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Staff

Head of School

Johnny "Ray" James

Born and raised in Monroe, Louisiana, Ray is a critically conscious and outcomes-driven educational leader. Over nearly 15 years, Ray has held various roles in schools & communities in Baton Rouge, LA, Atlanta, GA, and Newark, NJ including substitute teacher, graduate assistant, literacy teacher, educational policy fellow, instructional coach, education community organizer, curriculum auditor, assistant principal, adjunct professor, and educational consultant.  His undergraduate and master’s degrees are from LSU (Geaux Tigers!) and outside of work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and their 2 young daughters and relishes victories for the Los Angeles Lakers, LSU Tigers, and the culture (politics, hip hop, etc.). 

Ray firmly believes in the limitless potential & power of all children and knows they will be the leaders of their revolution- now and later. As a third-year Head of School, Ray looks forward to being a good steward of all and continuing to co-create the most optimal conditions that Ansley School students, families, staff, and community deserve, and so much more.

Administrative

James Belton

Principal

Chas Choran

Assistant Principal

Social Services

Aleta McDaniels

Director of Social Services

Stacey Jones

Lead Therapist, LCSW

Kenya Coleman

Parent Advocate

Danielle Aarons

Social Services Paraprofessional

Development

Martha Moore

Director of Development

Becky Mautner

Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager

RaQuita Weathers

Marketing & Communications Manager

Chloe Young

Database Manager

Operations

Autumn Bowers

Director of Operations

Will Armstrong

School Building Manager

Alexis Donovan

Receptionist & Administrative Assistant

Decoda Curry

Building Custodian

Classroom Educators

Taylor Staes

Kindergarten

De’Yona Freeman

Kindergarten

Stephanie Moree

Grade 1

Jaxon LeMay

Grade 1

Kamryn Sprewer

Grade 2

Nekaybaw Brooks

Grade 4 ELA

Brittany Stoudemire

Grade 6 Math

Kristian Kehoe

Grade 2

Crystal Perry

Grade 4 & 5 Math

Darryl Pearson

Specials

Epiphany Burgess

Grade 3

Ileana DeJesus

Grade 5 ELA

Daniel Groves

Grade 3

Raevon Isaiah

Grade 6 ELA & Dean of Culture

Part-Time Partners

Dawn Durham

School Nurse

Kedrin Wright

IT Specialist

Mary Pickel

Reading Specialist

Deena Pruitt

Bookkeeper

Jessie Wallace

Chief Financial Officer

James Belton

Principal

 James Belton stands as a visionary leader, deeply committed to the joy and justice in learning. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master’s in Curriculum & Instruction for Diverse Learners from Lander University, he has spent eight years enhancing the educational experiences of historically underserved communities. Starting as a classroom teacher and advancing to Academic Dean of an Independent Elementary School, James has championed initiatives that prioritize educational quality and outcomes, improving both student and staff development. His leadership, characterized by collaborative engagement and innovative strategies, inspires excellence and inclusivity. James views leadership as service, dedicating his efforts to strengthening instructional practices and fostering transformative change in education.

Chas Choran

Assistant Principal

Chas Choran is an experienced teacher, debate coach, and instructional coach. Driven by the pursuit of educational equity, she takes pride in providing differentiated and authentic learning for students from a variety of backgrounds. Chas completed her undergraduate work at the University of Georgia and earned her Master of Arts in Teaching from Georgia State University. In the 2022-2023 school year, Chasity was awarded “Debate Coach of the Year” for the state by the Atlanta Urban Debate League. Chas has also been awarded the “Harriett Ball Excellence in Teaching Award,” a national award given to only 10 teachers across the 200+ schools in the KIPP national network. Finally, she was recognized for being a Top Performing Teacher for the 2022-2023 school year, achieving the highest Georgia Milestones ELA mastery for her district. 

Starting at The Ansley School as The Director of Literacy Education, Chas is happy to now serve as Assistant Principal. This work will encompass coaching teachers, developing strategic literacy plans, delivering professional developments, and collecting data to drive instructional choices.

