FacultY & STAFF
Administration & Office
Theresa Courtney-Ketcher
Principal
Ms. Ketcher brings more than 40 years of experience in education, including over two decades of dedicated service at Forest Park. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and K-12 Special Education from the University of Arkansas, a Master of Science in Education with Administration Certification and additional graduate hours in Curriculum Supervision from the University of Central Arkansas and completed graduate coursework in reading instruction through the University of Kansas. She also earned certification in The Art and Craft of Principalship from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
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Throughout her distinguished career, Ms. Ketcher has been recognized with numerous honors, including the Arkansas PTA's State Administrator of the Year, the Little Rock PTA Council Administrator of the Year, and recognition as a finalist for the Arkansas Association of Elementary Schools' Principal of the Year. She has also received the LRSD VIP Administrator of the Year Award, the U.S. Department of Education's Bell Award for Principals of National Blue Ribbon Schools and was nominated for the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve's Patriotic Award.
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Ms. Ketcher holds certifications in K-9 Administration, K-12 Curriculum Specialist, K-12 Special Education, and K-6 Elementary Education.
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Robin Holmes
Secretary/Registrar/Bookkeeper
Ms. Holmes is a proud parent of a Forest Park graduate, bringing a unique perspective and deep commitment to our school community. She has a genuine heart for children, keeps her finger on the pulse of everything happening at Forest Park, and is often the friendly voice that welcomes families when they call or visit the office.
Her kindness, dedication, and commitment to our students, staff, and families make her an invaluable part of our school. In recognition of her outstanding service, Ms. Holmes was named Forest Park's Staff Person of the Year in both 2020 and 2026.
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Valerie Rouse
Attendance Secretary
Ms. Rouse has been a dedicated member of the Forest Park family for many years, first serving as a paraprofessional before stepping into her current role. In recognition of her exceptional dedication and service, Ms. Rouse was named Forest Park's Staff Person of the Year in both 2021 and 2025.
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Pre-Kindergarten
Rana Baiytti
Pre-Kindergarten Teacher
Ms. Baiytti joined the Forest Park family in 2011 as a Pre-K Assistant Teacher and is now in her fourth year as the Lead Teacher. She holds a bachelor's degree in Translation from Baghdad, Iraq, as well as an associate degree from Pulaski Technical College. A proud mother of two, she is passionate about helping young learners grow and thrive. Her dedication to our students and school community was recognized when she was named Forest Park's Staff Person of the Year in 2019.
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Shawntell Cunningham
Pre-K Assistant Teacher
Ms. Cunningham has been a dedicated member of the Forest Park family for many years, positively impacting the lives of countless students. She is a familiar and welcoming face to both current students and Forest Park alumni. She is also the proud parent of a Forest Park Ranger graduate. In recognition of her outstanding dedication and service, she was named Forest Park's Staff Person of the Year in 2011.
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Ms. Cunningham's Favorite Things
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Kindergarten
Belinda Johnson
Teacher
Ms. Johnson has been a dedicated member of the Forest Park faculty since 2002, inspiring and educating students for more than 20 years. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Arkansas and has also completed ELLA Training Certification, and is the proud mother of her son. In recognition of her outstanding commitment to excellence in the classroom, Ms. Johnson was named Forest Park's Teacher of the Year in 2008.
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Keri Richmond
Teacher
Ms. Richmond has been a valued member of the Forest Park faculty since 2014. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and a Master of Science in Educational Theory and Practice from Arkansas State University. She is a graduate of the Arkansas Leadership Academy's Teacher Leadership Institute (2014–2015) and has completed specialized training in ELLA, CGI, and Orton-Gillingham instruction. She also holds an ESL endorsement.
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A proud mother of three daughters, Ms. Richmond has two current Forest Park Rangers -- a 3rd grader and a kindergartener.
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Ms. Richmond's Favorite Things
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Candace Robertson
Teacher
Ms. Robertson has been a member of the Forest Park faculty since 2021. She earned her degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and brings nearly a decade of teaching experience to the classroom.
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Ms. Robertson's Favorite Things
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First Grade
Whitney Corry
Teacher
Ms. Corry has been an educator for many years and has been a valued member of the Forest Park faculty since 2013. She spent many years teaching Pre-K and Kindergarten students and is now in her third year of teaching in the 1st grade. In recognition of her outstanding loyalty and dedication to her students and school community, she was named Forest Park's Teacher of the Year in 2025.
