Header image for this page is an image of: Celest Keys and Noah Hollenkamp

Leadership Team

Don Danforth

Don Danforth

President and Co-Founder

ddanforth@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 1999
Education: B.A., St. Lawrence University

Don Danforth co-founded City Academy and assumed the role of president when the school opened in 1999. He began his professional career at Ralston Purina Company in 1989. In 1993, Don was named Education Director for the Mathews-Dickey Boys’ & Girls’ Club. It was there he was inspired by the late Martin Mathews to found City Academy.

Don serves on the board for the American Youth Foundation. He and his wife Susannah have four children.

Janice Bailey

Janice Bailey

Chief Development Officer

jbailey@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2021
Education: B.A., Drury University

Prior to City Academy, Janice spent nearly 25 years at St. Louis Children’s Hospital in various fundraising roles including Vice President and Chief Development Officer of the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Janice also served as Assistant Head of School for Mission Advancement at Saint Louis Priory School.

Janice and her husband Jack have two grown children.

Jarrett Young

Jarrett Young

Head of School

jyoung@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2022
Education: B.A. Bowdoin College
M.Ed., Harvard University

Jarrett came to City Academy from Whitfield School where he was Middle School Director. He has also held several roles in independent schools including the Blake School in Minneapolis where he was a Grade Dean. Prior to working in independent schools, Jarrett worked as Assistant Dean of Student Affairs at Bowdoin College.

Jarrett is a native St. Louisan and grew up close to City Academy – in The Greater Ville neighborhood. He attended MICDS in middle and high school.

Brian Gross

Brian Gross

Chief Financial and Operating Officer

bgross@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2019
Education: B.S., Northern Illinois University
M.P.A., Northern Illinois University
Executive Scholar Graduate, Northwestern University Kellogg School

Brian and his wife have two daughters who are alumnae of City Academy and both daughters are currently attending a private independent secondary school. Brian has over 15 years of experience working in finance, budgeting, and operations.

Prior to working at City Academy, Brian was the Chief Financial & Operating Officer for North Side Community School and has worked for the City of Crestwood, Village of Montgomery, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Chase Bank (formerly Bank One), and AmeriCorps. Brian enjoys volunteering his time with the St. Louis Area Foodbank.

Educational Leadership

Donna Hynes

Donna Hynes

Dean of Students and Families

dhynes@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2000
Education: B.S., Kaplan University
M.S., Kaplan University

“My passion for education stems from my desire to see every student reach their full potential. It is so rewarding and humbling to know that as educators, we serve a purpose that is much more vast than ourselves. I’m a firm believer in relationship building. When we encourage, inspire, and build a strong rapport with our scholars, that is the moment when they begin to trust us and know that we care about them. Moreover, I believe all students can learn when they are immersed in an environment that is conducive to learning, and where they feel safe, valued, and heard. When I walk through the doors of City Academy, I will continue to walk in my purpose and serve our scholars every day.

One of my favorite quotes is by Dr. Rita Pierson who states: “Every child deserves a champion: an adult that will not give up on them, who understands the power of connections and insists they become the best that they can possibly be.”

Here at City Academy, we are grateful that our scholars are surrounded by Champions who are here to help them thrive.”

Before going into administration, Donna was our former Junior Kindergarten teacher for 19 years. She also had the opportunity to teach at the 1st and 5th grade levels. During the 2020-2021 school year, she took on the role as the Director of Early Childhood. As we enter the 2023-2024 school year, Ms. Hynes will move into her new role as our Dean of Students and Families. She is excited to take on this role and looks forward to working with students, families, and faculty to continue building partnerships, classroom community, strengthening our home/school connection, and embodying our school’s mission. During the 2014-2015 school year, Ms. Hynes began City Academy’s first family literacy night.

Ms. Hynes is a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), the International Literacy Association, and The St. Louis Women Leaders Association. She also currently serves on the Business Development Committee at Cornerstone Center for Early Learning.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, reading, traveling, and shopping.