Aleta McDaniel

Director of Social Services

Aleta joined The Boyce L. Ansley school in 2020. She is a Licensed Social Worker with a strong passion for social justice, trauma-informed practices, and youth and family support. With experience in community mental health, non-profit work, and court administration, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her role. A former AmeriCorps Member and researcher for organizations like the National Council on Crime and Delinquency, Aleta holds a Master’s in Public Policy and Law from Trinity University and Social Work from Saint Leo University. Being part of The Boyce L. Ansley School, Aleta is committed to connecting families to community resources and providing solutions to help resolve the social problems that interfere with student learning to promote positive outcomes for students and families.
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Stacey Jones

Therapist

Stacey Jones is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about family preservation, trauma-informed work, and supporting parents and those working with children and families. Stacey is certified in Nurturing Parenting Programs and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Since graduating with her master’s degree from the University of Tennessee Knoxville, she has had experience with preschool intensive outpatient programming, school behavioral and mental health, foster care, families and veterans experiencing homelessness and integrated health and behavioral healthcare.

Stacey is excited to continue being part of The Ansley School and is committed to giving students and families the support they need to heal and thrive.

Kenya Coleman

Parent Advocate/Social Services Paraprofessional

Kenya Coleman is the mother of 2 beautiful children. As a Certified Freedom Coach who specializes in healing and deliverance, she has years of experience helping people who have been oppressed, victimized, and stuck in their circumstances. Ms. Coleman has used her knowledge to continue her work with children as a paraprofessional to promote an environment that is inspiring, caring, safe, and adaptive to each child’s individual needs.

Kenya’s purpose in life is to help set people free from the negative mindset of not feeling loved, valuable or enough. Her aspiration is to see people gain their lives back and encourage people it’s never too late to start over again and love people back to life, and she is excited to manifest that in The Ansley School.

Danielle Aarons

Social Services Paraprofessional

Danielle Aarons is a Licensed Social Worker who brings compassion, experience, and a deep sense of purpose to her work with students and families. With over a decade of experience in schools, community programs, and housing support services, she has spent her career helping children and families navigate life’s challenges and find lasting stability.

Danielle earned her Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University, with a focus on school social work and children and family studies. She has worked in school-based mental health, crisis response, and family intervention, always centering her practice around trauma-informed care and cultural humility.

At the heart of Danielle’s work is a belief in the power of education to transform lives. She is excited to join The Boyce L. Ansley School and to contribute to a community dedicated to giving every child, no matter their background or identity, the opportunity to thrive in classrooms that feel like family, celebrate diversity, and strive for academic excellence. Helping students recognize their own brilliance and feel truly seen is what keeps her motivated every day.

Martha Moore

Director of Development

Martha Moore has more than 30 years of experience in fundraising that began at Marist School.  She spent 16 years serving Mount Vernon School in Sandy Springs where she gained experience designing and implementing strategies for annual and capital campaigns, board training, volunteer recruitment and event planning. Before returning to schools, Martha helped secure resources for women and children dealing with homelessness and addiction at Mary Hall Freedom Village. As Director of Advancement for Swift School, Martha raised awareness and funds for children with dyslexia and recently served Atlanta Academy as Director of Advancement.

She is excited to continue connecting people to the issues they care about and strengthening philanthropic culture through The Ansley School.

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Becky Mautner

Volunteer and Community Engagement Manager

Becky first fell in love with the mission, students and families of The Ansley school in 2021 when she began working as a volunteer.  As a need opened in the library, she got to work- collecting and organizing books and developing and implementing lesson plans to instill the love of reading in our students as the volunteer librarian.  More time at Ansley only fueled her passion for community and she began spreading the word, creating interest and leaning into the duties of Volunteer Coordinator so that more people could become involved and benefit from Ansley’s purpose.  Now as the Volunteer and Community Engagement Specialist, Becky enjoys participating in many aspects of the school’s mission- using her skills to communicate, connect, build awareness, and create action to fill gaps and needs in the Ansley community.

