The Governing Board is charged with the management of the affairs of the Corporation, ANCS, Inc., and shall pursue such policies and principles as shall be in accordance with law, the provisions of the Articles of Incorporation, ANCS By-Laws, and any written charter entered into by the Board.
Who We Are
The Governing Board of Directors (Board) shall consist of at least seven (7) and no more than thirteen (13) voting members, each serving a term of up to three years. Each year, approximately one-third of the board members ends his/her term so that there is continuity of governance, as well as new membership. Online applications for new members are accepted in January of each year.
Members are elected by the ANCS Governing Board from nominations made by the Board’s Nominating Committee. An affirmative vote of two-thirds of the Board members shall be required for election. Board members’ terms begin July 1 of the year in which they were appointed. In addition to the voting members of the board, the school’s Executive Director serves as an ex officio (non-voting) board member.
Governing Board of Directors
Board Member
Coming soon
Educational Excellence Chair
LaNiesha Cobb Sanders has served on the ANCS Governing Board for one year, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to education. With three children at ANCS in kindergarten and 2nd grade, she is passionate about ensuring quality education for all students. LaNiesha’s background includes two years of teaching in the city and 17 years leading teacher training and support at a large non-profit. Currently, as a chief executive of another education-focused non-profit, she continues to advocate for academic excellence, school choice, and comprehensive student support.
Her experience on a charter school board has provided her with valuable insights into the governance and operational aspects of education. LaNiesha is dedicated to fostering an environment where academic success is achievable for all students, and she is excited to collaborate with board members, educators, and the community to enhance ANCS’s programs and support students’ diverse needs.
LaNiesha is particularly drawn to ANCS’s holistic approach to education, including its unique farm program, which provides hands-on learning and fosters a connection with nature. She values the school’s commitment to educating the whole child, emphasizing academic, social, emotional, and physical well-being, and building a strong sense of community and belonging.
In her free time, LaNiesha enjoys riding her bike on the Beltline with her family, cooking and entertaining friends, traveling, and cherishing the lifelong friendships and sense of community provided by her sorority.
Board Member
Coming soon
Board Member
Coming soon
Secretary
Coming Soon
Board Member
Jonna Martin is joining the ANCS Governing Board for the first time this year. With a background in corporate finance, she brings valuable expertise in long-term forecasting and budgeting, along with a keen analytical approach to problem-solving. Jonna has one child entering kindergarten at ANCS and another in daycare, making her deeply invested in the school community.
Originally from Finland, Jonna was drawn to the holistic teaching approach at ANCS, which reminds her of the education she experienced in her early years. She is passionate about giving back to the Grant Park community, where she has lived for a decade, and is excited to contribute to the growth and success of ANCS.
In her free time, Jonna enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures, often incorporating outdoor activities like hiking into her trips. She frequently visits Finland to stay connected with family. When not traveling, she loves working out in the neighborhood and training for local 5Ks and half marathons.
Treasurer; Finance & Operations Committee Chair
In July of 2022, Oriol Mirosa became a valuable member of the ANCS Governing Board. With a background as a former academic researcher and current data professional, he aims to leverage his analytical mindset and expertise in problem-solving through data to assist the ANCS Board in fulfilling its mission.
Although Oriol has resided in Atlanta for just a few years, his history of volunteering and community engagement is extensive. He eagerly anticipates collaborating with like-minded individuals who share a passion for education and making a positive impact in his new home.
One of the most captivating aspects that sets ANCS apart, according to Oriol, is the harmonious blend of values and principles that underpin its mission, along with innovative pedagogic approaches that set it apart from conventional education systems.
Originally hailing from Barcelona, Spain, Oriol has called the United States his home for close to 20 years. His journey began with a PhD in Sociology, leading to several years as a professor of sociology and global studies at the University of Wisconsin. A few years back, he embraced a new career path as a data scientist, which eventually led him to Atlanta. He now resides in Ormewood Park with his wife and two daughters. During his leisure time, Oriol finds solace in reading, embarking on long walks with his daughters, and engaging in coding endeavors.
