Meet Our Team
5th/6th Grade Educational Team
Ashley Cleveland, English Language Arts Educator
Joined in 2020
Ms. Cleveland joined KCGPA in its second year of operation and has brought over two decades of experience as a university professor and administrator. Dedicated to equitable education, she joined the Kansas City Teacher Residency in 2018 and was invited to join the KCGPA vision after teaching fourth grade. Having attended an all-female high school and college, Ms. Cleveland is committed to making KCGPA a high-quality personal and educational experience for every young woman. She holds a BA in English and Women’s Studies from Stephens College, a DC from Cleveland Chiropractic College, an MA in Sociology from UMKC, and a Master’s in Urban Education from Park University. She completed her two-year LETRS certification in 2025, focusing on the science of reading.
Contact: acleveland@kcgpa.org
Maycee Nicholson, Science Educator
Joined in 2023
Ms. Nicholson is in her second year at KCGPA and loves exploring and creating with her science scholars. A recent graduate of the University of Kansas with a degree in Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ms. Nicholson shifted her career from an accelerated law program to pursue tangible, community-based work. As a member of the Teach For America Corps (2024), she is passionate about providing quality STEM education to young women of color. She is dedicated to democratizing science content, ensuring this historically homogeneous field is fully accessible and engaging for every student. Ms. Nicholson is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Education at the University of Missouri, St. Louis.
Contact: mnicholson@kcgpa.org
Sarah Smith, Humanities Educator
Joined in 2022
Ms. Smith is a dedicated educator who inspires young minds through the exploration of history. An alumna of Park University, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in European History with a minor in Sociology, which allows her to connect historical contexts with insights into social structures. In her four years at Girls Prep Academy, she not only brought history to life for her students but also founded and led the school’s first yearbook program. Known for her enthusiastic approach, Ms. Smith encourages critical thinking, curiosity, and a lasting appreciation for the past. She aspires to continue her educational journey by curating at a museum, further engaging the public with history in meaningful and dynamic ways.
Contact: ssmith@kcgpa.org
Suzanne Worner, Math Educator and Art as Mentorship
Ms. Worner is our dedicated 7th Grade Math Teacher, celebrating her 25th year in education, having spent her entire career at the middle school level. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas (1998) and a graduate degree in Education from Park University (2004). Outside of the classroom, she enjoys reading, traveling, and enthusiastically cheering on the Chiefs and the Kansas Jayhawks. Rock Chalk Jayhawk!
Contact: sworner@kcgpa.org
Kaytlin Brooks, Special Education Teacher
Ms. Brooks is one of our Learning Support Specialists. Originally from New Orleans, Louisiana, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication Disorders from Louisiana State University (LSU). Now in her third year of teaching, Ms. Brooks is passionate about helping students achieve academic growth. Outside of school, she enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with friends and family.
Contact: kbrooks@kcgpa.org
Alexis Clark, Math Educator
Bio Coming Soon!
Contact: aclark@kcgpa.org
Angela Vetaw-Brinkley, Humanities Instructor
Joined in 2025
Ms. Vetaw-Brinkley (Ms. V) is a new educator excited to begin her first year of teaching. She is passionate about supporting young ladies on their learning journeys and helping them develop independent thinking. Ms. V strives to help every child recognize their unique strengths and encourages them to reach their fullest potential. Outside the classroom, she enjoys traveling, cinema, and fitness.
Contact: avetawbrinkley@kcgpa.org
7/8th Grade Educational Team
Julie Brogno, English Language Arts Educator
Joined in 2021
Ms. Brogno joined KCGPA in its second year of operation and has since taught seventh-grade ELA. She strives to share her love of reading and writing while creating a space where students feel safe, loved, challenged, and free to express themselves. Prior to KCGPA, Ms. Brogno spent fifteen years as an educator in diverse settings, including teaching college composition, managing a university tutoring program, and mentoring graduate teaching assistants. She holds degrees from the University of Missouri-Columbia, the University of Central Missouri, and UMKC. Ms. Brogno is passionate about continuous learning and will finish her second year of LETRS certification in May 2026. She enjoys exploring new places with her family, reading, and gardening.
