Dawn Ballway (Founder)
Dawn moved to the Charlotte area with her husband and two children. She previously lived in New Jersey and worked in the performing arts before having children. Dawn studied childhood development for many years. Realizing that science instruction in our schools has decreased consistently throughout the years, Dawn decided to fill the void by creating Atomz Lab. Her goal is to open the world of science to children by making hands-on science fun!
Lori Maple
Lori lives in the Charlotte area with her husband and three children. Prior to moving here, Lori lived in Maryland for 23 years and graduated from Towson State University in Baltimore Maryland with a Bachelors of Science degree. Lori has volunteered as a Girl Scout Leader, Head of Social Committee, Session Aide for Faith Formation and as Treasurer for school PTA/PTSOs. She currently enjoys teaching science to our preschoolers and young elementary students.
Donetta Dufrene
(Ms. Netta)
Donetta has lived in South Charlotte for 9 years. She is married with 2 teenage sons. She enjoys working in the community of Weddington as an Enrichment/Music Teacher at Southbrook Preschool and in the Childwatch at Burn Boot Camp, along with her assistant role with Atomz Lab. She considers it a joy to see so many students be enriched through science over the years.
Rachel Murphy
Originally born in Buffalo, NY, Rachel grew up in Charlotte and is very close to being considered a native Charlottean. Rachel graduated from Providence High School and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education. She taught Kindergarten in Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools for 9 years before choosing to become a stay at home mom. While her children attended elementary school, Rachel remained involved through volunteering at their school and substituting for all grade levels. She enjoys cooking, baking, reading, and spending time with her family and miniature schnauzer, Minnie.