About Us

Amber Manry, Founder

Amber was born and raised in Virginia Beach, VA.  She graduated with a BS in Systems Engineering from the University of Virginia.  She spent 20 years as a Technologist and Software Engineer. 10 years were spent working with a Top Secret clearance as a contractor to several government agencies.  She also spent 2 years in Los Angeles studying theatre (Stella Adler technique) under Arthur Mendoza, screen acting at NYFA at Universal Studios, and Improv at The Groundlings. After a successful career in Tech and having 2 daughters of her own, Amber quit her career in search of a life with more purpose.  Her mission is to radically change the way we introduce Computer Science to make it accessible and affordable to students around the world.

April Taylor Abad

Teacher

I am a proud wife and mother of 3 to Camden, Abbey and Luca.  I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Virginia Commonwealth University, and have 15+ years experience in Early Childhood Education as a Preschool Teacher.  My number one passion is to inspire and create a love for learning in the preschool setting, while ultimately setting them up for success further down the road.   My goal is to get children excited about the importance of Technology, while also developing a strong foundation for learning. I look forward to creating a new spark and interest among children, while they learn the basics of Technology in a play-like setting!

Shannon Derricott

Summer Teacher

I am currently enrolled as a Health Sciences major at VCU.  I plan to study nursing after getting her Bachelor of Science degree.  I have worked as a camp counselor and after-school instructor at the YMCA.  I have experience running the summer camp at Bright Horizons in Short Pump and was also the Kindergarten Prep Teacher there.

 Kat Manalo

Summer Teacher 

I am currently enrolled at James Madison University as a Computer Information System major.   Since 2015, I have been working at George Mason Game and Technology Academy as an instructor.  I teach kids ages 5-17 about the basics of modding and Java in Minecraft.  I'm proficient in Java and HTML and in my spare time I like to sing and play the piano.

 Wylie Shiffert

Assistant Teacher

I have been interested in computers almost all of my life, I am planning on studying computer engineering in college. 

Every summer since 6th grade I have attended a mission trip with Shady Grove United Methodist Church. We travel out of state to another state with a community that hasn't been doing well. Our goal is to clean, interact, and grow bonds with the people there. I have been lucky enough to meet the youth within these communities and grow relationships with them. I have experience with a variety of children of all ages and have been able to bond with them. I play soccer for the Richmond Kickers and the Deep Run High School varsity team.  I also occasionally work as a lifeguard and a referee in youth sports.

 Salwa Balla

Assistant Teacher

Hello!  I am a junior at Deep Run High School and enrolled in the Center for Information Technology (CIT) program.  

Through the CIT program, I have able to learn Java, Python, Javascript, and SQL. I have a huge extended family, and I'm a huge hit with rebellious toddlers and elementary school children who love to play for hours on end.  I'm involved in Model United Nations, Computer Science Honor Society, Quill and Scroll Honor Society for Journalism, and the Literary Magazine club.  In my limited spare time, I like to paint, write poetry, and help host events for the Sudanese Community in Richmond.

Caleb Reeves

Assistant Teacher

I am a junior in the CIT program at Deep Run High School where I've taken AP Computer Science and Web Design and Development.  I hope to study either Computer Science or Information Systems along with Cyber Security.  I have worked with kids from ages 1 to 11-years-old for 3 years now. 

I participate in two different community service clubs, Model UN, and I hope to become a certified Spanish speaker in the next year or two.

Riley Dolan

Assistant Teacher

I am a senior at Deep Run High School and I plan on studying Business at college.  I have 3 brothers and have worked with many children as a soccer coach. I'm involved in the Key club, Medical club, and DECA.  I also enjoy studying the stock market.

Maxwell Lane

Assistant Teacher

I am a junior enrolled in the CIT program at Deep Run High School.  I plan on studying Mechanical Engineering, more specifically Automotive Engineering. I have been coding since my freshman year of high school.  I have 2 brothers, play sports, and am involved in several clubs. In my spare time, I enjoy hanging out with friends and family.