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School Leadership & Support Team

Principal

Rebecca Maldonado

Rebecca Maldonado joined the Leadership School in 2024 and is currently the principal. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Illinois State University and later completed a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction at Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville. She is a graduate of the Opportunity Trust's Instructional Leadership Fellowship and is currently continuing her education through the Relay Graduate School of Education's National Principal Fellowship. Rebecca has worked in education since 2017, starting her career as a 7th and 8th grade English Language Arts teacher. Her passion for education started as taking her love of reading and sharing it with students. It has continued to grow into supporting and developing our staff as they take the content areas they are passionate about and teach them to our little TLS leaders. Outside of the classroom, Rebecca is an avid reader who loves to hike and spend time with her family and dogs. "I believe that every one of our students deserves to attend a school that believes in them and empowers them with the skills that they need to show up in the world as leaders with lives full of choice."

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Assistant Principal of Culture

Desiree Buchannan

Desiree Buchannan joined The Leadership School in 2023 and currently serves as the Assistant Principal of Culture. With a background in English Language Arts, she believes that teaching is about empowering students to read deeply, question boldly, and think critically so they can recognize injustice, imagine alternatives, and act to change the world around them. Desiree holds a Bachelor's degree from Southern Illinois University Carbondale, a Master's in Communication Management from Lindenwood University, and a Master's in Teaching and Learning from Washington University. Outside of school, Desiree enjoys spending time with family and friends, reading, and watching shows with unpredictable storylines. She also loves traveling, practicing pilates, and never turns down a good coffee or matcha!

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Assistant Principal of Instruction

Dr. Grace Rollins

Dr. Grace Rollins joined The Leadership School in 2025 and this is her tenth year in education. She earned her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She later completed a Master's degree in Gifted Education at Lindenwood. She went on to earn her Doctorate in Instructional Leadership with an emphasis in Instructional Leadership from Lindenwood University. Grace believes that a strong foundation in early childhood education sets the stage for lifelong learning and leadership. She works closely with the amazing teachers at TLS to strengthen math instruction and classroom environment across grade levels. She is guided by the core values of collaboration, flexibility, empathy, and mutual respect. Her favorite part of her work is the relationships she builds with students. Outside of school, Grace loves to spend time with her husband and two children. She loves being active with her dogs and family, sports, and playing cards. Her favorite place is the beach. "The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you."

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Principal in Residence

Jessica Brown

Jessica Brown joined The Leadership School in 2026 as Principal-in-Residence. She brings 18 years of experience in education, including serving as a middle school math teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, education consultant, and director of clinical education for a teacher residency program. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Missouri and her master’s degree in School Administration from Lindenwood University. Jessica is passionate about ensuring every student receives excellent instruction and feels known, supported, and empowered. She believes strong relationships, high expectations, and engaging, standards-aligned instruction help students grow both academically and personally. She especially enjoys developing math teachers and helping students build confidence as mathematical thinkers and problem-solvers. Outside of school, Jessica enjoys spending time with her two sons, Gavin and Grayson, attending concerts, traveling, and creating new experiences with her family. “My goal is to create learning environments where students feel loved, challenged, and empowered to recognize their full potential.”

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Director of Student Support

Keisha Seymour

Keisha Seymour came to The Leadership School three years ago. She has served as the Managing Director of Student Support for the past 2 years. Keisha earned her undergraduate degree at MIZZOU, and later earned her Masters in Curriculum and Instruction at National Louis University in Chicago. After teaching for 12 years, Ms. Seymour pursued her Education Specialist Degree in School Psychology. Ms. Seymour is currently finishing her PhD in Clinical Counseling and Supervision at UMSL.  Keisha believes that "every day is a new day" and that a student, staff members, and the community have an opportunity to reset each day. There are always going to be barriers in life and obstacles are worth facing and conquering.  Keisha enjoys hanging out with her family and friends when she is not working. She also loves cooking, baking, and being outside in nature minus the bugs.  “In life you have to "hustle harder than you hope" and "always choose kind."

