Meet Our Team
5th Grade Teachers
Kelly O’Brien, Math and Science Teacher
After graduating from Merrimack College in Massachusetts, Kelly moved to the Mississippi Delta where she taught for 5 years. She taught 4th grade in both self-contained and departmentalized classroom settings and implemented small group, systematic phonics instruction for 3rd graders. Kelly recently relocated to Kansas City and has had the opportunity to participate in the Green Fellowship and The National Academy of Advanced Teacher Education, which will allow her to continue to develop as a teacher and a leader in education. Kelly is excited to be a founding teacher at KCGPA and to support young women in finding their voice and becoming change makers in their community and world.
Contact: kobrien@kcgpa.org
Lauren Jenkins, ELA and Humanities Teacher
Originally from St. Louis, MO, Lauren has worked in education for 12 years. From working as an ESL paraeducator in Kansas City, Kansas, to being in the founding cohort of the Kansas City Teacher Residency, ensuring that Black and Brown students receive the quality education they deserve has been her mission. Lauren has a Bachelor's degree in Spanish from UMKC, and a Masters of Arts in Teaching from Park University. When she’s not teaching, you can find her spending time with her daughter, traveling, and hunting for the best live music in town.
Contact: ljenkins1@kcgpa.org
6th Grade Teachers
Ashley Cleveland, English Language Arts Teacher
After spending more than twenty years teaching and leading at the university level, Ashley chose to follow her passion for equitable education by joining the Kansas City Teacher Residency. After two years in a fourth-grade classroom at Genesis School, Ashley was honored to be invited to serve the diverse young women at Kansas City Girls Preparatory Academy. Having had the benefit of attending an all-female high school and college, Ashley is committed to helping the young women at Kansas City Girls Preparatory Academy discover, hone and unleash their voices and visions for their futures and ours. Ashley has a BA in English and Women’s Studies from Stephens College, a MA in Sociology from UMKC, a DC from Cleveland Chiropractic College, and will soon complete a Master’s in Urban Education from Park University.
Contact: acleaveland@kcgpa.org
Sarah Smith, Humanities Teacher
Ms. Smith is a dedicated and passionate educator, has spent their life fueling a love for the humanities among scholars. With a profound commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity and a thirst for knowledge, they have dedicated their career to the art of teaching.
A graduate with a degree in European History, Ms. Smith possesses a deep understanding of the rich tapestry of European cultures, history, and heritage. Their expertise serves as a wellspring of inspiration for their students, instilling a lifelong appreciation for the complexities of the past.
As an advocate for educational equity and social justice, Ms. Smith has been an active member of both Teach For America (TFA) and AmeriCorps. These experiences have allowed them to make a profound impact on the lives of underserved students and communities, working tirelessly to bridge the opportunity gap in education.
In addition to their passion for teaching, Ms. Smith is known for their natural leadership abilities. They have consistently taken on roles of responsibility within the academic community, providing guidance and inspiration to fellow educators. Their leadership extends beyond the classroom and into the broader Kansas City, Missouri community, where they are a devoted member. Through their involvement, they continue to be a driving force for positive change and progress in the region.
Ms. Smith embodies the spirit of a lifelong learner, an advocate for educational equality, a history enthusiast, and a dedicated community member who is making a difference in the lives of scholars and the world around them.
Contact: ssmith@kcgpa.org
7th Grade Teachers
Mary Paradise, Science Teacher
Mary attended the University of Missouri, Kansas City where she received a Bachelor's degree in biology with an emphasis in pre-medicine. After graduating UMKC, Mary applied and was accepted into Americorps NCCC. She moved to California and worked with various west coast non-profits to restore the beautiful landscape and ecology of the Redwood forest. While in Americorps, Ms. Paradise taught at the Outdoor Science School which is an outdoor science camp for urban youth from the Los Angeles area. This is where her passion for teaching started. Upon returning to Kansas City, Mary attended Avila University where she obtained her Master's Degree in Teaching and Learning. She is trained in Love and Logic and various Project Lead the Way Biomedical Sciences classes. Mary is a Kansas City native and extremely excited to meld her passions of working with all girls and developing the greatest potential of the youth of Kansas City!
