Deon E. Avery is an experienced educator, instructional leader, school designer, and founder with two decades of experience serving students and families across the Greater Baltimore region. A proud graduate of Baltimore City Public Schools, she holds a Bachelor of Arts in English and Spanish from Towson University, a Master of Arts in Teaching from Johns Hopkins University, and a certificate in school administration from Towson University. Ms. Avery recently completed her AMI Adolescent Montessori training, deepening her commitment to student-centered, developmentally responsive education. She is also currently a doctoral candidate at the American College of Education. Throughout her career, she has served as a teacher, assistant principal, principal, and educational leader, with expertise in curriculum development, instructional leadership, school culture, and innovative school design. She currently serves as the Board Chair and will serve as the founding principal of Charm City Garden Montessori: A Wildflower School. In addition, she serves as the Director of Membership for the Baltimore City Chamber of Commerce, supporting community engagement and professional collaboration across the city. Her leadership reflects a deep belief in equity, innovation, and creating transformative educational experiences that empower young people to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Ms. Kornegay is an experienced science educator and environmental leader with more than two decades of experience in STEM education, youth development, and program leadership. A lifelong advocate for equitable, hands-on learning, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in Biology and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Coppin State University. She also earned her administrative certification from Morgan State University, further reflecting her commitment to educational leadership and professional growth. Ms. Kornegay currently serves as a high school science teacher and Green School Leader in Baltimore County Public Schools, where she teaches biology, chemistry, and forensic science while promoting environmental stewardship and student leadership. Her professional background also includes serving as a Site Director for Arts for Learning Maryland, where she oversaw program operations, staff supervision, student achievement, and community partnerships. Throughout her career, Ms. Kornegay has led STEM curriculum development, facilitated professional development for educators, and supported students in alternative educational settings, including those with behavioral, emotional, and learning challenges. Her deep commitment to science education, environmental awareness, and student-centered learning strongly aligns with the mission and vision of Charm City Garden Montessori. Ms. Kornegay serves as the Vice Chair of the Board and will serve as the founding Assistant Principal of CCGM.

Ms. Jenkins is an experienced Parole Officer and lifelong resident and graduate of Baltimore City Public Schools, brings a strong background in supervision, child development,and community service, along with a solid educational foundation, making her a valuable assetto CCGMS. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Psychology from Coppin State University and has pursued graduate studies in Legal and Ethical Studies at the University of Baltimore, reflecting her commitment to professional growth and ethical leadership. Her professional experience includes managing daily operations, implementing policies, mentoring staff, and developing child-centered sports programming, aligning well with the Montessori philosophy. Ms. Jenkins’ roles in education and the criminal justice system highlights her ability to foster inclusive environments, support individualized growth, and maintain organizational excellence, further supporting CCGM’s mission to create a nurturing, diverse, and supportive learning environment. She serves as the secretary of the board.

Dr. LaTasha Renee Thompson is an accomplished executive leader with more than 20 years of experience across multiple federal agencies, specializing in technology innovation, operations management, homeland security, and organizational leadership. She holds a Doctor of Education in Mathematics Education from Morgan State University, a Master of Science in Systems Engineering from George Mason University, and a Bachelor of Science in Electronics Engineering from Norfolk State University. Dr. Thompson currently serves as the Director of the Office of SAFETY Act Implementation within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where she leads strategic initiatives designed to advance national security and anti-terrorism technologies. Throughout her career, she has overseen large-scale operations, multimillion-dollar budgets, and diverse teams while championing innovation, equity, and organizational excellence. Her leadership reflects a strong commitment to public service, strategic problem-solving, and developing high-performing, mission-driven teams.

Danelle P. Pinder is an accomplished youth development leader, entrepreneur, and community advocate with more than a decade of experience creating impactful programs for young people across Baltimore City. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Excellence & Ambition, Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering youth ages 13–21 through entrepreneurship, leadership development, and professional growth opportunities. Throughout her career, Ms. Pinder has led community-centered initiatives focused on education, youth engagement, workforce readiness, and neighborhood empowerment. Her professional experience includes serving as a Community Liaison for the Office of the Baltimore City Council President, where she collaborated with community associations, grassroots organizations, and city agencies to strengthen neighborhoods and expand access to resources for Baltimore residents. She has also held leadership roles with Sisters Saving the City, Inc. and Living Classrooms Foundation, where she managed youth programs, coordinated community partnerships, and oversaw grant-funded initiatives supporting student success. Ms. Pinder holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology with a minor in Business Management and Entrepreneurship from the University of Maryland University College. Her work reflects a deep commitment to youth empowerment, community leadership, and creating meaningful opportunities for future generations.

Aisha Woodall-Vargas is an emerging educational leader, mentor, and instructional innovator with experience spanning teaching, curriculum development, organizational leadership, and community engagement. She earned a Master of Education in School and Organization Leadership at Columbia University through the prestigious Klingenstein Center while also serving as an educator and mentor at South Bronx Community Charter High School. Throughout her career, Ms. Woodall-Vargas has demonstrated a strong commitment to equity, student achievement, and transformative educational practices, particularly in supporting exceptional learners, college readiness, and teacher development. Her work includes leading curriculum initiatives, coaching educators, developing strategic school improvement plans, and fostering family-centered approaches to student success. In addition to her classroom and leadership experience, she is the founder of Tutor 2 Learn LLC, an independent tutoring organization focused on community development and academic achievement. Ms. Woodall-Vargas’ leadership reflects a deep passion for empowering students, strengthening school communities, and creating innovative educational opportunities that support long-term success.

Sarah C. Wallace is a strategic nonprofit leader, consultant, and community advocate with more than 15 years of experience advancing housing stability, youth development, reentry support, and community-based programming across Baltimore. She currently serves as the Director of For My Kidz Resource Center, where she has led initiatives that helped more than 300 families secure stable housing while building strong partnerships with city agencies and community stakeholders. As the Principal of Vision To Life, Ms. Wallace has advised more than 25 organizations on strategic growth, funding development, operational planning, and equity-centered programming, helping organizations strengthen their impact and expand their reach. Her expertise includes strategic planning, organizational development, program design, community engagement, and leadership development. Throughout her career, Ms. Wallace has remained deeply committed to creating sustainable, community-driven solutions that empower underserved populations and strengthen neighborhoods through collaboration, advocacy, and innovation.