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Mathematics Instruction Team

6th Grade Math

Amanda Smith

Amanda Smith is a 6th grade math teacher with 18 years of experience in education. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Education from Missouri Baptist University and has spent the last 10 years focusing on teaching math. Amanda believes every student can be successful in math when they are given the support, encouragement, and opportunity to grow. She works hard to create a classroom where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and challenging themselves. She also believes that learning is about more than academics. She wants her students to become confident learners, responsible team members, and leaders who take ownership of their education. Outside of school, Amanda loves spending time with her family and friends, gardening, taking care of her plants and pets, and trying new things. "Every day is a new opportunity to learn, grow, and be better than we were yesterday."

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1st Grade Math

Morgan Simmons

Morgan Simmons is excited to begin her first year at The Leadership School as a 3rd Grade Math Teacher! She earned her Bachelor of Educational Studies from the University of Missouri–St. Louis, with an emphasis in Youth and Adult Development and minors in Education and Human & Counseling Services. She is currently pursuing her Master's degree in Higher Education at UMSL. Before joining The Leadership School, she spent four years teaching middle school mathematics, where she developed a passion for supporting students academically and personally. Morgan believes that every student deserves to feel seen, valued, and supported. Her teaching approach focuses on building strong relationships with students and creating a classroom environment where they feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and growing as learners. She believes that "to grow the student, you must know the student." By getting to know her students as individuals, she can better understand their strengths, needs, and interests and use that knowledge to help them succeed. She is passionate about making learning engaging, inclusive, and meaningful for every student. Outside of the classroom, Morgan enjoys spending time with her family and friends, staying active, and playing and coaching volleyball. She loves opportunities to connect with others, build relationships, and continue growing both personally and professionally. She is also passionate about working with young people and creating opportunities that encourage them to become confident leaders. “My goal is to create a space where every child knows they matter, their feelings are important, and they never have to navigate the hard moments alone.”

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2nd Grade Math

Lilian Krutsinger

Lillian Krutsinger is new to the Leadership School and excited to be teaching 2nd grade Math! She has been teaching since 2021 in grades 3-5. She holds a B.A. in Sociology from Knox College and a Masters in Teaching and Learning from Washington University. Lillian knows that students learn best when they are excited about what they're learning and excited to be at school. She believes that every child deserves to feel that they are part of the community and find joy there. She also believes that sustained focus on hard things (like math!) builds the determination and grit that every student will need in life. When not at school, Lillian spends time in her garden, in the woods, or on the river! She loves to be outside and with friends and family. She also enjoys writing and reading.

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Kindergarten Math

Donice McNichols

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1st Grade Math

Nathan Engle

Nathan Engle holds a Bachelor of Science from Truman State University. This is his third year at The Leadership School, and his sixth year teaching in the classroom, having taught science, math, and English as a foreign language. Nathan chose to be a teacher because he values education deeply and believes one of the best ways to help others is to give them the tools they need to contribute whatever unique and wonderful thing they bring to this world. Because of that, his teaching style focuses on solid fundamentals, honest presentation, and continued practice to improve. In his class, finding the answer is not the goal, but a consequence of exploring the concepts and skills students learn. Nathan loves to pursue many creative hobbies, including photography, improv, painting, and filmmaking. He also loves spending time in nature, hiking, and with animals at home. “Enjoy the little things in life because one day you’ll look back and realize they were the big things.” -Kurt Vonnegut

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Kindergarten Math

Necey McNichols

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1st Grade Math

Marquetta Mansion

This is Marquetta Mansion's second year with The Leadership School. She moved from kindergarten to 1st Grade this year. She holds a bachelor's degree in English and Sociology and a master's degree in Early Childhood Education. After nearly 20 years in education and nonprofit leadership, she's excited to help young learners build confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning. Marquetta believes every child has the potential to lead, learn, and grow. She strives to create a joyful, supportive environment where students are challenged, celebrated, and encouraged to become their very best. Outside the classroom, She enjoys traveling, reading, and volunteering in her community. "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."-Maya Angelou

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5th Grade Math

Andrew Bond

Andrew Bond graduated from Kansas State University and is currently seeking his Masters from Washington University. This is his second year at The Leadership School. Andrew is a believer that relationships make all the difference. He works hard to build trust and maintain it while holding students to high expectations. When not teaching, he is an avid player of multiple musical instruments, working around the house, spending time with family, and being outdoors.