Contact: mparadise@kcgpa.org
Elizabeth Baird, Math Teacher
Prior to joining KC Girls Prep, Elizabeth taught middle school math at Colegio Menor, an international school in Quito, Ecuador. She is incredibly excited to return to Kansas City, where she previously taught at East High School and the Kauffman School. She has served as a Grade Team Leader, Student Council Sponsor, and Curriculum Writer at the middle school level. At East High School, she led an 8th grade class of Algebra I students to over 80% mastery on the Missouri End-of-Course Exam. Her students at the Kauffman School saw an average of 2.51 years of growth in math at the end of one year. She holds a B.B.A. in Economics from the University of Iowa and a M.Ed. in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri – St. Louis.
Contact: ebaird@kcgpa.org
Julie Brogno, English Language Arts Teacher
Julie has been an educator for more than fifteen years in very diverse settings: teaching college composition and mentoring graduate teaching assistants, teaching ESL to adults, and managing a university tutoring program. Always ready for a new challenge, Julie decided to join Kansas City Teacher Residency, an AmeriCorps program, completing her residency year at KCGPA. Julie holds a BA in French from the University of Missouri-Columbia, a MA in Teaching English as a Second Language from the University of Central Missouri, and will soon finish a MA in Curriculum & Instruction from UMKC. She is excited to share her love of reading and writing with her students and is committed to creating a space where they feel safe, loved, challenged, and free to express themselves.
Contact: jbrogno@kcgpa.org
Julie Munro, Humanities Teacher
Originally from Philadelphia, PA, Julie has lived and taught in Kansas City for 14 years. With a B.S. in Music Education, Julie has founded and built two successful music programs in Kansas City charters. She taught at Guadalupe Centers HS and KIPP Endeavor MS creating those programs, building systems and curriculums, and networking with community partners in KC. She has served in various roles such as Content Chair & Coach and Event Lead. She is excited to contribute to the students at KCGPA in giving them a strong education and helping maintain high bars of excellence.
Contact: jmunro@kcgpa.org
8th Grade Teachers
Vickie Albritton, Science Teacher
Vickie Albritton graduated from Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee in 1995 and began teaching in a rural high school. After spending two years teaching in Texas and two years teaching in Alabama, she was able to stay home with her son and daughter. Vickie came back to the classroom as the middle school science teacher for a small, parochial school, teaching fifth, sixth, seventh and eight grade science. While teaching at another rural high school in Missouri, she enjoyed facilitating the Project Lead the Way Biomedical Science classes PBS and MI. When her family moved to Kansas City in 2017, Vickie began teaching at St. Teresa's Academy in the math department, and most recently chemistry. Vickie is looking forward to investing in the scholars of KCGPA, hoping to help each student reach her full potential.
Contact: valbritton@kcgpa.org
Alexis Holifield, Math Teacher
A Wyandotte County native and graduate of Sumner Academy of Arts and Science, Alexis joins our team with the theme of community and ecosystem building at the forefront of her mission in our classrooms. Alexis is an alumna of Tuskegee University where she received a B.S. in Sales and Marketing and served as the SGA Class Historian and member of the Tuskegee University Women's Volleyball team. Previous to her career in education, Alexis has taken on many roles from Information Technology, Marketing, Community Development and Photojournalism. Alexis is an unbounded creative who has been building safe spaces for black and brown youth since her return to Kansas City in 2014, and does an amazing job at integrating those skills into a classroom setting. She has taught various skill levels of high school math in the KCK Public School District for 3 years and will be pursuing a M.Ed. in the coming years as a teacher at KCGPA. With an extensive coaching background, she will also serve as the Assistant Volleyball Coach for our girls this fall.
