Meet Our Team

Mrs. Johnson joined Kalamazoo Prep (formerly Covenant) Academy in November 2020 as the Supervisor of Academic Progress and has served as Principal/School Leader since the 2022–2023 school year. She holds a Master's in Education Leadership and teaching certificate from Western Michigan University and a Bachelor's in History from Michigan State University. Prior to KPA, she was Assistant Principal at Lakeside Academy and Principal at Barclay Hills Education Center, with six years as a classroom teacher before that — giving her over 25 years in education. Outside of school, Mrs. Johnson enjoys being a mother and stepmother to her five children, reading, and taking long walks while playing Pokémon Go.

Eric joined KPA in October 2025, bringing 30 years of experience as a Student Assistance Coordinator, Dean of Students, and high school administrator. He holds a Master's in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University and previously served as Assistant Principal and Principal at Benton Harbor and Bangor High Schools, leading district-wide initiatives in curriculum design and behavior modification. Outside of school, 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 joined KPA in 2021, bringing over 25 years of experience in educational leadership, school administration, and student support. She holds a Master's in Counseling from Spring Arbor University, a Master's in Educational Leadership from Grand Valley State University, and a Bachelor's in Family Life Education from Spring Arbor. Prior to KPA, she served as Assistant Principal at Battle Creek Public Schools, Farwell Area Schools, and as District Summer School Principal, and continues as an Adjunct Instructor at Kellogg Community College and a trauma-informed psychotherapist in private practice. Outside of work, Sherrie enjoys the beach, reading, and time with her family.

Dawn came to KPA in 2021, bringing nearly 30 years of classroom and administrative experience. She holds a Bachelor's in History and Religious Studies from Michigan State University, a Master of Arts in Educational Counseling and Psychology from MSU, and a Master's Plus in School Administration from Western Michigan University. She has worked in urban, suburban, and rural districts from Kindergarten through post-secondary education, always centering a whole-child approach. Outside of school, she advocates for children with disabilities, serves on KPS boards, and enjoys cooking, baking, gardening, and family time.

Rubbie Hodge is a lifelong educator, performer, author, and community advocate whose roots trace back to Chicago's south and west sides. She holds a Bachelor's in Speech and Drama from Northeastern Illinois University and a Master's in Educational Supervision and Administration from Roosevelt University. Her dynamic teaching career has spanned Illinois, Michigan, and California, earning her two Teacher of the Year nominations in California's Keppel Union School District. Rubbie is also a published author of two books: Don't Look Back! and 22Graaand. Throughout her life she has served as educator, school board member, political activist, mentor, and matriarch — always guided by a belief in the power of education and storytelling.

Andy joined KPA in 2024, bringing more than 26 years of science classroom experience covering human anatomy, chemistry, biology, physical science, environmental science, and AP Environmental Science. He holds a degree in Biology Education from Western Michigan University and a Master's in Education from Marygrove College, and taught for 23 years at Mattawan High School and 3 years at Lawton before that. At KPA, Andy is known for building strong relationships and meeting students where they are. Outside the classroom, he enjoys working out, traveling with his wife, and spending time with his dogs, George and Giggs.

Matthew joined KPA in 2021 as a Special Education substitute and transitioned to Math Teacher in July 2023, inspired by his mother — a high school math teacher in Long Beach, CA. He holds a Bachelor's in Psychology from UC Irvine and a Master's in Education with a Specialty in Behavior Analysis from Arcadia University, with 10+ years working with students with autism, emotional impairment, and cognitive impairment. Known as "Mr. Matt," he uses humor and sensitivity to build strong student relationships and believes math is best learned hands-on. A Japanese-American Angeleno, he moved to Kalamazoo in 2019 and enjoys time with his daughter Kaylee, newborn son Myles, wife Kristy, and rooting for his Dodgers and Lakers.

Martha understands that physical and mental health are inseparable from academic success. Through PE and health education, she helps students develop lifelong wellness habits, stress management tools, and teamwork skills that serve them well beyond the classroom.

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.

Gabrielle joined KPA in 2026, bringing four years of experience as a behaviorist in Pennsylvania and two in Michigan. She holds a Bachelor's in Theater Arts, English, and Education from the University of St. Thomas (Houston, TX) and a Master of Science in Special Education PreK–12 and Applied Behavior Analysis from St. Joseph's University. Known for creating meaningful IEP goals and whole-school interventions centered around Maslow's hierarchy of need, she plans to pursue a Juris Doctorate in constitutional and educational law. In her free time, Gabrielle enjoys family photography, rock climbing with her partner Quentin, and playing with her pups Eevee and Teddy.

Kristin joined KPA in 2021 and has taught every age from Kindergarten through college. She holds a Bachelor's in Learning Disabilities from Hope College and a Master's in Emotional Impairments from Grand Valley State University, and is certified in Orton-Gillingham for students with Dyslexia. Kristin loves meeting students where they are and helping them build a future for themselves — and she deeply values the friendships she's formed with her KPA colleagues. When not teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family.

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 joined KPA in 2024, bringing a diverse background in education, archival research, and student support. She serves as a Special Education paraprofessional while also supporting English Language Learners. Emma holds a Bachelor's in History of Art and Architecture and Museum Studies from the University of Pittsburgh, where she completed editorial work, archival scholarship, and childcare alongside her studies. In her free time, Emma enjoys cooking, cross-stitching, and spending time with her partner Elijah and their cat, Biscuit.

Val joined KPA in 2021 and serves as the school's Data Enrollment Specialist, ensuring that student records, enrollment processes, and data systems run smoothly. Her attention to detail and commitment to accuracy help keep KPA's operations running effectively so staff can focus on supporting students.

Jackie supports KPA students and their families by providing onsite care and connection. She serves as a welcoming presence for families navigating school systems and helps ensure students feel supported both inside and outside the classroom.

Mohammed joined KPA in 2024, bringing four years of experience working with young people as a district substitute across all grade levels. He holds a Bachelor's in Social Work from Mount Mercy University and previously served as an Assistant Men's Basketball Coach at Kellogg Community College. At KPA, he is recognized for his passion for helping students graduate, working closely with staff and students to ensure everyone gets the support they need. Outside of work, Mohammed enjoys time with friends and family, watching basketball, and working out.

Paul joined KPA in 2019 as Staff Support for teachers and has been a Mission Team member for seven years. He holds a Master's in Public Administration and previously served as Director of Health Safety for the American Red Cross and spent eight years as a medic in the United States Army Reserve. At KPA, Paul is recognized for his unwavering commitment to students and helping them reach their academic goals. Outside of work, he enjoys long walks, the gym, reading, and serving his church and community.

Calvin joined KPA in 2025 as a Mentor/Coach, bringing extensive community work including his involvement with The Blocks Club — a youth initiative created by recording artist Ed Genesis. He holds a Bachelor's of Applied Arts in Industrial Supervision and Management from Central Michigan University, has run recording studios in four cities (and currently one in the Kalamazoo area), and played D-1 basketball in high school and college. At KPA, he collaborates daily with mentors and content teachers to support students with diverse learning needs. When not at KPA, Calvin is in the studio creating art and spending time with family and friends.