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4th Grade Math

Shantell Assouman

Shantell Assouman joined The Leadership School in January 2026 and currently teaches 4th grade. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Pace University and later completed a Master's degree in Middle School English Education at Relay Graduate School of Education. Shantell believes every student learns best in a classroom that feels safe, welcoming, and holds students to high expectations. Her teaching approach centers on encouraging students to build deeper understanding by asking questions and hands on learning to learn different skills. She has a special passion for building confidence in young learners. Outside the classroom, Shantell enjoys spending time with her husband who is a member of the United States Air Force. She also enjoys building her faith by reading her Bible, praying, attending church and listening to Gospel songs.

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ELA/Reading Instruction

5th Grade ELA

Abrie Golden

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1st Grade ELA

Chinara Meeks

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1st Grade ELA

Niyana Boyd

Niyana Boyd is in her second year teaching 1st Grade ELA at The Leadership School, where she began through the Teach St. Louis Residency. Originally from Chicago, Illinois, she earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Entrepreneurship from Harris-Stowe State University and is pursuing her Master’s in Teaching and Learning at Washington University in St. Louis. Niyana ’s teaching is centered on building strong relationships and creating a classroom where students feel loved, safe, challenged, and confident in who they are. She encourages students to ask questions, make mistakes, try again, and to see learning as a process of growth and discovery as they become independent readers, writers, thinkers, and leaders. Outside the classroom, Niyana enjoys dancing, being creative, learning new things, and spending time with family and friends. She is the oldest of four girls, loves returning home to Chicago, and loves jerk chicken! “My goal is for every child to leave my classroom knowing they are capable, their thinking matters, and there is always room to grow.”

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4th Grade ELA

Yolanda Jackson

Yolanda Jackson joined The Leadership School in 2024, where she taught 2nd Grade ELA for her first two years before transitioning to 4th Grade ELA this year. She is a proud product of St. Louis Public Schools and has been an educator for over 10 years. She earned her Associate of Arts in Teaching from STLCC Florissant Valley and her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, with a minor in English, from the University of Missouri–St. Louis. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Teaching at Washington University in St. Louis through Teach St. Louis and will graduate in May 2027. Yolanda believes every child deserves a great education and a teacher who loves them, believes in them, and wants to see them succeed. She believes learning should be fun, engaging, and extend beyond pencil and paper. She strives to create a classroom that is a safe place where every student feels loved, valued, and comfortable being themselves, making mistakes, and learning. Her goal is to equip her students with the tools they need to be successful in school and in life. Yolanda has always had a heart for children, both in and outside of the classroom, but her favorite title will always be Mom. She is the proud mom of three amazing children, Jordan, James, and Evelyn. She enjoys working out, listening to live bands, spending time with her family, and, most importantly, attending church. "Before you can truly teach children, they must know that you love and care about them."

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Kindergarten ELA

Lauren Yergler

Lauren Yergler join The Leadership School in 2025 and currently teaches kindergarten. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. The foundation of Lauren’s teaching is seeing the beautiful humanity in each student and teaching human beings first and reading second. She is fascinated by educational neuroscience and strives to get to know each individual student's brain. She has a passion for early literacy and feels like watching a child learn to read is magic. Outside the classroom, Lauren enjoys reading, embroidering, and cooking for those she loves. She loves being a mom to four great kids!

