Meet Our Team
5th/6th Grade Team
Ashley Cleveland, English Language Arts Teacher
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 2024, Ashley completed her year one certification in LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling).
Contact: acleveland@kcgpa.org
Maycee Nicholson, Science Teacher
Maycee Nicholson graduated 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, Maycee 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, Maycee seeks to empower young women to find their voice by making the world of science their own. Teaching a content that has traditionally been dominated by white men, she is passionate about making science accessible for her students. She believes that each scholar deserves both the knowledge and power that they need to combat systemic inequalities. Maycee is currently pursuing a masters degree in Education at the University of Missouri St. Louis and is so very excited for all that this year brings and to watch her scholars interact with the material and make the content their own.
Contact: mnicholson@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
Suzanne Worner, Math Teacher
Ms. Worner graduated from the University of Kansas in 1998 and with a graduate degree in Education from Park University in 2004. This is her 24th year in education. Most of her career has been at the middle school level as an 8th grade teacher. For the last 5 years, she has been an instructional Coach in TUSD 202. She is an avid KU basketball fan, a book lover, and world traveler. She is looking forward to getting back into the classroom!
Rock Chalk Jayhawk!
Contact: sworner@kcgpa.org
Kaytlin Brooks, Learning Support Specialist
Bio Coming Soon!
Contact: kbrooks@kcgpa.org
Alexis Clark, Math Teacher
Bio Coming Soon!
Contact: aclark@kcgpa.org
7/8th Grade Teachers
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
8th Grade Teachers
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 KCGLI Project Manager
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
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, 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
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, English Language Learners Coordinator
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
Lisa Nixon, 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 team at KCGPA and look forward to what the year brings.
Contact: lnixon@kcgpa.org
Tracy Merritt, 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
Kelly Vick, Special Education Coordinator
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 University of Kansas, and then began her career as a Special Education Coordinator. This is her third year in a building leadership role in the charter world.
Contact: kvick@kcgpa.org
Social and Emotional Learning
Shakera Ross, 7th/8th 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
Brittney Arterbery, 5th/6th Dean of Culture
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
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
Kiara Washington, Behavioral Interventionist
Bio Coming Soon!
Contact: kwashington@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
Jacquelyn McKay, School Social Work Intern
Jacquelyn is a Master’s level social work student currently completing her practicum at Kansas City Girls Preparatory. Her passion lies in supporting children and adolescents, and she is focused on pursuing a career in clinical therapy and mental health services. Jacquelyn's work centers around empowering young individuals to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and thrive both emotionally and mentally. She brings a compassionate approach to her practice, aiming to create a safe and supportive environment for all students.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.
School and Instructional Leadership
Dr. Nicole B. Smith, EdD, Interim 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.
Caroline Dornan, 7th/8th Asst. School Leader
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
Dr. Chaurice Jacobson, 5th/6th 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
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, Director 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, Registrar
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, Director of Enrollment and Engagement
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
Kanisha Dixon, School Nurse
Bio Coming Soon!
kchildress@kcgpa.org
Kara Kahn, Director of Development
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
Reece Parker, Development Coordinator
Reece graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City in 2024 with a BA in English. She began her journey with KCGPA as an intern, where she was deeply inspired by the organization's mission. Now, as the Development Coordinator, Reece is dedicated to driving impact through her work. Prior to joining KCGPA, she wrote for Kansas City Magazine, where she uncovered her passion for learning, storytelling, and advocating for others, and hopes to use the skills she has learned to help the Kansas City Community.
Contact: rparker@kcgpa.org