Meet Our Team

Mrs. Johnson joined Kalamazoo Prep (formerly Covenant) Academy in November 2020 as the Supervisor of Academic Progress. She has been Principal/School Leader since the beginning of the 2022-2023 school year.

Mrs. Johnson has her master's degree in Education Leadership and teaching certificate from Western Michigan University, and completed her bachelor's degree in History at Michigan State University. Prior to KPA, she was the Assistant Principal at Lakeside Academy in Kalamazoo and the Principal at Barclay Hills Education Center in Parchment School District. She spent 6 years as a classroom teacher at Barclay Hills and Centreville Schools. She has been in education for over 25 years.

Outside of school, Mrs. Johnson enjoys being a mother and stepmother to her five children and attending their activities, reading, and taking long walks while playing Pokémon Go.

Eric Adams joined KPA in October of 2025. He has worked in education for 30 years as a Student Assistance Coordinator, Dean of Students, and a high school administrator. Eric holds a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University. Also before coming to KPA he served as the Assistant Principal and Principal at Benton Harbor and Bangor High Schools. He has worked on district-wide initiatives that have included curriculum design, as well as behavior modification. When not in a school setting Eric enjoys physical fitness, high school officiating, and spending time with his 30 year old triplets, 36 year old daughter and 5 year old granddaughter.

Sherrie Schanzenbaker joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2021. Currently she serves as the Director of Student Engagement and as a Psychotherapist. Sherrie brings over 25 years of experience in educational leadership, school administration, and student support.

Sherrie holds a Master's degree in Counseling from Spring Arbor University and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Grand Valley State University, along with a Bachelor's degree in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor University.

Prior to joining KPA, she served as an Assistant Principal with Battle Creek Public Schools, Farwell Area Schools and District Summer School Principal. Sherrie has also worked as an Adjunct Instructor at Kellogg Community College and continues her work as a trauma-informed psychotherapist in private practice.

At KPA, Sherrie leads student engagement initiatives, oversees specialized programs, and provides direct therapeutic support to ensure a safe, inclusive, and achievement-focused learning environment.

When not at work, Sherrie enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, and reading.

Dawn Wright came to Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2021 and serves as our Social Studies Teacher, Instructional Lead and Testing Coordinator. She brings nearly 30 years of experience as a classroom teacher and administrator and is a passionate, unwavering advocate for all students.

Dawn earned her Bachelor's degree in History and Religious Studies from Michigan State University, where she also minored in Education and Spanish. She later completed a Master of Arts in Educational Counseling and Psychology at MSU. She continued her professional preparation at Western Michigan University, earning a Master's Plus in School Administration with both Principalship and Curriculum endorsements.

Before coming to KPA, Dawn worked in diverse settings, including urban, suburban and rural school districts. She has experience with students ranging from Kindergarten though Post-Secondary Education. Throughout her career, Dawn has prioritized a "Whole Child" approach to education. She continues this work at KPA, where her strong relationships with students and families reflect her deep commitment to their academic and personal growth.

Outside of school, Dawn is a strong advocate for children with disabilities and has served on multiple boards through Kalamazoo Public Schools, where her own children attend. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, baking, and spending time with her family and gardening.

Andy Beall joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2024 as a science teacher. Andy brings more than 26 years of experience in the science classroom having taught human anatomy, chemistry, biology, tier 2 biology, physical science, environmental science and AP environmental science.

Andy holds a degree from Western Michigan University in biology education and a Master's degree in education from Marygrove College. Before coming to KPA, he taught for 23 years at Mattawan High School, and 3 years at Lawton High School before that.

At KPA, Andy is known for his positive relationships with students and meeting students where they're at. He finds ways to connect with students and use his life experience to help students succeed in the classroom and life.

When not in the classroom, Andy enjoys working out, traveling with his wife, and spending time with his dogs, George and Giggs.

Matthew Fujiura joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2021 as a Special Education Substitute teacher, bringing with him over 10 years of experience working with special needs students ranging in age from 3 to 25 years of age. He primarily worked with autistic individuals but also has experience with emotional impairment, cognitive impairment, and other health impairment individuals.

