Pelahatchie ES welcomes new teachers for 2025-26

Special to Pelahatchie News

Pelahatchie Elementary School (PES) welcomes Mrs. Kimberly Phillips as a second grade teacher. Phillips, a graduate of Pelahatchie High School, previously served PES as an assistant teacher. PES also welcomes Mrs. Kristi Johnston as a first grade teacher and the newest member of the Chiefs’ faculty.

A word from Kimberly Phillips: Hi Everyone,  my name is Kimberly Phillips, and I’m so excited to be joinging the team as a second grade teacher this year. As a graduate of Pelahatchie High School, I truly call this place home. I recently graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi and spent time as an assistant teacher before stepping into this new role. I’m passionate about helping young learners grow and creating a classroom where every student feels valued, safe, and exicted to learn. I can’t wait to get to know my students and their families as we kick off an amazing school year together.

A word from Kristi Johnston: Hello, my name is Mrs. Kristi Johnston. My husband and I, along with our two daughters, have proudly called Pelahatchie home for the past eight years. I earned both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Mississippi State University, and completed my Specialist degree at Delta State University in December. I began my teaching career in 2024 at Lake Elementary School in Scott County School District. During my time there, I served as a kindergarten assistant for two years, taught fourth grade for one year, and spent eight years teaching kindergarten. I am excited to begin this new school year as a frist grade teacher at Pelahahtchie Elementary School.