Contact: aholifield@kcgpa.org
Ellen Jorgenson, ELA Teacher and ELL Support
Prior to joining KCGPA, Ellen served as an educator and head girls basketball coach in Lincoln Public Schools (NE). She has worked in various cities and learning communities as a substitute teacher, lead teacher, content teacher (humanities, ELL, and AP), and after-school program coordinator. Ellen has also served as an Ella Baker Trainer with CDF Freedom Schools, and a Health and English educator with the US Peace Corps in Tanzania. She is excited to take part in a space committed to empowering young women, and eager to work with KCGPA scholars and change agents. Ellen holds a B.A. in History and ELL education from Hastings College and an M.A. in International Development from the University of Denver.
Contact: ejorgenson
9th Grade Teachers
Jacquinta Nelson, ELA and Dance Teacher
Jacquinta is the Founder and Head Coach of STEP (Supporting Them Express their Passions) Movement,LLC. Jacquinta graduated from William Jewell College with a Bachelor of Arts in Nonprofit Leadership. She also received her Substitute Certificate of License to Teach by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and is currently a member of Teach for America. Along with her educational experience, Jacquinta is an avid community advocate and has served many organizations including AmeriCorps (City Year KC & Turn the Page KC), City Union Mission, Hillcrest Transitional Housing, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kansas City, and the YMCA of Greater Kansas City. She has worked with youth to empower them academically, personally, and physically through Turn the Page KC, City Year Kansas City, Kauffman Steppers, STEP Movement, individual tutoring, and mentorship. Upon graduation, Jacquinta pursued a year of public service at City Year Kansas City through AmeriCorps where she established a step club - initially with eight participants. The following school year, Jacquinta created a curriculum for the art of stepping at the Ewing Marion Kauffman School. While teaching the content of step, she coached a team of forty students known as the ‘Kauffman Steppers.’
For the last five years Jacquinta served in numerous roles at KIPP KC. She was also the Campfire Heartland Site Director for the before and after school program. Jacquinta served as the middle school building substitute at KIPP Endeavor Academy, while teaching reading intervention and the art of stepping. Due to Jacquinta’s love for her community and youth, she founded STEP Movement, LLC. The mission of STEP Movement is to cultivate youth to express their passion for creativity, community and collaboration through the art of stepping. Her vision is to bring the world of step to the Greater Kansas City Area through entertainment and education.Internalizing her motto, “If you can stomp once and clap twice, we can teach how to step for the rest of your life,” she will accomplish her goal. Jacquinta expresses “Step is life to me”; while leading her members and ‘demonstrating’ to them positive ways of being. In this role, as well as other roles in her community, Jacquinta serves as a voice for the voiceless.
Contact: jnelson@kcgpa.org
Caroline Dornan, High School Instructional Coach & 9th Grade History Teacher
Caroline began her teaching career in Memphis, TN with a local charter district after graduating from The University of Mississippi in 2015. Upon moving to Kansas City in 2016 she accepted a position at a local charter school where she would then spend 7 years learning and growing alongside her students. As an ELA teacher she got to foster a love for reading in her students while building life-long relationships. As that chapter was coming to a close, Caroline was drawn in by the mission and vision of KCGPA and knew it would be a great fit. She's excited to be a part of the growing team and helping to build a rigorous and supportive academic environment for her students.
Contact: Cdornan@kcgpa.org
Nikki Hantel, Math and Science Teacher
Nikki Cantrell Hantel, a dedicated educator, has accumulated 15 years of teaching experience in various educational settings. Originally from Kansas City, Nikki graduated from Concordia University Chicago with degrees in political science and secondary education. Her teaching journey has taken her to different parts of the country, including Hawaii, where she taught math and social studies at the middle school level for four years. She then transitioned to Chicago, where she served as a math teacher for two years before returning to Kansas City, where she has spent the past nine years teaching middle school science. Recently, she earned her master's degree in science education. Nikki is committed to using her classroom to amplify the voices of women in male-dominated STEM fields, aiming to inspire and support more women to pursue careers in these areas.
Contact: Nhantel@kcgpa.org
Enrichment Teachers
Ashley Scarlett, Physical Education and Health Teacher
Ashley graduated from The University of Kansas where she received her Bachelor’s in Health and Physical Education and her Master’s in Health and Physical Education with an Adapted Physical Education emphasis. Prior to joining the KCGPA team she taught at Center High School for nine years, serving as the head swim team coach and PE department chair. Ashley has extensive experience with developing curriculum, writing grants, and advocating for the PE department and for student choice. She is excited to create and develop the Health and PE curriculum to give students opportunities to move in different ways and learn how to live a healthy lifestyle. Ashley has a passion for learning new activities to keep students active and having fun because when students are having fun they make a positive connection between the two.
