Roxann Jimison is a retired educator from Gaston County Schools where she had a highly successful 31-year career as a teacher, literacy specialist, assistant principal, and principal within the school system. Upon retiring from GCS in June 2017, Roxann became the director of the Dream Center Academy, led the opening of its doors to their first class of students in July 2017, and has guided its growth over the years. Her goal is to see DCA continue to be a flourishing out-of-school-time program in Gaston County that supports generations of students in reaching their full potential.

”One of the core values we teach our students at the Academy is – Share Your Talents. God gave me a talent for working with children. Having the opportunity to use that talent to pour into the lives of our students as they grow to achieve their dreams is an amazing opportunity.” ~ RJ

Aman Seltun 

Social Worker

Lacy Barrier is from Gaston County and grew up in Belmont. Share received a degree in Intercultural Studies from Lee University. In 2018, Lacy became an after-school instructor at DCA. Since then, she has served as our Family Involvement Director where she formed strong positive relationships with our families. Lacy is currently serving as our Middle School Director.

“I love working with the students at the Dream Center and advocating for their education. In my position as the Middle School Director I love getting to know your students, helping them reach their goals, and bringing fun into every day at the Academy. Outside of loving working with families and students: I love chocolate chip cookies and traveling to new places! “ ~ LB.

Learning is a continuum. Part of being an effective educator is maintaining a growth mindset and understanding that we are all lifelong learners. Each individual has unique and valuable knowledge to contribute to our world. At Dream Center Academy, we focus on nurturing a culture of respect and collaboration in every interaction. We embrace diversity and strive to create an environment where each student feels heard, valued and is able to connect with others around them. I am thankful for the day-to-day interactions with our students and the opportunity to be a part of this amazing, growing community. Team work makes the DREAM work!

As the Family Involvement Coordinator, I have the pleasure of getting to know and building partnerships with our Dream Center parents and families. Some have shared their hopes and dreams for their children, but were worried that some stressors and obstacles affect their family as a whole. To support and empower our parents, I plan and organize parent meetings and events, offering information, resources and contacts for our families. I have invited principals and experts/speakers to engage them about important topics like mental health, cyber bullying, drug abuse and prevention. Our goal is to strengthen our families, and in partnership with our parents, no matter what obstacles are presented in life, together, we will raise productive citizens of tomorrow.