Mrs. Adams 1st Grade Teacher

Mrs. Adams joined the first grade team in 2018. She graduated from Christopher Newport University receiving her Bachelor of Arts degree in English. Following her undergraduate years, Mrs. Adams graduated from George Mason University receiving her Masters in Elementary Education. In Mrs. Adams' spare time, she enjoys going to baseball games with her husband (Go Yankees!), playing with her puppy, Toby, and playing sports.

Mrs. Barnes 1st Grade Teacher

Mrs. Barnes has been teaching since 2012. Her favorite part of 1st grade is when students laugh during read alouds at the carpet. When Mrs. Barnes is not at school she and her family love taking walks with their dog and eating ice cream on their front porch. She can't wait to meet you!

Ms. Leonard 1st Grade Teacher

Ms. Leonard joined Coates in 2022. She previously taught first grade for two years in Charlottesville City. Ms. Leonard graduated from the University of Virginia with her undergraduate degree in Psychology and Masters in Teaching. In her spare time she enjoys playing with her dog, Bennett, and cheering on the Hoos.

Ms. Lucas 1st Grade Teacher

Ms. Lucas joined Coates in 2016. She previously taught kindergarten and first grade at McNair Elementary. Ms. Lucas graduated from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst with her undergraduate degree in Japanese Language and Literature. She obtained her Masters of Education in Teaching from the University of Hawaii. Ms. Lucas is originally from Maine. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and reading.

Mrs. Merrill 1st Grade Teacher

Mrs. Merrill has been teaching since 2011 she joined the first grade team in 2018. She has a Bachelors and Masters degree in elementary education from James Madison University. Her favorite things to do are read a good book, spend time with her family and travel.

Ms. Yim 1st Grade Teacher

Ms. Yim joined the Coates family in 2018. She started her teaching career as a substitute teacher for FCPS. She received her Bachelor's and Master's in education from George Mason University. When not at school, she enjoys spending time with friends and family, shopping, reading, and drawing.