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5th Grade ELA

Adrian White

Adrian White is very excited to start her journey at The Leadership School! This is her 12th year as an educator. She spent the past seven years living and teaching in a small town in Texas, though she knew going in it was not her forever home. Adrian was born and raised in St. Louis, so the students, communities, schools, neighborhoods, and hidden gems are near and dear to her heart. She graduated with her Bachelor's degree from the University of Central Missouri (go mules!), and she is currently working towards her Master's in Teaching and Learning through Washington University in partnership with Teach St. Louis. Like her friends at Teach St. Louis, Adrian truly believes that every student deserves an amazing teacher who will provide a joyful, yet rigorous school environment. In her classroom, she creates a home, a bond, and a safe space, where students feel loved, seen, and motivated to be their best selves. She believes that starts with her, which is why she began her journey with Teach St. Louis, to help her be all she can be to every student she gets the privilege of serving. Outside of teaching, Adrian has found great joy in soaking up as much family time as possible now that she is back in her hometown. She and her husband have a plan to acquaint their children with some of their favorite hangouts, shops, and attractions. They have also been prioritizing connecting with family. "Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better."

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3rd Grade ELA

Lauren Martin

Lauren Martin joined The Leadership School in 2024 and currently teaches 3rd grade. She graduated from Harris-Stowe State University in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Education. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University and expects to graduate in May 2027. Lauren believes every student deserves a classroom where they feel safe, valued, supported, and empowered to be themselves. Her teaching approach focuses on creating a welcoming and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, collaborate with others, and take ownership of their learning. She enjoys creating hands-on learning experiences that allow students to connect what they are learning in the classroom to the world around them. Lauren is especially passionate about helping students grow both academically and personally. She strives to help her students become confident, compassionate, and responsible global citizens who understand the importance of their voice and the impact they can have on their community. She believes every student brings unique strengths and experiences to the classroom and works to create opportunities for all students to shine. Outside of the classroom, Lauren enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring new places, and creating fun and memorable experiences.

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Kindergarten ELA

Elise Andrews

Elise Andrews is new to TLS, but not education. She earned her Bachelors in Interdisciplinary Studies at the University of Texas San Antonio. She has over 9 years of teaching experience in Kindergarten and First grade. She previously taught in Houston, TX and later Nashville, TN. She is an avid reader and enjoys sharing her love of books with her students. She is passionate about helping the next generation to compassionate community members. Outside of the classroom Mrs. Andrews enjoys going to parks and trying new restaurants with her family. "I don't teach reading, I teach students."

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6th Grade ELA Teacher and Grade-Level Lead

Leslie Bland

Leslie Bland is a 6th Grade English Language Arts teacher and grade-level lead at The Leadership School. She previously taught 5th Grade ELA at TLS and has more than 10 years of experience in education. Ms. Bland earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Missouri State University and is currently pursuing her Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning at Washington University in St. Louis. Leslie believes students should leave her classroom knowing how to think, communicate, question, and advocate for themselves. Her approach to teaching combines strong literacy instruction with opportunities for students to become critical thinkers, authors, collaborators, and self-directed learners. She works to create a classroom where students are challenged academically while also developing the confidence and agency to take ownership of their learning. Beyond the classroom, Leslie enjoys developing programs and experiences that help students grow as leaders and connect learning to the world around them. She has led student leadership initiatives, schoolwide events, and programs focused on student empowerment and community building. She also enjoys spending time with her standard poodle, Marlo, who has become a familiar and much-loved presence in the school community. "I want students to leave my classroom knowing that their ideas matter, their voices have power, and they are capable of doing difficult things."

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2nd Grade ELA

Treece Timmons

Treece Timmons currently teaches 2nd grade ELA. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of South Carolina and later received her certification in STEM Education from Maryville University. This is her 18th year of teaching. Treece believes every child deserves a classroom where they feel safe, valued, supported, and excited to learn. Outside of the classroom, Treece enjoys staying active and spending time with her daughter, Phoenix. She is also a group fitness instructor and has taught Zumba, Trap Zumba, Hip Hop Fit, and Zumbini. "My goal is to create a classroom where students feel loved, challenged, and confident enough to believe that they can do hard things."

