Meet Our Team
5th/6th Grade Educational Team
Ashley Cleveland, English Language Arts Educator
Joined in 2020
Ms. Ashley Cleveland joined KCGPA in its second year of operation and has loved reading and writing with our scholars! Ashley has taught English Language Arts in both 5th and 6th grade at KCGPA. Prior to teaching at KCGPA, Ashley served for more than twenty years as a university professor and administrator. In 2018, she 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 join in the vision for KCGPA. Having had the benefit of attending an all-female high school and college, Ashley is committed to making KCGPA a high-quality educational and personal experience for the young women it serves. She has a BA in English and Women’s Studies from Stephens College, a DC from Cleveland Chiropractic College, a MA in Sociology from UMKC and a Master’s in Urban Education from Park University. In 2025, Ashley completed her two-year LETRS certification focused on best practices in teaching the science of reading.
Contact: acleveland@kcgpa.org
Maycee Nicholson, Science Educator
Joined 2023
Ms. Nicholson is in her second year at KCGPA and has loved every moment of learning and doing science with her scholars! She is a recent graduate from the University of Kansas with a degree in Women’s Gender and Sexuality Studies, with a Minor in Italian, and an Undergraduate Certificate in Gender, Policy and the Law. Originally a part of an accelerated law degree program, Ms. Nicholson shifted her career goals to incorporate more tangible and community-based work. Joining the Teach For America Corps in 2024, she is passionate about providing quality STEM education to young women of color. Focusing her undergraduate research on the importance of education in social activism, with a geographical focus on the Midwest, she seeks to empower young women to find their voice by making the world of science their own. Committed to promoting equity, Ms. Nicholson is passionate about making science—a field with a historically exclusive past—accessible and relevant for all her scholars. She believes that each scholar deserves both the knowledge and power that they need to combat systemic inequalities. Ms. Nicholson is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Education at the University of Missouri, St. Louis. She is so very excited for all that this year has in store!
Contact: mnicholson@kcgpa.org
Sarah Smith, Humanities Educator
Joined in 2022
Sarah Smith is a dedicated educator with a passion for inspiring young minds through the exploration of history. A proud alumna of Park University, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in European History with a minor in Sociology, combining a deep understanding of historical contexts with insights into social structures and human behavior.
Her teaching career began at Girls Prep Academy, where she has been an integral part of the faculty for the past four years. During her time at the school, she not only brought history to life for her students but also founded and led the school's first yearbook program—providing students with a creative platform to capture and celebrate their academic journey.
Known for her enthusiastic approach and commitment to academic excellence, she finds joy and honor in guiding scholars through the fantastic world of history, encouraging critical thinking, curiosity, and a lasting appreciation for the past.
With an eye toward the future, she aspires to continue her educational journey by curating at a museum, where she hopes to further engage the public with history in meaningful and dynamic ways.
Contact: ssmith@kcgpa.org
Suzanne Worner, Math Educator and Art as Mentorship
Suzanne Worner is our dedicated 7th Grade Math Teacher, celebrating her 25th year in education. Ms. Worner has spent her entire career at the middle school level, bringing deep experience to her classroom. She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Kansas (1998) and a graduate degree in Education from Park University (2004). Outside of school, she enjoys reading, traveling, and enthusiastically cheering on the Chiefs and her Kansas Jayhawks.
Rock Chalk Jayhawk!
Contact: sworner@kcgpa.org
Kaytlin Brooks, Special Education Teacher
Bio Coming Soon!
Contact: kbrooks@kcgpa.org
Alexis Clark, Math Educator
Bio Coming Soon!
Contact: aclark@kcgpa.org
Angela Vetaw-Brinkley, Humanities Instructor
Joined in 2025
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 believes every child has 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
Julie joined KCGPA in its second year after opening. Since then, she has taught seventh-grade ELA, sharing her love of reading and writing with her students and creating a space where they feel safe, loved, challenged, and free to express themselves. Before joining KCGPA, Julie worked as an educator for fifteen years in very diverse settings: teaching college composition and mentoring graduate teaching assistants, teaching ESL to adults, and managing a university tutoring program. Julie holds a BA in French from the University of Missouri-Columbia, an MA in Teaching English as a Second Language from the University of Central Missouri, and an MA in Curriculum & Instruction from UMKC. She will finish her second year of certification in LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) in May 2026. Julie enjoys exploring new places with her husband and two children, reading, and listening to audiobooks as she works in her garden.
Contact: jbrogno@kcgpa.org
Paul Colwell, Science Instructor
Joined in 2025
Mr. Colwell is starting his 30th year as an educator and holds degrees from Kansas State University, Wichita State University, and the University of Missouri - Kansas City. Mr. Colwell has occupied many roles throughout his career and is super excited to join KCGPA to teach 7th and 8th-grade science. Personally, Mr. Colwell has been married for 26 years and has three amazing children.
