Visual and Performing Arts

Ms. Tonya Harris

Hello! My name is Tonya Harris-Ellis, and I am proud to serve as the Visual Arts teacher in Room 600. I was born and raised in Wilson, North Carolina, where I also graduated from E.T. Beddingfield High School. I went on to earn my degree from North Carolina Central University, and I’ve now been teaching for 27 wonderful years. I love teaching because I believe it is my calling to help students in urban schools become excited about learning, engaged in the creative process, and confident in their ability to excel. I strive to instill a lifelong love of learning and creativity in all of my students, encouraging them to grow, develop, and express themselves through art. I especially love inspiring new minds to create masterpieces that reflect who they are.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy painting and drawing, sipping on a warm cup of hot tea, and indulging in delicious Jamaican food—my favorite! My favorite color is red, which reflects the passion and energy I bring to my classroom each day. I’m also the proud mother of two amazing daughters. Madison is a senior at North Carolina A&T State University, and Krishawnda works for the Department of Defense with the Navy in Virginia. At home, I’m kept on my toes by my two superhero dogs, Omega and Piper Dawn. I look forward to another great year of inspiring creativity and making meaningful connections through the power of visual arts!

Mr. Joshua Kohl

Dr Kohl is in his third year as Band Director here at BHS. In addition to teaching band, he is also the Chorus Director and Tracie’ teaches classes in Music Appreciation, Music Theory, Music Technology, and Guitar. He received a bachelor’s degree in Music from Southern Virginia University, and a Master’s and Doctoral Degree in Music Education from Liberty University.