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    The Reading Team
     
     
    Welcome Back
     
     
     

    Hello, my name is JoAnn Kowalski. This is my 11th year at Liberty Elementary,
    but my 34th year of teaching. I was a reading teacher for eight years in a western suburb of Illinois. I attended Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois for my Bachelor's degree. I obtained my Master's degree in Educational Administration from Northern Illinois University. When moving to Virginia I went back to school at Shenandoah University to obtain my Reading Specialist certification.  I eagerly look forward to working with Liberty Elementary School teachers and Eagles. Presently I live in Berryville, VA with my husband and three horses. Our grandchildren, Auggie, Isaac, Paisley prompted our move here.  We have two grandchildren in Chicago who see as often as we can as well.  In addition to teaching I enjoy trail riding, quilting, and spending time with my family.

     
     
    Hi, my name is Christy Banks.  I am thrilled to be a reading specialist here at Liberty Elementary!  This is a wonderful school community, and I consider myself lucky to be a part of it.  This year marks my 21st year as a teacher.  I taught first grade here at Liberty for five years before transitioning into the role of reading specialist.  Prior to my time in Loudoun County, I taught in Bedford County, VA.  I attended Radford University where I received my Bachelor's degree.  In 2010, I graduated from the University of Virginia with my Master's degree in reading.  I am married with have three sons and a daughter.  Our oldest son is a high school sophmore this year, our daughter is entering eighth grade, we have a fifth grader, and our youngest is in fourth grade.  We have two German shepherds, Kai and Belle.  Our household is a busy one, but we wouldn't have it any other way!
     
     
    Julie Epperson spent her first 10 years of teaching as a 1st grade teacher here at Liberty Elementary.  This year marks her first year as a reading specialist.  Her time will be split between Liberty and another Loudoun County school.  
     
     
    Ms. Susan Rokus is a retired Loudoun County teacher who works as our PALS tutor.  We are fortunate to have her as part of the reading team!