Born in Delaware, Becky has traveled extensively, living in several states and even abroad. Her degree in Latin American Studies from Tulane University and fluency in Spanish highlight her natural curiosity in people, cultures and community.  She has worked with youth as a Peer Educator in New Orleans and for the past 25 years has enjoyed raising her four children and being involved in many service and community opportunities in Atlanta.

RaQuita Weathers

Marketing & Communications Manager

RaQuita Weathers is a Louisiana native and proud graduate of Louisiana State University, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Family Studies with a minor in Business Administration. With over a decade of professional experience spanning corporate finance, marketing strategy, and creative storytelling, RaQuita brings a well-rounded perspective to her role as Marketing & Communications Manager.

She holds an MBA from Philadelphia University and merges business acumen with purpose-driven messaging to support organizational goals and foster meaningful community engagement. Her background includes financial analysis, expense forecasting, and cross-functional communications, all of which inform her strategic approach to content development, branding, and public relations.

In addition to her corporate experience, RaQuita is the founder and creative director of Belle Rouge Photography—a boutique brand known for celebrating motherhood and entrepreneurship through intentional imagery. Her work as a photographer and storyteller is rooted in empowering women and preserving legacy.

Outside of work, RaQuita is a devoted wife and mother of two. She is also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and continues to pour into her community through service, creativity, and connection.

Chloe Young

Database Manager

Chloe Young, an Atlanta native, is dedicated to supporting children and families. With a background in nonprofit work and a Child and Family Studies degree from Converse University in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Chloe is excited to bring her love of organization and systems to help further the Ansley School’s mission. Outside of work, you can find Chloe reading a good book, trying new ice cream flavors, or spending time with her partner, Hayden, their dog, Tulley, and their cat, Zeke.

Autumn Bowers

Director of Operations

Autumn Bowers is our Operations Administrator, Social Media Coordinator, and Executive Assistant to the Head of School. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications, focusing on journalism and public relations from THEE Alabama State University. Autumn graduated from the School of Creative and Performing Arts in Cincinnati, Ohio, with a focus in theater and performance. She has experience with therapeutic mentoring and has a passion for working with children.

After joining the Ansley Team in 2023, she has worked to utilize her organizational skills and creative gifts and talents to enhance the vision and mission of the school to empower children and families to thrive beyond circumstance.

Will Armstrong

School Building Manager

Will Armstrong has a passion for children and an unwavering dedication to serving his community. He has over three years of Youth Development experience working with local Boys and Girls Clubs in Atlanta, Georgia. Will also has over eight years of professional security training and has provided security and facility management services for the Atlanta Women’s Shelter, Crossroads Community Ministries, and other transitional shelters. He believes in the power of community and that “no one is above serving those in need.” 

Will is proud to serve the students and families at The Ansley School and proud of making a difference in their lives.

Alexis Donovan

Receptionist & Administrative Assistant

With a deep passion for serving children, especially those who are often overlooked, Alexis Donovan has dedicated her career to creating safe, supportive, and growth-centered environments for young people. Her professional background includes both direct work with children and administrative roles that support educational and developmental programs. She has had the privilege of helping several children overcome significant challenges related to developmental disabilities in her home town of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and she considers this work both a calling and a mission. Guided by faith and a heart for service, she is committed to advocating for underprivileged children and ensuring they receive the care, attention, and opportunities they deserve. Currently, she is continuing her education at Oklahoma State University, with the goal of expanding her capacity to provide impactful services to children with developmental needs. Her work is not only a profession, but it is a purpose deeply rooted in compassion, faith, and the belief that every child deserves to be seen, supported, and empowered.