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Kindergarten Teacher Team

Kindergarten TA

Sharonda Stith

Sharonda Stith joined TLS in 2026, and currently is a teaching fellow for Kindergarten. She earned in Bachelors in French and Political Science from Western Illinois University and her Masters in Public Policy Analysis from the University of Missouri St. Louis. Sharonda believes that engaging play based instruction is an important way to capture the creativity, imagination and hone the critical thinking skills of young learners. She couples this approach with a strong focus on literacy and expanding the world of young learners via story time. Outside of the classroom Sharonda enjoys, travel, cycling and volunteering.

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Kindergarten TK

Beth J. Hendrix

Beth J. Hendrix is a proud native of Saint Louis, Missouri. She graduated from Central Visual and Performing Arts High School. Beth holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Broadcast Journalism from The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, and a Master's Degree in Journalism from The University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Beth began her educational career in Little Rock, Arkansas under the tutelage of famed educator, Dr. Phillis N. Anderson, Ed.D. Taking part of the planting, facilitation, and start of the school, ScholarMade Achievement Place of Arkansas, will always be near and dear to Beth's heart. This will be Beth's ninth year teaching and first year at The Leadership School. Dedicated to helping young learners thrive, Beth brings both professional training and heartfelt commitment to her work in education. Beth believes every child can learn, and that finding the right approach for each student is key. She sees education as the tool to make that happen. Beth’s interests include spending time with family and friends, singing, and being active in her church community. "Courage is more exhilarating than fear and in the long run it is easier." -Eleanor Roosevelt

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Kindergarten TA

Whitney Tate

Whitney is a dedicated early childhood educator currently serving as a kindergarten teacher's assistant. She is passionate about fostering foundational skills in young learners, including engaging in lesson plans and classroom routines focused on phonics, literacy, and developmental growth. Driven by a deep commitment to educating young children, she is actively pursuing a career in elementary education to make a lasting impact on young lives. Outside of her professional endeavors, she enjoys outdoor activities such as bonfires, observing night skies, music, and watching storms. She also values spending time with her family, traveling, and eating. “Love Peace and Smiles"

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1st Grade Teacher Team

1st Grade Teacher

Niyanna Boyd

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Science & Social Studies Instructional Team

3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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3rd-6th Grade Social Studies

Zoe Clarkson

Zoe Clarkson joined The Leadership School this year, 2026, and currently teaches 3rd through 6th grade Social Studies. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri in 2020 and is currently completing a Master's degree in Teaching and Learning at Washington University. Zoe believes in providing quality education to all students from all backgrounds. Zoe approaches Social Studies from the lens of preparing well-informed citizens for our growing political world. Outside the classroom, Zoe enjoys video games, trivia nights, board games, reading, collecting Pokemon cards, and napping with her dog.

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Enrichment Teacher Team

Behavioral Health Therapist

Veronica Higgins

Veronica Higgins is a Licensed Professional Counselor and School-Based Behavioral Health Therapist with BJC Children’s Hospital’s Healthy Kids Healthy Minds program. She has proudly served students and families at The Leadership School since 2023. Veronica earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Mississippi University for Women and her Master’s degree in School Counseling. She is also a certified K–12 school counselor and has experience working with children, adolescents, and families in both school and group practice settings. Veronica specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), with a focus on anxiety, stress management, grief and loss, and life transitions. She incorporates talk therapy, play, games, creative activities, and practical coping strategies to meet children where they are and help them develop skills they can use in everyday life. Veronica believes every child deserves a safe and supportive space to feel heard, understood, and accepted. Her goal is to help students better understand their emotions, build confidence, strengthen coping skills, and successfully navigate challenges at school, home, and throughout life. Outside of work, Veronica enjoys traveling, cruising, reading, shopping, spending time with family, and trying new things. “My goal is to create a space where every child knows they matter, their feelings are important, and they never have to navigate the hard moments alone.”