Liesl Schnuck

Liesl Schnuck

Director of Teaching and Learning

lschnuck@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2018
Education: B.A., University of Richmond
M.Ed., Johns Hopkins University

Liesl first joined the team at City Academy working Summer School while in college and fell in love with the school’s students, team, and mission. After teaching 3rd grade in Tulsa, Oklahoma for two years, she returned to St. Louis to teach 3rd grade in St. Louis Public Schools before eventually finding her way home to City Academy. Liesl taught 3rd and 4th grade math at City Academy for four years before transitioning to a role in administration. Her passion for pushing students to maximize their potential directly translates into working with teachers to enhance their teaching practices.

In her free time, Liesl loves spending time outdoors with City Academy’s therapy dog, Angus, trying new restaurants, and traveling.

Faculty

Martha Altvater

Martha Altvater

Librarian

maltvater@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2015
Education: B.A., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

An educator for over 40 years, Martha has taught middle school language arts and social studies in St. Louis independent schools. Currently, she works in the City Academy library. Martha has received faculty and alumnae prizes from MICDS, Villa Duchesne, Peabody Energy, and De La Salle Middle School.

When not reading, Martha and her husband, Chris, travel to visit their son in New Orleans, LA and their cabin on Washington Island, Wisconsin. They also continue to seek out National Parks. Favorite National Park? Bandelier in New Mexico.

Rochelle Bain-Wright

Rochelle Bain-Wright

Kindergarten STEAM Teacher

rbainwright@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2022
Education: B.S., Early Childhood and Elementary Education, University of Missouri – St. Louis
M.Ed., Lindenwood University

Rochelle believes teachers who love teaching, teach students to love learning! For the past 30 years, she was a kindergarten, 1st, and 2nd grade teacher in a public school.

Rochelle knows every classroom has its unique community and feels her role as the teacher is to assist each student with developing and reaching their potential. She has a creative teaching style that incorporates hands-on activities and engaging lessons that activate student learning. She strives to create a learning community that nurtures the growth of young learners in a fun, exciting, and positive manner.

Chanell Beverly

Chanell Beverly

Teacher Assistant

cbeverly@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2020
Education: B.A., Knoxville College

Chanell joined City Academy as a Classroom Monitor during COVID and stayed on as a Teaching Assistant as everyone returned to campus. She was also an Extended Day Teacher and 3rd Grade Summer School Teacher in 2020-2021. She will be supporting students and teachers in a variety of ways and environments based on students’ needs. She has a background in social work, a stellar fashion sense, and a deep love for City Academy and its students.

Joan Bates

Joan Bates

School Counselor

jbates@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2006
Education: B.S., Central Missouri State University
M.S., Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville

Joan is dedicated to helping students be their best socially and emotionally, and truly enjoys her job at City Academy. Joan and her husband have two adult sons and four grandchildren. She is active in her church and other community organizations and enjoys cooking, gardening and traveling.

Julie Bugnitz

Julie Bugnitz

3rd-6th Grade Art Teacher

jbugnitz@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2007
Education: B.S., University of Missouri-Columbia
M.S., University of Missouri-Columbia

Prior to joining City Academy as an art teacher, Julie spent 23 years working as a clinical dietitian, and teaching classes in vegetarian cooking and healthy lifestyles. In addition, she spent her summers teaching art and the study of native plants and ecosystems at St. Louis University High School’s Walkabout Program, an outdoor education program for 12-year-old boys.

Julie has a son and two daughters and is the grandmother of three. In addition to art, particularly drawing and printmaking, her interests and hobbies include gardening, baking and cooking, tennis, hiking and camping, playing guitar, poetry, and watching meteor showers.

Jennifer Burghoff

Jennifer Burghoff

Learning Specialist

jburghoff@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2023
Education: B.A. Education, Saint Louis University
M.A. Education, Fontbonne University

Prior to City Academy, Jennifer worked as a Kindergarten classroom teacher for five years and then moved to a Reading Specialist position for K-8 at EAGLE/ Momentum Academy in the Tower Grove South area. She has lived in St. Louis her whole life and is excited to continue serving the community that she loves. Jennifer is thrilled to help build early literacy skills and share her love of reading with students at City Academy.

