Meet the Teacher Advisory Council: Ashley MacDonell of Holly Springs ES STEM Academy!

The Cherokee County School District’s newly formed Superintendent’s Teacher Advisory Council provides educators with the opportunity to share valued feedback.  The talent of our teachers is unparalleled and their dedication to go the extra mile is unmatched!  Over the coming weeks, we'll be introducing each Council member to our community.  You can learn more about the Council and see the full list of its members online here.

Ashley MacDonell of Holly Springs ES STEM Academy

An 11-year teacher, Mc. MacDonell teaches fourth-grade English language arts and social studies at Holly Springs ES STEM Academy, where she also has served as an ESOL teacher and instructional lead teacher for her grade level. She began her career in Kentucky as a first-grade teacher and then taught third grade in Fulton County Schools for nine years.

What inspired you to become a teacher?
I’ve always felt a strong connection to the idea of community. From an early age, I knew that teaching would be my way to invest in both my community and our future. Behind my desk, I keep framed class photos of every group of students I’ve had the privilege to teach and love. When I see their faces, I’m reminded of my purpose and the lasting impact of this work. I often tell new teachers that our influence multiplies as our students grow and go on to make their own mark on the world. That’s important to remember on days when the job feels “heavy."

What do you find most rewarding about your job?
I love knowing that I can make a lasting impact on my students’ lives. I’m especially passionate about working with students facing challenges or difficult situations and investing in them. When my students leave my classroom, my hope is that they are academically confident, socially and emotionally strong, and feel surrounded by a safe, loving environment. I take pride in being an advocate and a steady, caring adult in their lives.
I especially love teaching ESOL students because I feel honored to be a warm, welcoming face for those who are new to the United States. I want every child to know they are valued, capable, and that they belong here. It’s deeply important to me that my classroom feels like a place of safety, understanding, and joy -- a home away from home where students can grow both academically and personally.
The work is not always easy, but it’s deeply meaningful -- and I know these days are something that, in the end, I’ll look back on and feel completely fulfilled by. What a gift, right?!

How do you elevate the excellence in your classroom?
I love elevating excellence in my classroom by helping students monitor their growth, set meaningful goals, and learn how to “show some grit” — all while having fun. In our class, we live by the motto: “Work hard, play hard.” My students know that when they walk into our room, they’re stepping into a safe space with high expectations.
I really prioritize teaching the whole child -- looking at every area of their lives and supporting them beyond academics. I believe that students cannot truly learn if they are struggling with their mental health or social well-being. Because of that, I focus on teaching strategies they can use alongside academic skills -- like perseverance, emotional regulation, empathy, and teamwork — so they can thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
One of my greatest joys as a teacher is sharing my love of reading. Reading is a lifelong gift -- one that has brought me joy, comfort, and curiosity throughout my own life. Watching my students develop that same love and confidence as readers is incredibly rewarding.