Contact: ascarlett@kcgpa.org
Bobby Baker, Personal Finance Teacher and Behavior Support Coordinator
Originally a native of Tupelo, Mississippi, Bobby attended Jackson State University prior to serving in the US Air Force for 7 years. He then worked 21 years as a licensed Stock Broker, Financial and Investment Advisor, having obtained Series 6, 7, 63, and 65 Securities Licenses before starting and operating his own consulting firm. He volunteered and taught Economics in various Junior Achievement programs throughout the Kansas City School district for 10 years. He received his Substitute Certificate of License to Teach by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. He has a BS in Business Management and a BA in General Studies. He's currently enrolled and working towards completion of his Master of Business Administration (MBA). Bobby is passionate about the vision of KCGPA and is excited to be able to contribute his years of financial expertise towards the success of our scholars.
Contact: bbaker@kcgpa.org
Student Support
Judith W. Tartaglia, Language Learning Support Specialist ENL & Paraprofessional
Originally from Venezuela, Judith’s diverse life experiences include teaching, baking, translating, and media strategy. Judith is passionate about serving our community. Partnering with her church community, Judith uses her baking skills to make cakes for area homeless shelters, teaches English to non-English speakers, translates documents and sermons, and serves on the hospitality team. Passionate about education, Judith joined KCGPA to help our students succeed beyond her own success. Judith holds a Bachelor’s degree in Tecnologia Informatica from Instituto Universitario de Tecnologia Isaac Newton, in Valencia, Venezuela, and Advanced Diploma in Ministerial Studies from Purpose Institute, in Kansas City, MO.
Contact: ytartaglia@kcgpa.org
Pearl Namakula Mayanja, Learning Support Specialist in Instruction
Pearl started working in education as a substitute teacher in the Kansas City Public School District. Pearl saw the need for equity and equality in the classroom to reignite scholar’s passion in learning. In 2018, Pearl began her Master’s in Urban Education at Park University in conjunction with Kansas City Teacher’s Residency. Pearl spent her residency year at University Academy teaching 5th grade math. Pearl decided to be a teacher to serve as an integral part of her community. Pearl is invested to inspire our youth to become global citizens that value their worth, education, and life-long prosperity. KCGPA is giving the urban community choice in education. Choice is something that the urban community in Kansas City is not accustomed to. Kansas City Girls Prep will become a pillar in Kansas City education, and Pearl is proud to be a founding teacher.
Contac: pmayanjia@kcgpa.org
Cristina Caraballo De Jesus, Learning Support Specialist
Originally from Puerto Rico, Cristina has a Master’s of Arts in English Education and a bachelor’s in English linguistics. She is passionate about learning languages and other cultures. She traveled, studied, and taught English abroad in South Korea for many years before coming to Kansas City through Teach for America. She taught in early childhood during her time serving as a corp member in TFA. She is excited to return to a formal classroom, supporting student’s needs and individualized objectives.
Contact: ccarabello@kcgpa.org
Brittney Arterbery, Special Education Coordinator
Prior to joining KCGPA, Brittney taught at various non-profit organizations in the Kansas City Metropolitan area. While teaching at those organizations, she primarily taught "at-risk" students that struggled with behavioral skills. Before getting into teaching, she originally took the career path to become a radio broadcaster. However, she felt compelled to reach out to the youth and give back to the community she calls home. She currently hold a B.S. in Broadcast Media and a minor in Psychology as well as being certified to teach Special Education in the state of Missouri.
