Sherwood Githens Middle School -

Email: Email Crystal Cahill, Principal

Greetings Raider Nation. I am your proud principal of Githens Middle School. My goal as the principal of Githens is to continue the great progress we’ve made in previous years while continuing to foster an environment that grows both students and teachers. My goal is to also strengthen our community ties and continue to bridge school and home through building strong relationships with families. I will work alongside my colleagues to continue to make Githens a school that truly nurtures the whole child. My background includes 14 years in education with a Master’s Degree in School Administration from North Carolina State University and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction with a concentration in Teacher Leadership for School Improvement from the University of Florida. Raiders, let’s continue to cultivate a culture of excellence…The Raider Way.

Email: james_carter@dpsnc.net

Greetings Raider Nation! 

My name is James Carter and I am honored to introduce myself as the 6th-grade Assistant Principal/Instructional Leader at Githens Middle School.  

I received my Bachelor of Business Administration from Howard University and a Master in School Administration from North Carolina Central University.

The middle school years are important and critical times for academic, social, and emotional growth. My goal as Assistant Principal is to cultivate a leadership atmosphere that promotes a safe, secure and positive atmosphere that facilitates excellence in the classroom and lifelong learning. 

I believe that ​all children can learn and that all children will learn based on what we do! 

I am excited about all that we will accomplish working together.  Feel free to contact me at any time with any celebrations, questions, comments, or concerns you may have during the school year.

Email: Email Gregory Goble

Greetings and Salutations!  My name is Greg Goble.  This is my second year in Durham Public Schools and my first year in Raider Nation.

My family and I are returning to NC after living in the Pacific Northwest for 7 years, and are thrilled to be back home.

I have been fortunate to serve families as an administrator since 2010 at each level of a student's scholastic career.  Prior to that, I was a math and science teacher in New Hanover and Pender Counties, respectively.

I look forward to all of our adventures ahead! 

Email: Email Vivianease Major

It is a pleasure to serve as the 8th grade Assistant Principal at Githens Middle School. I am embarking upon my 26th year in education and my 5th year as an administrator. I received my undergraduate degree from Fayetteville State University and my Masters in Executive Leadership from Gardner Webb University. I am happily married to Undrea Major and we have three children, Tyffani, Jalon, and Jordan.

Email: Email Elizabeth O'Donnell

I am proud to serve as the Githens AIG Specialist and the co-chair of the English Department.  Raider Pride!  I have 28 years of experience as an educator and have worked with students K-12.  I have a Masters Degree in English Language and Literature from ASU and a Masters Degree in School Administration from UNC where I was a Principal Fellow.  In my free time I love cooking for the great love of my life and our 5 children. Advanced Academics Website

Email: Email Justine Daniel

Prior to becoming the Teaching & Learning Coach for Githens Middle School I taught 8th grade ELA for 13 years. I have a Masters Degree in Curriculum & Instruction with a focus in Middle Grades Education from NC State University, AIG licensure from Duke University and was a  Capital Area Writing Project fellow through NC State University. One of my biggest honors was being named 2017 Durham Public School’s Teacher of the Year. Each and every day I am inspired by my collaboration with our innovative teachers. When I am not working here at Githens I am spending time with my husband and 4 year old twins! 

Email: Email Kia Barfield

I am excited to be the Math Instructional Coach at Githens Middle School.  My 18 years in education include teaching 6-8th grade math, Math I, II, III, and Precalculus.  I have a Doctorate degree in Educational Leadership with a focus in Curriculum & Instruction from UOP, Masters in Secondary Education from UOP, and AIG licensure from NCCU. My hobbies include family time with my children, singing, dancing, and traveling

Email: Email Lynn Mallory

Greetings Githens family!  My name is Lynn Mallory, and I am excited to be serving as the ELA Instructional Coach at Githens.  Middle school is my home, having taught for more than 20 years in schools in NC and around the world.  The last nine years I have been an administrator and teacher trainer in China and Mongolia.  I hold a BA in French and English from the University of Richmond in Virginia, an MEd in TESOL from UNC Charlotte, and a graduate certificate in Educational Leadership from Appalachian State.  I’m happy to be back in North Carolina and close to my four grandchildren, who keep me busy when I’m not in school.  I love to bake, crochet, and hike.  My passion is for helping teachers be their best, so that all our scholars can succeed.