Mr. Antonio Grant was born in Savannah, Georgia. Upon graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. After eight years of active service, Mr. Grant began pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a minor in History at Georgia State University.

Mr. Grant began his career in education as a Substitute Teacher in the Cobb County School District. After earning his Master of Arts in Teaching, he began teaching Social Studies at Ridgeview Charter Middle School in Fulton County Schools. After earning his Specialist in Educational Leadership, he moved into the role of Graduation Coach. In this role, he designed programs to keep students engaged and connected to school and implemented strategies to keep students on track toward graduation. Mr. Grant then moved into the role of Assistant Principal at Langston Hughes High School and later Centennial High School. As Assistant Principal, he led a Freshman Academy, school-wide implementation of school-wide literacy strategies, School-wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), and Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) School-wide.

Mr. Grant believes that “when we develop educators who are skilled in providing engaging, rigorous, and relevant learning experiences and when we support the academic, social-emotional, and physical development of our students, every child has the ability to attain success.”

Mr. Grant is the proud father of a daughter who attends the University of Georgia. He loves spending time with his daughter and his family. He also loves cooking, watching movies, and trying new restaurants. He also loves running 5K and 10K races. 

Ms. Tandra Gibel is a New York native who moved to Atlanta to attend college. She obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Education from THE Clark Atlanta University and a Master of Arts degree in Special Education from the University of Phoenix. Ms. Gibel began her career in education 21 years ago at Community Education Partners, a partnership alternative school of Atlanta Public Schools. While at C.E.P., she taught reading and math intervention and the school’s adopted social skills curriculum. At C.E.P., Ms. Gibel developed her passion for ensuring successful outcomes for all students. Ms. Gibel later transitioned to Clayton County Public Schools, teaching Math and Science as an interrelated teacher and serving as the school’s Special Education department lead. Since arriving at Atlanta Public Schools, Ms. Gibel has served in various positions, such as M.T.S.S. Specialist, Special Education Lead Teacher (S.E.L.T.), and School Business Manager. 
 
Over the course of her career, Tandra Gibel has demonstrated her versatility by taking on a range of roles in education. She has served as a Testing Coordinator, Assistant to the Athletic Director, Club Sponsor, Student Health Advocate, TaPP and New Teacher Mentor, Student Mentor, P.B.I.S. Coach, and Wrap-Around Support Provider. This diverse experience has equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape and the needs of students and teachers.

Dr. Natasha Ball brings to John Lewis Invictus Academy (JLIA) over 20 years of experience in Education. Dr. Ball received her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Political Science (Pre-Law) with a minor in English from Spelman College. She received a Master of Science (M.S.) degree in Education from Nova Southeastern University, an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) degree in Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree (Ph.D.) in Public Policy & Administration with a focus on Education Policy from Walden University.  

Dr. Ball began her career in 2002 as an Elementary School Teacher. Her teaching experience led her to a position as a Program Specialist within the Georgia Department of Early Care & Learning. She has served various schools within Atlanta Public Schools (APS) as Program Manager for the Project GRAD program, where she worked to support student academic success and to increase graduation rates across the district. Dr. Ball provided students with educational guidance as the Director of Academic Success and Director of Higher Education Partnerships with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Additionally, Dr. Ball performed as an Education Specialist in the Office of Early Learning, where she opened and led the day-to-day operations of the Whitefoord Early Learning Academy, the first and only Early Learning Academy in APS. Having served as an Assistant Principal (AP) in Clayton County Public Schools, Dr. Ball returned to APS as a member of the JLIA team to continue the work she had done for the students of Atlanta.

Dr. Ball often seeks opportunities to share her experiences with others and pour into the youth. A strong proponent of inclusion and diversity, she strives to ensure equality is top of mind when working with students and encourages educators to always practice responsive teaching. Dr. Ball subscribes to the motto: To Whom Much Is Given, Much Is Required, which shows in her daily life.

Mrs. Shawante Turner is a Florida native with over 20 years of experience in primary and secondary school settings. Mrs. Turner joined Atlanta Public Schools in 2014. She has held several positions during her tenure. Before becoming an Assistant Principal, Mrs. Turner served students in grades K-8. She has also served as a Grade Level Chair, New Teacher Mentor, Data Specialist, and Instructional Coach.

She holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Florida A&M University, as well as an Educational Specialist Degree in Curriculum Instruction Management and Supervision from Nova Southeastern University. Mrs. Turner is a proud parent of one daughter.

Mr. Hakeem Greenhill is the Assistant Principal for 8th grade at John Lewis Invictus Academy. He earned his degree in Middle Grades Education from Valdosta State University and has since dedicated his career to fostering an inclusive and rigorous learning environment.

In his current role, Mr. Greenhill oversees the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). As the Science Department Administrator, he is committed to enhancing students' academic experiences by promoting innovative and engaging science programs.

Additionally, Mr. Greenhill leads the Safety and Security initiatives at John Lewis Invictus Academy, ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment. His efforts focus on building a culture that recognizes and celebrates students and teachers who exemplify Perseverance, Respect, Integrity, Discipline, and Excellence.

Mr. Greenhill is passionate about creating systems and structures that empower, inspire, and influence students, families, and staff. Mr. Greenhill strives to continuously improve academic programs to support the growth and success of the school community.