Administration
Dr. Smith began her teaching career in Burke County where during her time there she earned both Teacher and District teacher of the year before eventually transferring and settling in the Columbia County School District in 2016. Prior to being Principal at Martinez, she has served as a teacher leader at Westmont Elementary School, Assistant Principal at North Harlem Elementary, and Principal at South Columbia Elementary school.
She graduated with her bachelor’s degree from Augusta State University, has a Master’s in Reading and Literacy from Walden University, an Educational Specialist and a Doctorate degree in Early Childhood Education from Walden and a Tier I and Tier II Certification in Leadership from Augusta University.
Dr Smith lives in Columbia County with her husband Jarius, daughter Madison, and their yorkshire, Levi. In her free time she enjoys family time, motivating and supporting others, and finding ways to serve in her purpose across the community.
She is looking forward to working with all of our staff, students, families, and our Martinez Elementary school community.
Please do not hesitate to contact Dr Smith if you have questions, or any other areas that she may be able to assist you with.
Mrs. Melissa Buzzell was born and raised in Augusta, Georgia. She attended Columbia County schools as a child and graduated from Lakeside High School. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education from Augusta University in 2003 to begin her teaching career in Columbia County. She went on to complete her Master's Degree in Education from Georgia College & State University in 2018, and her Specialist in Advanced Educational Studies from Augusta University in 2020. She also holds a reading endorsement and gifted certification. Mrs. Buzzell has spent the last two decades at North Columbia Elementary teaching in the upper grades. Throughout her teaching career, Mrs. Buzzell has served as a teacher leader, S.T.E.A.M. coordinator, and has worked closely with others on the ACE curriculum development. She was also selected to serve as the Science Champion for the Columbia County School District for the last two years.
Mrs. Buzzell just celebrated her 25th anniversary with her husband and has two children, Journey (17) and Chaz (13). Her family has a beloved Great Dane named Xander. They enjoy traveling, adventures, and hosting many family celebrations. She is looking forward to building relationships and inspiring others to do more than they ever thought possible. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Buzzell with any questions or concerns you may have. She is ready to partner with you to make this a successful year.
Lessley (Blaze) Matanane - Principal's Secretary