Contact: jbrogno@kcgpa.org
Paul Colwell, Science Instructor
Joined in 2025
Mr. Colwell is starting his 30th year as an educator and is thrilled to join KCGPA to teach 7th and 8th-grade science. Throughout his distinguished career, he has occupied many roles across various schools and communities. Mr. Colwell holds degrees from Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and the University of Missouri - Kansas City. Personally, he has been married for 26 years and is a proud father of three.
Contact: pcolwell@kcgpa.org
8th Grade Educators
Alexis Holifield, Math Educator
Joined in 2023
A Wyandotte County native and graduate of Sumner Academy of Arts and Science, Ms. Holifield places community and ecosystem building at the forefront of her mission. She is an alumna of Tuskegee University, where she earned a B.S. in Sales and Marketing and played on the Women's Volleyball team. Prior to education, Ms. Holifield gained experience in diverse fields including Information Technology, Marketing, and Photojournalism. As an unbounded creative, she has actively built safe spaces for Black and Brown youth since returning to Kansas City. Ms. Holifield taught middle and high school math in the KCK Public School District for three years and is currently in her third year teaching 8th Grade Math and Math Intervention at KCGPA. She will complete her M.Ed. in Mathematics in Spring 2026. She previously piloted the Art Appreciation class in partnership with Art As Mentorship and served as the Assistant Volleyball Coach, helping KCGPA place 3rd in their conference.
Contact: aholifield@kcgpa.org
Ellen Jorgenson, ELA Educator and Director of KCGLI
Joined in 2022
Ms. Jorgenson brings a wealth of diverse experience to KCGPA. Prior to joining, she served as an educator and head girls basketball coach in Lincoln Public Schools (NE), and she gained global experience as a Health and English educator with the U.S. Peace Corps in Tanzania. Her background includes working as a content teacher (Humanities, ELL, and AP) and an after-school program coordinator. Ms. Jorgenson now directs the Kansas City Girls' Leadership Initiative (KCGLI), a high school leadership program providing alumnae with mentorship, scholarship, and enrichment opportunities like free study abroad experiences. She is thrilled to be part of a community committed to empowering young women.
Contact: ejorgenson@kcgpa.org
Enrichment Educators
Bobby Baker, Financial Literacy Educator
Joined in 2023
A native of Tupelo, Mississippi, Mr. Baker attended Jackson State University before serving seven years in the U.S. Air Force. He brings over two decades of professional experience, having worked 21 years as a licensed Stock Broker, Financial, and Investment Advisor with Series 6, 7, 63, and 65 Securities Licenses, and later operating his own consulting firm. Dedicated to education, he volunteered and taught Economics for 10 years in Junior Achievement programs throughout the Kansas City School District. Mr. Baker holds a B.S. in Business Management and a B.A. in General Studies, and he is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration (MBA). He is passionate about the vision of KCGPA and excited to contribute his financial expertise to the success of our scholars.
Contact: bbaker@kcgpa.org
Shannel Watkins, PE and Health
Joined in 2025
Ms. Watkins is excited to join KCGPA as the new Physical Education and Health teacher. She previously taught elementary Physical Education for two years, where she built a strong foundation in creating fun, engaging, and inclusive activities that helped students discover the joy of movement.
She is passionate about helping students build lifelong healthy habits, develop teamwork skills, and discover the fun in being active. With a focus on creating a positive and inclusive environment, Ms. Watkins designs lessons that encourage movement, sportsmanship, and personal growth.
In addition to promoting physical fitness, she incorporates health education topics that support students’ overall well-being—teaching them how to make informed choices about nutrition, exercise, and mental health. Her goal is to inspire every student to find an activity they enjoy and to feel confident in their ability to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Outside of the classroom, Ms. Watkins enjoys staying active and cheering on the Kansas City Chiefs. She brings that same energy, enthusiasm, and passion into her teaching every day.
