Lower School / Fairmount / K to 5

Sharonel Monroe

1st & 2nd Grade Split Assistant Teacher

Shay is a faith-filled woman dedicated to empowering others through her love for God, her husband, her family, and her community. She leads with compassion and purpose, inspiring spiritual growth and confidence in Christ, especially among women and young girls. As the CEO of a women’s organization, Shay sponsors summer mentoring programs and finds joy in serving others—whether through mentoring, celebrating milestones with loved ones, or providing coats and accessories to children in need. Certified in Education, Shay took early retirement from the SDOP to re-enter the workforce and pursue her passion for educating children.

Rebekah Williams

Office Manager

“I am truly blessed and thankful to God that he has placed me in such a wonderful place. I have the great privilege of working side by side with such loving and caring people. It is a blessing to know The City School students and their parents. Working here is incredibly satisfying, rich, and rewarding.”

Rebekah grew up in Dallas and Wichita, Texas. She loves creating beautiful weddings and other special events. Rebekah enjoys spending time with her family and looks forward to church service on Sundays.

Meifang Hou

Mandarin Teacher

All my hobbies are indoor. Like watching anime, movie and listening rock music. In the beginning, the school needed a Mandarin teacher, so I came here and lucky thing I am a Christian. I think language is a tool that can help everyone to find the wonderful world.Recently, I am learning skate board, but University city is not a good place, it is full of cars and people.

Deja Mitchell

1st & 2nd Grade Split Teacher

“Initially, in college I was studying psychology but after being an assistant teacher in Pre-k, I found my passion with teaching the littles. After taking a little time off to welcome my first child to the world, I was still very eager to be an educator and blessing to the City School babies. I then became the Lead Pre-k teacher and now currently I teach the 1st and 2nd grade split class. Outside of teaching, I love cooking, baking and pretty much anything else with the help of my little one. I also love doing anything active, self care days and shopping of course. LOL!”

Shante Woodlin

School Counselor

Precious Emmanuel

4th Grade Teacher

Peyton Jefferson

Teacher's Assistant

My name is Peyton Jefferson and l am a retired NYC teacher. I am originally from Harlem and l have always enjoyed visiting Philly. I moved here a year ago this month [12/2024]. I live in Fairmount with my husband and 2 daughters who are away at college. I work at the Poplar campus in the am and Fairmount in the afternoon. I have found The City School community to be very welcoming and supportive.

Gail Gaines

STEAM Teacher

Sydney Goneau

3rd Grade Teacher

I enjoy hiking, reading, and exploring new food and coffee places with my husband. I also love playing with my cat. I came to TCS as a long term substitute for the first grade TA position. I immediately knew that I wanted to stay as I loved the culture of the school. This [2024] will be my second year as a third grade teacher.

Eyvone Blunte

2nd Grade Lead Teacher

Kirby Gaddis

4th Grade Teacher

I am so excited to join The City School for my 8th year as a teacher! I love working with the next generation in forms of leading children’s church, youth group, coaching, and more! I enjoy traveling, trying new things, reading, and watching sunsets in my free time. Most importantly, Mom is my favorite title! I love attending my son’s baseball games and cheering on the side! *Numbers 6:24-26*

Adriana Melendez

5th Grade Teacher

Jervonda Malachi-Banton

Kindergarten Lead Teacher

I joined the TCS team because I believe in the mission of the school, and I know I am called to join in fulfilling that mission. I believe students learn best when they have a trusting relationship with the adults teaching them. Before coming on board at TCS I was employed with Delaware County’s Head Start program. I enjoy carpentry, crafting, and sports. I am married with four children and my favorite scripture is Jeremiah 29:11

Amira Reid

After Care Coordinator

I am a mother of two boys and a Philadelphia Native. I have been drawn to the City School since I attended an open house in 2018 with my oldest son, who is currently a student at the Poplar campus. When I saw the opportunity for an After Care Instructor, I jumped at it, hoping to be more involved with the great children that attend The City School.

Chole Edwards

Academic Support Coordinator

My name is Chloe Edwards and I’ve been an elementary teacher for the past 9 years. I’m a Philly transplant, originally from New York. I have been living in Philly for the past 4 years. My husband and I live in Fairmount. We enjoy fitness and staying active. This [2022] will be my first year with The City School and I’m excited to marry my love and faith in God with my passion for education. This is my first year transitioning to a Christian school from secular charter school. This is also my first year teaching pre school. My previous years of teaching have been kinder-4th grade.

John Delaney

3rd Grade Teacher

“I truly have been drawn to this school, for many of reasons. However I must say the biggest draw is the heart of leadership here which is founded and built on Jesus Christ!

My mission while I’m here is simply to steward and shepard the hearts of the children. I believe these kids are precious and the most valuable resource we have. ”

A native of  Wilmington, John currently lives in Newark Delaware. He loves tribal African jewelry, cooking, reading, and Pinterest! John has 4 yr old twin boys, who he admires and loves deeply.

John is pursuing a  B.A. in Biblical and theological studies on at Liberty University.

Dionne Delaney

Office Manager

“Excited doesn’t even begin to describe how I feel about being at The City School. Here, my passion for ministry and the Kingdom of God, my gifts in administration, my love for children and the education of their minds, shaping of their hearts and lives is brought together in one place. Being here is not by happenstance–it is an assignment from the Lord.”

Dionne and her husband Jay have enjoyed over eighteen years of marriage. They have two adult children and rambunctious twin toddler grandsons. In her free time, Dionne enjoys traveling, baking, cooking, fellowship with friends, sewing and making jewelry.

Ashley Fornwalt

Academic Support Coordinator

“I am passionate about children and our work at The City School because it is what I believe God has called me to. Seeing the impact I can have on the development of the whole child—spiritually, physically, emotionally, academically—gives me goose bumps.  As I grow, I am always getting a clearer picture of how God views us and invests in our growth and development. I view my job as an extension of God’s love and care for each child.”

Ashley lives with her husband and one-year-old son. She enjoys camping, gardening, and “attempting craft projects.”

Noel Terrell

Music Teacher

“Music is more than notes and harmony–it’s a way of unleashing your emotions. Music moves people. It brings us together. It glorifies God. My dream is to share the power of music with my students.”

Noel has served as a Musical Director and keyboardist for diverse musical acts like Pharrell Williams, Meek Mill, and Jill Scott. He also toured Europe with British hip-hop/r&b duo Floetry and currently performs with his contemporary Christian band, The Browne Boyz. Noel is happily married and has two sons, Roman and Lincoln.