Social Studies Department Teachers
Ms. Valada
Carolyn Valada 8th Grade Social Studies. Carolyn Valada is Head of the Social Studies Department, a club sponsor for Chess Club, Jr. Beta, and Academic Bowl. Carolyn grew up in upstate New York and received her master's in education from The State University of NY at Plattsburgh. She taught 6th grade Social Studies for four years in North Carolina before moving to Georgia. In her free time, she likes to travel, bake, and go for hikes.
Mr. Pinholster
I began teaching in 1994 and for all but two of those years taught Georgia Studies. My original degree was in Economics, and I have since added graduate degrees in History and Education.
My focus is on preparing students for success in higher education and improving their writing and reasoning skills.
Mr. Kirby
Russell Kirby was born in LaGrange, GA, but considers Madison, GA “home”. He graduated from Morgan County High School and then attended Truett-McConnell College, followed by The University of GA, Emmanuel College, Piedmont College, and Lincoln Memorial University. He has an associate degree in arts, a Bachelor of Arts in History, a Master of Education in Social Sciences, and a Specialist of Education in Leadership and Administration. Mr. Kirby is starting his 29.5-year teaching (26 of those in middle school). He has taught social studies in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades. At River Trail, Mr. Kirby serves as the Yearbook Advisor, the RTMS Club Co-Ordinator, The Media Center Chair, Morning Intramural Facilitator, the “unofficial” assistant to the band director, and during the volleyball and basketball seasons you will see him on the stage in the gym keeping the stats. In past years he has also served as Social Studies Chair, and 6th and 8th Grade PLC Chair. In his spare time, Mr. Kirby enjoys laying on his couch watching TV, reading, and being around people. He is the Executive State Director of the Miss Georgia Volunteer pageant and on Sundays and Wednesdays, you will find him at Phoenix Community of Atlanta.
Ms. Howard
My name is Ms. Howard. I grew up in the corn fields of northern Illinois, right on the great Mississippi River. I moved to Georgia 20+ years ago. I have been teaching more than 30 years and I can’t image a better career. I enjoy most outdoor activities. Football and baseball are my favorite sports. I am a big Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs fan. Although Falcons and Braves are my second favorite. 😊 Reading and being with friends is my favorite thing to do, although quiet time alone is nice too! One interesting fact about me is that I spent two years teaching in a small Eskimo village in the southwest tundra of Alaska. It was a very challenging experience, but worth every minute.