Contact: Batterbery@kcgpa.org
Kimberly Hunter, Learning Support Specialist - TESOL
Prior to growing roots in Kansas City, Kansas, Kimberly taught newcomer students at a high school in the Bronx while earning her Master’s in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from the City College of New York. Like many of her students, she has moved much but often calls Florida home, where she earned her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Florida and learned community organizing skills while working alongside the Coalition of Immokalee Workers and National Women’s Liberation. Most recently, Kimberly served in a community relations role at a neighborhood nonprofit while completing a graduate level Peace and Conflict Resolution Certificate from the Kansas Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution. Now she is grateful to be back in the classroom with KCGPA because she is committed to growth, freedom, and community and believes dialogical education equips young women with the ethics and courage necessary to lead.
Contact: Khunter@kcgpa.org
Natalie Scroggie, Learning Support Specialist
Natalie is a newly inducted Teach for America Corps member who’s been planted in Kansas City for the past three years. Her passion for education and youth leadership development started at Wildwood Outdoor Education Center in 2010. She began working on the Kansas side as a Special Education Paraprofessional. She is driven by the challenge of adapting to different learners. Flexibility, focus, and caring relationships are at the heart of who she is as an educator. Natalie graduated with a Psychology degree from Arizona State University in 2016 and is starting a Masters in Special Education through the University of Missouri- St. Louis in the fall. She is honored to be a founding teacher at KCGPA and is looking forward to meeting her students and celebrating their success!
Contact: Nscroggie@kcgpa.org
Maddie Gomez, Learning Support Specialist
Maddie is originally from Tulsa, Oklahoma. While studying Psychology and Spanish at Oklahoma State University, Maddie spent summers and breaks teaching and volunteering in Reynosa, Mexico. She furthered her Spanish studies by attending La Universidad Católica in Valparaíso, Chile. Upon graduation, Maddie moved to Kansas City through the Teach for America program where she taught middle school ELL at a charter school for 3 years. Last year, Maddie moved up with her students to teach high school special education and ELL. She is ecstatic to be joining the KCGPA family this year as she continues to follow her passion to support all learners. Maddie especially loves supporting diverse learners in the general education classroom and promoting inclusion. Her favorite thing is building self confidence in her students and she is honored to witness all the a-ha moments. She looks forward to collaborating with teachers and building relationships with the bright scholars of KCGPA!
Contact: mgomez1@kcgpa.org
Lisa Nixon, High School Learning Support Specialist
My name is Lisa Nixon and I will be the Highschool Special Education Teacher for the Functional Academics Classroom. I am a KC Native, raised and still residing on the Westside of Kansas City, MO. I attended college in Texas and Chicago, earning a BA in Psychology and Masters in Social Work. I came back to Kansas City to work within my community. I stumbled and fell in love with teaching. This will be my 14th year in education. I have worked at two charter schools previously, inside and outside the classroom. In my spare time I like to relax with family and friends and spend my time with my husband and two young boys. I am excited to be joining the Highschool team at KCGPA and look forward to what the year brings.
Contact: lnixon@kcgpa.org
Tracy Merritt, High School Learning Support Specialist
Tracy Is from the Kansas City Metro area. She’s been in education for over 20 years. She’s worked at various schools in the Kansas City Public School District and at Van Horn High School in the Independence School District. Tracy holds a B.S. in Economics/Finance from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and gained her teaching credentials in Special Education from Northwest University Missouri State University. She also has a Masters Degree in Language and Literacy from Park University. Tracy attended an all girls high school in Kansas City, St.Teresa's Academy. It was at St. Teresa’s Academy where Tracy became more confident and ready to meet life’s challenges and prepared her to change her community. She’s excited to join KCGPA and be in a space that provides some of those same things as well as a culture of support, acceptance, and encouragement for the young ladies of this community.
Contact: Tmerrrit@kcgpa.org
Rose Adreani, High School Learning Support Specialist
Originally from the Chicago suburbs, Rose Adreani moved to Kansas City after graduating from college. She has been teaching in Kansas City for 8 years. Rose spent 5 years as the middle school and high school choir teacher at University Academy before transitioning to work with English Language Learners at the same school. They also sponsored the high school Student Council at University Academy for 6 years, and is passionate about fostering opportunities for students to shine, speak up, and lead. She has a Masters degree in Secondary English education, and is currently getting her Masters degree in TESOL. They are so excited to get started at KCGPA. Outside of school, Rose loves to cook, bake, bird watch, read queer YA literature, go to concerts, and go to KC Current soccer games.
