Two of Choice Schools’ Leaders Named Top 10 Administrators by Michigan Association of Public School Academies

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We are proud to announce that two of our school administrators, Kerri Barrett and Ali DuBois, have been named semifinalists for the 2019 Michigan’s Charter School Administrator of the Year Award!

From nearly 600 total nominations and 200 submitted applications, Barrett and DuBois were honored as semifinalists. They were selected as part of the top 10 administrators due to their incredible dedication and talent. They embody what makes charters unique – the innovation, professionalism and passion that drive success in their schools.

“Our team of school leaders is phenomenal, passionate, focused and strong.  Ali and Kerri represent an army of school leaders they collaborate with, share success with and push one another from good to great,” Sarah Wildey, CEO of Choice Schools Associates, said. “We are honored that Ali and Kerri have the opportunity to share their amazing leadership skills and vision for the future with the entire charter school community.”     

Kerri Barrett is completing her seventh year as principal at West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science.  Before taking on the school leaders role, Barrett was a social studies teacher, the service learning trip coordinator and the volleyball coach. Her passion for collaboration and her belief that working together makes things easier has made WMAES thrive.

“To be recognized by MAPSA as a semi-finalist for the Administrator Of The Year is a true honor,” Barrett said. “Our team at West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science is dedicated to creating a unique environment for our kids to learn.  I am so grateful for our school community and the opportunities that are given to our students because of their commitment. We continue to reflect and grow at WMAES, and this recognition is an opportunity to celebrate our students’ growth!”

“No matter how much the school succeeds, Kerri is always thinking about what is next and how to make it better. Her compassion and commitment to her students and staff are contagious,” commented Stan Rathbun, Board Liaison for West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science and Muskegon Montessori Academy for Environmental Change. “This nomination is a testament to her commitment to seeking greatness and teamwork. She is a true team player and would say that she wouldn’t be able to be the leader she is without her team.”

Ali DuBois is completing her fifth year as the Head of School at Muskegon Montessori Academy of Environmental Change. Before taking on the Head of School role at MMAEC, DuBois was a teacher at West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science for five years. Her commitment to excellence has also granted her the 2018 School Leader award through Choice Schools Associates.  

“I am humbled to be selected as one of the 10 semifinalists for the Charter School Administrator of the year,” said Ali DuBois, Head of School at Muskegon Montessori Academy of Environmental Change. “This award is a reflection of our school. We are a close-knit family that is committed to the success of our students. We all work hard and I’m just the lucky person who gets to lead this amazing group of staff.”

“Ali has worked tirelessly to develop a culture of success as demonstrated through the academic achievements and 100% teacher retention at Muskegon Montessori of Environmental Change,” commented Rathbun. “She has a vision for the school that goes beyond tomorrow. She turns obstacles into opportunities where students and staff can thrive. Her attention to detail and loyalty is felt throughout the charter school movement.”

We are so proud of Barrett and Dubois for their nomination.

Barrett and DuBois will find out in April if they have been selected to be one of the five administrator finalists. The 2019 Michigan Charter School Administrator of the Year will then be announced in early May.