Decoda Curry

Building Custodian

Decoda Curry was born and raised in Atlanta, Ga. He is a proud graduate of Frederick Douglass High School. His favorite sport is soccer, and he loves to pass on his knowledge to children of all ages. Decoda started at the school as a volunteer helping with the students during lunch and recess. Since he has started working on full-time at The Ansley School he has been a valued member of our Operations team, bringing a strong commitment to keeping our school clean & safe for students, staff & families. With dedication to doing his job to his best ability, he understands the importance of being present for the students and how a well-maintained school helps support their success. Whether it’s early morning or busy afternoons Decoda Curry is always ready to lend a hand, solve any problem, and contribute to the positive atmosphere of The Boyce L. Ansley School.

Taylor Staes

Kindergarten Teacher

Born and raised in New Orleans, La. Taylor earned her bachelor’s degree from University of Phoenix. Taylor is going into her 10th year of teaching. She has devoted herself to the growth of every scholar she embraces, whether it is academically or socially. She is a mother first and foremost, however brings that same big love to each and every scholar. Taylor loves spending time with family, traveling, being outdoors, coaching softball and cheering on the Saints. Who Dat! Taylor is excited to bring her big love of this true heart work to the scholars of The Ansley School for her second full year.

De’Yona Freeman

Kindergarten Teacher

De’Yona Freeman is an energetic and dynamic academic enthusiast who creates a stimulating learning environment for scholars to succeed at all levels. She is currently a Kindergarten teacher and Sunshine Committee Chair at the Boyce Ansley School.  De’Yona has eight years of professional experience working with students of all grade levels and has been teaching for five of those years. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hampton University and her Masters of Arts in Teaching with a concentration in Special Education from Georgia State University. De’Yona has a true passion for teaching students and finding different approaches to learning.

De’Yona is a retired Army Veteran. She is a native of Atlanta, Georgia. She enjoys traveling, spending time with her family and close friends, and doing DIY projects.

Stephanie Moree

1st Grade Teacher

Stephanie Moree is a dedicated educator new to the Atlanta area. She graduated from Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education Teaching. Immediately after graduating she began her teaching career in Miami, FL, where she remained for the last four years. Last August, she received her Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction from Florida International University.

Stephanie was drawn to the Ansley mission and she works every day to make sure her classroom is a safe and loving environment for students to reach their learning goals and develop into the best version of themselves.

Jaxon LeMay

1st Grade Teacher

My name is Jaxon LeMay, and I’m currently in my fifth year of teaching. I’m originally from New York and graduated from Nazareth College in 2019 with a degree in Spanish and Social Work. I’m now pursuing my master’s in Inclusive Childhood Education.

Throughout my teaching career, I’ve had the opportunity to work with students in 1st, 2nd, and 4th grade. I love working with children and helping them discover their strengths—nothing brings me more joy than watching a student gain confidence in themselves and their abilities.

I moved to Georgia almost a year ago, and I’ve really been enjoying the journey. A fun fact about me is that I’m one of 15 adopted kids in my family, which taught me the value of connection, compassion, and resilience. Outside of the classroom, I’m also a personal trainer, passionate about wellness and supporting others in living healthy, balanced lives.

Kamryn Sprewer

2nd Grade Teacher

Kamryn Sprewer is originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and has been living in Atlanta for the past nine years. She spent the last three years at KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools, where she recently served as the Teacher Leader of Scholar Support. Kamryn has an undergraduate degree in Special Education from Georgia State and a Master’s from Relay Graduate School of Education. Outside of work, she enjoys being a dog mom to her pup, Cinnamon, and trying new restaurants around the city. She’s passionate about education and bringing her expertise and enthusiasm to Ansley!

Nekaybaw Brooks​

4th Grade Teacher

Nekaybaw Brooks is a passionate educator who centers creativity, connection, and a love for learning in her classroom. With over five years of teaching experience and degrees from the University of Virginia and the College of William & Mary, she is committed to helping students grow into confident, independent thinkers who are prepared to thrive both now and in the future.

