Mrs. Heather Gourley 

Preschool/Director

Mrs. Gourley has lived in the New Bethlehem community for over twenty years. She came to the area with her husband, Eric, to raise their children and become part of the family business. 

Mrs. Gourley has spent the majority of her time in the area raising her five daughters. During those years, she homeschooled their primary education and was engaged with the community in various leadership roles. She was a founding developer of the Redbank Valley Community Center. In 2018, she enrolled at Clarion University to add an early childhood education certificate to her bachelor’s degree in child development from the Pennsylvania State University. This certification enabled Mrs. Gourley to purchase Little Bird Preschool, which she has operated for the past six years. Early childhood education is truly her passion. She loves being instrumental in the curiosity and wonder of this magical age. Two years ago, she partnered with her church to form Leatherwood Academy. Being the director of the academy, Mrs. Gourley gives teachers a place to thrive and truly love what they do. As a result, this will instill a love for learning in our students.

Mrs. Patty Magagnotti

Teachers Assistant 

My name is Patty Magagnotti and I am the teaching assistant for preschool at Leatherwood Academy-Little Bird Primary. I began this wonderful career path 12 years ago as an aide at Little Bird Preschool. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to continue this journey and help to positively influence a childs first academic experience. 

Mrs. Tia Yori 

Kindergarten

I am Tia Yori, the kindergarten teacher here at Leatherwood Academy. I have been working in education with children for nearly five years. I am a kind and caring teacher who wants all children to be successful learners. I work to create a classroom atmosphere that is encouraging and adaptive to the various needs of the students. I strive to develop hands-on lessons that will capture a child's imagination. It's a privilege to be part of the staff and work with the students here. I hope to meet you and your child in my classroom soon!

Mrs. Krista George

Teachers Assistant

My name is Krista George and I am the kindergarten assistant teacher at Leatherwood Academy. I have worked in early childhood education, either as a classroom aide or assistant teacher for the past 12 years. I have a passion for working with young children and I love what I do. I feel blessed to be a part of the Leatherwood Academy family. 

Mrs. Betty DeSantis

First & Second  Grade 

My name is Betty DeSantis and I have been teaching children for over 10 years. My goals for teaching are to meet each child where they are, both academically and emotionally. Also, I try to instill a love of learning in students, in the hopes they become lifelong learners.  When I am not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, being outside, and traveling. 

Mrs. Amber Alworth

Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Grades Combined

My name is Amber Alworth. I have a bachelor's degree in elementary and special eduation. I have over 20 years of teaching experience and am excited to share my passion of teaching and love of Jesus with the students and families at Leatherwood Academy. I am married to my best friend and have four children. I enjoy reading, being outdoors in nice weather, and spending time with my family and my mini schnauzer, Emmy. 

Ms. Nichole Allshouse

Nurse, Secretary, and Cafeteria 

My name is Nichole Allshouse and I have been a nurse for 16 years. I have over 5 years of experience working in public schools as a nurse prior to coming to Leatherwood Academy. In addition to being the nurse here at Leatherwood, I also work as the secretary and cafeteria lady. I have two daughters, Lainee and Lilly, that also attend Leatherwood Academy. When I am not applying Band-Aids, answering phones, or feeding the students, I enjoy spending time with my family and being outside.