Contact: swatkins@kcgpa.org
Student Support
Judith W. Tartaglia, Language Learning Support Specialist ENL
Joined in 2018, Founding Teacher
A proud Venezuelan-Italian, Ms. Tartaglia's multicultural background brings richness and depth to her professional work and community service. As a founding teacher at KCGPA, she is a passionate math educator dedicated to helping students build confidence and critical thinking skills through mathematics. Ms. Tartaglia believes in the transformative power of education, working to ensure her students succeed both in the classroom and in life. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Tecnología Informática from Venezuela and an Advanced Diploma in Ministerial Studies. Driven by a heart for service, she actively supports her church community through teaching English, translating, and baking for local shelters.
Contact: ytartaglia@kcgpa.org
Pearl Namakula Mayanja, Learning Support Specialist in Instruction
Joined in 2018, Founding Teacher
Ms. Mayanja began her career as a substitute teacher in the Kansas City Public School District, where she was immediately inspired to work toward equity and equality in the classroom. She pursued her Master’s in Urban Education at Park University in conjunction with the Kansas City Teacher’s Residency (2018). As a founding teacher at KCGPA, Ms. Mayanja is deeply invested in inspiring youth to become global citizens who value their worth and lifelong prosperity. She is dedicated to ensuring the urban community has a choice in high-quality education.
Contact: pmayanja@kcgpa.org
Cristina Caraballo De Jesus, English Language Learners Coordinator
Joined by 2022
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Ms. Caraballo completed 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 is currently the ELL Coordinator at our school, supporting Multilingual Learner families and teachers to best serve our MLs population.
Contact: ccaraballo@kcgpa.org
Lisa Nixon, Functional Academics Teacher
Joined in 2023
A native of Kansas City, MO, Ms. Nixon was born and raised on the Westside and has always aspired to contribute to her community's growth. She is entering her 16th year in education, bringing experience working with students from preschool through high school. Ms. Nixon holds a B.A. in Psychology from St. Mary’s University and a Master's in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. Her passion lies in witnessing the growth of her students and advocating for all scholars. She spends her free time with her family, her husband and two sons.
Contact: lnixon@kcgpa.org
Tracy Merritt, Special Education Teacher
Joined in 2023
Ms. Merritt is a native of the Kansas City Metro area and brings over 20 years of experience in education, having worked in both the Kansas City Public School District and the Independence School District. She holds a B.S. in Economics/Finance from Southern University in Louisiana and earned her teaching credentials in Special Education from Northwest Missouri State University. Ms. Merritt also holds a Master’s Degree in Language and Literacy from Park University. As an alumna of St. Teresa's Academy, she knows the power of an all-girls education. Ms. Merritt is excited to join KCGPA, a space dedicated to providing the same culture of support, acceptance, and encouragement for the young women of this community.
Contact: Tmerrrit@kcgpa.org
Kelly Vick, Special Education Coordinator
Joined on 2024
This is Ms. Vick’s second year with KCGPA and her 17th year working in special education. She graduated from Saint Ambrose University in 2008 and began teaching that year at a school for individuals with Autism in the Chicago suburbs. After four years of teaching there, she moved to Kansas City and began her teaching career in Missouri and Kansas schools. For the bulk of her career, she taught as a special education teacher for various center-based programs in the Blue Valley School District before moving into the charter world. Ms. Vick earned her Master’s degree in Building Administration from the University of Kansas, and then began her career as a Special Education Coordinator. This is her sixth year in a building leadership role in the charter world.
Contact: kvick@kcgpa.org
Melissa McKenzie, Librarian and Building Sub
Ms. McKenzie is the Founder and CEO of WE GO International, a global nonprofit dedicated to ensuring the presence of more diverse voices in global humanity. She works to equip Black and Brown individuals to "live globally" through lives enriched with global awareness and relationships. Prior to KCGPA, Ms. McKenzie spent 25 years at Hallmark Cards, where she led teams to develop innovative programs that inspire people and enhance meaningful relationships. Her programs, which inspire young people to become global visionaries, extend across more than 10 countries in Africa, South America, and the Caribbean, including Brazil, Haiti, and Ghana. Her calling is to uplift a generation of globally minded scholars.
