Lower School welcomes new faculty for 2026-2027

Publish Date: 7/10/2026

Please join us in welcoming to USN: LS Spanish Teacher Connor Mitchell, LS Music Teacher Marisa Frank, LS Learning Support Specialist MacKenzie Grant, Fourth Grade Teacher Alexis Novotny, Second Grade Teachers Cara Bishop and Lindsay Moates, First Grade Teachers Marisa Depke and Molly Roth '10, and Kindergarten Teacher Ellen Haber '00. Also, Naturalist Carrie Riley transitions to LS from the HS Science Department.

Compiled by Kristian Noden, Head of Lower School

Ellen Haber ’00 returns to USN as a Kindergarten Teacher, bringing more than 15 years of experience in elementary education across independent and public school settings in Nashville. A proud USN alum, she earned her bachelor’s degree in History from Washington University in St. Louis and her Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education from Belmont University. Throughout her career, Ellen has been deeply committed to creating nurturing, inquiry-based learning environments where students feel known, valued, and empowered to explore their world. Most recently, she taught kindergarten at Akiva School, where she designed engaging project-based learning experiences, integrated outdoor education and nature journaling into the curriculum, developed interdisciplinary studies, and collaborated closely with colleagues and families to support each child’s academic and social-emotional growth. Her previous experience includes teaching kindergarten at Ensworth School, fifth grade at Cameron Middle School, and serving in multiple roles at USN, including fourth-grade interim teacher, substitute teacher, summer camp teacher, and teaching assistant. A dedicated advocate for Responsive Classroom practices, Ellen emphasizes community building, student voice, and meaningful relationships as foundations for learning. She is passionate about helping children develop curiosity, confidence, and compassion and is thrilled to return to USN, where she looks forward to partnering with students, families, and colleagues to nurture a lifelong love of learning in the school’s youngest learners.

Molly Roth '18 returns to USN as a First Grade Teacher, bringing strong classroom experience, a passion for student-centered learning, and a lifelong connection to the USN community. A proud member of USN’s 13-Year Club and a graduate of the Class of 2018, Molly earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in Diverse Learners from Butler University. After completing her student teaching in first grade at Explore! Community School, Molly continued her work there as an associate teacher before becoming a lead first-grade teacher. In that role, she designed engaging instruction across literacy, math, science, and social studies while creating a classroom culture centered on belonging, collaboration, and student voice. She is skilled in differentiating instruction, analyzing student data, partnering with support teams, and developing learning experiences that inspire curiosity and confidence. Molly has been recognized for her excellence in teaching, including earning a Level 5 Overall Effectiveness rating from the Tennessee Department of Education and receiving a Pathfinder Award nomination for demonstrating leadership and commitment to her school community. Her connection to USN extends beyond her own student experience; she has served as a Summer Camp instructor since 2019 and has coached USN varsity volleyball and softball since 2022. She joins a family tradition at USN, following in the footsteps of her mother, Debbie Roth, and sister, Katie Roth, who are both members of the faculty. Outside of school, Molly enjoys cooking, exploring new restaurants, playing video games, and spending time with her two cats, Marmalade and Bucco. She is thrilled to return to the community that helped shape her and looks forward to supporting the next generation of USN learners.

Marisa Depke joins USN as a First Grade Teacher, bringing six years of elementary teaching experience and a strong commitment to helping young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with a certificate in Educational Policy from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and later completed her Master of Science in Education, along with Reading Teacher and Reading Specialist licensure, at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. Throughout her career, Marisa has developed a deep understanding of how children learn and has dedicated herself to creating classrooms where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their potential. Most recently, she taught first grade at Brookfield Academy, where she designed engaging instruction grounded in strong relationships, high expectations, and a love of learning. Her previous experience includes serving as a first-grade teacher at Woodside Elementary School and Shorewood Hills Elementary School, as well as working as a math interventionist, where she used student data to provide targeted support and help learners build confidence in foundational skills. Marisa also holds licensure in English as a Second Language and brings experience supporting diverse learners through individualized instruction and responsive teaching practices. She believes that every child has unique strengths and is passionate about creating inclusive learning environments where curiosity, creativity, and compassion flourish. Outside of the classroom, Marisa enjoys staying active through fitness, exploring the outdoors, and connecting with her community. She is excited to join USN and partner with students, families, and colleagues to create meaningful learning experiences.

