Katie Murrah, M.Ed., Owner/ Director
Auburn Day School is my passion and I love experiencing the joy of learning alongside these young students. I have over 15 years of teaching and administrative experience and a master's degree in Educational Psychology with an emphasis in gifted education from the University of Virginia. I've taught children from preschool to eighth grade in a variety of programs. Over the years, I've worked with many bright and talented students and I've designed our concept-based curriculum and our learning environment with exceptional students in mind. I look forward to meeting you, getting to know your family and introducing you to ADS. |
Lillie Brooks, B.S., Assistant Director
It has been such a joy to be a part of the Auburn Day School family for the past five years! I earned my bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Auburn University, and education is my passion. I believe children can do remarkable things when we recognize what they are capable of and provide them with intentional, authentic, and developmentally appropriate learning experiences. I also love learning alongside our students and getting to know our wonderful ADS families! Outside of ADS, I love spending time with my friends and family, working on puzzles, and snuggling with my pup, Tank! |
Sharon Zhang, M.Ed., Business & Operations Manager/ Lead Teacher Curious Connectors
Hello ADS families! My name is Sharon Zhang, and I am happy to continue being part of the Auburn Day School family as the Business and Operations Manager. I hold a master’s degree in ESOL/Bilingual Education from the University of Florida, and I am now pursuing a PhD in Business Administration. ADS has been a very meaningful part of my journey. Through my work here, I have had the chance to grow alongside our children, families, and teachers. My background in education, cultural programs, and school support helps me bring both a teacher’s heart and an operations mindset to my work each day. Outside of school, I enjoy cooking, capturing life’s little moments, and spending time with my dogs and cat. I am grateful to be part of this community and to support the people who make ADS so special. |
Lydia McCormick, B.S., School & Community Coordinator
I am so excited to be joining the Auburn Day School team as the School and Community Coordinator! I grew up in DeKalb County, Alabama and spent a few years living in Georgia. After graduating with my bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Berry College, I moved to Auburn to be closer to family. I have always had a passion for education and working toward a positive, innovative, and respectful environment for little minds in whatever way I can. Outside of ADS, you will find me travelling somewhere new, drinking a tasty coffee, or running around with my dalmatian, Phoebe. I am delighted to be welcomed into the Auburn Day School community, and I hope to make a positive impact on the learning experiences of students! |
LEAD TEACHERS
Mary Cordell, B.S., Sprouts Lead Teacher
Hello, ADS! I am absolutely delighted to be joining the Auburn Day School team. I have a degree in English with a focus in secondary education from Auburn University. I have over eight years of experience in preschool classrooms teaching one to three year old children. I am passionate about helping each child reach their next milestone while feeling loved exactly where they are. I strongly believe children learn best by being able to be hands on explorers of their world, and I love to be a part of their experience as a supportive and caring teacher. I am so honored that I now get to do that at ADS! When I’m not in the classroom, I am enjoying my time with my husband, our two children, and our cat, Aubie. I am so excited to meet everyone at Auburn Day School! 
Adaela Peak, B.S. Adventurers Lead Teacher
Hello! My name is Adaela Peak, and I am so excited to join Auburn Day School as the new Lead Teacher for the Adventurers! I graduated from Troy University in 2023 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and I am currently pursuing my master’s degree in Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling at Auburn University. For the past three years, I have worked with children with autism, ages 2–7, in Birmingham, Alabama. I also gained experience working with young children during my undergraduate studies as a daycare teacher and camp counselor leader. I am so grateful for the opportunity to teach, encourage, and care for your children. I look forward to getting to know each Adventurer, discovering what makes them special, and helping them build new skills, confidence, and independence throughout the year. I’m excited for all the learning, growing, and fun ahead! 
Precious Roberts-Miller, B.A., Inventors' Lead Teacher
Hi, my name is Precious Roberts-Miller, and I am thrilled to be a part of the ADS Team as a Lead Teacher! I am from Auburn, and I graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Arts. I’ve interned and worked with multiple institutions in Auburn such as The Jule and Jan Dempsey Community Art Center helping teach children. I am passionate about combining art with education—something I’m excited to do with the students here at ADS! I’m so passionate about watching children grow and find confidence in themselves and all the wonderful things they can do. When I’m not at school, you can find me reading a good book or playing the newest video game! (I love my Nintendo Switch!) I can’t wait to have a great year with everyone at ADS! 
