CoachFest 2026

Lori earned her master’s degree in teaching in science education from UNCW. She earned a bachelor’s degree in biology with Teaching Certification from UNCW. Lori currently holds a teaching license for secondary and middle school science, middle school language arts, and K-12 reading... Read More →

Jodi Hebert supports beginning teachers as an instructional coach for the NC New Teacher Support Program. She has worked in public schools for 25 years and taught pre-kindergarten, first, second, fourth, fifth grades and served as a school-wide coordinator. Jodi believes learning... Read More →

Jenn Hatch Knight serves as Professional Development System School-University Partnership Assistant Director in the Watson College of Education at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. She coordinates beginning teacher support for partnership districts, facilitates the National... Read More →

Jennifer Snuggs is a New Teacher Support Coach in Guilford County Schools dedicated to empowering early-career educators. She has supported more than 125 first-year teachers, offering guidance and practical strategies to help them build confidence and succeed. She believes strong... Read More →

Leslie Allred is an experienced elementary educator and instructional leader dedicated to supporting early-career teachers. Since joining the New Teacher Support Department in 2020, she has mentored and guided new educators through their first year in the classroom.

With 12 years at Falkener Elementary School, Leslie served as a K–3 teacher, reading specialist, IB coordinator, Lead Mentor, PTA president, and chair of the school improvement team. She holds a bachelor’s degree from North Carolina A&T State University and a master’s in E... Read More →

Gretchen Bridgers is a two-time National Board Certified educator, instructional coach, and education consultant with over two decades of experience empowering teachers and school leaders nationwide. She is the author of multiple books for educators, the host of the Empowering Educators... Read More →