Alayne Milton

Skyline Middle School

Bio Coming Soon

Ashley Ross

Stone Spring Elementary School

" I'm a local to the beautiful Shenandoah Valley. I initially received a degree in psychology from Christopher Newport University, and furthered my education at James Madison University where I received a Masters in teaching. I love working for a division that values equity and restorative practices.  

In my spare time I enjoy hiking, camping, and hanging out with my family. "

Jeff Newcomer Miller

Thomas Harrison Middle School

Bio Coming Soon

Josh Diamond

Rocktown High School

"I grew up in Chesapeake, Virginia playing soccer, pretending to be a surfer, and thinking I would either be a preacher or a teacher as a grown up. After attending Tidewater Community College, I transferred to JMU in 2004 to study sociology. I worked in various youth-serving roles at JMU's Institute for Innovation in Health and Human services for 15 years, where I coordinated youth development and sexual health programs, led youth leadership camps, and provided training to educators on youth development best practices.

During my 20's and early 30's I was involved in multiple community organizing efforts seeking to build a better society that works and cares for everyone. I recently graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a masters in clinical social work. In this role at Rocktown, I'm able to pull from all of my life experiences and education to build a school culture rooted in community, accountability, care, and love. I live with my partner and two children in Harrisonburg, Virginia, appreciate poetry, and getting outside when I can. "

Joshua Kvernen

Waterman Elementary School

"Hello, my name is Josh Kvernen. I work as the Student Support Specialist at Waterman Elementary School. My passion is working with young people (and adults) in conflict. I enjoy coming alongside students to help them navigate conflict and repair relationships with peers and adults.

In addition to my work at WES, I’m a trainer and mediator (Virginia GDC and J&DR court certified) with a background in international development. Over the years, I’ve facilitated hundreds of circles and dialogue sessions, helping people navigate all kinds of conflicts—whether it’s between friends, within families, in schools, or even across cultures, politics, and workplaces.

From 2016 to 2020, I had the incredible opportunity to work on peacebuilding and exchange programs with Mennonite Central Committee in Hanoi, Vietnam. Before my time in Vietnam, I worked for more than a decade in research and international development in Washington, DC, along with a year of language study in Damascus, Syria. 

I hold an M.A. in conflict resolution from American University (DC) and a B.A. from Wheaton College (IL). In my free time, I enjoy discovering new trails and great coffee shops with my family here in the Shenandoah Valley. At home, you might find me tending to a growing collection of fig, persimmon, and other fruit trees."

Melissa Spears

Spotswood Elementary School

Bio Coming Soon

Peggy Brubaker

Keister Elementary School

"Hi, my name is Peggy Brubaker. I am a student support specialist at Keister Elementary. My goal is to support and foster an environment where students feel valued and connected. I am excited to be in this role where I can support students in social and emotional growth by coaching students on effective communication, problem-solving, and self-regulation. I appreciate working for HCPS because they focus on the whole student by taking a comprehensive approach to education, prioritizing not just academic achievement but also the emotional and social development of each student. 

I graduated with a degree in social work from Eastern Mennonite University. I worked for various nonprofits, healthcare organizations, and social services. I have a graduate certificate in Restorative Justice in Education and am currently working on my Masters in Education with a concentration in Trauma and Resilience in Education. Prior to this role I worked for Rockingham County Public Schools as a behavior support assistant.

When not in school, I enjoy connecting with my family and friends.  I enjoy gardening and learning about plants that are native to our region and their many benefits. I also enjoy traveling and have set a goal to visit each of the 50 states."

Peyton Erb

Bluestone Elementary School

"Hi! I'm Peyton Erb and I began my role as Student Support Specialist in 2023 at Bluestone Elementary. Prior to that I was a 3rd grade teacher for 8 years and a 5th grade teacher for 3 years. I became a Student Support Specialist because I believe in the transformative power of Restorative Practices for both students and the adults that work in schools. I am grateful that I work in a division that prioritizes equity, healthy relationships, and transforming conflict. 

I have a degree in Elementary Education and TESOL, as well as a graduate certificate in Restorative Justice in Education, from Eastern Mennonite University. 

Outside of school I enjoy cooking and baking, taking care of plants, spending time with family and friends, reading, and playing board or card games. "

Rosemary Baker

Harrisonburg High School

" Hello, my name is Rosemary and I am your Student Support Specialist at Harrisonburg High School.  One of my many passions is supporting people from all walks of life, backgrounds, and experiences through their journey.  My goal is to be a person of trust and support to our students as they navigate the challenges they may encounter, so that they know they are not alone in the process.  I feel very fortunate to work for Harrisonburg City Schools due its diverse community of students and families.  Being a fluent Spanish speaker, I believe this also allows me the opportunity to serve students and their families directly.  

I am originally from Jersey and have lived in the Shenandoah Valley for quite some time now.  I attended BRCC, graduated from James Madison University with a Bachelors of Social Work, and received my Masters in Clinical Social Work from the University of New England.  Prior to working at HCPS, I have also provided therapeutic day treatment counseling services to students and their families, as well as serving the City of Harrisonburg. 

When I am not at school, I am likely working on any project or hobby.  I enjoy reading, working with my hands, the ocean, music, puzzles, learning another language, or something completely new.  I consider myself a lifelong learner.  A good deal of my time however, is enjoyed with my rescue furbaby that I adore."