Along with our new French Teachers, AMHS is very happy to welcome Ms. Taylor and Ms. Garcia Ayala! These two are very excited to be at AMHS and learn how great our students are! From their favorite parts of teaching to what they’re most excited about in Raptor Culture, these spotlights will give you a glimpse into the passion and personality they will bring to the classroom.
I. Ms Taylor
Meet Christine Taylor, one of AMHS’s newest science teachers, bringing her passion for chemistry and love of learning to both AP Chemistry and Honors Chemistry classes. A “self-proclaimed nerd” who thrives on curiosity and has a passion for learning, Ms. Taylor says she’s most excited about working with students who share her enthusiasm for discovery. Ms. Taylor joins AMHS with over a decade of classroom experience. Before coming here, she taught Chemistry for 11 years at Christ Church Episcopal
School in Greenville and Mauldin High School. Most recently, she worked with ETS (Education Testing Service) as an Assessment Specialist, gaining unique insight into testing and curriculum development. Her decision to join AMHS was inspired by the school’s outstanding reputation for academic excellence. When asked to describe her teaching style, Ms. Taylor emphasizes a student-centered and interactive approach. “I believe that students learn best when they are actively engaged,” she explains. Her goal is to create a classroom environment where students feel supported, challenged, and confident in their ability to succeed. Outside of school, Ms. Taylor’s life is full of joy and adventure. She loves reading mystery novels, traveling, especially on cruises, and spending time with her grandchildren. She’s also a devoted dog mom to a Dalmatian and two miniature dachshunds. A sports fan at heart, you can often find her at local games cheering from the stands (We hope to see you at Raptor sporting events!). Guided by her faith and strong family values, Ms. Taylor lives by the words of Martin Luther King Jr.: “Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that.” AMHS is thrilled to welcome Christine Taylor to the Raptor family!
II. Ms. Garcia Ayala
AMHS is also excited to welcome Ms. Garcia Ayala to the science department! Teaching chemistry for our Raptors, she says she’s thrilled to step into the classroom: “To teach (lol),” she jokes when asked what she’s most excited about this year.
Before joining AMHS, Ms. Garcia Ayala gained unique experiences both inside and outside education. She worked as a bilingual teaching assistant at the middle and elementary level and, prior to that, spent five years as a cook at Chili’s. With her background in Biology and Rehabilitation Science from Georgia Southern University, she brings not only subject expertise but also resilience, creativity, and adaptability to her new role. When it comes to teaching style, Ms. Garcia Ayala keeps it active and engaging. “I think my teaching style is very hands-on,” she explains. While lectures have their place, her goal is to incorporate plenty of activities that keep students involved and excited about learning. Her personality shines with a balance of humor and thoughtfulness. She describes herself as introverted, a little “nerdy,” and, when the time is right, “quite a comedian.” Outside of school, she loves building Legos, doing puzzles, reading, and running; hobbies that mirror her curiosity and problem-solving nature. One thing she hopes her students know: she’s faced challenges too. She went through most of her schooling unaware she had a reading disability, only discovering it late in college. That journey, she says, gave her a deeper understanding of herself and helps her connect with students who may also struggle. AMHS is proud to have Ms. Garcia Ayala on board: her energy, empathy, and love for science are sure to inspire!
