Drama Teacher and Director of Fall Play and Spring Musical
Lisa "Shelly" McCook

Shelly McCook has performed and directed with most of the Atlanta professional theatres including the Alliance, Horizon, Aurora, 7 Stages, Theatrical Outfit, Georgia Ensemble, Actors Express and Stage Door Players. She had a long-time association with Theatre in the Square having played such iconic roles as Louise in Always Patsy Cline, the title role of Sylvia, and June in Smoke on The Mountain and Sanders’ Family Christmas over the course of a decade. She currently holds nearly 20 years’ experience directing and teaching in addition to her substantial background performing on stage, having taught in public and private schools. Shelly has been named Best Actress in publications such as: Atlanta Magazine, Creative Loafing, and the Atlanta Journal Constitution. She holds a degree in Theatre from the University of Alabama and a degree in Secondary English Education from Kennesaw State University.

Lighting Director, Forensics Teacher
Michelle Hains

Michelle Hains has been singing in choirs since elementary school, acting since middle school and working behind the scenes since high school. When Autrey Mill opened, she welcomed to opportunity to expand her skill set and support the drama department, and has been organizing auditions, running the light board and helping with rehearsals in addition to her teaching duties ever since. She currently teaches Library Research Skills, better known as Forensic Science.

Musical Director, Choral Director
Vanessa Edwards

Vanessa Edwards, a Texas native, has served as choral director at AMMS since 2014. At AMMS, she directs a program of 225 students in chorus, and serves as music director for the Musical. Mrs. Edwards attended McNeese State University, earning a Bachelors of Music Education, and two levels of Kodaly certification.  Mrs. Edwards has taught in Fulton County for 14 years. As a performer, she cantors frequently at St. Jude Catholic Church in Sandy Springs and sings with the Michael O'Neal Summer Singers Choral Group.

Mrs. Edwards lives in Forsyth County with her husband, Corey, and 7 year old daughter, Kayleigh. She is so excited to have the opportunity to work with the amazingly talented musical theatre students at AMMS again this year!