Dr. Teruko Dobashi began her journey began in San Francisco, California, where, as a former foster youth she engaged with social justice and community organizing, laying the groundwork for her commitment to education and social welfare. After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, she joined Teach for America, relocated to the Mississippi Delta, and pursued further studies, earning Master's degrees in Social Work from Jackson State University and Educational Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University, and later a doctoral degree in education from Georgia State University. Her arts-based phenomenological manuscript, “Black on Black School Discipline: Double Consciousness & the Perspective of Disciplining your Own” was awarded dissertation of the year. 

Throughout her career, Teruko has been recognized for her outstanding contributions, from being named a Sue Lehmann regional finalist, teacher of the year,  equity champion in her school district, and assistant principal of the year finalist. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom and professional learning community, as she volunteers in various community initiatives and shares her artistry through spoken word performances across the United States.

Dr. Teruko Dobashi, proudly served as Assistant Principal at Toomer Elementary School and embodies the transformative power of education, guided by the words of Tupac Shakur: "I'm not saying I'm gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will." As an abolitionist educator, Teruko's philosophy centers on love, light, and liberation, advocating for cultural responsiveness, criticality, and equity in education.

Dr. Teruko Dobashi epitomizes the ratchetdemic leader—a dynamic force for change, actively dismantling oppression through art, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to the liberation of all.

Dr.Shelante’ Patton, has worked in Atlanta Public Schools for thirteen years. Shelante' has been a part of the M. Agnes Jones faculty for four years, but had been in the Washington Cluster as Instructional Coach for two years before being appointed to the role of Assistant Principal. Before her time at TAG Academy, she worked at Dobbs Elementary as the STEM Program Specialist, Technology Teacher, and as a 4th and 5th grade classroom teacher.

Dr. Patton holds Reading, Math, Science, ESOL, STEM, and Gifted Endorsements. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Reading, both from Nova Southeastern University. In addition to these qualifications, Dr. Patton holds a Specialist degree in Administration and Supervision as well as a Doctoral Degree in Teacher Leadership from Kennesaw State University.

Lindsey R. Rutledge, Early Learning Coach, earned her Bachelor of Science Degree from Howard University (Washington, DC) and her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (T-5) from Georgia State University. Along with her degrees, she holds a science endorsement and ESOL certification. Her teaching career began at M. Agnes Jones Elementary School in 2013, and this school has a very special place in her heart. She has had the opportunity to teach 2^nd grade (2 years) and was the K-5 STEM teacher for the last three years. She has worked in the capacity of a grade level chair, mentor teacher, STEM specialist, professor at Georgia State University, and YMCA afterschool site director. With her experience in education, she has had the opportunity to nurture and instill inquiry in the minds of her students at many levels, elementary and post-secondary. She is dedicated to not only engaging students in real-world problem/project-based activities but also helping educators and administrators create and implement a curriculum that is tied to their state standards and integrated with technology. Her experience as a teacher, STEM Specialist, and now Instructional Coach has afforded her the opportunities to inspire, educate, and motivate our future leaders, reassuring them that they were born to conquer their dreams and aspirations.

Glenneisha Jones, English Language Arts & Social Studies Instructional Coach at M. Agnes Jones Elementary. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Mercer University in Atlanta, GA, and her Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction in Accomplished Teaching from Columbus State University. In addition to her degrees, she holds a Gifted In-Field and Special Education certification, STEM Education and Coaching Endorsement, and is currently completing her Dyslexia Endorsement.

Ms. Jones began her teaching career in Rockdale County Public Schools before joining Atlanta Public Schools in 2019. Throughout her career, she has held various leadership roles, including a grade-level representative for Positive Behavior and Intervention Support (PBIS) and Response to Intervention (RTI), student-teacher and new teacher mentor, FUNdations model/demonstration teacher for Atlanta Public Schools, and sponsor for Student Council. In addition to her professional roles, Ms. Jones actively seeks ways to foster community through her church, House of Hope Atlanta, and other community engagements. She has also been involved with organizations like Pearls with Purpose, which is designed to help empower young women ages 11-18 to be successful and live out their God-given purpose.

A lifelong learner, her strengths are Learner, Positivity, Achiever, Includer, and Input. Ms. Jones firmly believes in the statement, "If you teach me, I will learn," emphasizing that all students have an innate desire to learn driven by curiosity. Her teaching philosophy centers on the uniqueness of each student, both in how they learn and express their learning, and the importance of their individual contributions to the learning environment. She is dedicated to providing engaging learning opportunities that incorporate real-world challenges and authentic experiences.

Dr. Andrea Denise Kiel is an esteemed educator known for her dedication to empowering young minds through innovative STEM and STEAM education. With nearly two decades of experience at M. Agnes Jones, Dr. Kiel's journey began as a second-grade teacher and expanded to include third through fifth grades. She pioneered MAJ's first coding classes, offering K-5 students the opportunity to excel in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics. Dr. Kiel's impact extends beyond the classroom. She champions creativity through modern dance, recitation, robotics, and math competitions fostering cultural enrichment and inclusivity with initiatives like MAJ Auxiliary Day. As Chairman of the Technology Task Force, she established an interactive computer lab and provided essential faculty training. Her leadership on the school-wide STEM committee underscored her commitment to advancing educational practices and preparing students for future success. Collaborating with institutions like Georgia State University and Spelman University, Dr. Kiel mentored several teacher candidates, enhancing their preparation for certification exams and shaping the future of education. Her dedication to community service is evident in her role in organizing PTA elections and participating in Comcast Cares Day for school beautification. Dr. Kiel's holistic approach to education integrates social studies with language arts, ensuring comprehensive student development. Dr. Andrea Denise Kiel embodies excellence in education, leadership, and community engagement, making a profound impact on her students and the wider school community. Currently serving as the Instructional Coach for Mathematics and STEAM at MAJ, she continues to inspire and innovate in education.

Xylana Shannon, School Counselor at M. Agnes Jones Elementary School, has a Bachelor’s degree in Middle Childhood Education from Georgia State University.  She earned her Master’s degree in School Counseling from the University West Alabama.  Ms. Shannon came to M. Agnes Jones from King Middle School where she taught Language Arts and Reading for a total of eight years.  She also served at King Middle School as the RTI/ SST Intervention Specialist for two years.  As a school counselor you can expect her to nurture the academic, social and emotional growth of all students. Through individual, group and classroom counseling, students will develop skills in the areas of self- awareness, self-management, responsible decision making, relationship skills and social awareness. She provides support to all students, their families and our staff.  She firmly believes that SEL (Social Emotional Learning) is the foundation for academic, career and life-long success.

Mission:  The mission of the M. Agnes Jones School Counseling Department is to actively collaborate with scholars, parents, staff, community partners, and other stakeholders to coordinate support and advocate for resources, while encouraging a safe and welcoming school culture and climate to support the academic, social, and personal success of each student. 

Vision: The vision of the M. Agnes Jones School Counseling Department is to create a safe and nurturing environment where scholars achieve their academic and personal goals, while developing life-long skills that prepare them for college/career readiness and life-long success. 

 “An investment in children pays the best interest”

LaShica Howard, School Business Manager at M Agnes Jones Elementary School and the Atlanta College and Career Academy at Michael S. Maze Campus. She has a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree from Clayton State University. She earned her MBA at Keller Graduate School of Management and currently working towards her Doctor of Business Administration at Capella University. In addition to her education Ms. Howard is a proud Alumna of Atlanta Public Schools and has worked as a School Registrar and School Secretary before obtaining her current position. She believes every student deserves the same education opportunities no matter of their economic status.