Administration

Dr. Teruko Dobashi began her journey began in San Francisco, California, where, as a former foster youth she engaged with social justice and community organizing, laying the groundwork for her commitment to education and social welfare. After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, she joined Teach for America, relocated to the Mississippi Delta, and pursued further studies, earning master's degrees in social work from Jackson State University and Educational Leadership from Teachers College, Columbia University, and later a doctoral degree in education from Georgia State University. Her arts-based phenomenological manuscript, “Black on Black School Discipline: Double Consciousness & the Perspective of Disciplining your Own” was awarded dissertation of the year. 

Throughout her career, Teruko has been recognized for her outstanding contributions, from being named a Sue Lehmann regional finalist, teacher of the year, equity champion in her school district, and assistant principal of the year finalist. Her dedication extends beyond the classroom and professional learning community, as she volunteers in various community initiatives and shares her artistry through spoken word performances across the United States.

Dr. Teruko Dobashi, proudly served as Assistant Principal at Toomer Elementary School and embodies the transformative power of education, guided by the words of Tupac Shakur: "I'm not saying I'm gonna change the world, but I guarantee that I will spark the brain that will." As an abolitionist educator, Teruko's philosophy centers on love, light, and liberation, advocating for cultural responsiveness, criticality, and equity in education.

Dr. Teruko Dobashi epitomizes the ratchetdemic leader—a dynamic force for change, actively dismantling oppression through art, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to the liberation of all.

Dr. Shelante’ Patton, has worked in Atlanta Public Schools for thirteen years. Shelante' has been a part of the M. Agnes Jones faculty for four years but had been in the Washington Cluster as Instructional Coach for two years before being appointed to the role of Assistant Principal. Before her time at TAG Academy, she worked at Dobbs Elementary as the STEM Program Specialist, Technology Teacher, and as a 4th and 5th grade classroom teacher.

Dr. Patton holds Reading, Math, Science, ESOL, STEM, and Gifted Endorsements. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Reading, both from Nova Southeastern University. In addition to these qualifications, Dr. Patton holds a Specialist degree in Administration and Supervision as well as a Doctoral Degree in Teacher Leadership from Kennesaw State University.

Lindsey R. Rutledge, Early Learning Coach, earned her Bachelor of Science Degree from Howard University (Washington, DC) and her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education (T-5) from Georgia State University. Along with her degrees, she holds a science endorsement and ESOL certification. Her teaching career began at M. Agnes Jones Elementary School in 2013, and this school has a very special place in her heart. She has had the opportunity to teach 2^nd grade (2 years) and was the K-5 STEM teacher for the last three years. She has worked in the capacity of a grade level chair, mentor teacher, STEM specialist, professor at Georgia State University, and YMCA afterschool site director.

With her experience in education, she has had the opportunity to nurture and instill inquiry in the minds of her students at many levels, elementary and post-secondary. She is dedicated to not only engaging students in real-world problem/project-based activities but also helping educators and administrators create and implement a curriculum that is tied to their state standards and integrated with technology. Her experience as a teacher, STEM Specialist, and now Instructional Coach has afforded her the opportunities to inspire, educate, and motivate our future leaders, reassuring them that they were born to conquer their dreams and aspirations.

LaShica Howard, serves as the School Business Manager at both M Agnes Jones Elementary and the Atlanta College and Career Academy. A proud graduate of Atlanta Public Schools, she brings a deep commitment to her community and over a decade of experience in education support roles, including School Secretary and Registrar. 

Ms. Howard holds a Bachelor of Arts and Science from Clayton State University and an MBA from Keller Graduate School of Management. Driven by a strong belief in education equity, she is dedicated to ensuring that every student, regardless of their economic background, has access to the same high-quality opportunities to learn and succeed.