Abbie Murphy, B.A., Navigators Lead Teacher
My name is Abbie Murphy, and I’m so excited to be part of the ADS team! I’m originally from Montgomery and graduated from Auburn University in Elementary Education. I recently moved to Auburn and am currently working toward my master’s degree in Elementary Education. I have a true passion for working with kids and love watching them grow, discover new things, and develop a love for learning. I believe in creating a welcoming, engaging classroom where students feel valued and encouraged to reach their full potential. I can’t wait to learn, grow, and make a positive impact alongside the students this year! |
Alison Crosby, M.S.W., Explorers Lead Teacher
I am thrilled to be a part of the ADS team. After graduating with my Bachelor's and Master's of Social Work from the University of Georgia, I returned to Auburn, my hometown, with my husband. It was then I realized my passion for early childhood education and began my 10 year career in a child development center. I spent 8 years in the Toddler and Twos classroom and 2 years in administration before joining the ADS team. When I'm not in the classroom, I love spending time with my husband and two kids (6 & 10). I'm excited to begin my fifth year here at Auburn Day School and I can't wait to meet all of you! 
Daylan Wright, B.F.A., Voyagers' Lead Teacher
Hello ADS families! My name is Daylan Wright, and I am excited to be joining the Auburn Day School family as a Lead Teacher. I earned my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 2023, and my creative background inspires me to design engaging, hands-on learning experiences that spark curiosity and a love of learning. I believe that every child learns best through exploration, creativity, and meaningful relationships. My goal is to create a classroom where children feel confident to ask questions, discover new ideas, and grow socially, emotionally, and academically in a warm and welcoming environment.Outside of the classroom, I enjoy creating educational resources, expressing my creativity through art and design, and spending quality time with my daughter. I am grateful to be part of the ADS community, and I look forward to building lasting relationships with our students and families while making this a wonderful school year. 
Erin Schaindlin, Investigators' Lead Teacher
Hello ADS Family! I am so excited to be joining the Auburn Day School team as a lead teacher! I started out as an intern in January 2026 and I am now a lead teacher this fall! I recently graduated from the University of Alabama with a degree in Early Childhood Education. I have always loved working with children and being a part of their learning and growth. One of my favorite parts of teaching is watching children become excited when they discover something new or accomplish something they have been working toward. I want my classroom to be a safe, happy, and welcoming place where every child feels loved, valued, and encouraged to be themselves. I hope to help each child build confidence, explore the world around them, and develop a genuine love for learning. When I am not in the classroom, you can find me either playing pickleball with friends, being active in my church, and hanging out with friends! I am so excited for the amazing year we have ahead of us! 