Ariel Danza

Ariel Danza

3rd & 4th Grade Science Teacher

adanza@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2022
Education: B.A. Clinical Psychology, University of Missouri – St. Louis

Ariel Danza is happy to be a part of the staff and learning community at City Academy as the 3rd & 4th Grade Science Teacher. She loves to inspire others and be inspired by the amazing world around us! She also believes everyone should be lifelong learners, including teachers! Teaching Science is one of her passions, but there are so many more. She also loves to do lampworking, which is a type of glassmaking, trying to Roller Skate, tending to her many plants, playing board games, completing puzzles, and spending time with family.

Shalawn Fennoy

Shalawn Fennoy

5th Grade Humanities Teacher

sfennoy@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2002
Education: B.A., Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
M.S., Fontbonne University

Shalawn Fennoy started her career at City Academy as the first 4th grade Teacher. Wanting to grow in her profession, she has since had the opportunity to serve students across grade levels including 2nd, 4th, and 6th, and currently serves as the 5th Grade Humanities Teacher. Through such experiences, Shalawn has gained a greater understanding of the significant impact each grade has had on another as well as exploring the developmental differences among children.

In her role as the 5th Grade Teacher, Shalawn conveys that the most integral piece to teaching 5th grade is her chance to witness students believe a positive future self is possible and relevant. Students begin to embrace the value of individuality; with a better understanding of purpose, persistence, and potential. “Teaching is so much more than pouring content into a child, it is inspiring growth and change, and empowering students to be GREAT.”

An active advocate for education in St. Louis, Shalawn has participated in numerous community service organizations and in 2012 she was nominated for the Teacher of Distinction Award.

Outside of her duties as a teacher, Shalawn enjoys spending time with family, enjoying live jazz bands and immersing herself in a good suspense novel, filled with plot twists and thrillers.

Emily Hauge

Emily Hauge

Director of Student Support

ehauge@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2020
Education: B.A., Saint Louis University
M.A., Fontbonne University

Emily Hauge loves working at City Academy. Prior to City Academy, she served as a Middle School Language Arts/Literature teacher at La Salle Middle School and taught as a Reading Specialist at Premier Charter School. She is a native of St. Louis City and received her bachelor’s degrees in Urban Affairs and Middle School Education with a concentration in Language Arts from Saint Louis University. She then went on to receive her Master’s in Education with a concentration in reading from Fontbonne University.

In her free time, Emily loves to go on walks with her daughter, son, and husband. She also enjoys reading and home improvement projects.

Noah Hollenkamp

Noah Hollenkamp

1st Grade STEAM Teacher

nhollenkamp@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2012
Education: B.A., University of Missouri
M.Ed./Ed.D., University of Missouri – St. Louis

Noah began his career at City Academy in 2012 and has held multiple positions: K/1st Montessori Math, Director of Extended Day/Summer School, and went back to the classroom in 2019 as the 1st Grade STEAM Teacher. Noah received his doctorate (Ed.D.) in 2019 in Educational Practice – Creativity and Generative Design. He conducted research on the effects of play in early childhood.

Outside of the classroom Noah enjoys lazy days with his family, supporting local restaurants as often as possible, and playing pickleball. He has two children, two dogs, a cat, and a plethora of fish, including a Piranha. Drop by Dr. H’s class whenever you get the urge to play, grow some plants, or just chill by the pond!

KJ Hubbard

KJ Hubbard

3-year-old – 2nd Grade PE Teacher

khubbard@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2020
Education: B.S., Greenville University

KJ joined the CA team first as the Upper School PE Assistant before switching to the Early Childhood PE Teacher in 2021. He played football at Greenville University and participated in many different clubs. KJ worked at the Downtown STL YMCA as the Welcome Specialist and also as a para-professional.

KJ is a people person who is dynamic and fun to work with. He is an outgoing person who loves staying physically active! In his spare time, he is a basketball official, coaches football at his alma mater, O’Fallon Township High School, and basketball at John Burroughs. His hobbies include spending time with friends and family, working out, and traveling to the west coast. KJ is also a huge sports fanatic!