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Lead Substitute & Athletic Director

Ni'sean Rigmaiden

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Art

Ashley Rhodes

Ashley Rhodes is entering her third year at The Leadership School and her eighth year in education. She earned her degree in Art and Design and has spent her entire teaching career teaching the subject she loves most: art! Ashley believes art gives every student a chance to be creative, express themselves, and discover something they are good at. In her classroom, she encourages students to explore, take creative risks, and make their artwork their own. She especially enjoys teaching graphic design and painting, and showing students that creativity can look different for everyone. Outside of school, Ashley loves watching movies, painting, designing just about anything, spending time with her kids, and cheering them on in their sports. 
"A heart is not judged by how much you love, but by how much you are loved by others." -The Wizard of Oz

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Physical Education

Miles Nettles

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Network & Office Support Team

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Director of Operations

Johnathan Book

Johnathan Book is a passionate, dedicated educator with over 15 years of experience in training and program development. He has extensive experience developing and executing professional learning, instructional coaching, designing digital instructional resources, and developing and auditing standards-based curricula. His experience ranges from classroom teaching, assistant principalship, instructional coach, and operations director. He is a lifelong learner and leader. "Things are only impossible until they are not" - Jean Luc Picard

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Nurse

Kaja Horton

Nurse Kaja joined The Leadership School in 2025. She graduated from Maryville University in 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. In addition to serving as a school nurse, she works as a pediatric emergency room nurse, which she has been doing for the past three years. Nurse Kaja believes that every child she encounters deserves to feel loved, cared for, and seen. She strives to meet each child’s unique needs and help them feel safe and supported, especially during times when they may not fully understand what is happening with their growing bodies. Outside of nursing, Nurse Kaja enjoys spending time with her puppy, serving at church, and enjoying a Ted Drewe’s whenever a sweet treat is warranted! “Caring for little humans, comforting tender hearts and reminding every child that they are deeply loved.”

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Athletic Director & Building Substitute

Ni'Sean Rigmaiden

Ni'Sean is a dedicated and hardworking professional who is passionate about education, youth development, sports, and helping others succeed. He pursued his master's degree this past spring in MBA, where he developed his knowledge and skills in business strategy, leadership, branding, and marketing. He has a strong interest in working with children and supporting their growth both inside and outside the classroom. He enjoys creating opportunities for young people to participate in sports and activities such as volleyball, basketball, cheerleading, and cross-country. He believes that sports can teach children important values such as teamwork, discipline, confidence, leadership, and perseverance. As a graduated student and community-minded individual, Ni'Sean is committed to continuing his personal and professional growth. His goal is to use his education, leadership skills, and passion for helping others to make a positive impact in his community and create opportunities for the next generation. "I have nothing in common with lazy people"

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Office Manager

Antoinette Davis

Antoinette is excited to begin her first year as a School Office Manager and her first year working in education! Before joining the school community, she worked in logistics/warehouse operations, where she developed strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. Her goal is to create a welcoming and supportive environment for students, families, and staff while continuing to learn and grow in her new role. Outside of school, she enjoys bowling, watching movies, and spending quality time with her kids. Family is very important to her, and she loves making memories with them! “Kindness, positivity, and a willingness to help can make a difference in someone’s day.”

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Executive Assistant

Eileen Conroy

Eileen Conroy joined The Leadership School as Administrative and Executive Assistant, supporting Executive Director Courtney Moulder and the broader team. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Public Health from Kent State University, and she brings over 13 years of administrative and operations experience to her role. Eileen believes that a well run office is the foundation for effective leadership. Her approach centers on proactive organization, clear communication, and anticipating needs before they become urgent. She has a particular strength in coordinating complex calendars, managing client engagements, and keeping cross functional projects on track, all while ensuring the Executive Director's time is protected and well used. Outside of work, Eileen enjoys golfing, running, and camping throughout Northern California. "A well organized office isn't about perfection, it's about creating the space for good work to happen without friction."

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Office Manager

Janie Stanner

Mrs. Stanner is a founding staff member, she joined the school in August of 2022. She earned her degree from the University of Southeast Missouri State.

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Executive Director

Courtney Moulder

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