Kristen Elrod, M.Ed., Jr. Astronomers Lead Teacher
I am excited to rejoin the Auburn Day School family after taking an extended maternity leave to spend time with our youngest son. With 15 years of experience in education—including eight years as an elementary classroom teacher, two years as a K–5 Reading Specialist, and five years as a preschool teacher—I am passionate about fostering a love of learning through curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. I earned my bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Georgia and my master's degree in Early Childhood Education from Piedmont University. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy traveling and spending time with my husband and our two sons, ages 8 years and 21 months. I look forward to a wonderful year of learning, growth, and discovery with the amazing children and families of Auburn Day School! |
Hannah Long, B.S., Jr. Biologists Lead Teacher
Hi, my name is Hannah Long, and I am thrilled to be joining the ADS team as a Lead Teacher! I am originally from Kennesaw, Georgia, but for the past six years, my family has called the North Georgia mountains home. I recently graduated from Auburn University with a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education. Helping children develop their motor skills while growing physically, socially, and emotionally through active, hands-on learning has become my passion. A few fun facts about me: I love all animals, playing tennis and pickleball, and spending time at home on the lake. I can't wait to build meaningful relationships with the ADS students and their families, and I'm so excited for an amazing school year! |
Madelyn Stocks, B.A., Jr. Chemists Lead Teacher
Hi! I'm Madelyn, and I am so thankful to be part of the Auburn Day School team. I have a bachelor's degree in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences from Auburn University and am currently working toward my master's degree in Early Childhood Education. I have a passion for helping young children learn, grow, and develop a love for learning through hands-on experiences. One of my favorite parts of teaching is seeing the excitement and curiosity in children's eyes as they discover something new. I strive to create a classroom where every child feels loved, encouraged, and excited to come to school each day. I am originally from Birmingham, Alabama. When I'm not at school, I enjoy spending time with my friends, being active in my church, and visiting my nieces and nephew. I feel incredibly blessed to be a part of the Auburn Day School family and look forward to another wonderful year! |
Academic Specialists
Hayley Matthews, B.S., Academic Specialist
Hello ADS Families! My name is Hayley Matthews and I am so grateful to play a part in the education of our students here at ADS. I will be leading the Nature Exploration class as an Academic Specialist. Through age-appropriate lessons, I encourage students to explore the natural world while building foundational skills in science, observation, problem-solving, and creativity. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science from Auburn University, where I am continuing my education as a graduate student in the Child Life Master’s program. I have a deep passion for working with vulnerable populations and supporting child development within the hospital and outside of it. When I am not at work, you may find me hiking or enjoying time with my friends and church community. I am blessed to be a part of the ADS team again, and I can’t wait to positively impact the development of your children this year! |
Heather McDounough, B.S., ADS Music Teacher & Assistant Teacher
I'm an original auburn native, although I spent 13 years in Newnan, GA. I have a bachelor's degree in Music Education from Auburn University and 15 years of teaching experience at the elementary and preschool levels. My passion is exposing young children to the many benefits of creative expression through music, movement, and imagination. I'm married with two children and a cardigan welsh corgi. Outside of ADS I'm involved in Girl Scouts and the Auburn Band Parents Association. I'm a textbook Hufflepuff and love to read, belly dance, and nap! |
ASSISTANT TEACHERS
Grace Kochie, Assistant Teacher/ Sunbeam Scholars Afterschool Program Coordinator
Hi! My name is Grace Kochie, and I am so excited to be a part of the Auburn Day School team as the Sunbeam Scholars afterschool program coordinator! I am currently a junior at Auburn University studying Human Development and Family Science with a minor in Counseling. I plan to get my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and become a children’s play therapist! Working with children is a passion of mine; I have been working in childcare for 6 years, and I love seeing them grow and their personalities blossom! In my free time, I enjoy reading, hiking, and spending time with friends and family. I can’t wait to meet all of you! |
Caroline Holmes, Assistant Teacher
Hi ADS family! My name is Caroline and I am currently a junior at Auburn University studying Psychology with a minor in Child Development. I am overjoyed to be an assistant teacher this year! I am from Virginia and have worked previously as an assistant teacher back home, but am so excited to bring those skills to ADS. Working with children is a huge passion of mine and I am so excited to see the growth among so many kids. In my free time, I love anything with dance, music, working out, and spending time with family. I can't wait to meet all of you soon! |
Jordan Cheshire, Assistant Teacher
Hi! My name is Jordan and I am so excited to be apart of the ADS team this year! I am a senior at Auburn University studying Human Development and Family Science on the track to get my masters in elementary education. I love creating a fun, safe, and welcoming space where children can learn, play, and grow every day! In my free time, I love spending time with friends and family, traveling, and going on walks. I can't wait to build meaningful connections with your family and be a positive part of your child's growth and development. |
Emily Wood, Assistant Teacher