Marybeth Huff

Marybeth Huff

Library & Media Director

mhuff@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2007
Education: B.A. Political Science – University of Missouri – St. Louis
M.Ed., University of Missouri – St. Louis

Marybeth Huff’s teaching career began in Japan where she taught English to elementary and middle school students. She taught 1st and 3rd grade at City Academy before transitioning into her current role as the Library & Media Director.

Russ Jaffe

Russ Jaffe

Speech & Language Pathologist

rjaffe@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2021
Education: B.A., University of Pennsylvania
M.A., St. Louis University
J.D., Loyola University of New Orleans

Russ has three children and loves working at City Academy. He grew up in New Orleans and moved to St. Louis with his family after Hurricane Katrina. Russ also works with Speech and Language clients at his private practice and loves playing music on the Mountain Dulcimer.

Celest Wilson

Celest Wilson

1st Grade Humanities Teacher

ckeys@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2020
Education: B.S. in Elementary Education, Missouri State University

In addition to being a teacher, Celest is also a City Academy parent. She grew up in St. Louis, living in the North City area for 17 years. She has a true passion for teaching and learning. She strives to create a joyful classroom environment that promotes growth.

Erin Laurentius

Erin Laurentius

3rd Grade Humanities Teacher

emcdonough@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2016
Education: B.S. University of Missouri-St. Louis

Erin began her teaching journey here at City Academy as a student-teacher. She was immediately impressed with the sense of passion and commitment that the entire community represented. To be a part of a community where students, families, and staff work together to provide a safe and fun learning environment has proven to be the most rewarding experience. Erin enjoys utilizing Responsive Classroom to cultivate a classroom community where her 3rd grade students feel accepted and confident to take risks in order to tackle new challenges.

During her free time, Erin enjoys spending time with her family, exploring St. Louis and being outdoors!

Michele Lemee

Michele Lemee

Kindergarten Humanities Teacher

mlemee@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2021
Education: B.A. in Early Childhood Education, Lindenwood University

Michele has 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Prior to City Academy, she was a master teacher at a Head Start preschool. She has a passion and love for children and all the exploring, learning and fun they get to have. She loves to see and be a part of a young scholar’s development.

Michele grew up in St. Louis, and has a school-aged daughter and a fish named Scooter. In 2009, she started her own face painting business because she enjoys the arts and bringing joy to children.

Laren Loveless

Laren Loveless

Music Teacher

lloveless@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2015
Education: B.A. in Performing Arts
M.A. in Performing Arts

Laren started his teaching career as a private teacher and freelance musician in both New York and St. Louis. Students take group music lessons from Mr. Loveless twice a week. Previously, Laren was the Fine Arts Instructor of Kitebridge, an International boarding school in St. Louis, and a local community producer with the Nine Network.

Laren’s love for performing arts can be seen in his passion for theater, performance art, and original music created by his students. In Laren’s spare time, he and his wife created Music and Me, an early childhood music program they host in Francis Park. He enjoys grooving to classic soul music, playing piano, and performing throughout the St. Louis community. His love for music is also seen in his love for family. Laren had his first child, Lennon, in the spring of 2018, and their second child Lilia in August 2021. Laren, Aimee, Lennon, and Lilia love exploring the outdoors and finding new adventures daily.

Lisa McKenna

Lisa McKenna

3rd & 4th Grade Math Teacher

lmckenna@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2016
Education: B.S., Missouri State University

Prior to joining the City Academy, Lisa taught 3rd grade at MICDS. When she began her time here at City Academy, she was immediately impressed with the curiosity and excitement for learning that was happening within this community. Working with students, staff, and families to achieve a common goal has been extremely rewarding. Lisa’s passion is teaching math by providing hands-on, engaging, learning experiences that empower her students to take risks.

Lisa and her husband Mike have two young children, Mac and Mia (and one more on the way!). In her free time, Lisa loves spending time outdoors, trying out new restaurants around STL, reading a good book, and cheering on the Cardinals!