Board Chair
In July of 2022, Shannon Rutledge eagerly joined the ANCS Governing Board, fueled by her passion for public education. Her connection to ANCS runs deep, as she has two boys, Jace (4th grade) and Cade (3rd grade), enrolled at the school. With a rich background in public school education, Shannon has held roles as a School Counselor, Assistant Principal, and High School Principal. Currently, she serves as an Executive Director in Leadership Services at Henry County Schools. Armed with this extensive experience, Shannon is confident that her knowledge of school operations and community service will be an asset to the ANCS Governing Board.
As a devoted parent, Shannon cherishes the opportunity to serve the ANCS community in a volunteer capacity. Looking ahead to the upcoming school year, she eagerly anticipates engaging with the school community in a different capacity outside of her role as a parent.
ANCS holds a special place in Shannon’s heart, and she has many reasons to love the school. From the favorable classroom student-to-teacher ratio to the enriching farm-to-table experiences for students, and the delicious and creative lunches prepared by Chef Bradley, the school offers a nurturing and inclusive environment. Shannon is especially appreciative of the close-knit community at ANCS and the robust support structures in place to assist struggling students. Witnessing her own children’s enthusiasm as they joyfully run into school each day is a testament to the love, safety, and care provided by the dedicated ANCS staff.
Residing in Grant Park since 2010, Shannon and her family are active members of the neighborhood. Both her sons have been part of the ANCS family since Kindergarten. Additionally, they share their lives with their beloved goldendoodle named Beau, whom they take on family adventures. Together, they relish traveling, spending quality time with loved ones, and cherishing moments of togetherness. Personally, Shannon finds delight in staying active through exercise, indulging in reading, and enjoying the culinary arts in her cooking pursuits.
Governance Committee Chair
Amber Suitt-Zuehlke is an active member of the ANCS community, with her daughter currently thriving in 5th grade at the school. With a strong dedication to serving the school and its mission, she has been an esteemed member of the ANCS Governing Board or PTCA Executive Committee for 1 year.
Amber’s valuable contributions stem from her unwavering commitment to the children and community of ANCS. Her passion for farm-to-school initiatives, coupled with her fundraising experience and non-profit board background, brings a wealth of expertise to the table.
Volunteering her time as an ANCS Board member is deeply rewarding for Amber. It allows her to actively contribute to safeguarding the remarkable school community she cherishes and appreciates being a part of.
One of the aspects that sets ANCS apart for Amber is the school’s holistic approach, focusing on nurturing the whole child and fostering future leaders with a global perspective. As an avid enthusiast of farm-to-school practices, Amber recognizes ANCS as a shining beacon in that realm.
On a personal note, Amber is a true Atlantan, tracing her roots back four generations in the city. She resides in her family home with her husband and two daughters. Outside of her involvement with ANCS, she finds delight in gardening and occasionally engaging in obstacle course mud runs like Spartan and Rugged Maniac.
Board Member
In July of 2022, Cory Tiede became a valuable addition to the ANCS Governing Board. With a wealth of experience gained as a consultant at Deloitte Consulting, where he honed his strategic frameworks, transformation expertise, and operational acumen, Cory brings invaluable skills to the ANCS Board. He also possesses a deep understanding of strategy, acquired through his previous roles. Volunteering his time on the ANCS Board holds special meaning for Cory, as he finds great joy in witnessing our community’s growth and contributing to shaping our children into responsible global citizens.
According to Cory, the most compelling and distinctive aspect of ANCS lies in its approach to “engaging the whole child.” Recognizing that education extends beyond basic academic skills, he believes in nurturing children intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically, fostering well-rounded development.