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Ms. Corry is also a proud Forest Park parent, with one Forest Park graduate and a current 5th grade Ranger, giving her a unique perspective as both an educator and a parent.
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Christine Lloyd
Teacher
Christine is excited to be teaching 1st grade this year! She has more than 20 years of experience in education and is a certified dyslexia specialist. Christine also spent 10 years overseas as an ESL instructor, teaching in Saudi Arabia, Thailand, and Taiwan.
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She enjoys learning new languages and is currently studying Spanish and Chinese. Originally from Indiana, Christine moved to the area two years ago. She is the proud mother of four grown sons and is looking forward to a wonderful year of learning and growing with her students at Forest Park.
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Ms. Lloyd's Favorite Things​​
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Kelly Navin
Teacher
Ms. Navin is excited to join the Forest Park team this year! Although this is her 28th year of teaching, it is her first year at Forest Park. She graduated from Hendrix College, earned her master's degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, and achieved National Board Certification in 2006.
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Teaching is Kelly's passion, and when she's not in the classroom, she enjoys hiking, spending time with her family and her dog, and reading. She looks forward to getting to know the Forest Park community and having a wonderful year together.
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Second Grade
Teacher
Sheri Hunter
Ms. Hunter is excited to join the Forest Park community this year! With more than 30 years of experience teaching in education, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from the University of Arkansas and a Master of Science degree in Reading from the University of Central Arkansas. She is a Certified Reading Specialist.
Outside of teaching, Ms. Hunter enjoys walking, reading, and playing with her dog, Olive. ​
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Ms. Hunter's Favorite Things​
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Teacher
Kristin Taylor
Ms. Taylor is in her fourth year of teaching 2nd grade at Forest Park. Before joining the classroom, she served as Forest Park's ROOTS Garden Educator, where she inspired students through hands-on learning and outdoor education. She also serves on the Forest Park PTA Leadership Board as the Buildings & Grounds Chair, reflecting her ongoing commitment to our school community.
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Ms. Taylor is the proud mother of three children, including a daughter who is a current 5th grade Forest Park Ranger.
Ms. Taylor's Favorite Things​
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Teacher
Chap Williams
Mr. Williams has been a part of the Forest Park community for more than 20 years. He earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of Arkansas and a master's degree in teaching from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. He is National Board Certified and holds a Gifted and Talented (G.T.) certification through the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.
Mr. Williams was previously named 2023 Forest Park Elementary Teacher of the Year. He is also a proud Forest Park parent with a 2nd grade Ranger and a new Pre-K Ranger.
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Mr. Williams's Favorite Things​
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Third Grade
Mary Haley
Teacher
Ms. Haley joined the Forest Park faculty four years ago after teaching at another local elementary school. With more than 20 years of experience in education, she holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science in Theory and Practice of Teaching. She has completed Orton-Gillingham training to support literacy instruction. In recognition of her exceptional dedication to her students and school community, Ms. Haley was named Forest Park's Teacher of the Year in 2026.
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Jenny Holmes
Teacher
Ms. Holmes is a lifelong Little Rock resident and a proud graduate of Little Rock Central High School. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Arkansas and has more than 20 years of teaching experience, including more than two decades at Forest Park, where she has taught since 2005.
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Committed to literacy and student success, Ms. Holmes has completed ELLA, Orton-Gillingham, and Effective Literacy training. Her excellence in the classroom has earned her numerous honors, including being named Forest Park's Teacher of the Year in 2018 and Little Rock School District Teacher of the Year for the 2018–2019 school year.
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Ms. Holmes's Favorite Things​​
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Jamie McRae
Teacher
Ms. McRae joined the Forest Park faculty in 2018 and brings more than a decade of teaching experience to the classroom. Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education from the University of Arkansas. She began her teaching career with Teach For America, serving students at a rural school in South Carolina, and has completed Orton-Gillingham training to support literacy instruction.
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A proud parent of two, Ms. McRae is dedicated to helping every student succeed. In recognition of her outstanding commitment to her students and school community, she was named Forest Park's Teacher of the Year in 2021.
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Ms. McRae's Favorite Things​​​
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Fourth Grade
Laura Ritchie
Teacher
Ms. Ritchie is in her second year of teaching at Forest Park, though she is already a familiar face to many of our students and families after previously serving as a substitute teacher. She brings seven years of teaching experience and holds a Bachelor of Science in Child Development from the University of Arkansas and a Master of Science in Teaching from the University of Central Arkansas.
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Ms. Ritchie is also the proud mother of two sons, including a 2nd grade Ranger.
