About Us
Enriching Hearts and Minds
At Guiding Path Enrichment Center, we are an organization committed to enhancing the lives of adolescents throughout the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). We are passionate about providing educational and enrichment services that will help them to confidently broaden, strengthen, and inspire their minds. Our organization is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where each student is given the assurance that they are our priority. We believe that every child can learn and thrive if they are given the right resources and guidance.
We are dedicated to helping teachers, parents, and students reach their full potential. We focus on providing resources and support to teachers by assisting them to become the best educators they can be.
We are passionate about our mission and are committed to providing quality programs, scholarships, and resources to those we serve. We hope you will join us on this journey to help teachers, students, and parents thrive.
Meet Our Staff
Shanon Franklin
Founder & Executive Director
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“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela
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I am the founder of Guiding Path Enrichment Center. I have been an educator for over 15 years, therefore I love what I do! I sincerely believe each child has the ability to learn with the reassurance of each student being a priority. Here at GPEC, our goal is to work closely with all parents/guardians to support our students to excel to their highest potentials!
I am a Georgia certified teacher. I have obtained a Specialist Degree in Education including STEM and Computer Science endorsements. I have taught Pre-K, first grade, third grade, and K-4 STEM in the public school setting. I specialize in active learning in math and reading. I look forward to working with your child in achieving academic growth!
Iantha Ussin
Administrative Assistant
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"Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire." — William Butler Yeats
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Iantha Ussin is the dedicated Administrative Assistant at Guiding Path Enrichment Center, bringing a wealth of experience in education and consulting to her role. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Augusta University and a Bachelor's in Journalism from Louisiana Tech University. Alongside her work at the center, Iantha runs her own consulting business, Ms. Ussin Teaches LLC, where she develops and facilitates professional development workshops for K-12 educators. With her extensive background in education, curriculum development, and training, Iantha is committed to supporting the center’s mission to enrich the lives of students and educators alike.
Meet Our Educators
Tamara Campbell
Bio Coming Soon!
Kaitlyn Davidson
Hello! My name is Kaitlyn Davidson, and I am proud to call Columbia County my hometown. After earning my Bachelors of Science in Education degree at Georgia Southern, I taught elementary school for seven years, mainly kindergarten and first grade. I love to read and currently work at the public library.
I look forward to working with your child and helping them learn!
Laura Greene
Hi, my name is Laura Greene and I am originally from a small town in Illinois. I joined the Army at 18 and enjoyed the 13 years I served traveling to many different places around the world. I have two daughters who I love spending time with when I am not reading, traveling, or doing puzzles. Growing up I always played school and wanted to be a teacher so now that I have spent the past four years teaching I know that it is my passion. I love knowing that I am a part of their educational growth as well as the look on their face when they "get it".
Barbara Parsee
Hi, my name is Barbara Parsee and I am from Louisiana. I am part of the military family which caused me to move to Augusta after living overseas for 10 years. I love traveling, visiting family, shopping and
going to the movies, especially marvel. I have been an educator in Richmond County for approximately 25 years starting off at Augusta Technical college teaching GED classes. While teaching GED classes, I
discovered areas where the adults were struggling that caused them not to finish their high school
career. I then saw a need to go down the levels to help reach the children that where struggling with
the same issues so that could succeed and complete high school and go beyond high school and reach their highest potential in life.
My teaching philosophy is that I believe that education serves as a positive force that can be used to help students go upward in their academic life, onward to become the best person rather it be
academically or socially that they can actually become and beyond becoming positive contributors in society in our society.
LaTreal Strickland
Hello! My name is LaTreal Strickland, and I am excited about the opportunity to help your child grow and succeed. With over five years of experience as a middle school inclusion teacher, I’ve had the privilege of working with students across a wide range of learning needs and abilities. I am a certified educator with a gifted endorsement, which allows me to support both advanced learners and students with learning differences.
My passion for tutoring comes from a deep desire to see all students reach their full potential. I believe every child can thrive with the right guidance, personalized support, and encouragement. My experience in the classroom has given me the tools to meet students where they are and help them develop the skills and confidence they need to excel academically.
I specialize in tailoring my instruction to meet diverse learning styles and needs. Whether your child is seeking enrichment, needs help bridging gaps, or has specific learning challenges, I create a safe, engaging, and supportive learning environment that fosters growth. I’ve worked extensively with students with special needs, including those with learning disabilities, ADHD, and autism, and I take great care to ensure they feel valued and empowered.
If you’re looking for a dedicated tutor who can adapt to your child’s unique needs while helping them achieve their goals, I’d be honored to partner with you in their educational journey.
Vacant
Bio Coming Soon!
Our Advisory Board
Board Chair/President
Kimberly Howard
Ms. Kimberly Howard is a Georgia native. Ms. Howard received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Fort Valley State University and a Master's of Science in Management from Walden University. Ms. Howard has partnered with children and their families for over 16 years. Ms. Howard honorably served her country for 5 years. Ms. Howard is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Education program at South College, majoring in Organizational Leadership. Ms. Howard currently serves as an Intensive Support Coordinator for the Columbus Organization. Kimberly Howard enjoys meeting human needs through an interdisciplinary knowledge base, focusing on prevention, education, and maintaining a commitment to improving the overall quality of services provided to various populations.
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Board Secretary
Mary Alice Gaston-Poole
Mary Alice Gaston-Poole is a distinguished Georgia-certified educator with expertise in curriculum development and literacy. With a fervent dedication to empowering others, Mary Alice channels her passion into both her roles as an educator and an entrepreneur. Mary Alice is the driving force behind a life coaching business for women, where she inspires and mentors others to unlock their full potential. Additionally, she spearheads a groundbreaking literacy tutoring program that utilizes a sensory-integrated approach, revolutionizing how individuals engage with language and learning. Mary Alice is mom to three and she and her husband make their home in Jefferson County, Georgia.
Board Member
Jessica Wells
Jessica J. Wells is a seasoned business leader with over 15 years of experience in Customer Service and Marketing. She currently serves as President of the board of directors for GPEC where he/she provides valuable strategic guidance and insights to the executive team.
In addition to her work in the business world, Jessica is the Owner of Ms. Stugie’s Cookie Shoppe.
Jessica holds a Psychology degree from Troy University and has continued to pursue professional development throughout her career through participation in industry conferences, seminars, and executive education programs.
Our Partners