In his current professional capacity, Cory serves as the Vice President of Strategy in the travel and hospitality industry. During his leisure moments, he finds solace in running around Grant Park, tending to his garden, and cherishing quality time spent with his wife, Carolyn, and their daughters, Isabella and Madelyn.
Vice Chair
In July of 2023, Drew Waddell became a member of the ANCS Governing Board. He is a devoted parent with three children attending ANCS: Margaret (7th grade), Genevieve (5th grade), and Josephine (1st grade).
Drew’s background lies in charter education finance, where he serves as a strategic advisor for charter schools nationwide, focusing on financial sustainability and growth plans. His expertise provides the ANCS board with valuable insights into managing charter school finances according to best practices.
Volunteering his time for the ANCS board holds special meaning for Drew, as it allows him to leverage his experience and skills to build upon the remarkable accomplishments achieved by ANCS over the past two decades. His goal is to contribute in ways that will make the next 20 years even more successful.
For Drew, what sets ANCS apart and captures his interest the most is its genuine community-oriented approach. ANCS is an integral part of the neighborhood, and he finds it heartwarming to witness families staying engaged with the school long after their children have graduated.
Beyond his dedication to ANCS, Drew is a passionate fan of Atlanta United, having been among the first to sign up for tickets back in 2017. He cherishes quality time spent cooking and baking with his daughters, and when not engaged in family activities, he enjoys hobbies such as hiking and kayaking.
Board Member
Rebecca Wagner has been a member of the ANCS community for a year, serving on the Governing Board. Her son, Rowan, is a first grader at ANCS and is already passing down the Wolfpack Chant to his 2-year-old brother, Rhys.
Rebecca brings nearly twenty years of marketing and communications experience to the ANCS Board, with a deep passion for creating empathetic, joyful, and inclusive communities through thoughtful marketing. As the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at Giving Kitchen, a national James Beard Award-winning nonprofit that supports food service workers in crisis, she has led prolific operational expansion and increased brand awareness. Her innovative and authentic campaigns have earned recognition, including a 2022 Fast Company “Brand That Matters” award and the 2024 AMA Nonprofit Marketer of the Year at the annual AMY awards. Rebecca hopes to use this expertise to amplify the story of ANCS and share with the world the incredible things happening at the school.
Rebecca finds joy in volunteering her time to champion ANCS’s faculty and staff, using her voice, network, and leadership experience. She loves working alongside an incredible group of people to support a school and mission she is deeply proud of. What sets ANCS apart for Rebecca is its combination of rigorous academic programs with a community-minded approach to education, all while focusing on the “whole child” through conscious discipline, constructivism, and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
At home in Ormewood Park with her husband Ryan, a creative director and fine artist, Rebecca enjoys raising their boys, Rowan and Rhys. In her free time, she loves cooking, entertaining, dining around Atlanta, and building elaborate pillow forts with her family.
Advancement Committee Chair
In July 2023, Jason Zwang joined the ANCS Governing Board, bringing a deep passion for personalized education and a proven track record in enhancing fundraising capabilities for new teams. His expertise also lies in effectively engaging with philanthropic families and programs aimed at creating lasting, meaningful impacts. Jason is eager to contribute to the ongoing growth of ANCS, an institution that has consistently delivered educational value and fostered individuality within the community for over two decades.
For Jason, the joy of volunteering is magnified when it’s in service of a significant cause. However, what sets ANCS apart is the recognition that his efforts are an extension of the collective endeavors driven by parents who share his love for children and the community.
Jason notes that ANCS creates a nurturing and individualized environment, something he personally values. The care and focus on individual needs are evident in the school’s hallways, interactions with teachers, and during morning meetings. Reflecting on his own elementary and middle school experience, he sees the importance of coordination with individual needs and parental involvement. He appreciates that ANCS takes this approach intentionally.
Outside of his commitment to ANCS, Jason’s family enjoys traveling across the country and internationally. They also share their lives with a dog named Cassie and twin girls, Sarah and Samantha. He and his wife, Liz, met in a young professionals group in Hartford, CT, and they moved to Atlanta in 2014, settling in this neighborhood in 2016.
