

My Play-losophy:

"Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play children learn how to learn."- O. Fred Donaldson

Instructional Assistant

Ms. Talley is a native of Raleigh and attended WCPSS Schools. She has a 10-year-old daughter. Ms. Talley was previously an art teacher at Root Elementary prior to having her daughter.  She has been working in Raleigh preschools and has been a substitute teacher in WCPSS as well. Ms. Talley enjoys spending her time with young children and teaches art at her home on the porch during the summer months to preschool children. Ms. Talley enjoys hiking, cooking and traveling to the NC beaches and mountains.

My Play-losophy:

Play sets us up to learn, stay active and live a healthy life. Play is a fun way to learn at school. Play is a great way to connect together as a team with students and staff. We can explore all areas of learning together as a school and community.