Contact: Radreani@kcgpa.org
Social and Emotional Learning
Shakera Ross, High School Dean of Culture
Shakera graduated from Kansas State University, where she earned a bachelor’s in Elementary Education. Shortly after her graduation, she took a reading instructional aide position at a small-town school in Kansas. She began her first classroom position teaching 5th grade in Hutchinson, KS. During her time there she led the project-based learning Kansas Redesign team for her school, developed a curriculum that taught students about social justice issues, and guided a student lead social media team. Shakera is excited to work in a diverse community, dedicated to empowering young women.
Contact: sross@kcgpa.org
Chelsea Conwell, Middle School Dean of Culture
Chelsea graduated from Loyola University in New Orleans and joined Teach for America. She then moved to St. Louis, where she taught Fourth Grade for two years. While teaching, she obtained her Masters Degree in Elementary Education from University of Missouri – St. Louis. Chelsea recently relocated to Kansas City to participate in the Green Fellowship, which allows for continued growth and development as a Teacher Leader. During Chelsea’s time in the classroom she has seen the impact of creating a rigorous and loving environment. She hopes to continue to create experiences for students that empower them to reach their full potential, while growing as a teacher leader. Chelsea is excited to join the KCGPA team.
Contact: cconwell@kcgpa.org
David Wulf-Cochrane, Behavioral Interventionist
David is originally from Oklahoma City, OK and received his degree in Social Work from Bethel College in North Newton Kansas in 2020. Shortly after, David moved up to Kansas City to obtain his Master's in Social Work with a Clinical Perspective. David graduated with his Master's in 2021, and began working at Hogan Preparatory Academy in the fall of 2021. At Hogan, David worked alongside the school Social Worker as the "Restorative Advocate." Together, they focused on implementing Socio-Emotional curriculum. David spent the last two years at Hogan, and is now working with the wonderful team here at Kansas City Girls Preparatory. David is truly excited to work with the students at KCGPA, and help to empower them to strive to be the best versions of themselves and achieve their highest potential!
Contact: dwullf-cochrane@kcgpa.org
Gina Bumgarner, School Counselor
Spending most of her childhood in Bellevue Nebraska, Gina moved to Maryville Missouri to attend Northwest Missouri State University to earn her Bachelor's in Psychology with a minor in Art. She continued her education at NWMSU to earn her Master's of Education in School Guidance and Counseling. From there she moved to Kansas City to work at Northeast Middle School in the Kansas City Public Schools district. She has been trained in conflict resolution, mediations, and interpersonal communication. Gina believes that a school counselor's role is to maximize student success and provide access and equity to all students. Gina is excited to serve the students at KCGPA and the community.
Contact: gbumgarner@kcgpa.org
Alexandria Williams, School Social Worker
Alexandria attended The University of Kansas beginning in 2018 and received her Bachelors and Masters in Social Work while she was there. During this period of time she was working as a Prevention Specialist at The Willow Domestic Violence Center, where she was able to educate students on domestic violence and create curriculum. After graduating, she decided to leave Lawrence and start her clinical career here in KC at PACES. While at PACES she was able to serve various KCK public schools as a School-Based Therapist. She is extremely grateful for this new opportunity at KCGPA and hopes to create a space filled with inclusion and support for the students here.
Contact: awilliams2@kcgpa.org
School and Instructional Leadership
Dorita Barr, High School Leader
Dorita Barr is Kansas City Girls Preparatory Academy’s Founding High School Principal. Dorita was born in Kansas City, MO and grew up on the city’s east side, just blocks away from KCGPA. Growing up in an urban environment instilled a sense of resiliency in Dorita that allowed her to experience various academic successes. Dorita is an alumna of Lincoln College Preparatory Academy, and she holds a Bachelor’s of English from Hampton University as well as a Master’s of Education from Southern Methodist University. Prior to joining the KCGPA team, Dorita worked as an Instructional Coach and Reading Specialist at a 7-12 school in downtown Kansas City and taught Reading and English Language Arts at two middle schools in Texas. Her experiences as a secondary educator and instructional leader has deeply entrenched Dorita’s passion for ensuring that all students–especially those from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds–have solid educational and socio-emotional foundations that will allow them to live opportunity-filled and choice-filled lives.