Originally from Newport News, Virginia, Nekaybaw is also a braider and entrepreneur. She is the founder of The Braid School Co., a braiding education company that teaches girls and women how to care for and braid their hair while building confidence, skill, and community.

She enjoys traveling, exploring new cities, and trying new restaurants wherever she goes. Nekaybaw is excited to return to the classroom and continue her journey as an educator, bringing joy, curiosity, and meaningful connection to her students each day.

Brittany Stoudemire

6th Grade Teacher

Brittany Stoudemire is a motivated educator, coach, and author passionate about dismantling systemic oppression and making life more equitable and opportunity-filled for all people. Brittany is an Atlanta Native and an Atlanta Public High School graduate. Brittany graduated from Emory University with a bachelor’s in English and Educational Studies and received her Master’s in Education from Brooklyn College. Brittany has taught for New York City Public Schools, Coney Island Prep Charter School, and KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools. After witnessing the education disparities that extended beyond the classroom, Brittany realized the need to dismantle systemic oppression at the policy level. She then joined Leadership for Educational Equity as a Manager of Organizing Strategy for the Atlanta and Newark regions. While there, she focused on bringing change to some of the most pressing education issues along with the Atlanta and Newark communities, the Mayor of Newark, the Newark Board of Education, the Atlanta City Council, and the Atlanta Public School Board of Education. Brittany’s work in policy and advocacy led her to explore a path in entrepreneurship and management, igniting her work as a Coach and Consultant. Furthermore, Brittany has served as a coach and consultant for KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools, 4.0 Schools, executives in the private sector, and Teach For America. Furthermore, Brittany is also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, a children’s book author, and she has worked on numerous sets as an Assistant Director for CW Studios in Atlanta. In her free time, Brittany loves to spend time with her family, write, read, travel, cook vegan food, and spend time with her dog Luna.

Kristian Kehoe

2nd Grade Teacher

Kristian Kehoe is thrilled to be joining the staff at The Boyce Ansley School this fall. She has earned her Bachelor in Science in Early Childhood Education from the University of Georgia. Following graduation, she embarked on a teaching adventure in Italy, spending three enriching months in Cortona, Tuscany teaching English to children. Since then, she’s dedicated herself to teaching, with six years of experience spanning Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and 2nd Grade in Title 1 schools across Georgia and Florida. 

Kristian moved back to Georgia after 3 successful years in Florida and is excited to be back to her home state. She is a positive, empathetic educator that not only sees the importance in achieving academic goals, but the social emotional learning within students is just as important. Kristian is excited to bring her passion for learning and character development to the students at the Ansley School!

Crystal Perry

4th & 5th Grade Math Teacher

Crystal Renee Perry is dedicated to empowering equity-focused initiatives through strategic development, knowledge transfer, and the sharing of best practices, particularly in communities where resources are scarce. Ms. Perry earned a Master of Arts in Digital Communications and Multimedia from Agnes Scott College in Decatur, Georgia, complementing her Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Georgia State University and a Bachelor of Arts in African American Studies from Agnes Scott College. Certified as a diversity, equity, and inclusion trainer by the Georgia Professional Standards Commission, she also holds a certificate in Women’s Entrepreneurship from Cornell, underscoring her ongoing dedication to personal and professional growth.

Ms. Perry’s career reflects a progressive trajectory in education and nonprofit leadership. She currently serves as a mental health and wellness facilitator for Henry County Schools. Her previous roles include senior director positions at Building Educated Leaders for Life (BELL), where she successfully managed national programs and forged vital partnerships to enhance the organization’s impact and as a course facilitator for Consciously Unbiased. Additionally, her experiences as an assistant principal and teacher have provided her with firsthand insights into the challenges and opportunities within educational systems, shaping her leadership philosophy and reinforcing her commitment to fostering positive change.