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, Alexis fortifies 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, including Information Technology, Management, Marketing, Community Development and Photojournalism. Alexis is an unbounded creative who has actively built 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 middle and high school math in the KCK Public School District for 3 years and will complete her M.Ed. in Mathematics this Spring of 2026. This is her third year teaching 8th Grade Math and Math Intervention at KCGPA. During the 24-25 school year, she taught and piloted our Art Appreciation specials class by joining forces with Art As Mentorship, a non-profit that provides songwriting and a studio recording experience for scholars, in partnership with the InterUrban Arthouse in the Greater Kansas City area. She also served as the Assistant Volleyball Coach for 2 years, which led to KCGPA placing 3rd in their conference during the 24-25 school year.
Contact: aholifield@kcgpa.org
Ellen Jorgenson, ELA Educator and Director of KCGLI
Joined in 2022
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
Contact: ejorgenson@kcgpa.org
Enrichment Educators
Bobby Baker, Financial Literacy Educator
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
Shannel Watkins, PE and Health
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
Judith Tartaglia is a proud Venezuelan-Italian whose multicultural background brings richness and depth to both her professional work and community service. With a diverse background in education, media strategy, translation, and baking, Judith blends creativity, compassion, and purpose in everything she does. As a founding teacher at KCGPA and a passionate math educator, Judith is dedicated to helping students build confidence and critical thinking skills through mathematics. She believes in the transformative power of education and works to ensure her students succeed not just in the classroom, but in life.
Driven by a heart for service, Judith actively supports her church community by teaching English to non-native speakers, translating sermons and documents, baking for local shelters, and serving on the hospitality team. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Tecnología Informática from the Instituto Universitario de Tecnología Isaac Newton in Valencia, Venezuela, and an Advanced Diploma in Ministerial Studies from Purpose Institute in Kansas City, MO.
Contact: ytartaglia@kcgpa.org
Pearl Namakula Mayanja, Learning Support Specialist in Instruction
Joined in 2018, Founding Teacher
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 scholars’ passion in learning. In 2018, Pearl began her Master’s in Urban Education at Park University in conjunction with the 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 in inspiring our youth to become global citizens who value their worth, education, and lifelong 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.
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
Lisa is a native to Kansas City, MO. Born and raised on the Westside, Lisa has always aspired to be a part of the growing expansion of her community. Lisa obtained her B.A. in Psychology from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX and her Masters in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago. Lisa is entering her 16th year in education, having the opportunity to have worked with students from preschool through high school. Lisa’s passion is witnessing the growth of her students and being an advocate for all students. Lisa spends her free time with her family, her husband and 2 sons.
Contact: lnixon@kcgpa.org
Tracy Merritt, Special Education Teacher
Joined in 2023
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 Missouri State University. She also has a Master’s 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 got the preparation 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
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
Melissa B. McKenzie is the founder and CEO of WE GO International, a global nonprofit that ensures the presence of more diverse voices in global humanity. She works to equip more brown and black individuals to “live globally” —lives enriched with global awareness, global perspectives, and global relationships. Building relationships across boundaries is where Melissa thrives. At Hallmark Cards, she spent 25 years leading and influencing multi-disciplined teams to develop innovative strategies and programs that inspire people and enhance their most meaningful relationships. Her programs inspire young people to enhance their most meaningful relationships. Her program extends beyond 10 countries across Africa, South America, and the Caribbean, including Brazil, Haiti, Peru, Jamaica, Tanzania, Ghana and many more. Her calling is to uplift a generation of global visionaries who are both locally and internationally minded.
Contact: mmckenzie@kcgpa.org
Social and Emotional Learning
Shakera Ross, Dean of Students
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-led social media team. Shakera 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
Brittney has been a dedicated member of Kansas City Girls Preparatory Academy since 2021. In her current role, she champions equity, belonging, and student growth, with a strong focus on social-emotional learning, restorative practices, and building safe spaces where students can thrive.
Before joining KCGPA, Brittney taught at several non-profit organizations across the Kansas City Metropolitan area, serving primarily “at-risk” students who faced behavioral and academic challenges. Her ability to connect with young people and foster resilience quickly became the hallmark of her teaching practice.
Before entering education, Brittney originally pursued a career in radio broadcasting. Her passion for communication and storytelling remains an asset in her work, but her drive to give back to her community ultimately guided her to the classroom.
Brittney holds a B.S. in Broadcast Media with a minor in Psychology and is certified to teach Special Education in Missouri. Since 2021, she has used her expertise and leadership to support students, families, and educators at KCGPA, strengthening the culture of joy, accountability, and care that defines the school.
Contact: barterbery@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 the 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
William Pollard, ISR
Bio coming soon!
Contact: wpollard@kcgpa.org
Kiara Washington, Behavioral Interventionist
Bio Coming Soon!