Contact dbarr@kcgpa.org
Dr. Chaurice Jacobson, Middle School Assistant School Leader
Dr. Chaurice Jacobson is running out of words to describe how excited she is to join the KCGPA team! Her career began 21 years ago as a paraprofessional, and since then she has worked as a substitute teacher, taught freshman english for a decade, was a school librarian, and was an instructional coach. She also teaches many courses on Diversity and Equity in Education at UMKC. Dr. J grew up in Pasadena, CA, but moved to Overland Park, KS in high school. She received her undergraduate degree from the University of Kansas (Rock Chalk)! She holds a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction, Ed Specialist degree in Urban School Leadership, a Doctorate in Education, and is certified in English Language Learning and Library Sciences. Dr. Jacobson believes education is the great equalizer, and literacy is key to future self-sustainability. Precisely because of their importance, teachers should be well-prepared and supported to educate despite and while working against systemic social inequities. She’s always been excited to find ways to help teachers teach all students to find motivation that develops a life-long love of learning that catapults them into their futures and rights the wrongs in ours. Did we mention that she’s excited to join KCGPA?!
Dr. J loves reading and musicals and hates shoes. She and her wife have two daughters, and one naughty dog.
Contact: cjacobson@kcgpa.org
Support and Operations
Renee Rivera, Director of Student Support
Renee started her educational journey at the University of Kansas where she earned her BA in Unified Early Childhood. She used that degree to become a founding teacher at Academia de Ninos in Kansas City in 2012. Shortly after, she achieved her Masters at UMKC in Educational Administration. In 2015 she made the move to KIPP to help start their elementary and high school. She then earned her TESOL degree from Missouri Western University to build KIPP's English Language Learners Program. In 2022, she also took over leading the Special Education department in addition to the ELL Department.
Contact: Rrivera@kcgpa.org
Annie Krieg, Director of Academics and Leader Development
Annie was born and raised in Kansas City. She graduated from the University of Missouri before joining Teach for America, Chicago. She happily taught on Chicago's Southside for seven years as an AP Literature and Composition Teacher and Senior Dean. She and her partner moved to Los Angeles to become ELA Instructional Coaches at Alliance College Ready Public Schools, where she coached teachers, Assistant Principals and Principals to forward their literacy programs. Four years later, Annie returned to her hometown to join the KCGPA community, inspired by and dedicated to its mission and vision. She is currently getting her Masters in Education Administration from UMKC Teach+.
Contact: akrieg@kcgpa.org
Susuky Rubio, Front Office Manager/Registrar
Susuky has had the great opportunity through her professional career to have engaged and met with People from different walks of life with different socioeconomic statuses. She takes great pride in serving the Kansas City Population whether it is through Church Community Enrichment Activities, with our Local Law Enforcement and First Responders, Homeless Shelters and supporting in any way she can to see a growth in the smallest members of our society. As a professional, having a strong work etchic, and commitment to her work has always given her great pride and satisfaction.
Contact: srubio@kcgpa.org
Kiana Brown, Manager of Operations
Kiana Brown is a Kansas City native. After graduating from Sumner Academy of Art & Sciences, she continued her education at the University of Kansas, receiving a Bachelors in Secondary English Education. During her studies at the University of Kansas, she founded two early childhood nurseries and preschools that provide care and enrichment support to school aged children. Upon graduation from KU, Kiana worked as a 7th grade reading teacher in the Kansas City area. Kiana earned her Master’s degree in Education Administration from Pittsburg State University. She is currently working though the Education Administration doctorate program at UMKC. She began her career at KCGPA as the ELL Support Specialist, where she was passionate about strengthening relationships and providing equitable educational opportunities for our students. Kiana has continued her support and commitment to KCGPA as the Manager of Operations.
