
Meet Our Teachers

Education Director
Dr. Victoria Johnson
Dr. Victoria Johnson joined the Grace House staff in July 2023. She holds a B.S. in History (2006) and an M.Ed. in Secondary Education (2007) from the University of Montevallo. She later earned an Ed.S. in Instructional Leadership (2018) and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership (2022) from Samford University. Most recently, in 2024, she completed a Master of Arts in Higher Education from Louisiana State University.
Dr. Johnson embraces a constructivist teaching philosophy, believing that learners develop knowledge by building upon prior experiences. She values social interaction, reflection, motivation, and creativity as essential components of the learning process. As a transformative leader, Dr. Johnson is committed to inspiring and empowering her faculty to step outside their comfort zones and strive for higher levels of academic excellence.

Education Coordinator
Jasmine Foster
Jasmine Foster serves as the Education Coordinator at Grace House Ministries, where she leads with a deep commitment to equity, advocacy and educational empowerment. A native of Sylacauga, Alabama, Jasmine holds a bachelor’s degree in African American Studies with a minor in History and a master’s degree in Women’s Studies—both from the University of Alabama.
Since joining Grace House in July 2023 as a Campaign Assistant and transitioning into her current role in January 2025, Jasmine has been passionate about supporting girls in foster care through intentional, youth-centered educational initiatives. She believes in equipping young women with the tools, confidence and critical support they need to thrive—both in and beyond the classroom.
Grounded in an intersectional framework, Jasmine approaches her work with an understanding of how race, gender, class and systemic inequities shape the experiences of the youth she serves. With strong organizational skills and a heart for advocacy, she is committed to creating meaningful, lasting change through education.

History Teacher
Patricia Barnes DeLaine
I am a Christian believer, mother of two, "GeeGee" of two grands, sister to two sisters and one brother, forty-four year veteran retired educator, gym enthusiast, sports enthusiast and dancer. I received a high school diploma from A.H. Parker High School, a Bachelor of Arts (History) from Alabama A&M University and a Master of Arts (History) from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. I have had the experience of teaching and tutoring students from age four to adults. I look forward to instructing, discussing, exposing and explaining to the students of Grace House through my love of Social Studies, the people, places, environments and governments of the past and present.

Interventionist
Judy Hinton
I am Judy Hinton, the mother of two daughters and one son-in-law (son), whom I love very much. I am a "Nana" to three grands and "Gracey" to two great grands. My mother is a vibrant 92-year-old seamstress and volunteer worker. I have three sisters and one brother.
Every child I have taught has a special place in my heart. I do believe that touching their lives is a gift to me from God, but He also allows them to touch my life in such a way that the children become a part of me. No matter what life has in store for me, I know that it will always involve a young person; some I will already know, and others I will get to know. I am grateful that I get to serve at the places I do serve, but I am doubly grateful to earn a place at Grace House where I might touch someone's life in a positive manner. I am a loved and loving person, called to teach what God places on my heart.
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Math & Science Teacher
Ashley Lidge
Ashley Lidge hails from Birmingham, AL, and has a decade of experience teaching science and tutoring math. She has also served as the STEM lead teacher for a virtual classroom broadcast to over 20 classrooms across Alabama. Ashley holds a B.S. and an M.S. in Biology from Miles College and Jacksonville State University. She is passionate about teaching science and sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ through minute-long videos and podcasts. As a mother of three children, two daughters and one son, Ashley cherishes spending time with her family. In her science and math classes, Ashley emphasizes hands-on learning and making subjects applicable to everyday life. She is eager to create a Christ-centered environment that encourages students to be their best, both spiritually and academically.
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English Teacher
Tia Rutledge
Tia Rutledge is a lifelong learner and enjoys transferring her knowledge by educating others. She is a mother of three boys and an avid traveler. She received a Bachelor of Arts in English from The University of Montevallo, a Master of Arts in Education from University of Alabama at Birmingham, and an Education Specialist in Instructional Leadership from Samford University. A strong advocate for academic success and quality instruction for all students, she utilizes her expertise in the K-12 and post secondary institutions to promote strong educational foundations and career choice guidance for students. Her professional interests focus on developing courses and institutions that are intentional about content, treatment and course outcomes for students. This school year at Grace House Campus School, Rutledge is excited to do what she does best; build relationships, help students reach goals and learn in ways that will remain with them for the rest of their lives.

Visual Arts Teacher
Jimmie Ridick
Jimmie started her journey at Grace House in 2015 as a volunteer, and officially joined the staff in 2016 as our Art Teacher. She graduated from Jefferson State with an AAS in Business Management and continued her education at Troy University graduating with a BS in Art with a concentration in 2D Studio. Jimmie truly believes that art can be a liberating and uplifting way of expression, that can not only be viewed by the eyes but felt by the heart

Electives Specialist
Ana Emaldi
Ana graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a BS in Political Science and a minor in Spanish. As an immigrant who overcame significant challenges, she developed a strong empathy for underserved communities and a deep appreciation for the nonprofit sector, where she has worked for over a decade. She is passionate about creating opportunities for underprivileged populations and finds great satisfaction in supporting women and girls who need guidance to achieve their goals. A mother of three young men, Ana enjoys traveling, practicing yoga and gardening in her free time. Ana will serve as Campus School’s full-time Spanish teacher and Elective Specialist, teaching Spanish, Family and Consumer Science, Public Speaking, College and Career Prep and World Studies.

P.E. & Driver’s Education and Health & Nutrition Teacher
Jarret Bates
Jarrett Bates is a father of three and has been a health coach for over 15 years. He has trained thousands through group classes, sports training and personal coaching. Jarrett has conducted blood pressure and diabetes management courses to raise community awareness on these subjects. Dedicated to health, he loves encouraging others to prioritize their well-being.
Jarrett is a father, son, brother, uncle and soon-to-be husband, with family being a central part of his life. Taking care of himself for his family is a priority, and spreading the message of health is his purpose. His mission is to reach and teach as many young people as possible, planting the seed of health in their minds.
As a former athlete and Little League coach, Jarrett is currently a Strength and Conditioning Coach at Ramsay High School and Simmons Middle School. He believes there are no losses, only lessons, and how we use those lessons is key to success.