Meet Our Teachers

Dedicated educators committed to guiding your children in faith and learning.

John Lowery

My wife and I have been married 36 years and have three children. One works in culinary, one is a music therapist, and one is a presenter at the Space and Rocket Center. I recently retired from public education after 37 years. My degrees include secondary education in the fields of history and English, with minor hours in science and art. I added a degree in Special Education in the areas of learning disabilities and mental retardation; and was a Special Education case manager and resource instructor for over 20 years. I have taught standard history and English content for grades 7-12, AP 9th grade English, and College Prep American History. As a member of Mount Vernon Church, I lead a Sunday School class of mixed ages and serve as a deacon.

Sandra (Sandy) Starling

I taught in the Attalla School System for 25 years and at Gadsden State Community College in Adult Education for 20 years. This is my first year at Pursuit Academy, teaching English/literature and math. I am a member of Harvestfield Church in Rainbow City. My favorite pastimes are spending time with my family, reading, and attending all of the musical & sports functions of my grandchildren.

Dawn Greer

Dawn Greer is a dedicated educator, loving wife, mother, and proud grandmother who has devoted 23 years to serving children and families through education. She lives in Sardis City with her husband of 38 years, Mark, and is the proud mother of two daughters, Jazmen (Justin) McCright and Jae (Ty) Patterson, and grandmother to Stella, Skylan, Walker, and Logan Jae. Throughout her career with Marshall County Schools, Dawn taught Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade before retiring and continuing her passion for education at Pursuit Academy. Her faith in Jesus Christ, love for her family, and heart for teaching have been the foundation of her life, and she continues to find joy in inspiring, encouraging, and making a difference in the lives of children.

Michele Noles

My name is Michele Noles. I'm a lifelong educator who has always had a heart for helping children learn and grow. I graduated from Geraldine High School in 1993 and began my college journey at Snead State Community College. After a year there, I transferred to Jacksonville State University, where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. In 2001, I completed my Master's degree in Elementary Education from the University of Alabama.

I started my teaching career at Stowers Hill Elementary School in Attalla, where I taught fourth grade for two years. In 1999, I joined the Boaz Elementary family and spent twenty-six wonderful years teaching first grade. After retiring from public education in May 2025, I was blessed with the opportunity to continue doing what I love—teaching—at Pursuit Academy.

I'm married to Drew Noles of Boaz. We have two sons, Andy and Will. Andy is married to Brileigh, and we are so proud of them both. My family and I attend Life Church of Boaz, where our faith continues to be an important part of our lives.

Melissa Molock

Melissa Molock is a dedicated educator with 28 years of experience serving students and families. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Auburn University and later completed her Master's in Educational Leadership from the University of Alabama (War Eagle!). Melissa has been married to her husband, Jeff, for 26 years, and they share two children—Mattie, who is married to Hunter, and Elijah. She is an active member of Harvest Field Church in Rainbow City, Alabama, and brings her faith, compassion, and commitment to excellence into every area of her work and life.

Amy Beck

My name is Amy Beck. I am a proud graduate of Boaz High School and Jacksonville State University, where I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. For twenty-six years, I taught first grade at Boaz Elementary School, where I discovered my passion for helping young learners grow. After retiring from public education in May 2025, I began a new and fulfilling chapter teaching at Pursuit Academy.

I am married to Chris Beck of Boaz, and we are blessed with two daughters, Anna Kate and Sarah Beth. Our family is active at St. Paul Methodist Church, where we enjoy being part of a caring faith community.