MEET OUR STAFF
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Julie Doerr, Executive Director
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Julie earned her bachelor of arts degree in Elementary and Special Education, a masters of arts in Counseling and a Specialist Education degree in Elementary and Secondary School Leadership & Administration, all from Lindenwood University. Julie has worked in private and public schools, she has worked with a variety of individuals with special needs. As a child, she struggled in school and only graduated because of alternative school programs and a few truly dedicated teachers that took her under their wings. She became a teacher in hopes of being that same inspiration to her students. She is also a wife and mother and in her free time she enjoy reading, floating and camping. She enjoys learning about each student and supporting them in reaching their personal goals.
Jessica Murphy, Classroom Facilitator
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Jessica earned a bachelor of science degree in criminology and has worked with special needs children and adults for 17 years. She started working with individuals with special needs when she had her daughter who was born with Down Syndrome. During the past ten years, she worked in public schools and private settings with individuals with special needs. She loves to find new ways to help individuals enjoy things they love and to help improve life skills for healthy independent living. At home she enjoys being with her family, exploring new places and gardening.
Jenny Eaton, Classroom Facilitator
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Jenny has worked closely with special needs children for over 20 years. She earned a bachelor's degree in Education K-12 from Missouri State University (SMSU). Jenny has worked in Springfield and Nixa Public Schools with neurodivergent children. She loves to work with each student to make connections and see student growth and learning. When not at work, Jenny enjoys spending time with her family and two dogs, and being crafty in her spare time.
Nelligos of Everest, Official School Mascot
Nelligos is an original name submitted by Andrew, one of our students. "Nell" means "light," signifying that our dragon is a guardian of the light and all that is good. GOS stands for "Gaming Operating System." Mount Everest symbolizes the conquest of seemingly insurmountable challenges, and the name "Everest" was submitted by community member Anna Cooper.
We are pleased to incorporate a combination of names from both our students and the community. Our dragon's description is as follows:
Guardian of Everest, our school, the place where we meet our challenges with courage and determination
Defender of Nell, the light, and all that is good.
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