Mya McLemore

Mya McLemore

2nd Grade STEAM Teacher

mmclemore@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2020
Education: B.S. in Mathematics, Philander Smith College
M.B.A., Webster University

Before settling in her current role as 2nd Grade STEAM Teacher in 2022, Mya assisted in early childhood, extended day, and summer camp programs. She now spends her days sharing her love of math with City Academy students. She uses responsive classroom, real-world issues, and hands-on activities to stimulate and grow the young minds in her classroom. Her approach includes teaching students how to think instead of what to think, so that they become independent, efficient problem solvers. She embraces each student’s individuality and works to meet their specific needs so that they are able to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically. Her favorite quote is: “It is easier to build strong children than to repair broken men.”

Stephanie Oteng

Stephanie Oteng

5th & 6th Grade Math Teacher

soteng@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2014
Education:M.A.T., Webster University

Stephanie Oteng has been a teacher for more than 15 years. Prior to City Academy, she taught full-time at Community School. However, her journey to become a teacher began with teaching at a youth center and as a substitute teacher in public schools. Stephanie was a recipient of the Teacher of Distinction Award and is a member of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics.

Leon Powell

Leon Powell

3rd-6th Grade PE Teacher

lpowell@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2018
Education: B.S. Criminal Justice, Southeast Missouri State
M.Ed. Special Education, Missouri Baptist

Coach Powell began his career at Fanning Middle School, and went on to North View in the Special School District. Before beginning his teaching career, Leon played professional basketball overseas.

Laura Reycraft

Laura Reycraft

Violin Teacher

lreycraft@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2007
Education: B.M., The Cleveland Institute of Music
M.M, The University of Maryland, College Park

Laura studied Suzuki violin pedagogy with Ronda Cole, Rolando Freitag, and Winifred Crock. She also completed Suzuki in the Schools Level I training in 2021 and is a current member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas. Laura also belongs to the American Federation of Musicians Local 2-197.

Since moving to St. Louis in 2006, she has played regularly as a substitute musician with the St. Louis Symphony. Laura is one of the Artistic Directors of Chamber Project Saint Louis, an ensemble founded in 2007 with which she also performs chamber music regularly, one of her passions. In her free time, Laura savors time with her husband and three sons, and enjoys cooking, baking, traveling, and reading.

Endia Richardson

Endia Richardson

4th Grade Humanities Teacher

erichardson@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2023
Education: B.S. Elementary Education, Southeast Missouri State University

Since Endia was a little girl, she’s always aspired to become a teacher. With over 13 years of teaching experience, she has taught children across all grade levels, with each year becoming more rewarding.

She is also the proud mother of two. Her son is a recent City Academy graduate. Her daughter currently attends City Academy. Her pastimes include reading, traveling, coaching, shopping, and crafting. Most of all, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

Elizabeth Rivera

Elizabeth Rivera

3rd-6th Grade Spanish Teacher

erivera@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2018
Education: B.E. Elementary Education and Mathematics, Universidad del Valle (Cali, Colombia)
M. Ed. Education Educational Psychology, University of Missouri-St. Louis
M.A. Spanish, Idaho State University (Exp. 2024)

Elizabeth Rivera is the Spanish teacher for 3rd-6th grade. She is from Colombia where she worked as a math teacher. She came to the United States in 2014 to learn English and get her Master’s Degree in Educational Psychology.

When she is not working, Profe. Eli loves traveling, cooking Colombian food, and spending time with her family.

Evelyn Rosario Gibson

Evelyn Rosario Gibson

Jr. Kindergarten STEAM Teacher

erosario@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2015
Education: B.S., Harris Stowe State University

Evelyn comes from a family of educators and knew at a young age she wanted to follow in their footsteps. In 2014 she was thrilled to be placed at City Academy for student teaching and immediately knew this was the school community she wanted to be part of long-term. After graduation, Evelyn officially began her career here as a substitute teacher and shortly thereafter signed on as the K-2nd STEAM teacher. Since then she has moved to Junior Kindergarten where she continues to teach STEAM to our youngest scholars.

Outside of school, Evelyn enjoys spending time with her husband and young daughter, reading, experimenting with photography, and traveling.

