My name is Sarah Nivens and I have been teaching 3rd grade at CBES since 2017. Prior to that I spent 5 years at Chester Park COLT teaching 1st grade. I also started CBES’ STEAM club!

I live in York with my husband Scott and daughter Bella. My oldest daughter Destiny graduated from YCHS. I enjoy reading, shopping, and traveling. I have been a cheer mom since 2013 and have gotten to travel all over the country for cheer competitions, which has been a lot of fun. I am a dog mom to three crazy dogs; Maxwell (black lab), Otis (rescue dog/mixed breed), and Loki (golden retriever). I love spending time with my family and friends!

SUNY Fredonia - Bachelor's in Science - Communications with a dual major in Theater
University of Buffalo - Master's in Education - K-6th
Winthrop University - Gifted and Talented
Clemson University - STEAM Education

My name is Rita Woodley and I have taught Third Grade since I began my teaching career in York. I have taught at Cotton Belt since 2015. Prior to that year, I taught Third Grade, Fourth Grade, and then Second Grade at Chester Park Center of Literacy Through Technology. This is my 13th year of teaching. I love third grade and everything about it! I enjoy watching the many milestones my students reach and the independence they gain throughout the year. It’s truly a year of learning independence. I live in York with my husband and two daughters.    I enjoy reading, shopping, and playing video games. I love going on new adventures with my family! 

Clemson University – Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education
Columbia College – Master’s Degree in Divergent Learning
Converse College- My Gifted and Talented Certification.

My name is Joyce Ellingson. I graduated from Clover High in 1976, earned my B.S. in Art Education from the University of South Carolina in 1981 and with a minor in Sculpture, promptly followed my dream of becoming a Glassblower in Colorado.

After twenty-five years in the Glassblowing field I was able to follow my second career passion and became an educator of Pre-K and Preschool age students.

My name is Brittany Wright. I have been teaching at Cotton Belt Elementary since January 2022.

I was born and raised in Rock Hill, South Carolina. I am a dog mom to a Yorkipoo named Gabby. I am a huge Carolina Panther fan and love going to their home games!  I love to travel every chance I get. I also love a good craft project.

I graduated from Winthrop University in December of 2021 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and Early Childhood Education. I had the opportunity to intern in many schools during my 4 years of college, but there is something about York that keeps me coming back. I am excited to start my teaching career at Cotton Belt!

My name is Spencer Wyatt and I have taught Third Grade at Cotton Belt Elementary since 2014. I enjoy watching the many milestones my students reach and the independence they gain throughout the year. I also love getting to help my students develop a love for reading.

I live in Hickory Grove with my wife Sara. I enjoy reading, exercise, travel, playing music and spending time with my family and friends.

Limestone University- Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education