Cara Bishop joins USN as a Second Grade Teacher, bringing seven years of elementary teaching experience, a passion for creative learning, and a deep commitment to building joyful, inclusive classroom communities. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with minors in Theatre and Diverse Learners from Butler University. Throughout her teaching career, Cara has focused on creating meaningful learning experiences that encourage students to ask questions, take ownership of their learning, and make connections across subject areas. Most recently, she served as an Elementary Lead Teacher at Explore! Community School, where she designed and delivered differentiated instruction, developed project-based learning experiences rooted in student inquiry, and collaborated with colleagues to create engaging curriculum. She also coordinated student Exhibitions of Learning, guiding students as they shared their thinking and accomplishments with families and the broader community. Cara was recognized with the Pathfinder Award for demonstrating leadership, compassion, and dedication to her school community. She also participated in a three-year research collaboration with Vanderbilt University focused on supporting playful learning in elementary mathematics classrooms. Through this work, she examined student engagement and mathematical thinking and used those insights to develop math experiences that foster curiosity, creativity, and deeper understanding. Cara brings additional experience integrating the arts into academic learning and believes creativity is a powerful tool for student growth. Originally from Aurora, Illinois, she moved to Nashville in 2020 and has enjoyed becoming part of the city’s vibrant community. Outside of school, Cara enjoys singing, reading, watching movies, and playing Nintendo Switch. She is excited to bring her creativity, enthusiasm, and student-centered approach to USN.

Lindsay Moates joins USN as a Second Grade Teacher, bringing nearly a decade of experience in early childhood education and a strong background in both general and special education. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and holds Tennessee licensure in Early Childhood Education (PreK–3) and Special Education (PreK–3). Throughout her career, Lindsay has taught first and second grade students in a variety of educational settings, developing expertise in creating inclusive classrooms where every learner feels valued, supported, and challenged. Most recently, Lindsay served as a Second Grade Teacher at Currey Ingram Academy, where she designed developmentally appropriate instruction, supported diverse learning needs, and built strong partnerships with students and families. Previously, she taught at Hermitage Elementary, Woodcrest School, Soddy Elementary, and Snow Hill Elementary, gaining experience across multiple school communities and grade levels. Lindsay’s background in both early childhood education and special education allows her to thoughtfully differentiate instruction, identify student strengths, and create learning experiences that encourage confidence and independence. She is passionate about fostering classrooms where curiosity, collaboration, and a love of learning are at the center of each day. Outside of school, Lindsay enjoys hiking and kayaking with her dog, Milo, practicing yoga, and reading. She is excited to join the USN community and looks forward to partnering with students, families, and colleagues to create a welcoming and engaging second-grade experience.

Alexis Novotny joins USN as a Fourth Grade Teacher, bringing six years of experience in both general and special education and a strong commitment to helping students grow as confident, curious, and independent learners. She earned her bachelor’s degree in K–8 Special Education and PreK–4 Elementary Education from Bloomsburg University before completing master’s degrees in Special Education and Educational Leadership at Regent University. Licensed in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Virginia, and Tennessee, Alexis has taught third and fourth grade students in inclusive classroom settings, where she has developed differentiated instruction, created individualized learning plans, implemented evidence-based interventions, and partnered with families and colleagues to support student success. Throughout her teaching career, Alexis has demonstrated a deep understanding of meeting the needs of diverse learners while maintaining high expectations for all students. She has been recognized as a highly effective educator, with students consistently achieving significant academic growth through thoughtful instruction and targeted support. Beyond classroom teaching, Alexis has contributed to school communities through leadership committees, enrichment clubs, intervention programs, and schoolwide initiatives designed to strengthen student belonging and engagement. She is passionate about creating classrooms where students feel safe taking risks, developing their strengths, and becoming active participants in their own learning. Relocating to Nashville from New Jersey, Alexis is excited to join the USN community. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, practicing yoga, singing, and staying active through sports. As one of seven siblings, she values teamwork, connection, and the joy of learning together.

MacKenzie Grant joins USN as a Lower School Learning Support Specialist, bringing extensive experience in student support, school counseling, educational leadership, and advocacy for diverse learners. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Political Science from the University of Michigan and her Master of Education in Professional School Counseling from Middle Tennessee State University. A Licensed Professional School Counselor and certified specialist in supporting students with special needs, MacKenzie has dedicated her career to creating systems and environments where students are understood, supported, and empowered to thrive. Most recently, she served as Director of Student Support at Linden Waldorf School, where she was a member of the school’s executive leadership team and designed and implemented a comprehensive early childhood to eighth grade student support program. In this role, she coordinated intervention services, facilitated student support teams, developed systems for supporting neurodivergent learners, coached faculty, and implemented schoolwide behavioral and social-emotional initiatives. Previously, MacKenzie served as a school counselor with Metro Nashville Public Schools, where she supported students across elementary, middle, and high school settings through individual and group counseling, behavior intervention planning, and culturally responsive programming. She also taught grades 6 to 8 as an Upper School Guide at Abintra Montessori, where she developed curriculum and instruction in English Language Arts, Human Growth and Development, and history. MacKenzie is passionate about collaboration and believes strong partnerships among students, families, and educators are essential to student success. Outside of school, she enjoys making music, hiking, knitting, sewing, and spending time outdoors with her husband, a USN alumnus, and their three children. She is excited to join the USN community and support every learner’s growth and success.