What We Do
The Governing Board is charged with the management of the affairs of the Corporation, ANCS, Inc., and shall pursue such policies and principles as shall be in accordance with law, the provisions of the Articles of Incorporation, ANCS By-Laws, and any written charter entered into by the Board. The Board is responsible for carrying out the following duties and obligations:
- The Board shall uphold the school’s mission and vision and ensure effective organizational planning on the part of the school through an annual strategic planning and review process that will review and update the school’s short-term, mid-term, and long-range goals, and evaluate the effectiveness of the implementation of the school’s mission and plans;
- The Board shall either directly or through a personnel committee provide for the annual appraisal of the Executive Director’s performance;
- The Board shall ensure the financial stability of the Corporation through regular monthly review of financial statements and reports, an annual independent audit, and direct oversight of major financial commitments and decisions;
- The Board shall take an active role, either directly or through a Board committee, in resolving grievances and conflicts which may arise within the school community involving, students, parents, staff, administration, and Board members. See page 6 of the Board Governance Policies for grievance handling.
Board Meeting Documents
As of August 2014, all ANCS board-approved minutes, agendas & reports can be accessed via the following link.
Policy Guide
Our policy guide and family handbook are now online.
Board Committees
- Board Governance
Develop the Board policies, procedures, and training. Establish hiring, grievance, transfer, evaluation, and other personnel procedures. Support the Executive Director in matters of hiring, transfer, evaluation, and termination procedures as necessary. Conduct, and report to the Board on, an annual performance review of the Executive Director. Announce openings, accept nominations for, review candidates, and make recommendation(s) to the full Board of candidates for open Board positions. Obtain school community input on nominations prior to selecting and recommending Board members for election by the Board. - Finance & Operations
Review and recommend annual budget for Board approval. Monitor budget compliance, all financial expenditures, and revenues and other financial issues throughout the year. Recommend financial policies to the Board. Work with the Director of Business and Operations, Executive Director, and other staff to establish financial goals and policies. Work to secure funding and grants to support ANCS. Business Operations Chair will, in collaboration with the Executive Director, prepare and present a report on current financial and operational performance at each Board meeting. Oversee the management and ownership of all buildings and real estate. Develop guidelines for the use and implementation of technology. - Educational Excellence & Accountability
Review Executive Director–prepared reports, and present such reports at each Board meeting, on one or more compliance items from the charter; district, state, or federal law, policy, or regulation; or any other source – including any annual accountability and compliance reports required by the district or state, and a monthly academic performance report. Develop and maintain all Board policies. Ensure Board policies promote the principles of equity and diversity. - Fund Development
Raise funds through an Annual Campaign and Major Gifts program to supplement the per-pupil funding received from Atlanta Public Schools. Ensure that all fundraising at school is vetted through the Fund Development committee.
Strategic Plan
In the fall of 2023, the ANCS Governing Board established a strategic planning committee facilitated by Purpose Possible, which included members of the faculty, staff, PTCA, and Governing Board. This committee gathered community insights, reviewed survey trends, and charted ANCS’s path for the next five years. The draft plan was presented to all ANCS stakeholders for input and feedback. The final draft of the strategic plan was approved by the ANCS Governing Board at its April 2024 meeting.
Budget & Finances
The ANCS budget is developed under the leadership of the school’s Executive Director and Director of Finance and Operations in collaboration with the finance/operations committee of the Governing Board. Throughout the winter and spring, the Executive Director and Director of Finance and Operations facilitate a process through which faculty and community input on the budget is solicited. A final budget proposal is then brought by the chair of the finance/operations committee and the Executive Director for board approval.
As required by law, each year ANCS undergoes a financial audit. The most recent audit report is available for download below.
Download the Approved Budget for Current Fiscal Year