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Our Leadership

Ralph Garza, Interim Principal

 

Education:   

I received my Bachelor of Science degree from Baylor University and my Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Texas at Pan American.  I am currently enrolled at Madonna University working on a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership. 
 
 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field: 

I worked as an assistant principal and Dean of Instruction at Warrendale Charter Academy from 2007-2011.  I was a classroom teacher for twelve years before becoming a school administrator. 
 

What do you like most about working here?

 I am excited to become a part of the new experience of helping to establish Regent Park Scholars Charter Academy in the community.  I am looking forward to helping our students reach their goals.
 
 

Other work experience we might want to mention: 

I have taught 6th grade science, 8th grade history, and fourth and fifth grade.
 
 

Personal Information: 

I enjoy playing softball, reading historical books, and watching football games.

 

 
 

Jennifer Lorence, K-2 Dean

 

Education:

Attended Eastern Michigan University to receive Bachelor’s Degree in teaching Elementary Education. Attended Wayne State University to receive a Master’s degree in Special Education. Currently pursuing administrator’s certificate at Eastern Michigan University.
 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

Taught third grade and special education for 4 years in Detroit. Taught for 2 years at a brain injury program within Children’s Hospital of Michigan.
 

What do you like most about working here?

We truly have an amazing staff here at Quest. Each person works with one another with a common goal: giving our students the best education possible.
 

Personal Information:

I am married had my first child, our son Cameron, in November of 2010. We have two dogs and are enjoying learning all there is to learn about parenthood.
 

 

Kristin Guild, 3-5 Dean

 

Education: 

I received my undergraduate degree from Lake Superior State University. I am currently writing my thesis for a Master’s Degree in Special Education at Wayne State University. I am also currently taking classes toward a Master’s Degree in Administration at Wayne State University.
 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

I taught for seven years at Detroit Merit Academy. I taught second, third, and fourth grades there.
 

What do you like most about working here?

I enjoy working at Quest because we have truly dedicated teachers and parents. Coming to work and seeing all of the students’ smiles make getting up easy every day. I enjoy the different people I am fortunate enough to work with.
 
 
 

Melissa Nickel, Dean of Intervention

 
 

Education:

I attended Eastern Michigan University where I received an undergraduate degree In Elementary Education in 2002 and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership in 2005.

 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

I began my career at Metro Charter Academy, teaching 6th grade Language Arts. I moved on to teach in the Willow Run Community School System for 7 years before taking two years off to stay at home with children. I came back to NHA in 2010 and worked at South Arbor Charter Academy as the Accelerated Learning Programs Language Arts and Science teacher. I am very excited to begin working with the Quest families.

 

Personal Information:

I have 2 children; boy/girl twins that were born in 2008. I love to read and relax by the pool or on the beach.

 
 
 

Damon Williams, Middle School Dean

 

Education: 

Undergraduate: Eastern Michigan University Secondary Education (English Teacher Cert Grades 6-12) 2005
Masters: Madonna University; Educational Leadership. (Administrative Certificate) 2012

 

Previous education experience and number of years in the field:

I started teaching in January of 2006. I was a Middle School English Teacher for a total of 3 years.  After that, I taught English at Inkster High School for three years.  I taught for a total of 6 years. 
 

What do you like most about working here?

There are many things that I enjoy here at Quest, however, if I had to select what I like most, I would have to say the culture.  The culture has been created by the staff, students, and the parents.  I enjoy how all stakeholders are genuine and sincere about helping each other, and above all, helping our students. Quest has established a very conducive learning environment; I enjoy coming to work daily.
 

Personal Information:

I am married and I am very family oriented. I am a Christian who tries to exemplify Christian morals and ethics. I am a former high school basketball who had an opportunity to play in college at Youngstown State University. I enjoy working out and reading.  I have a true passion for kids, and I love being an Educator!

 

 

Jodi Sutter (Interim Dean)

 
 
 

 

 

 

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