Hi ADS families! My name is Emily and I am so excited to join the ADS family as an assistant teacher this year! I have worked in childcare for over 8 years and have spent the last 4 years working with autistic and neurodivergent kids. I love taking a child led approach to my care and prioritizing the feeling of safety and comfort in my relationship to every child. I am currently working on my Bachelors degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences, and plan to continue my education with a Master’s degree in Speech and Language Pathology. Outside of work, I love baking, collecting physical media, and thrifting! |
Layne Temple, Assistant Teacher
Hi! My name is Layne Temple, and I am so excited to be part of the ADS team! I am a Senior at Auburn University, majoring in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Human Development and Family Science. I am originally from Dallas, TX, and have worked with young children for the past seven years! It is truly what I am passionate about. In my free time, I love to go on walks, play mahjong, needlepoint, and read! I look forward to getting to know each child and their family and being a part of their learning and growth. |
Kathryn Ann Waller, Assistant Teacher
Hi, my name is Kathryn Ann Waller! I am a sophomore at Auburn University majoring in Nursing. I am from Trussville, Alabama, just outside of Birmingham. I have worked at a daycare since I was 15 years old, and it is something I am truly passionate about and love doing! My favorite subject to teach is science. I especially love units about the human body and learning about all the amazing processes that happen in our bodies. I am so excited to be an Assistant Teacher at Auburn Day School, and I am looking forward to a great school year! |
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Katie Perry, Assistant Teacher
Hi, my name is Katie! I’m a student at Auburn University, my major is Science Education with an English minor. My hobbies are dancing and playing mystery games especially escape rooms. My favorite subject is biology, my favorite sport is soccer, and one day I hope to become a college professor while also traveling the world. One thing that really excites me is going to concerts with my friends in different states, whether that’s Baltimore or Chicago. I’d describe myself as fun-loving and kind, and in my friend group I’m known as the “mom” and therapist because I’m always there to make sure everyone feels included, supported, and taken care of. 
Lydia Pope, Assistant Teacher
Hi! My name is Lydia Pope, and I am so excited to be joining the Auburn Day School team this year! I am currently a sophomore at Auburn University studying Exercise Science, and I hope to work with children in the future through a career in healthcare. I have always loved working with kids and have spent the past several years babysitting, nannying, lifeguarding, volunteering, and mentoring children of all ages. Watching them learn, grow, and gain confidence is one of the most rewarding parts of working with them! In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends and family, staying active, cheering on Auburn sports, and being involved on campus. I can’t wait to get to know all of your amazing children and help make this a fun, safe, and exciting school year! 
Ki'Ava Maddox, Assistant Teacher
Hi everyone! My name is Ki’Ava Maddox, and I’m from Alabama. I’m so excited to introduce myself as a new Assistant Teacher and to officially be joining The Auburn Day School team! I’m currently a student at Southern Union and plan to transfer in the future to pursue Pre-Med. Outside of school and work, I love spending time with my family and friends. Some of my favorite hobbies are playing basketball and tennis, fishing, reading, and watching movies. I’ve always had a passion for working with children. I have experience as a babysitter and daycare worker, and I’ve also had the opportunity to work with children through summer programs. I truly enjoy creating a fun, caring, and positive environment where kids can learn and grow. I’m so excited for this new journey and can’t wait to get to know all of the children and families! I’m looking forward to making great memories, growing in my role, and learning something new from the kids every day! 
Jackie Dominguez, Assistant Teacher
Hi! My name is Jackie Dominguez, and I am so excited to be a part of the ADS team! I am a senior at Auburn University majoring in Psychology and minoring in Human Development and Family Sciences, as well as Counseling. I am from Dallas, TX, and have worked with kids at schools and churches since I was 13. I am super excited to build meaningful relationships with your kids and help them grow as people and learners! In my free time, I like to paint, crochet, lift weights, read, watch sports, and volunteer at the animal shelter! 
Amanda Sanchez, Assistant Teacher
Hi, my name is Amanda Sanchez and I'm so excited to join the Auburn Day School family! I'm a sophomore at Auburn University studying Psychology, working toward my goal of becoming a Pediatric Occupational Therapist. I am from San Ramon, California and working with kids is my biggest passion — I love getting to watch them grow, learn, and discover new things every day! Outside of school, you can find me traveling, spending time with friends and family, or at the gym. I can't wait to connect with each student and their family, and to be part of their journey this year :) 
Haeseul Cho, Assistant Teacher
Hello ADS families! My name is Haeseul Cho, and I am so excited to join the Auburn Day School family as an Assistant Teacher! I am currently a fifth-year student at Auburn University, studying Architecture with a minor in Real Estate Development. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the ADS team and to learn and grow alongside our wonderful children, families, and teachers. My background in architecture has taught me to be creative, thoughtful, and attentive to detail, and I look forward to bringing those qualities into the classroom each day. Outside of school, I enjoy exploring new places, spending time with friends and family, and finding inspiration through design and creativity. I am very excited to become part of the ADS community and look forward to making meaningful memories with our students and families! 