In her personal life, Ms. Perry enjoys traveling, visiting beach destinations, and attending live music events, especially jazz concerts with her husbandof 25 years. She believes that personal renewal is essential for effective leadership and is committed to enhancing the Melanated PEARL Corporation’s impact. She envisions the organization evolving into a comprehensive resource center focused on mental health and well-being services for underserved communities, collaborating with other nonprofits to realize this goal. This holistic approach reflects her understanding that educational success is closely tied to mental health.

Darryl Pearson

Specials

Darryl Pearson, hailing from the heart of Alabama, brings a unique blend of academic excellence and athletic prowess to our school community. He earned his Bachelor of Psychology from Alabama State University, where he developed a deep understanding of human behavior and the mind’s potential. While pursuing his degree, Darryl also showcased his athletic talents on the football field, playing for Arkansas State University. His experience as a collegiate athlete has instilled in him the values of teamwork, perseverance, and dedication—qualities he now imparts to his students. Darryl is a passionate educator with a fervent love for both sports and the intellectual growth of his scholars. His specialty lies in being a team player and fostering strong relationships within the community. He believes that education extends beyond the classroom and that building a supportive, interconnected community is essential for student success. In his teaching, Darryl emphasizes the importance of collaboration, mutual respect, and continuous personal development. He strives to inspire his students to achieve their full potential, both academically and personally, by cultivating a positive and inclusive learning environment. We are proud to have Darryl Pearson as a part of our teaching staff, where he continues to make a significant impact on our students and the community.

Epiphany Burgess

3rd Grade Teacher

Epiphany Burgess is a dedicated educator who has spent nearly a decade teaching in the Atlanta Public Schools system and over 15 years in public education. Hailing from Chicago, she brings a wealth of experience and passion for education to her role, aiming to inspire and empower her students to reach their full potential. She is a mother of two beautiful daughters, Journee and Legacy. She is also a proud Spelman alumna and now one of the newest members of the Ansley School community serving as one of the fourth grade teachers. She is extremely excited to bring her energy and enthusiasm to the Ansley School. More importantly, she is looking forward to collaborating with colleagues to empower students academically and personally and making a profound impact together.

Ileana DeJesus

5th Grade Teacher

Ileana, known to students as Ms. DJ, is a recent graduate from Georgia College & State University with a degree in Special Education. She is ecstatic to be a part of The Ansley School team. Ileana is a native of the Metro Atlanta area and has worked with children for ten years. She has a passion for educating youth and curating a safe environment that promotes student growth. Ileana is committed to ensuring every student receives the individual support needed to make them successful.

She is enthusiastic and dedicated to building relationships with students and their families at The Ansley School.

Daniel Groves

3rd Grade Teacher

With nine years of experience in education, Mr. Groves is a dedicated educator and leader committed to cultivating growth and excellence in academic settings. A graduate of Clemson University with a Bachelor’s degree in Education, Mr. Groves has recently completed a degree in Educational Leadership, further enhancing their ability to inspire and guide both students and colleagues. Passionate about service and leadership, Mr. Groves brings a strong commitment to creating positive, inclusive environments where learning and development thrive.

Raevon Isaiah

Dean of Culture/ 6th Grade Teacher

Born in Toledo, Ohio and raised in both Akron and Toledo, Ohio, Raevon does call Akron his hometown. Raevon received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Toledo. In 2015, Raevon uprooted from Akron, OH and moved to Atlanta, GA. Raevon taught one year of 5th grade English & Language Arts and Social Studies, at Pointe South Elementary School, in Clayton County. Raevon left education only to come back to his calling with an opportunity at KIPP Vision Academy of KIPP Metro Atlanta Schools. There, Raevon served as a Special Education teacher, for 5th – 8th grade, in Math & ELA. There, he also served at the head baseball coach. In 2020, Raevon became a founding teacher at KIPP Soul Academy. There, he served as the choir teacher, Head Cross Country Coach, and Head Baseball Coach. Raevon also has a mentoring organization, Boys in the R.I.S.E, that has had great impact at KIPP Soul. He has high hopes of The Ansley School being another space to utilize the impact of scholars through Boys in the R.I.S.E.

