Hello, My name is Christy Clapp. I am originally from Kingston, TN and now reside near Amherst. I have my master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Tennessee. I have been teaching since 2001. I have taught second grade as well. I was married to my wonderful husband Jody in 2006. We both love to travel and use all free time to go on vacations. I like spending time with family and friends the most, as well as shopping, photography, home improvements (yes, I am handy) and reading inspirational books.  I love teaching and strive to make my student’s Kindergarten year exciting, comfortable and a successful while all the while building their sense of self. I look forward to meeting you and your child.

Hello! My name is Crystal Dougan, and I have been at Amherst since the fall of 2006. I thoroughly enjoy my time here, and hope to be here for many years to come. I moved here after getting married in the summer. My husband and I live in Powell, where my husband grew up. He is a teacher as well, though he has no plans to teach kindergarten! I enjoy singing and playing the guitar, drawing/decorating, reading, and cooking. With the exception of cooking, you can also find me doing those things in the classroom as well.

I am a recent graduate from the University of Tennessee.  I earned my Bachelor’s degree in 2005 with a major in Psychology and a minor in Elementary Education.  I graduated again in 2006 with a Master’s degree in Elementary Education.

I completed a year-long internship in Anderson County at Claxton Elementary School and Clinton Middle School.  During my internship, I taught in first and second grade, and seventh grade math.  While interning in a second grade classroom, I completed an action research project on behavior within the classroom.

I am so happy to be a part of this dedicated team at Amherst Elementary School and I look forward to the years ahead!

My name is Kim Van Valkenburgh and I love Kindergarten!  I have been married to my husband Charles since 1994.  My husband and I have been blessed with two lovely daughters, Makenzy and Mallory.  After receiving my Associates Degree many years ago, I decided to take time off to be a full time wife and mother.  During this time I had the opportunity to teach in many settings including Wee Praize, children’s choir, children’s church and Sunday school.  As my daughters became school age, I began teaching Pre-K and decided to return to college where I could pursue my love for teaching full time.  I graduated from Tusculum College with a degree in Human Growth and Learning in 2007.  I consider it an honor to be part of a child’s first school experience.  I enjoy partnering with parents in the education of their child, seeking out teachable moments and encouraging students to actively learn.  Kindergarten is Awesome!

My name is Charcee Day and I teach kindergarten here at Amherst Elementary. I graduated from Tusculum College with a B.A. in Human Growth and Learning, Elementary. I completed my Master's Degree at Lincoln Memorial University. I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. at the University of Tennessee.  I have always wanted to be a teacher and feel blessed every day that I get to live out my dream.  I truly love teaching kindergarten!  I am very proud to be part of the Amherst team!

I have been married to my husband Kelly since 1995.  We have two daughters; Taylor and Mekenzie and two small yorkies.  When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, learning, traveling, scuba diving and swimming.