Carrie Riley joins USN as the Lower School Naturalist, bringing a wealth of experience in environmental science, outdoor education, and hands-on learning. She holds a Master of Science in Environmental Studies from the College of Charleston, where her research focused on coastal ecosystems, and a Bachelor of Science in Ecology from the University of Georgia. Throughout her career, Carrie has been dedicated to helping students of all ages develop a deeper understanding of the natural world through exploration, inquiry, and meaningful scientific experiences. Her teaching experience spans Pre-K through graduate-level learners and has taken place in diverse environments, including classrooms, forests, marshes, and on the water. Before joining USN, Carrie served as a Marine Science Educator at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab, where she developed immersive, hands-on programming for thousands of students and led professional development workshops for teachers throughout the Southeast. Her work has consistently combined scientific expertise with creativity, curiosity, and accessibility, inspiring learners to ask questions and engage with the world around them. Since joining USN in 2022, Carrie has been a valued member of the High School Science faculty, teaching Biology, Chemistry, and Marine Science while also serving as a freshman advisor. Her ability to connect scientific concepts with real-world experiences has made a lasting impact on students. In her new role as Lower School Naturalist, Carrie is excited to bring her passion for environmental stewardship, experiential learning, and discovery-based education to younger learners. She looks forward to creating opportunities for students to explore, investigate, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the natural world.

Marisa Frank joins USN as the Lower School Music Teacher, bringing exceptional experience as a music educator, arts administrator, creative leader, and advocate for the transformative power of the arts. She earned her Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where she attended on a full scholarship for piano performance, and later completed a Master of Education in Behavior Analysis from the University of Cincinnati. With extensive experience teaching music to students in kindergarten through eighth grade, Marisa has built innovative programs that celebrate creativity, collaboration, and student voice. Most recently, she served as Music Teacher and Related Arts Coordinator at Explore! Community School, where she led schoolwide arts programming, directed student ensembles, developed curriculum, and supported fellow educators. Her impact as a music educator has been recognized nationally. She was named a Top 10 Finalist for the 2023 GRAMMY Music Educator Award, received the 2025 CMA Music Teacher of Excellence Award, and was named 2024 Teacher of the Year at Explore! Community School. In addition to her classroom teaching, Marisa is the founder of Music City Kidz and has created numerous student-centered music initiatives, including original songwriting and performance projects that connect young musicians with the Nashville community. Her creative work has included collaborations with organizations such as the Country Music Hall of Fame, Nashville Opera, and local artists. An accomplished pianist, conductor, songwriter, and arranger, Marisa believes music provides students with opportunities to build confidence, express themselves, and connect with others. She is excited to bring her passion for musical exploration and community-building to USN and looks forward to inspiring students through joyful, meaningful musical experiences.

Connor Mitchell joins USN as the Lower School Spanish Teacher, bringing extensive experience in bilingual education, language acquisition, and international teaching. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Language with a minor in Secondary Education from the University of Tennessee–Knoxville and his Master of Arts in Teaching in English as a Second Language from Belmont University. A certified advanced C1-level Spanish speaker and licensed in Tennessee to teach Spanish and English as a Second Language, Connor has been recognized as the outstanding graduate of both his undergraduate and graduate programs and is a member of Phi Beta Kappa. Most recently, Connor taught bilingual education at Aventura Community School, one of Nashville’s first bilingual schools, where he taught language arts and mathematics in Spanish, supported English language learners, helped develop curriculum, analyzed student data to guide targeted instruction, and collaborated with support teams to meet the diverse needs of students. During his time there, he also served as a mentor teacher, supported curriculum development, and created project-based learning experiences that helped students transfer skills between Spanish and English. Connor’s passion for language and cultural exchange was further strengthened through his experience as a Fulbright Scholar and mentor in Spain, where he taught English to students ranging from elementary through high school and supported fellow educators participating in the program. He believes language learning provides students with opportunities to develop empathy, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Outside of school, Connor enjoys reading in both English and Spanish, dancing salsa, hiking, and participating in road and trail races throughout Nashville. He is excited to bring his enthusiasm for language learning and global connection to the USN community.

Interested in getting to know others new to USN? Meet new High School faculty here. Meet new Middle School faculty here. Meet new staff here.

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More USN News

List of 3 news stories.

Experienced educators join High School
8/18/2026
Allison Van Konynenburg returns to USN as Interim HS Dean of Teaching and Learning. Taking on additional responsibilities this academic year, Justin Fitzpatrick is now Interim HS Dean for Academic Affairs and Laura Snow is the High School Academic Operations Manager.
Read More
Lower School welcomes new faculty for 2026-2027
8/18/2026
Please join us in welcoming to USN: LS Spanish Teacher Connor Mitchell, LS Music Teacher Marisa Frank, LS Learning Support Specialist MacKenzie Grant, Fourth Grade Teacher Alexis Novotny, Second Grade Teachers Cara Bishop and Lindsay Moates, First Grade Teachers Marisa Depke and Molly Roth '10, and Kindergarten Teacher Ellen Haber '00. Also, Naturalist Carrie Riley transitions to LS from the HS Science Department.
Read More
Middle School welcomes learning specialist
8/18/2026
Learning Specialist Rachel Harley has over a decade in middle school education. Her office is located in room 1171 on the first floor of the Gordon Wing, in the former Middle School conference room.
Read More