In July of 2023, Matthew transitioned from Special Education Teacher to Math Teacher. His mother was a high school math teacher in Long Beach, California and inspired him to pursue a career in education as well.

Matthew holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from University of California, Irvine and a Master's degree in Education with a Specialty in Behavior Analysis from Arcadia University. At KPA, Matthew is known as Mr. Matt and uses his humor and sensitivity to build strong relationships with students. Matthew always says that math is not meant to be learned from reading about and enjoys helping students with individualized lessons on the workbook or assignment they are struggling with.

Matthew is Japanese-American and was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, spent a couple years in Philadelphia area, and moved to Kalamazoo in 2019. In his free time, Matthew enjoys spending time with his three-year old daughter Kaylee and newborn son Myles, and wife Kristy. He is an avid sports fan, particularly baseball and basketball, rooting for his hometown Dodgers and Lakers.

Martha joined Kalamazoo Preparatory Academy in November 2025 as the Physical Education and Health Education teacher.

Martha earned both her Bachelor's degree in Physical Education and Health Education and her Master's degree in Pedagogy from Western Michigan University. Before joining KPA, she spent 30 years serving students in the Lakeview School District in Battle Creek, Michigan, where she taught Physical Education and Life Skills. She retired from Lakeview in December 2025 after a rewarding career in education.

At KPA, Martha is passionate about helping students develop healthy lifestyles, build confidence, and achieve their personal best. She values creating meaningful connections with students and strives to support each learner in reaching their full potential. Although she teaches in an online environment, she enjoys opportunities to meet students face-to-face and build strong, positive relationships that enhance the learning experience.

When she is not teaching, Martha enjoys spending time with her family and friends, playing pickleball, and staying active in her community.

Gabriela brings energy and cultural richness to language learning at KPA. She helps students develop conversational Spanish skills while deepening their appreciation for Latin American cultures and the diverse world around them.

Kristin Smith joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2021 as a Special Education Teacher. She has taught every age, Kindergarten through college.

Kristin holds a Bachelor's Degree in Learning Disabilities from Hope College and a Master's Degree in Emotional Impairments from Grand Valley State University. She is certified in Orton-Gillingham, a program assisting students with Dyslexia.

Kristin enjoys working at KPA because she loves meeting students where they are at and helping them create a future for themselves. She also loves the staff because they are dedicated and have become life-long friends.

When not working as a teacher, Kristin spends time with her family.

Allison Rigby joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2026 as a Special Education Teacher, bringing with her a passion for enhancing students' social interactions and emotional regulation, as well as developing and strengthening positive behavior and social skills.

Allison holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Biological Science from WMU. In addition, Allison holds a Bachelor's degree in Special Education, with an endorsement in Emotional Impairments, and a minor in English from WMU.

Upon graduation, Allison taught for 3 years at Maple Street Magnet (KPS), in an inclusive classroom design.

When not in the classroom, Allison enjoys time with her family which consists of a husband of 27 years, John, and 3 children ranging in age from 23 (Nathan), 20 (Isaac), and 16 (Reese). Not to be forgotten are her 2 fur babies: 7 year old Brittany Spaniel (Remi), and 11 month old French Brittany (Finnegan). Traveling, cards (euchre), walking, time at the beach and at a pool, all fill her days.

Sara provides essential classroom and student support, working alongside teachers to ensure each student gets the individual attention they need. Her patience and care make a meaningful difference in the daily experience of KPA students.

Emma Carpenter joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2024, bringing with her a diverse background in education, archival research, and student support. She currently serves as a Special Education paraprofessional while providing support to English Language Learners.

Emma holds a Bachelor's degree in the History of Art and Architecture and Museum Studies from the University of Pittsburgh. During her undergraduate career, she completed a semester in editorial work, served as an archival scholar researcher, and worked as a nanny for two families.

In her free time, Emma enjoys cooking, cross-stitching, and spending time with her partner, Elijah, and their cat, Biscuit.