Contact: kbrown1@kcgpa.org
La-Toya Sheppard, Athletics/Activities and Operations Coordinator
Before joining KCGPA, La-Toya worked with Kansas City Public Schools for 15 years as Parent Liaison, Attendance Specialist, Athletic Facilitator, and Athletic Director at Northeast Middle School where she built a successful athletic program for 7 years. La-Toya is passionate about sports, working with our youth, and faithful member of her church. She holds a B.A. in English and M.S. in Sports Administration from Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana.
Contact: lsheppard@kcgpa.org
Destiney Kocsis, School Operations Coordinator
Destiney Kocsis, your dedicated School Operations Coordinator at KCGPA. As a proud native of Kansas City, Missouri, Destiney brings a deep-rooted commitment to supporting our community's growth and development.
Destiney’s educational journey closely mirrors the path of many of our scholars. She proudly attended KCPS schools throughout her formative years, culminating in high school graduation from Southeast High School. Eager to expand her horizons, Destiney pursued higher education at Coffeyville Community College, earning an Associates Degree in Arts and Science.
Returning to her beloved Kansas City, Destiney embarked on a mission to contribute to the community that had shaped her. That's when destiny led her to KCGPA. Here, she found not just a workplace, but a purpose-driven family that shares her same passion for making a positive impact.
As the School Operations Coordinator, Destiney has the incredible opportunity to directly impact the lives of scholars who are navigating the same streets and experiences she once did. Destiney believes it’s a privilege to come full circle and offer guidance and support to our scholars as they write their own success stories. Every task she undertakes is infused with the genuine care and dedication that our scholars and community deserve. Destiney is excited to be a part of their journey, providing the tools and assistance they need to thrive.
Contact: Dkocis@kggpa.org
Molly Schemm, Family Partnerships Manager
Before joining KCGPA, Molly worked at United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile as a grant administrator and Assistant Director of Camp SMILE, a camp for children and adults with special needs. She holds a BA in Child Psychology with a Minor in Applied Behavioral Sciences from KU.
Ms. Molly is passionate about KC Girls Prep’s mission and loves spreading the word at events, representing the school, and connecting families with their next adventure. Working with the next generation of leaders inspires them and brings joy to each and every day. If you see her out and about, don’t hesitate to ask about enrolling—or just what’s happening at KCGPA!
Contact: mschemm@kcgpa.org
Phoebe Haganey, Community Outreach Associate/Substitute Teacher
Phoebe is a native of the Kansas City area. In May, she recieved her Associate’s Degree in Sociology from KCKCC and is now completeing her Bachlor’s in Human Services at Ottawa University. Phoebe is ecstatic to be a part of the KCGPA family, and considers her position here at the school as a direct continuation of her education. Phoebe hopes to work with Kansas City communities to build, repair, and maintain sustainable and lasting resources.
Contact: phaganey@kcgpa.org
Kanisha Childress, School Nurse
Bio coming soon :)
Kara Kahn, Development Manager
After graduating college in 2018, Kara worked as the marketing intern at KCGPA for almost a year. She then went on to work at a design-build firm in the Kansas City Area, working closely with their Foundation. After two years away from KCGPA, Kara is excited to return as the Development Manager. She has a passion for bettering the Kansas City Community and can't wait to be a part of KCGPA's future.
Contact: kkahn@kcgpa.org
Tom Krebs, CEO
Prior to KCGPA, Tom served as Vice President for Program Delivery with Leading Educators, a national nonprofit that trains instructional leaders in CCSS-aligned, content-specific best practices. He also served as a founding academic dean at a charter high school in Newark, where his students achieved 97% proficiency on state assessments, the highest ELA scores in the state for open-enrollment, high-poverty schools, ACT scores above the national average, and a 96% college acceptance rate. Previously, he taught in two other high schools in Newark and the Bronx while serving as a grade level chair and founder of a college access program that more than tripled the rate of student acceptances to college. He holds a B.A. in Public Policy Analysis and Economics from Pomona College, a M.S. in teaching from Pace University, and a M.A. in Education Administration from National Louis University.
Contact: tkrebs@kcgpa.org