About: Ms. Casey has been teaching for 11 years, with 6 years in 5th grade and 5 years as an AIG (Academically or Intellectually Gifted) teacher. She graduated from NC State with a B.S. in Elementary Education, inspired by a desire to make school more engaging and enjoyable for kids.

Passionate about the arts—especially visual and musical—Ms. Casey loves bringing creativity into the classroom. She’s always on the lookout for new tech tools to enhance the learning experience. Her favorite teaching method is through projects, allowing students to explore their interests and develop critical thinking skills in a hands-on way. Ms. Casey is committed to creating a dynamic and inspiring classroom where every student can thrive and discover their unique talents. For her, teaching is all about making learning fun and exciting.

While Ms. Casey loves teaching kids, she also likes supporting adults and hosts Lettering workshops locally. It's easy to find her exploring various art types and infusing them in her lessons. Ms. Casey became a teacher because she knew school could be fun and wanted to create that kind of space for kids to learn.

Alumni: N.C. State University, '13

Favorite Quote: Make choices that make you proud of yourself.

Favorite Children's Book: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

Gifts & Talents: Music, Art, Empathy, Creative Problem-Solving, Making Spreadsheets - LOL

Twitter: @lizzessons

About: I love being a part of the WashinGTon Elementary crew! I live in Raleigh with my husband, two daughters, and two dogs. We love the UNC Tarheels and NY Giants! Playing board games with friends and family (Settlers of Catan is our favorite!) is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.

I am exceptionally gifted in making time to nap on the weekends and singing loudly in the car with my daughters. I enjoy taking care of my many indoor house plants. I love learning new skills like sewing, crocheting, embroidery, and golf. I enjoy making people smile and laugh, being a comic relief around others. 

I started my teaching career in  2013. I have taught 1st, 3rd , 4th , and 5th grades. I am a proud graduate of Meredith College as a NC Teaching Fellow. I enjoy teaching mindfulness and social emotional learning skills to kids. 

I became a teacher to inspire children to learn through play and exploration. I believe in the value of making mistakes to learn new things. Truly, I aspire to be a modern-day Mrs. Frizzle, a true G.O.A.T. in teaching. 

Alumni: Meredith College, '13

Favorite Quote: "Take Chances. Make Mistakes. Get Messy." - Ms. Frizzle

Favorite Children's Book: Elephant and Piggie - By: Mo Willems

Gifts & Talents: Humor, Mindfulness & Meditation, Yoga, Organizing, and Napping