Martha Schott

Martha Schott

Math Specialist

mschott@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2015
Education: B.S. University of Missouri – St. Louis

Martha first joined City Academy as a student teacher. Before City Academy, Martha taught at the Downtown Children’s Center and as a substitute teacher in the Hazelwood School District. Her passion is providing hands-on education for students through a meaningful, active, and challenging curriculum.

When she’s not in the classroom, Martha enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her husband and daughters.

Alison Slama

Alison Slama

3- & 4-year-old Teacher

aslama@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2019
Education: B.A. Early Childhood Education & B.A. Psychology., Webster University
M.A. Special Education, Webster University

Alison came to City Academy to launch the first 3- and 4-year-old classroom in the newly expanded Early Childhood Center. Prior to joining the City Academy team, Alison taught 3- and 4-year-olds at Ladue Early Childhood Center for four years, and ages three-five at Minier Early Childhood Center for five years. She also previously coached high school girls’ varsity lacrosse for eight years and received the Coach of the Year award in 2011.

Alison is a St. Louis local and a graduate of Mary Institute and St. Louis Country Day School, where she attended from junior kindergarten through 12th grade. In her free time, Alison enjoys hiking and spending time with her friends and family.

Tayler Stagge

Tayler Stagge

Jr. Kindergarten Humanities Teacher

tstagge@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2012
Education: B.S., University of Missouri – St. Louis

Tayler is passionate about teaching young children foundational skills. She has always pictured herself working with youth in some capacity. Outside of City Academy, Tayler enjoys spending time with her daughter and family, traveling, crafting and trying new restaurants.

Erik Taylor

Erik Taylor

5th & 6th Grade Science Teacher

etaylor@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2008
Education: B.S. Biological Sciences, SIU-Edwardsville

In addition to his teaching roles, Erik also serves as our STEAM Coordinator. Prior to City Academy, Eric worked for Rosary High School, the Boy Scouts of America, and the St. Louis Zoo. Erik is married to Karen Taylor, and all four of their children attended City Academy.

Esmeralda Torres

Esmeralda Torres

3-year-old – 2nd Grade Spanish Teacher

etorres@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2004
Education: B.A., National University of San Marcos
M.A., National University of San Marcos
English as a Second Language Certification

Señora Torres’ goal is for the students to have an introduction to Spanish that is interactive and enjoyable through singing songs, playing games, listening to stories, and learning about Spanish culture. She is originally from Lima, Peru. In her free time she loves to cook traditional Peruvian dishes and spend time with her family.

Kip Warr

Kip Warr

6th Grade Humanities Teacher

kwarr@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2008, 2022
Education: A.B., College of the Holy Cross
A.B., College of the Holy Cross
M.Ed., Crosscultural Instruction, National University
M.Ed., Gifted Education, Lindenwood University
Ph.D. Candidate, Saint Louis University

Born and raised in Chicago, Kip is the product of Jesuit schooling. He attended Saint Ignatius College Prep, College of the Holy Cross, and he is currently a Ph.D. Candidate at Saint Louis University.

Moving to St. Louis in 2008, Kip began his first “tour of duty” at City Academy, teaching 5th and 6th grades. In 2015, Kip left to become the Director of Gifted and Talented for St. Louis Public Schools. Returning to CA in 2022, Kip resumes his role as 6th Grade Humanities Teacher where he shares his two great passions, reading great literature and economics, with his students.

Kip and his wife Rodnee are the proud parents of Zachary and Rylie, both City Academy alumni.

Michelle Williams

Michelle Williams

3- & 4-Year-Old Assistant Teacher

mwilliams@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2019

Michelle joined City Academy as an Extended Day Teacher, later becoming a Classroom Monitor. Now in the 3- and 4-year old classroom, she loves assisting with daily duties. She as also returned to her role as an Extended Day Teacher. Michelle has always had a heart for children, and she finds much joy in watching them grow. Michelle’s first job was babysitting, and then she moved on to the corporate world. After that she ran a non-profit group giving out school supplies, and later was a stay-at-home mom. During her daughter’s last year of high school, she was given an opportunity to work with children at City Academy, and Michelle jumped at the opportunity.