Contact: mmckenzie@kcgpa.org
Social and Emotional Learning
Shakera Ross, Dean of Students
Ms. Ross graduated from Kansas State University with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Her career began as a reading instructional aide before she took on her first classroom position teaching 5th grade in Hutchinson, KS. While there, Ms. Ross was a leader in her school, guiding the project-based learning Kansas Redesign team, developing a curriculum focused on social justice issues, and guiding a student-led social media team. She is excited to work in a diverse community dedicated to empowering young women.
Contact: sross@kcgpa.org
Brittney Arterbery, Dean of Students
Joined in 2021
Ms. Arterbery has been a dedicated leader at KCGPA since 2021. In her current role, she champions equity, belonging, and student growth, with a strong focus on social-emotional learning and restorative practices. Before joining KCGPA, Ms. Arterbery taught at non-profit organizations across the Kansas City Metropolitan area, serving students facing behavioral and academic challenges. Her ability to connect with young people and foster resilience became the hallmark of her practice. Though she originally pursued a career in radio broadcasting, her passion for communication and community guided her to the classroom. Ms. Arterbery holds a B.S. in Broadcast Media and a minor in Psychology, and is certified to teach Special Education in Missouri.
Contact: barterbery@kcgpa.org
David Wulf-Cochrane, Student Support Specialist
Joined in 2023
Mr. Wulf-Cochrane is originally from Oklahoma City, OK. He received his undergraduate degree in Social Work from Bethel College in 2020 before moving to Kansas City to earn his Master's in Social Work with a Clinical Perspective (2021). Mr. Wulf-Cochrane previously spent two years at Hogan Preparatory Academy, where he served as a Restorative Advocate, focusing on implementing the socio-emotional curriculum. He is excited to join the team at KCGPA to empower students, helping them strive to be their best selves and achieve their highest potential.
Contact: dwullf-cochrane@kcgpa.org
William Pollard, Student Support Facilitator
Joined in 2025
Bio coming soon!
Contact: wpollard@kcgpa.org
Kiara Washington, Behavioral Interventionist
Joined in 2023
Ms. Washington serves as the Special Education Behavior Interventionist at KCGPA. With seven years of experience in education, this marks her third school year with Girls Prep. Ms. Washington is passionate about forming strong connections with students and celebrates watching them learn and grow throughout their academic journey.
Contact: kwashington@kcgpa.org
Alexandria Williams, School Social Worker
Ms. Williams received both her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Social Work from the University of Kansas, beginning her studies in 2018. During this time, she worked as a Prevention Specialist at The Willow Domestic Violence Center, where she created curriculum and educated students on domestic violence. After graduating, Ms. Williams moved to Kansas City to begin her clinical career at PACES, serving various KCK public schools as a School-Based Therapist. She is grateful for this opportunity at KCGPA and is committed to creating a space filled with inclusion and support for all students.
Contact: awilliams2@kcgpa.org
Tina Briggs, School Social Work Intern
Joined in 2024
Ms. Briggs is currently completing her Master’s in Social Work at the University of Kansas. This is her second year at KCGPA, and she is passionate about mental health and enjoys working with teen girls. Ms. Briggs uses a strength-based, client-centered approach, aiming to create a safe space where her clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. She is excited to collaborate with her clients and support them throughout the school year as she works toward becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Contact: tbriggs@kcgpa.org
School and Instructional Leadership
Dr. Nicole B. Smith, EdD, CEO
Dr. Smith brings vast educational experience to her role, having taught students across all grade levels from kindergarten to college. She previously served at St. Teresa's Academy in the dual capacity of Director of Equity and Inclusive Education and Chair of the Business and Computer Science department. Her expertise includes 16 years of single-sex education experience, numerous teaching certifications, and service on various educational panels and conferences. Dr. Smith's educational foundation includes a Doctorate degree and an MBA from Rockhurst University, an M.A. in Education from the University of Phoenix, and a B.S. in Journalism from the University of Florida. She is also committed to community service, including her previous service on the KCGPA Board and her current board membership with ADHDKC. Dr. Smith is the proud mother of three adult sons and a daughter-in-law.
