The Heart Behind the Horizon
a place where every student’s journey matters.
Stephanie Wilson
Virtual Learning Director
Email: stephanie.wilson@kedc.org
Stephanie Wilson is the Director of Virtual Learning for New Horizons Academy, where she leads with a deep commitment to personalized, high-quality education for every student. A certified teacher in the state of Kentucky, Stephanie brings over a decade of experience in public education, program leadership, and instructional innovation. At New Horizons Academy, she oversees the design and delivery of flexible, accredited virtual learning pathways that empower students to thrive—whether they are homeschooled, enrolled through their district, or seeking a nontraditional route to graduation.
What sets Stephanie’s leadership apart is her unique perspective as both an educator and a former homeschool parent. Having homeschooled her own three children, she understands firsthand the needs, values, and challenges families face when choosing alternative learning environments. Her work is grounded in compassion, experience, and a belief that every student deserves a path that honors their story. Under her guidance, New Horizons Academy continues to grow as a trusted bridge between families and districts across Kentucky.
Heather Hundley
Student Success Coordinator
& Virtual Math Coach
Email: heather.hundley@kedc.org
New Horizons Academy is excited to welcome Heather Hundley as a Student Success Coordinator & Virtual Math Coach. With a Bachelor’s in Mathematics and a Master’s in Counseling from Morehead State University, she combines her love of math with a deep commitment to student growth and achievement.
In her role, Heather guides students every step of the way—from onboarding new learners to leading weekly live meetings, helping them stay on track with their Individualized Learning Plans (ILPs), and preparing for Kentucky state assessments. She’s passionate about making math accessible and engaging, ensuring students feel supported and confident in their learning.
With over 15 years of teaching experience, Heather has taught courses ranging from Algebra I to AP Statistics, always striving to connect with students and make learning meaningful.
Outside of school, she enjoys traveling with her family, visiting amusement parks, and embracing her lifelong love of dance. A coffee enthusiast and crime show fan, she knows the importance of balance between hard work and fun.
Heather is thrilled to be part of New Horizons Academy and looks forward to helping students succeed—academically and beyond!
Amanda Austin
Virtual Math Coach
Email: amanda.austin@kedc.org
Amanda Austin is a National Board Certified Teacher with over 20 years of experience in education. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Pikeville, a Master’s from Morehead State University, and dual Rank I’s from Union College in Ed Leadership and Supervision of Instruction. Amanda has worked on various assessments and accountability models both in KY and nationwide.
She is thrilled to be joining New Horizon’s Academy as a Virtual Math Coach, where she will have the opportunity to support a variety of students from across the state. With a strong background as a math interventionist and an ACT Certified educator, Amanda is passionate about helping students build confidence and achieve success both in and out of the classroom.
Beyond the classroom, Amanda is a dedicated fitness instructor and private tutor – always looking for ways to inspire and motivate others. She loves spending time with her three children, relaxing on sunny beaches, visiting Disney as often as possible, and singing loudly to Taylor Swift. Amanda is excited to collaborate with the incredible staff and students of NHA and looks forward to contributing to the growth of the program.
Carrie Harmon
Virtual History Coach
Email: carrie.harmon@kedc.org
Carrie Harmon is excited to be part of the New Horizons Academy team. With over a decade of classroom experience, she brings a deep passion for education and a strong background in social studies instruction. Carrie has taught a wide range of content from grades 6–12, including AP Psychology, and has served as a dedicated coach and advisor for student leadership programs such as Mock Trial, the Kentucky Youth Assembly (KYA), and the Kentucky United Nations Assembly (KUNA).
Her greatest passion lies in teaching Civics and Citizenship, where she strives to empower students to find their voice and understand the importance of active civic engagement. Outside the virtual classroom, Carrie enjoys reading, traveling, and spending quality time with her family.
Mark Harmon
Virtual STEM Coach
Email: mark.harmon@kedc.org
New Horizons Academy proudly welcomes Mark Harmon as a Virtual STEM Coach. Mark is a dedicated STEM educator with over twelve years of classroom experience. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Middle Childhood Math and Science Education, a Master’s degree in Educational Technology, and dual Educational Specialist degrees in Educational Leadership.
Throughout his career, Mark has coached and advised award-winning student teams in programs such as STLP, TSA, LEGO Robotics, VEX Robotics, and Girls Who Code. His teams have consistently earned recognition at regional, state, and national competitions. Mark is passionate about creating authentic learning experiences and inspiring students through innovative STEM projects, empowering them to develop critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
Beyond the virtual classroom, Mark enjoys tinkering, traveling, and spending quality time with his family. He is thrilled to be part of the NHA community and looks forward to fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive academically, personally, and virtually.
Shannah Reynolds
Virtual Science Coach
Email: shannah.reynolds@kedc.org
Shannah Reynolds is the Virtual Science Coach at NHA. She comes to us with over ten years of experience in education. She has had the privilege of teaching all disciplines of science including chemistry, biology, physical science, earth space science, forensic science and microbiology. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Molecular, Cellular and Microbial Biology and a Master’s degree in Chemistry and Secondary Science. Mrs. Reynolds loves sharing her passion for science with her students and hopes to foster a love of learning and lifelong curiosity.
When she isn’t teaching, Mrs. Reynolds loves to travel, spend time with family and friends, and spends a significant amount of her time in the garden and landscaping. She describes herself as an avid reader and enjoys visiting old libraries and independent bookstores around the world.
Bridgett Taulbee
Virtual ELA Coach
Email: bridgett.taulbee@kedc.org
With 23 years of experience in education, Bridgett Taulbee is a passionate advocate for literacy and student success. As a dedicated K-12 Literacy Coach, Kentucky Writing Project Instructional Coach, Response to Intervention Lead, and New Horizons’ Literacy Coach, she has empowered countless students and educators to unlock their potential through reading and writing.
A proud graduate of Morehead State University, Mrs. Taulbee thrives on making literacy engaging and accessible in both traditional and virtual classrooms. Whether leading professional development, coaching teachers, or guiding students through the writing process, she is committed to fostering a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.
Beyond the classroom, Mrs. Taulbee wears many hats—most notably, that of a devoted mother to five amazing children. As a baseball and track mom, she’s no stranger to cheering from the sidelines and embracing the fast-paced rhythm of family life. When she’s not supporting her kids’ athletic endeavors, she finds joy in the great outdoors—camping, swimming, and, of course, getting lost in a good book.
Tonya Wagoner
Virtual World Language Coach
Email: tonya.wagoner@kedc.org
With over 27 years in education, Tonya Wagoner brings her passion for language and learning to the virtual classroom. She holds a degree in French Education with a minor in German from Berea College and has advanced studies in Reading & Writing and Educational Leadership. Currently, she teaches ESL and world languages remotely, making learning engaging and accessible for all students.
Beyond teaching, Tonya is a published author in Spanish, a dedicated knitter who crafts blankets for family and donation, and an adventurous foodie who loves exploring new flavors. She enjoys French cinema, classic British rock (especially The Beatles!), and traveling with her husband. At home, she cherishes time with her Yorkshire Terrier, Calico cat, and her mother.