Rosa Levan, Assistant Teacher
Hi everyone! My name is Rosa Levan and I am so excited to be apart of the ADS family as an assistant teacher. I am currently a junior at Auburn University double majoring in Psychology and Economics. I love working with children and I am so excited to be able to do so with Auburn Day School. Outside of ADS, I love to scrapbook, spend time with my loved ones, and be outside doing something active. I look forward to getting to know each child and making new memories with them! |
Ella Claire Campbell, Assistant Teacher
Hi, my name is Ella Claire, and I am so excited to be joining the ADS team as an assistant teacher! I am a senior at Auburn University, studying Human Development and Family science. I have worked with children for over six years and I'm so excited to continue. I am passionate about creating a safe, caring, and engaging environment where children can learn, grow, and feel supported. In my free time I enjoy walking my dog, reading, and spending time with friends and family. I look forward to meeting everyone! 
Analee Masters, Assistant Teacher
Hello! My name is Analee Masters and I am currently a junior studying Early Childhood Education at Auburn University. I am passionate about working with children and watching their young minds grow! In my free time, I enjoy exercising, reading, baking, and spending time with friends and family! 
Faith Wood, Assistant Teacher
Hi! My name is Faith Wood, and I am so excited to be part of the ADS team! I am a senior at Auburn University majoring in Early Childhood Education. I have always had a passion to work with children! In my free time, I love to go on walks, spend time with friends and family, and be outside! I am looking forward to getting to know each child! 
Callyn Mobley, Sunbeam Scholars Afterschool Program Assistant Teacher
Hi! My name is Callyn Mobley. I am a sophomore at Auburn University studying Exercise Science. I love working with kids and getting to see them develop their fun personalities! In my free time I love spending time with my friends and family, playing with my one year old dachshund, and working out! I am so excited to be apart of the ADS family! 
Hannah Segrest, Assistant Teacher
Hello ADS families! My name is Hannah, and I am so excited to be a part of the Auburn Day School family! I am currently a sophomore at Auburn University, where I am working toward my goal of becoming a teacher. I have always loved working with children and look forward to growing my experience and learning from the wonderful teachers and families at ADS. Outside of school and work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, singing karaoke, and swimming. I love making memories with the people I care about and am always looking for an excuse to have some fun! I am so thankful to be welcomed into the ADS community and am looking forward to an amazing year with the children, families, and teachers at Auburn Day School. War Eagle! 
Keerthi Krishna Devulapally, Assistant Teacher
Hello ADS families! My name is Keerthi Krishna Devulapally, I am a recent M.S. Forestry graduate from Auburn University with a passion for wildlife conservation, environmental education, community engagement, and natural resource management. I am excited to be part of the Auburn Day School family and look forward to contributing my knowledge, creativity, and passion for nature to support children’s learning and growth. Outside of work, I enjoy painting, crocheting, and spending time exploring and connecting with nature. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the ADS community and supporting children as they discover, learn, and develop a deeper connection with the world around them. 
Katie Mac Manning, Assistant Teacher
Hi y’all! My name is Katie-Mac Manning, and I am a student at Auburn University studying Human Development and Family Science with a focus in Early Childhood Development. I have always loved working with children and am so excited to have the opportunity to learn and grow alongside the children at Auburn Day School. Outside of ADS, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family and being involved around Auburn’s campus. I am so excited to be part of the ADS family! 
Shelley Adamson, Assistant Teacher
Hi everyone! My name is Shelley Adamson and I am excited to be an Assistant Preschool teacher for this upcoming school year! I love working with preschool students and am looking forward to what this next year will bring. I have been working in education for the past 4 years. In my free time, I enjoy cooking, reading and spending time with my family. |