Mrs. Mandrell is a Native of Southern Illinois. She was raised in Hodges Park, IL and now resides in Tamms, IL with her husband and daughter. Mrs. Mandrell currently holds a Bachelors of Science in Education (SIU-C), Masters of Education in Administration (Williams Woods University), Specialist in Education-Superintendent Licensure (McKendree University) and is now working on her Doctor of Education in Curriculum Design and Instruction (McKendree University).

This is Mrs. Mandrell's 19th year in education.  Previously, she has taught middle school math and science.  In addition to teaching, Mrs. Mandrell coached basketball and softball at the middle and high school level.

One of Mrs. Mandrell’s greatest accomplishments outside of the classroom, was helping start an alumni organization called Hometown Connect. The purpose of Hometown Connect is to build stronger rural communities by bringing together people both in and from their hometowns to create educational opportunities, strengthen local economies, and civic empowerment. This is Mrs. Mandrell's passion because she loves to see success in all. She believes everyone has the ability to grow and succeed. Sometimes, people just need someone to believe in them, motivate them, challenge them, and hold them accountable to get moving in the right direction. Mrs. Mandrell loves when she can have an impact on others to do well for themselves, their families, and the community they serve.