Contact: kwashington@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
Tina Briggs, School Social Work Intern
Joined in 2024
Tina is currently completing her Master’s in Social Work at the University of Kansas. This is Tina’s second year at KCGPA. Her passion is mental health, and she enjoys working with teen girls. She wants to pursue a career as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Tina recognizes that each client is an expert in their own life and uses strength-based and client-centered approaches to empower and support her clients. She believes each person's journey is unique, and the approach to working with them should be too. Tina aims to create a safe space where her clients feel heard, respected, and empowered. Tina is excited for another year at KCGPA and is grateful to collaborate with her clients and support them throughout the school year.
Contact: tbriggs@kcgpa.org
School and Instructional Leadership
Dr. Nicole B. Smith, EdD, CEO
Nicole Smith has taught students of all abilities, at grade levels ranging from kindergarten to college. She joins us after serving in a dual role at St. Teresa's Academy. Smith was the Director of Equity and Inclusive Education and a chair of the Business and Computer Science department. Smith was the moderator of several clubs and the member of various committees. Smith has 16 years of single-sex education experience. She has served on and presented at numerous education panels and conferences . Smith has been featured in academic magazines. She served on the KCGPA Board from August 2022- June 2024. Smith serves on the Board of ADHDKC. Smith is a member of the Delta Educational and Economic Development Foundation (DEED Foundation). She previously served as a board member of the Journalism Educators of Missouri KC (JEMKC).
Smith holds numerous teaching certifications in business and journalism-related subjects. She has a Doctorate degree from Rockhurst University. Smith has an MBA with a concentration in Organizational Development from Rockhurst University, a Master of Arts in Education with an emphasis in Curriculum and Development from the University of Phoenix, and a Bachelor of Science in Journalism with an emphasis in Public Relations from the University of Florida. Smith is the proud mom of three adult sons and a daughter-in-law.
nsmith@kcgpa.org
Caroline Dornan, Principal of Academics
Joined in 2023
Caroline Dornan has been part of Kansas City charter schools for more than a decade, serving as a 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 and data-informed classrooms. Caroline believes that every student deserves to see themselves in what they learn and to take ownership of their learning. She’s excited to continue working alongside KCGPA students, families, and teachers to make learning meaningful and empowering for all.
Contact: cdornan@kcgpa.org
Dr. Chaurice Jacobson, Principal of Student Supports
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
Susuky has been fortunate throughout her professional career to engage with and support people from all walks of life and diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. She takes great pride in serving the Kansas City community, whether through Church Community Enrichment initiatives, partnerships with local law enforcement and first responders, volunteering at homeless shelters, or her previous work leading community outreach events in the medical field.
Susuky has also served as a Medical Interpreter and Church Translator, ensuring clear communication and accessibility for diverse communities. Backed by interpreter certifications and extensive hands-on experience, she has played a key role in bridging language gaps and fostering inclusive spaces where everyone feels understood and connected.
As a professional, Susuky is known for her strong work ethic, commitment to excellence, and genuine care for those she serves. Her ability to build meaningful connections and contribute to the well-being of her community continues to be a source of both pride and fulfillment.
Contact: srubio@kcgpa.org
Kiana Brown, Director of Operations
Joined in 2021
Kiana is am a proud Kansas City, KS native and graduate of Sumner Academy of Arts and Science. I hold a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, and I am nearing completion of my Doctorate at the University of Missouri–Kansas City. My journey at KC Girls Prep began as a Learning Support Teacher, and I now serve as the Director of Operations. I love being part of this community and am deeply committed to supporting our girls, staff, and families every day.
Contact: kbrown1@kcgpa.org
La-Toya Sheppard, Athletics and Activities Coordinator
Joined in 2021
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 fa aithful member of her church. She holds a B.A. in English and Man .S. in Sports Administration from Grambling State University in Grambling, Louisiana.
Contact: lsheppard@kcgpa.org
Derion Lane, Registrar
Joined in 2025
I'm delighted to be the new Registrar! I have four years of experience in education, with this being my first year in secondary education and with Kansas City, Missouri Public Schools. I am passionate about supporting students and families and look forward to building strong relationships within our school community. It's an honor to be part of a team that values 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, Community and Development Coordinator
Joined in 2025
A dedicated advocate for all-girls education, I am a native of Kansas City and an alumna of St. Teresa's Academy, where I also previously worked. My work is driven by a deep, personal commitment to supporting scholars both academically and personally. I am excited to be a part of a team that strongly champions our scholars' success and prioritizes their social-emotional learning.
When I'm not focused on supporting the next generation of young women, you can find me exploring new communities and places or curled up with a good book. This season of life is a new one for me; I'm adjusting to life as an "empty-nester" after sending my daughter off to college.
Contact: kwalker@kcgpa.org