Raevon has a deep desire to positively impact each scholar that crosses his path, by not just teaching them academically, but also by encouraging and inspiring scholars beyond their circumstances and beyond the classroom. Raevon says that education chose him as an avenue to positively impact the lives of children. That’s his calling.

Dawn Durham

School Nurse

Dawn Durham is thrilled to join The Ansley School this fall 2025 as the school nurse.
With a career dedicated to pediatric nursing and eight years of experience in school health, Dawn has a passion for connecting with students, offering care, comfort, and encouragement whenever needed. She believes in collaboration and teamwork, working closely with students, families, and staff to ensure a safe, supportive and thriving school environment.

She earned both her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing from the University of Florida and holds certifications as a Registered Nurse and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. Throughout her career, she has worked in various pediatric healthcare settings, including school health, call center nursing, and pediatric otolaryngology.
Dawn received the Excellence in Pediatric Nursing award from the University of Florida and the Clarence Strickland Make a Difference Award from the Decatur Education Foundation. She is excited to contribute to the school community and looks forward to making a meaningful impact every day.

Kedrin Wright

IT Specialist

With over two decades of experience in the IT industry, Kedrin Wright is a seasoned technology professional known for his expertise in systems architecture, and strategic IT management. Kedrin has a proven track record of designing and implementing innovative technology solutions that drive business efficiency, enhance security, and support organizational growth. He has a proven ability to lead and direct highly successful Information Technology departments and teams.

Kedrin began his career as a Systems Administrator, where he honed his skills in network management and system optimization. Over the years, he has evolved into a strategic leader, leading complex IT projects and managing cross-functional teams to deliver impactful technology solutions in the K-12 sector. 

Kedrin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Systems and multiple industry certifications, including Six Sigma Green Belt and AWS Certified Solutions Architect. His commitment to staying current with emerging technologies and industry trends has made him a valuable asset in navigating the ever-evolving IT landscape.

In his current role, Kedrin serves as IT Manager, where he continues to drive technology initiatives that support business objectives and enhance operational efficiency for The Boyce Ansley School. Outside of work, Kedrin is passionate about mentoring aspiring youth through umpiring and officiating sports. 

Mary Pickel

Reading Specialist

Mary Pickel is an Atlanta native who has spent two mornings a week for the last two years volunteering as a reading/phonics tutor at The Ansley School. Mary has a BS in Early Childhood Education from the University of Georgia as well as an MA in Early Childhood Education from Oglethorpe University. Mary spent her first five years teaching in the Fulton County School System at Brookview Elementary School and then went on to receive two full years of intensive Orton Gillingham phonics instruction at The Schenck School, an Atlanta area private school which works exclusively with dyslexic elementary students. After earning Associate Level O-G certification, Mary went on to become a lead third grade teacher at The Schenck School. Once her own children became school age, Mary began working as a private reading specialist in the Atlanta area. Mary specializes in working with young students with language-based learning differences including dyslexia and auditory processing as well as students on the autism spectrum.

Deena Pruitt

Bookkeeper

Deena joined The Boyce L Ansley School in February of 2023. She holds a Master Degree of Business Administration in Accounting from Brenau University. She has over 20 years of experience in accounting and has worked in the public, private, and governmental sectors of accounting. Deena provides support in the finance department by ensuring that our financial records are intact so that it helps the organization make sound financial decisions in their continuous growth.

Jessie Wallace

Chief Financial Officer

With over fifteen years of experience in small organization finance and administration, Jessie is the COO of an executive assistant placing agency by day and, with the rest of her time, maintains a small roster of clients who are near and dear to her, including The Ansley School. Jessie first learned of The Ansley School in 2018, when she worked in an office that overlooked the playground where the original class of students spent recess. During that time, she met The Ansley School’s founder and Board Treasurer and was enlisted by them to support the school’s bookkeeping needs. Since then, she has watched the school grow from a dozen preschoolers to scores of students and families.