Laurianne Zink

Laurianne Zink

2nd Grade Humanities Teacher

lzink@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2022
Education: B. Ed., University of Missouri-Columbia
M.Ed., University of Missouri-St. Louis

Laurianne has thoroughly enjoyed spending her career teaching 2nd grade reading and library and celebrating the love of great books with her students. She grew up in Cool Valley playing school with her very first “student,” her little sister, who learned to read as they played! She was born in Columbus, Ohio and cheers on the Ohio State Buckeyes every college football season, one of her most favorite times of the year. She is an animal lover and enjoys reading historical fiction, mysteries, and nonfiction. She smiles every time she passes the “Cool Valley” sign on the way to City Academy each day, remembering playing school all those years ago. She couldn’t imagine doing anything else as a grown-up today!

School Staff

Dominique Bolden

Dominique Bolden

Food Services Technician

dbolden@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2022

Danielle Brown

Danielle Brown

Food Services Supervisor

dbrown@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2022

Kendra Gilbert

Food Services Technician

kgilbert@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2014

Stephanie Dooley

Stephanie Dooley

Director of Enrollment Management & Placement

sdooley@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2012
Education: B.S., University of Missouri-St. Louis
MBA, Webster University

Stephanie enjoys traveling and time with family.

Jennifer Glassmeyer

Jennifer Glassmeyer

Director of Alumni Services & Community Partnerships

jglassmeyer@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2018
Education:B.A., University of Missouri – St. Louis
M.Ed., LPC, University of Missouri – St. Louis

Jen’s background is in program development, school, and mental health counseling. Jen also works as a Crisis Counselor in Madison County, Illinois. She has experience working in a community mental health setting, along with schools in St. Louis City and Illinois. Jen attributes much of her ability to be flexible and think on her feet to her years of working in the service industry.

Jen has a son that graduated from City Academy in 2017 and was so honored to be given the opportunity to work in an educational environment that is unlike any other in St. Louis. It was like she was coming home, as so much time has been spent here over the years. In her free time, Jen enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

Ann Lazaroff

Ann Lazaroff

Admissions Coordinator

alazaroff@cityacademystl.org

Kimberly Lowery

Kimberly Lowery

Administrative Assistant

klowery@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2007

Kimberly Lowery is the first person you will meet when you call or visit City Academy! Before she managed City Academy’s front desk as the administrative assistant/school nurse/announcer, Kim worked for TIAA-CREF Trust Company, Allstate Insurance Company and the Danforth Foundation. Kim and her husband Willie have been married for more than 40 years, and have two children. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, amusement parks, and going to the movies. Without Kim, there would be no fresh coffee at City Academy. We are forever grateful for her efficient morning routine to fuel teachers.

David Maia

David Maia

Alumni Support Coordinator

dmaia@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2021
Education: B.S., Northwestern University
MSW, Washington University in St. Louis

After graduating from Northwestern, David completed a year of AmeriCorps in Chicago. While attending Washington University, David completed his practicum at City Academy during the 2021-22 school year. Upon graduating from WashU, David joined City Academy full-time as the Alumni Support Coordinator.

Outside of work, David enjoys anything to do with sports (watching or playing), hiking with his dog Aubrey, or traveling – particularly to visit friends and family back in California. David is always searching for new restaurants to try or outdoor activities to explore, so send your recommendations his way!

Larry Reese

Larry Reese

Facilities Manager

lreese@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2019

Mr. Reese oversees a multitude of facility projects at City Academy. He has an HVAC Certification with 12 years of experience, along with 18 years of experience as an industrial electrician. He is a proud husband, dad, and grandfather of 14! He has spent 18 years as a teacher in Men’s Ministry.

Kimberli J. Wilson

Kimberli J. Wilson

Director of Extended Day & Summer Programs

kwilson@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2019
Education: B.A. in Communications

Kimberli’s favorite quote is: “Intelligence plus character- that is the goal of true education.” (Martin Luther King, Jr.)