Val Glasscock joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in late 2023 as the Enrollment Data Specialist. Before coming to KPA, Val was a school bus driver for Portage Public Schools and Comstock Public Schools for 10 years. You may best hear Val as the voice on the other side of your phone calls.

Val has another important job in her life. Val is the Farmers Market Manager for the Charter of Texas Township, and is going into her third season.

Outside of the school day, Val is heavily involved in her church, Westminster Presbyterian Church as a Session Elder leading in Congregational Life, and works on the committee for the annual Art Festival. Val is also a heavily involved volunteer at the Kalamazoo Civic Theater, working on shows backstage since 2017.

Jackie Garcia joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2022 as an Assistant Family support Specialist, bringing with her over 4 years of experience in adaptive learning and working with students and their child(ren), so they succeed in accomplishing their graduation goals while being assured their children are in good hands.

Jackie Graduated from Comstock High school receiving a high school diploma. From there she went to Kalamazoo Valley Community College to pursue a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). Eventually, her desire changed and she took a leap of faith and become Certified Nurse Assistance for almost 4 years. Then covid struck being a single parent she had to adapt from home and become a child caregiver.

At KPA, Jackie has earned the name of being the "Baby whisper." She engages with Students and their child(ren) daily and goes out of her to mentor students when life challenges them. She makes sure their babies are being fed, changed, and making sure that babies feel safe.

When not in the Family Care Room, Jackie enjoys being a sports mom. Jackie has been met with love and grace, and it is her heart to do the same for others in giving of her time and mentorship. She likes to dabble in drawing from time to time. Most importantly she loves being surrounded by loved ones and family.

Damien Ross joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2026 as the College and Career Mentor. Bringing with him several years in secondary education, whether being a teacher in the classroom or in supportive roles as the student services coordinator.

Damien holds a Bachelor's degree in Sports Management from Siena Heights University and a Master's degree in Business Administration from Midland University. Prior to KPA, Damien taught in the Battle Creek Public Schools District for 3 years. Before joining roles in secondary education, Damien coached 8 years of college football at various universities.

When not teaching and mentoring young people, Damien enjoys BBQing, Video Games, and spending quality time with his family.

Mohammed joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2024 as a member of the Mission Team, bringing 4 years of experience working with young people substituting as a district sub in all three grade levels. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Mount Mercy University. Before joining Kalamazoo Prep Academy he was an Assistant Men's Basketball Coach for Kellogg Community College. At KPA, he is recognized as someone who is passionate about helping our students graduate. He works hand in hand with our staff and students to ensure they get the support they need. When not working with students he enjoys spending time with friends and family, watching basketball or working out.

Paul Bostic joined Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2019 as Staff Support for teachers and has been on the Mission Team member for 7 years. Paul holds a Master's Degree in Public Administration. Prior to working at KPA, Paul was the Director of Health Safety for American Red Cross. Paul was also in the United States Army Reserve as a medic for 8 years. At KPA, Paul is recognized for his commitment to students. Paul enjoys working with students to help them reach their academic goals. When not working, Paul enjoys long walks, going to the gym, reading and serving at his church and community.

Calvin Winfield joined the Kalamazoo Prep Academy in 2025 as a Mentor/Coach. In the past few years Calvin has done a lot of community work, most recently working with the initiative The Blocks Club (Building Leadership Organizing Communities With Keys To Succeed) that was created by recording artist Ed Genesis.

Calvin has a Bachelor's of Applied Arts degree in Industrial Supervision and Management from Central Michigan University. Before coming to KPA, he did a lot of mentoring and running his own recording studio in 4 different cities. He also currently has a recording studio in the Kalamazoo area as well.

In this community, Calvin is recognized for his hard work with the youth and young adults. Calvin was also a pretty good basketball player in high school and college, playing D-1 basketball. He collaborates daily with mentors and content teachers to ensure the students get the support they need with diverse learning profiles here at KPA alongside the Mission Team.

When not in the classroom, Calvin enjoys being in the studio creating art and spending time with family and friends.