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Anna Blair Williams
Teacher
Ms. Williams has been a valued member of the Forest Park faculty since 2015. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Rhodes College and a Master of Education in Elementary Education from Vanderbilt University. In recognition of her outstanding dedication to her students and school community, she was named Forest Park's Teacher of the Year in 2023.
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Ms. Williams is also the proud mother of two children, including a current 2nd grade Ranger and a new Pre-K Ranger.
​Ms. Williams's Favorite Things
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Fifth Grade
Carolyn Dillard
Teacher
Ms. Dillard has been a dedicated member of the Forest Park faculty since 2001. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Central Arkansas and has completed ELLA, Orton-Gillingham, and Effective Literacy training to support student learning and literacy development.
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A proud mother of two sons, Ms. Dillard is committed to helping every student reach their full potential.
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Ms. Dillard's Favorite Things​​
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Yulonda Wallace
Teacher
Ms. Wallace brings more than 30 years of experience in education to the classroom. She began her teaching career at Forest Park before returning to the school in 2005, where she has continued to make a lasting impact on generations of Rangers. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from the University of Arkansas and a Master of Science in Library Science from the University of Central Arkansas.
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Ms. Wallace has completed Orton-Gillingham, Effective Literacy, Investigations, and ESL training and was recognized as Forest Park's Teacher of the Year in 2024. A proud mother and "Yaya" to six grandchildren, she is passionate about helping students grow both academically and personally.
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Specialists
Becky Cook
Art
Ms. Cook has been a valued member of the Forest Park family since 2009. She studied Literature and Art at the University of Mississippi and completed graduate studies at the University of Arkansas. She began her teaching career in middle and high school English before following her passion for art education. Ms. Cook feels fortunate to spend each day teaching what she loves and inspiring creativity in her favorite artists—children.
Under her guidance, countless students have created beautiful works of art, and her vision, combined with their creativity, has been featured on the covers of the Forest Park yearbook for the past two years!
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Specialists
Jason Finney
Gifted & Talented
Mr. Finney joined the Forest Park faculty in 2008 and brings more than 20 years of experience in education. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Lyon College and a Master's Degree in Gifted and Talented K–12 Education from the University of Arkansas. Mr. Finney is a National Board Certified Teacher in Middle Childhood Generalist and leads Forest Park's Quiz Bowl and Mathletes teams, where he inspires students to challenge themselves, think critically, and develop a lifelong love of learning.
His dedication to gifted education has been recognized with the Arkansans for Gifted and Talented Education (AGATE) Graduate Curriculum Award in 2008 and the Economics Arkansas Bessie B. Moore Award in 2020. He was also named Forest Park Teacher of the Year in 2015.
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Specialists
Michelle Graves
Library Media Specialist
Ms. Graves has been a cherished member of the Forest Park community since 2010 and brings more than 20 years of experience in education. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Education from Southern Arkansas University and a Master's Degree in Library Science from the University of Central Arkansas. As Forest Park's Library Media Specialist, Ms. Graves fosters a love of reading, learning, and discovery in every student who walks through the library doors.
She describes her role best: "I love being the Forest Park Library Media Specialist! It is a dream job, and when I'm spending time with my bookworms, it doesn't feel like a job at all!" She was named Forest Park Staff Person of the Year in 2015.
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Specialists
Kathryn Jones
Media Clerk
Details coming soon!
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Specialists
Margaret Teeling-Uitvlugt
Music
Ms. Teeling-Uitvlugt is excited to join the Forest Park Ranger family as the K–5 Music Teacher. She brings more than 25 years of experience in music education, having taught in both public and private schools. She earned her Bachelor of Music Education degree from Arkansas State University and is certified to teach Music (PK–12).
A professional clarinetist, pianist, church musician, and aspiring author, Ms. Teeling-Uitvlugt is passionate about helping every child discover the joy of music. Her classroom emphasizes creativity, confidence, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for making music through singing, movement, instruments, and performance.
Outside the classroom, she enjoys reading, writing, everything Disney, history, travel, wildlife conservation, and spending time near the ocean. She lives in Little Rock with her husband and four children.
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Ms. Teeling-Uitvlugt's Favorite Things
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Specialists
Lonnie Smith
Physical Education
Coach Smith is a beloved member of the Forest Park community and a favorite among our Rangers—just ask any student about his unforgettable rendition of the "Happy Birthday" song! He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education and Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Arkansas at Monticello. He is certified in Health and Physical Education for grades P–6 and 7–12 and is a member of SHAPE America (formerly the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance).
