Upper School and Middle School Performing Arts
Kelly Finley
Teaching Background:
- 5 years of teaching experience at Lagrange Academy
About Me:
I love helping students discover new things about themselves—both positive and challenging—and guiding them as they set, work toward, and achieve their goals. In addition to teaching, I’m the Theatre Education Director at Lafayette Theatre Academy, where I produce, direct, and stage manage for Lafayette Theatre Company. I also act in film and TV whenever I can. Outside of work, I enjoy gardening and living in the country with my cows, a horse, two dogs, and a cat. I’m an avid traveler, and my favorite destination so far is Iceland.
Strings Ensemble
Sam Lee
Teaching Background:
- Founding conductor of LaGrange Symphony
- Conductor of LaGrange Youth String Ensemble
- 11 years of teaching experience at LaGrange Academy
About Me:
I find it incredibly rewarding to see young people become intellectually engaged and discover the joy of learning an instrument and making music. A passionate lover of opera, I believe it is one of the most misunderstood yet deeply moving art forms. I also have a deep love for animals, especially cats, which bring me peace and a profound sense of connection.
Art
Maya Turner
Teaching Background:
- Currently pursuing a Masters in Education
- 3 Years of teaching experience at LaGrange Academy
About Me:
My favorite part of teaching is seeing students get excited and confident when they understand a concept and tackle a project. Their enthusiasm inspires me to keep teaching and helping them build their confidence. Outside of teaching, I enjoy drawing, painting, photography, video games, and comics. Fun fact: my mother is the theatre teacher here, and my brother, Ian, teaches Spanish 1 at UGA.