2024 Kids University Instruction Team

Art and Adventures

Children will have a blast as they explore their creative side and develop new skills, knowledge, and ideas using a variety of materials and techniques to create one-of-a-kind masterpieces! Projects integrate cultural, contemporary, and art history as well as literature and are designed to teach campers fundamental skills in art while encouraging each student to express their creative spirit.

 

Wendy Murphy

Hi! I am originally from San Diego, California.  I have lived in Augusta for 34 years. I have worked at Kids University for about 16 years and really enjoy it.  I have over 20 years of teaching experience and have taught in the Richmond and County School system as an outreach specialist for the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art and the Jessye Norman School of the Arts, as well as other various private schools and organizations in the area, including the Imperial Theatre and the Art Factory. I have also taught art therapy at Gracewood, Sand Hills, and the Berry Center.  I bring a rich visual art experience to children, celebrate their creativity, and encourage self-expression and personal development through the creative process. 

Wendy Murphy

STEM Project-Based Learning


Project-based learning is an extended lesson plan that is centered around a final project. Each day, your child will work towards a final project that will bring all of their learning together.

 

 

 

Clarence Kendrick

Hello! My name is Clarence Kendrick, and I am an AU Alumni! I have worked with Kids University for seven years and am excited to be back again for another year. I hold a certification to teach math and social studies and have been awarded a Master of Education in Instruction. I look forward to teaching the kids new and exciting things as they enjoy their summer break.
 

 

Isl Instructor

Traveling the World

Students will explore a new county each week during a 4-week summer camp at Augusta University. We will travel to different countries and continents and learn about culture, language, history, and even popular foods. I differentiate my lessons to fit students' needs and age groups. I have not decided which counties we will be exploring, but adventure awaits

Ashlyn Wilson

Hi! My name is Ashlyn Wilson, and I am ecstatic to be a part of Kids University for the second summer in a row! I am a 6th-grade science teacher at Evans Middle School, and I have been in education for about 7 years. I recently graduated with my master’s in education, and I will be working on my gifted certification next.  I am passionate about equality in education and helping all students to reach their full potential in and outside of the classroom. Outside of education, I am a full-time chauffeur, chef, cheerleader, and referee, also known as mom. I have two children, 15 and 9, and when we are not on the lacrosse field, we like to spend time traveling to new places and making new memories!
ISL Instructor

Earth Science

This course will introduce students to the four main topics in Earth Science: meteorology, geology, oceanography, and astronomy. Students will participate in creating models and conducting experiments as they learn about the Earth!
 

 

Adam Beale

Hi! I am Adam Beale, a graduate of Augusta University. I have a deep passion for mathematics and science, making sure that each and every student learns as much as they can. I am excited to be teaching children at Kids University this summer and cannot wait to help them explore Earth Science!
ISL Instructor

Sing Me a Story

Children will learn how to create music soundtracks to story books and/or their favorite movies using real instruments. Each week will be a new adventure. The hands-on experience will allow them to explore different sounds and rhythms while making music of their own.
 

Amera Fischer

I have loved music all my life - I play the flute, piano, and bass and sing. I’m a grad student at Augusta University working towards a degree in Music Education. This is my last semester, and I'm currently student teaching with Mrs. Tucker at Riverside Elementary School. I play with the university orchestra as well as the Savannah River Winds and other various ensembles around the CSRA. I’m excited to share my love of music with students, hoping it will ignite a similar passion in them

Amera Fischer

Math in the Arts

Your scholar will discover the elementary math found in music, dance, painting, architecture, sculpture, and nature by participating in engaging and hands-on learning activities. Every day will be a new adventure and opportunity to discover the creativity of math.

Tamara Bartschi

Hello! I am a teacher at Martinez Elementary School. I have taught first grade for three years, second grade for one year, and fourth grade for the last six years. I am a proud mom of two wonderful sons, both graduates of Evans High School. I love painting, crafts, math, and teaching!
ISL Instructor

Writing Revolution

This course is designed to help students connect their reading and writing skills. Students will also gain critical thinking skills in a fun and engaging environment. Activities include creating story trains, tapping into riddles, limericks, reading comprehension Jenga, short story readings, poetry in motion, character maps, and other reading and writing activities and games.
 

Vanessa Williams

Hello everyone! My name is Vanessa Williams. I am a 2nd grade teacher at Gracewood Elementary School, and I am super excited about working with Kids University. I have been teaching for six years in the Richmond and Burke County School districts. I have taught high school and middle school, and now I am settling into the elementary school setting. I have a sweet and energetic doggy named Levi, whom I love with all my heart. I love reading and spending time with my family.
 
ISL Instructor

PE: The Basics of Karate

During this class students will learn the values offered in karate. Values of respect, confidence, and integrity. Students will learn about how Karate is a mindset as well as a physical lifestyle. Students will learn a variety of self-defense techniques and how to apply karate values in everyday life.

Austin Goldman

Hello! I am Austin Goldman. I am a Middle Grades Education major from Augusta University. I plan to teach Language Arts and Social Studies. I have been practicing Karate since I was 7 years old, and I worked at a karate center for 2 and a half years, teaching karate to students ages 4 through 15.

ISL Instructor

Performance/Acting 

In this course, students will explore basic acting techniques, foster creativity, and get comfortable with the stage. They will create plots, perform stories, and grow in confidence and self-expression while having fun with their teammates.

Alaina Wilkinson

My name is Alaina Wilkinson. This is my second year working for Kids University. I recently graduated from Georgia Southern University with a bachelor's degree in special education. This upcoming school year, I will be a first-year teacher in the Columbia County School District. Outside of work, I enjoy being outdoors and playing pickleball.

Wilkinson A