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Coach Smith has a special nickname for just about every student, making each child feel seen, valued, and part of the Forest Park family. Before becoming an educator, he proudly served eight years in the United States Army, completing two tours in Iraq and achieving the rank of Sergeant. During his military service, he served as a Squad Leader and Assistant Convoy Commander. We are grateful for his service to our country and for the leadership, encouragement, and enthusiasm he brings to our students every day.
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Specialists
Margaret Gray
Counselor
Ms. Gray has been a valued member of the Forest Park family since 2009. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Philander Smith College and a Master's Degree in Guidance and Counseling from Trevecca Nazarene University. With her warm smile, compassionate heart, and encouraging spirit, Ms. Gray is a trusted source of support for students and a positive presence throughout our school community.
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Specialists
Pam Kuhn
Nurse
Nurse Kuhn has been caring for the Forest Park community since 2014 and brings decades of nursing experience to her role. Before joining Forest Park, she served at Arkansas Children's Hospital in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), General Practice Clinic, and Interventional Radiology. Her expertise, compassion, and calm presence provide comfort to students, staff, and families each day.
In recognition of her exceptional care and dedication, she was named Forest Park's Staff Person of the Year in both 2018 and 2023. We are incredibly fortunate to have Nurse Kuhn caring for the health, safety, and well-being of our Rangers.
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Specialists
Colby McIntosh
Instructional Lead Teacher
Ms. McIntosh is entering her third year at Forest Park and has quickly become a valued member of our school community. We are grateful to have her on our team and appreciate the care and dedication she brings to our students each day.
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Ms. McIntosh's Favorite Things
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Specialists
Kimberly McKay
Reading Interventionist
Ms. McKay brings more than 30 years of teaching experience to Forest Park. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and her Master's Degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and is Orton-Gillingham trained, equipping her with specialized strategies to support diverse learners. She also received her Dyslexia Certification from the University of Central Arkansas.
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Throughout her career, she has been recognized for her dedication to excellence in education. She was named the Little Rock School District Teacher of the Year for the 2005–2006 school year and was later honored as Forest Park's Teacher of the Year while teaching fifth grade.
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Specialists
Sherry Nehus
Occupational Therapist
Ms. Nehus has been a dedicated member of the Forest Park community since 2002 and brings more than 30 years of experience working in pediatrics. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy from the University of Central Arkansas and is passionate about helping students develop the skills and confidence they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
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Specialists
Deeni Sterling
Speech Therapist
Ms. Sterling joined the Forest Park team in 2017 and brings many years of pediatric experience to our school community. Her knowledge, compassion, and dedication help ensure that every student receives the care and support they need to learn, grow, and thrive each day.
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Ms. Sterling's Favorite Things
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Specialists
Peyton Turner
Resource SPED
A Little Rock native, Ms. Turner joined the Forest Park family in 2022. She earned her degree from the University of Arkansas and is known for her warm, friendly spirit and welcoming presence throughout our school. Ms. Turner is the proud mother of two daughters.
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Specialists
Kendrick Farr
Paraprofessional
Mr. Farr has been at Forest Park for several years as a Paraprofessional. He is also an avid runner and track coach. He oversees lunch and recess and assists in classrooms throughout the day. His friendly and fun personality is a hit with the students at our school.
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Specialists
Tim Hansen
Paraprofessional
A familiar and friendly face around Forest Park, Mr. Hansen has been a valued part of our school community for many years. A graduate of Hendrix College, he serves as a paraprofessional and shares his passion for STEM by leading our Coding, Chess, and Robotics Clubs. He was named as the Forest Park Staff Member of the Year in 2016.
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Specialists
Patrick "Rudy" Ragar
Paraprofessional
Mr. Ragar, affectionately known as "Mr. Rudy" around Forest Park, is a Little Rock native and a beloved member of our school community. His fun-loving, energetic, and welcoming personality brings joy and enthusiasm to our campus each day. We are incredibly fortunate to have him on our team. In recognition of his outstanding dedication and positive impact, Mr. Rudy was honored as the 2024 Forest Park Staff Member of the Year.
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Specialists
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Amy Walter
Paraprofessional
Ms. Walter was a dedicated Pre-K teacher at Forest Park for many years, beginning in 2009, before transitioning into a paraprofessional role. Her experience, commitment, and willingness to support both students and staff have made her an invaluable member of our school community.
Ms. Walter was named Forest Park Teacher of the Year in 2019, and she is the proud mother of a son.
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