CRAWFORD/MARION COUNTY, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—GOAL Digital Academy is welcoming a new group of educators and staff members for the 2026-2027 school year, bringing new experiences, perspectives and talents to the district team. Serving students in grades 2-12 through a flexible online and blended learning model, GOAL relies on educators and support staff across its Learning Labs and programs to build meaningful relationships, provide individualized support and help each student find a path toward success. This year’s new staff members include:
Bailee Huston, Behavioral Therapist/Licensed Social Worker – All Learning Labs
Bailee joins GOAL Digital Academy with six years of experience as a social worker with Avita Health System, where she developed valuable skills and knowledge of resources to support children and families. She is passionate about helping students access the tools they need to be successful and especially enjoys building relationships with students and getting to know their individual personalities. Outside of work, she is married and stays busy with her two daughters.
David Ballenger, Lab Supervisor/High School ELA Teacher – Newark Learning Lab
David brings experience as an administrator and supervisor across a variety of educational and business settings, developing strong organizational and leadership skills along the way. Passionate about helping students succeed, he believes that well-educated students help build stronger communities and looks forward to supporting both students and staff at GOAL. Outside of work, David enjoys watching classic movies.
Juliet Thibault, High School Art Teacher – Delaware Learning Lab
Juliet is passionate about sparking creativity and helping young artists build the confidence to pursue their ideas and goals. In the classroom, she loves helping students strengthen their existing skills, and explore beyond the surface to discover how art can become a tool for their own creative expression. She loves seeing the pride they feel when they step back and see what they’ve created. Outside the classroom, Juliet enjoys cooking and creating and considers paint splatters a permanent part of her wardrobe.
Cody Meadows, Intervention Specialist – Newark Learning Lab
Cody brings more than a decade of experience working with K-12 students and a passion for helping students overcome challenges, build confidence and find their own paths to success. He has developed an approach rooted in patience, empathy and the belief that every child is capable of growth. He recently earned a master’s degree in social work from The Ohio State University, bringing an additional focus on supporting students’ overall well-being. Outside of work, he enjoys hunting, fishing, spending time outdoors, playing racquetball and cheering on the Steelers and Buckeyes.
Billy Moodie, Middle School Social Studies Teacher – Marion/Galion Learning Lab
Billy brings a lifelong love of learning and a passion for sharing that excitement with students. With a nontraditional path into education and experience in a variety of fields, Billy brings a broad perspective and believes in meeting students where they are to create the best learning experience possible. One of the parts of education Billy enjoys most is building relationships and getting to know his students. Outside of work, he loves running, reading and writing – and has even written two fantasy books!
Keilly Rodriguez, High School ELA Teacher – Marion Learning Lab
Keilly comes from a family of educators and discovered a love for teaching while teaching ESL in Seoul, South Korea. After returning, she served with City Year Columbus, an AmeriCorps near-peer mentorship program, further solidifying a passion for helping students learn and grow. With experience teaching grades 7-12 and licensure in English Language Arts and Fine Art, Keilly brings a diverse background and a strong commitment to connecting with students. Outside of education, she enjoys making stained glass and writing for fun.
Chris Kapel, Teacher – Delaware & Newark Learning Labs
Chris was inspired to work in education by the opportunity to help shape the next generation and enjoys celebrating the small victories that come with watching students grow. Believing that every student learns differently, Chris is passionate about building connections with students, discovering what motivates them and using that knowledge to help them succeed. Outside of work, Chris enjoys collecting trading cards and spending time with his family.
Jennifer Willis, School Counselor – Newark and Mount Vernon Learning Labs (Beginning September 1)
Jennifer was inspired to pursue a career in education by a high school teacher who helped turn a challenging subject into a class she looked forward to every day. As a school counselor, she is passionate about helping students recognize their potential, believe in themselves and take the steps needed to reach their goals. She brings experience in career technical education, College Credit Plus and credit recovery, along with a strong commitment to helping students prepare for life beyond high school. Outside of work, she enjoys gardening, growing flowers, especially sunflowers, and spending time with her husband, four grown children, dog and three cats.
“We are thrilled to welcome eight outstanding educators to the GOAL team,” said Superintendent Tish Jenkins. “With impressive industry experience, higher education backgrounds and six advanced degrees among them, they bring an incredible depth of knowledge and experience to our school community. Most importantly, they share our commitment to meeting students where they are, leading by example and guiding each student toward success.”
New staff began the year by participating in GOAL’s myGDA Launch Onboarding professional learning program, designed to prepare them for unique opportunities of serving students in a blended learning environment. Through the program, staff learned about GOAL’s culture, student support systems, technology, instructional model and expectations for serving students across both virtual and in-person environments. As they begin their first school year with GOAL, the district looks forward to the experience, ideas and connections each new team member will bring to students, families and the communities GOAL serves.