Kimberli loves that quote because it captures the exact reason for choosing to work within this field. While excelling in academics is important, it is equally essential to foster thought processes and behaviors that align with positive character traits. Kimberli worked at Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri for 13+ years building girls of courage, confidence, and character who make the world a better place. She is a lifetime Girl Scout member, an avid reader, and a published editor who started her own editing business during COVID in 2020. She also enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Business and Development Staff

Joe Bradley

Joe Bradley

Director of Communications

jbradley@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2022
Education: B.J., University of Missouri – Columbia
M.P.A., University of Missouri – Columbia

Prior to City Academy, Joe spent five years as the Communications Director at Fr. Tolton Catholic High School in Columbia, MO, where he also taught yearbook and coached boys and girls golf. In 2014, he founded the Day Dreams Foundation in Columbia, a non-profit that worked to eliminate financial barriers to extracurricular activities. In his eight years as President of the organization, they awarded more than $240,000 in scholarships for extracurricular activities to nearly 500 local kids. He jumped at the opportunity to come work at a school with such a like-minded mission.

He and his wife, Ellen, have two young children, Cora and James. He enjoys playing golf, bowling, and cheering on the Creighton Bluejays basketball team.

Lydia Bryant

Lydia Bryant

Annual Fund and Special Events Manager

lbryant@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2019
Education: B.S., Missouri Baptist University

Lydia has served non-profits in a variety of administrative roles since 2010. Over the years she has developed a passion for “setting people up for success” in both small and big ways. Lydia enjoys spending time with her family, learning new ways to stay productive and organized, and traveling (when she can!).

Desiree Ford

Desiree Ford

Administrative Coordinator

dford@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2023
Education: B.A., Saint Louis University

Before joining City Academy, Desiree spent several years working in Early Childhood Education, as an Assistant Teacher to infants, toddlers and Pre-Kindergarten children through 1999-2006. She then began a 15-year career with Barnes-Jewish Healthcare. She enjoys writing, traveling, arts and crafts and gardening.

Jessi Goodhart

Jessi Goodhart

Director of Development

jgoodhart@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2023
Education: B.A., University of Minnesota-Duluth

Jessi has spent more than 20 years in various fundraising, public relations and communications roles. Most recently, she served as Director of Development and Communications at Craft Alliance.

She is a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals-St. Louis and serves on the Board of Directors for Urban Harvest STL.

Tom Reed

Tom Reed

Accounts Payable / Receivable and Student Tuition Manager

treed@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2022
Education: B.S., Webster University
M.B.A., Fontbonne University

Before joining City Academy Tom spent over 15 years in the financial industry in various roles such as Operations Risk Consultant, Internal Managed Accounts, Trade Service Representative and Financial Settlements Specialist. He also has more than 5 years experience in Billing and Collections.

Tom and his wife Erica are the proud parents of two young adults, Khalif and Safiyah. In his spare time Tom enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching sports, and traveling.

Zac Warr

Zac Warr

Communications Intern

zwarr@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2023
Education: B.F.A University of Kansas
Business of Art & Design (MPS) candidate, Maryland Institute College of Art

“Driven by a deep-rooted passion for creativity and the exploration of diverse perspectives, I find fulfillment in delving into the multifaceted realms of art and design. My journey is marked by a constant quest to understand and integrate varied viewpoints into my work, believing that true innovation stems from such rich diversity.”

As a City Academy alum from the Class of 2011, Zac’s journey has included significant contributions to projects like VisitHaiti and work with the Spencer Museum of Art in Lawrence Kansas. Presently, Zac is channeling his creativity and business acumen into developing a new venture – an apparel brand that reflects his unique perspective. Alongside his professional achievements, Zac recently embarked on a new personal journey, marrying his partner Jasmine, adding a new dimension of personal fulfillment to his life. Zac is not just honing his creative skills but also equipping himself with the strategic insights necessary to navigate the complex intersections of art, business, and community impact.

Kavel Smith

Kavel Smith

Assistant Director of Finance

ksmith@CityAcademySTL.org

Joined City Academy: 2022
Education: B.A., McKendree University
MBA, McKendree University

“My passion is giving back to the younger generation and soccer. I get excited being a part of a team that has a sole mission to help youths excel.”

Prior to joining City Academy, Kavel was the Office Manager for an intravascular company in Florida. Kavel enjoys traveling and spending quality time with his wife and daughter.