My name is Dr. Allison Hepfner. I am so excited to be back in middle school this year and officially a Tiger! I taught Middle School English and English I in Philadelphia, PA and Sumter School District before becoming an assistant principal in Kershaw County. I became a principal is 2018, and most recently, I was principal at Lyman Elementary. I have a B.A. in English Literature from the University of South Carolina, a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Scranton, and my doctorate in Education Leadership from Liberty University. At home, we are a proud D5 family. My husband is a teacher at Byrnes Freshman Academy, and my daughter and son are both students at other D5 schools. We are proud to be a part of the #D5family!

I’m Tyrone Aiken Jr. I’m from Santee, South Carolina and graduated from Claflin University with a bachelor’s of Science in middle level education. I began my teaching career in York County while I earned a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership with a focus on K-12. For the past 5 years I have been teaching in Spartanburg County, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. Moving to the Upstate was a bit of a culture shock for me because being only 3 hours away from where I am now, people live so differently. In my spare time I love to spend time with my wife and children. I am an outdoorsman. I love to fish, kayak, and boat. I love to travel and experience new things that keep me learning. I look forward to meeting you and helping us all grow socially and educationally.

My name is Elaina Lemon. I am originally from Cincinnati, Ohio, but have been a South Carolina transplant since 2012. During my time as an educator, I have taught Math and Science, enjoyed several years as a Curriculum and Instruction Coordinator, and have had the pleasure of being an Assistant Principal for the last four years. My husband and I have raised three amazing children, have several fur babies, and love to travel and visit new places. I am excited to be here at D.R. Hill and Spartanburg 5. I look forward to an amazing school year and seeing all of the growth and successes our students make.

My name is Robert Ooley, though I go by Bobby, and I am a Tampa, Florida native. I have been in education for 16 years, having taught in Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina. I started as a Special Education teacher and have worked in elementary, middle, and high, as well as Whitlock Flexible Learning Center. I’ve been in administration for the past three years at Blacksburg Middle School. On a personal level, I have been married for 18 years to my wife Stephanie, who teaches English. We have two sons, Kaedon and Connor, who keep us busy with soccer, swim, and baseball. I am excited about the opportunity and look forward to working with you all.