Jessica Chenoweth has been with the ALC since 2016.  As  Director, she brings a unique academic and professional experience working with diverse populations, including refugee and immigrant groups in the Shenandoah Valley. She brings her expertise from her teaching experience as an English to Speakers of Other Languages and an elementary educator. As a compassionate leader and teacher, Jessica is sensitive to students' unique needs. The educational environment she has created provides support and offers positive encouragement and reinforcement to keep students focused and motivated. Jessica received her B.A. in English from Fairmont State University, her M.A.Ed. in Elementary Education with an emphasis in English as a Second Language from Jones International University, and in 2017 she obtained her Educational Specialist, Educational Leadership degree from Liberty University.

Betsy Curry has been an educator for 49 years, serving as an English, speech, drama, and adult education teacher. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the College of William and Mary and a Master's Degree in Student Personnel Services from Virginia Tech. She has been a teacher at the Adult Learning Center for 17 years. Betsy loves to learn and teach. She admires all students who return to school. She tells her students that they have taken the most difficult step by coming through the door the first time. In her spare time, she likes to read, sew, and make jewelry. 

Esther Perkins has been a part of the ALC community since 2006. She brings her expertise in education from her elementary education background. For the last 13 years, she has been an integral part in assisting many ALC students to obtain their GED or high school diploma. Esther has earned recognition from students and peers as a disciplined and insightful educator who cultivates meaningful connections with learners to ensure optimal learning experiences. In her free time, Esther enjoys kayaking, hiking, and camping.

Bruce Hemp has been with the Adult Learning Center for over five years. She retired from teaching mathematics after thirty-eight years in the classroom. Bruce helped develop the curriculum for Algebra Functions and Data Analysis for Augusta County Schools and continues to mentor teachers. As our Math expert, Bruce helps students who have traditionally struggled with arithmetic begin to build confidence in their skills. She enjoys spending time with her family and traveling abroad. One of her most satisfying volunteer activities is hosting and organizing reunions for the 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade – Afghanistan. Bruce has been on the board of directors of Jacob's Ladder since 1995.

Darcy Rapert joined the ALC team in December of 2018. She comes to us after teaching for both Staunton and Augusta County. She graduated from Virginia Tech and is certified in Elementary Education, General Math, and Adult Education. She is married and has two grown daughters. Darcy loves to bowl, read, and play Scrabble. She is always wearing a smile and so happy to meet new students. 

Bonnie Conner- Gray joined the ALC team in 2023. She comes to us from Henrico County, Virginia. Bonnie graduated from Longwood University and is certified in Health and Physical Education. In addition, she also possesses her M.S. in Curriculum and Instruction also from Longwood University. Recently Bonnie retired as a teacher/administrator of over thirty years and decided to return to the class. She is a mother to one daughter who resides in Atlanta, Georgia. When she is not helping ALC students earn their credentials, she enjoys traveling, cooking, music events, and fishing! 

Lauren VanFossen joined the ALC team in January of 2023. She is a graduate of JMU with a B.A. in Psychology and an M.A. in Teaching. Lauren joined us as an ESL and NEDP instructor after teaching at the elementary level for five years. When Lauren is not teaching, she loves spending time with her family, especially her young son. She also likes to paint, read, and listen to music.

Sherri Mitchell is from Nelson County and obtained her Master's degree in Education from James Madison University. She married her wonderful husband in 2009. They have three beautiful children and understand the importance of nurturing growth in a supportive environment.

Sherri spent 15 years as an educator at Kate Collins Middle School and is currently working with the PERT Program at the Wilson Rehabilitation Center. She is thrilled to embark on this new chapter at the Adult Learning Center, working closely with the ALC team and individuals who are committed to furthering their career and educational journeys. She hopes to inspire, motivate, and empower ALC learners to excel beyond even their own expectations.

Jenna comes to us with a background in Business Administration. She earned her bachelor degree at Christopher Newport College, and worked in banking until she & her husband had children. She chose to stay home with their two kids and homeschool them. After their youngest graduated high school, Jenna went back to work in a financial office in Staunton where she worked for seven years. During those years she managed the front office, worked in book keeping, payroll & accounting, and trained new employees. When Jenna discovered the Adult Learning Center she became very interested and realized she could put her time and talents into something way more rewarding. Though she does not come with years of teaching in the K-12 classroom, she is very passionate about helping adults complete their education and reach their goals.