nsmith@kcgpa.org
Caroline Dornan, Principal of Academics
Joined in 2023
Ms. Dornan has been a dedicated member of Kansas City charter schools for over a decade, serving in various roles including teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and now Principal of Academics. She is passionate about helping students grow as learners and supporting teachers in creating engaging, data-informed classrooms. Ms. Dornan believes every student deserves to see themselves in what they learn and to take ownership of their education. She is excited to continue empowering KCGPA students, families, and teachers to make learning meaningful for all.
Contact: cdornan@kcgpa.org
Dr. Chaurice Jacobson, Principal of Student Services
Joined in 2023
Dr. Chaurice Jacobson's career began 25 years ago as a paraprofessional, and since then, she has worked as a substitute teacher, taught freshman English for a decade, been a school librarian, and been 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 Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction, an 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.
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
Susuky Rubio, Front Office Manager
Joined in 2022
Ms. Rubio takes great pride in serving the Kansas City community, engaging with and supporting people from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds throughout her career. Her community service is extensive, including Church Enrichment initiatives, volunteering at homeless shelters, and leading outreach events in the medical field. With interpreter certifications and vast experience as a Medical Interpreter and Church Translator, Ms. Rubio has played a key role in bridging language gaps and fostering inclusive spaces. She is known for her strong work ethic, commitment to excellence, and ability to build meaningful connections within the KCGPA community.
Contact: srubio@kcgpa.org
Kiana Brown, Director of Operations
Joined in 2021
Ms. Brown is a native of Kansas City, KS, and an alumna of Sumner Academy of Arts and Science. Her extensive educational background includes both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, and she is currently nearing completion of her Doctorate at the University of Missouri–Kansas City. Ms. Brown began her KCGPA journey as a Learning Support Teacher and now brings her commitment to her role as Director of Operations, where she supports the girls, staff, and families of the community every day.
Contact: kbrown1@kcgpa.org
La-Toya Sheppard, Athletics and Activities Coordinator
Joined in 2021
Prior to joining KCGPA, Ms. Sheppard worked with Kansas City Public Schools for 15 years, holding multiple roles including Parent Liaison, Attendance Specialist, Athletic Facilitator, and Athletic Director at Northeast Middle School. In that time, she built a successful athletic program over seven years. Ms. Sheppard holds a B.A. in English and a M.S. in Sports Administration from Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana. She is passionate about sports, working with our youth, and is a faithful member of her church community.
Contact: lsheppard@kcgpa.org
Derion Lane, Registrar
Joined in 2025
Ms. Lane joins KCGPA as the new Registrar, bringing four years of experience in education. While this is his first year in secondary education, he is passionate about supporting students and families. Ms. Lane is dedicated to building strong relationships within the school community and is excited to be part of a team that champions growth, learning, and connection.
Contact: dlane@kcgpa.org
Allanesha Smith-Narcisse, School Nurse
Bio Coming Soon!
Contact: asmithnarcisse@kcgpa.org
Kara Kahn, Director of Development
New bio coming soon!
Contact: kkahn@kcgpa.org
Kristen Walker, Development and Marketing Manager
Joined in 2025
Ms. Walker is a dedicated advocate for all-girls education and a Kansas City native. She is an alumna of St. Teresa's Academy, where she also previously worked, and attended the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC). Her work is driven by a deep, personal commitment to supporting scholars both academically and personally. Ms. Walker is excited to be part of a team that strongly champions scholar success and prioritizes social-emotional learning. When she's not focused on the next generation of young women, you can find her exploring new places or curled up with a good book, currently adjusting to life as an "empty-nester" after sending her daughter off to college.
Contact: kwalker@kcgpa.org