The Leona Group

The Leona Group The Leona Group is among the nation's pioneers of education reform, operating over 20 Midwest schools
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Expert education management organization providing services to 20+ not-for-profit charter schools in MI, IN, and OH.

06/02/2026

Mildred C. Wells Academy is a non-for-profit charter, that focuses on providing quality education to all students, regardless of background or economic status.

06/02/2026

Creating a Community-Centered Learning Space Our goal is to transform Wildwood Environmental Academy’s campus into a hub for learning and recreation that benefits both our students and the broader community. This vision includes creating interactive spaces— such as a greenhouse, butterfly habita...

On May 18th at the Spirit of Leona celebration, we recognized award-winning students who embodied perseverance, compassi...
05/19/2026

On May 18th at the Spirit of Leona celebration, we recognized award-winning students who embodied perseverance, compassion, motivation, and resilient character. The graduates shared their inspiring life stories and looked ahead to bright futures.

Congratulations to the 2026 Spirit of Leona recipients:
Jazmyn Dickey (Driven, Influential, Genuine) - ABTMH
Yaritzmar Jasso (Compassionate, Resilient, Determined) - CCAH
Daniel Sandoval (Leader, Advocate, Motivator) - CCAH
Mariah Gladney (Resilient, Advocate, Leader) - DPSA
Jorge Grimaldo-Granados (Perseverance, Hard-Working, Dedicated) - HoDAMH
Mitchell Childs (Proactive, Intelligent, Charismatic) - PAEMH
Seth Sage (Flexible, Determined, Pensive) - SAFE
Nehemiah Davis (Determined, Resilient, Funny) - WEA

Yesterday, May 13th, The Leona Group had the privilege of recognizing our educators who go above and beyond; those who i...
05/14/2026

Yesterday, May 13th, The Leona Group had the privilege of recognizing our educators who go above and beyond; those who inspire curiosity, champion their students, and leave a lasting mark on our community. Our Teacher's Hall of Fame recipients represent the very best of what teaching looks like. They are dedicated professionals who bring passion and purpose to their classrooms every single day. We are proud to honor their commitment to excellence and their remarkable contributions to the students and families we serve.

Congratulations to each of our 2025-2026 Teacher Hall of Fame recipients:
Kelly Near of CCAM – Eighth Grade Social Studies
Jesica Poulos of SPA – Middle School Mathematics
Daniel Baker of ECUEA - Fourth Grade
Kirsten Cady of CCAUE – Reading Specialist
Carrie Dassow of CCAH – High School Mathematics
Mackayla Kearney-Connin of DISC - Autism Teacher
Zachary MacLean of HoDA – Band & STEM
Tatum Huling of WEA – Second Grade
Martha Garcia-Barba of CCALE – Kindergarten
Thank you for your hard work and dedication to equipping young minds for the future!

Ms. Tatum Huling is an energetic team member that always brings a warm smile. Many at Wildwood are drawn to her positive...
05/12/2026

Ms. Tatum Huling is an energetic team member that always brings a warm smile. Many at Wildwood are drawn to her positive energy, willing spirit and driven professionalism. Her dedicated focus to using data-driven instruction this year has resulted in many gains for her students. Students in Ms. Huling's classroom are held to high standards and her constant and fair delivery ensures their success. Whether she is managing core teaching responsibilities or bringing fancy footwork to school dances, Ms. Huling gives 100% dedication.

Ms. Huling is a consistent positive force in her students’ lives. “She provides high standards and the structure needed for success. Wildwood Environmental Academy second graders are blessed to have the inspiration and excellence Ms. Huling brings to the classroom every day,” says school leader Elizabeth Lewin.

Mr. Zachary MacLean exemplifies dedication to education and to the students he serves, offering support during the schoo...
05/11/2026

Mr. Zachary MacLean exemplifies dedication to education and to the students he serves, offering support during the school day and long after the final bell rings. He creates an environment where everyone feels encouraged to grow, take risks and strive for excellence. He volunteers his time for after-school events and plays a vital role in planning and implementing concerts that showcase talent and build community pride. His commitment, passion and impact make him truly deserving of this honor.

“A powerful example of Mr. MacLean’s impact is the former students who return years later to share their accomplishments. They often credit him for building their confidence, discipline and passion. They also speak about how the lessons they learned in his classroom have continued to influence their college journeys, careers and personal growth,” highlights school leader Ali Abdel.

Intelligent, determined and passionate about advocacy. These are the words that come to mind when I think of Ms. Mackayl...
05/10/2026

Intelligent, determined and passionate about advocacy. These are the words that come to mind when I think of Ms. Mackayla Kearney-Connin. Affectionately called Ms. K by her students, she does not back down from a challenge. She can always be counted on to have a thorough command of special education laws and requirements, and she never hesitates to do what is best for every child in her care.

Ms. Kearney-Connin has dedicated her career to deepening others' understanding of neurodivergent learners. She writes detailed, thoughtful Individualized Education Plans that will continue to guide and support students and their families long after their time at Discovery. Her philosophy centers on educating the whole child and empowering everyone who serves that child as well. “Ms. Kearny-Connin’s warm, approachable spirit draws teachers to her door regularly, eager to observe and learn techniques they can bring back to their own classrooms,” recognizes school leader Julieta Flowers.

Ms. Carrie Dassow has served the students of César Chávez Academy High (CCAH) for over 21 years in the areas of mathemat...
05/09/2026

Ms. Carrie Dassow has served the students of César Chávez Academy High (CCAH) for over 21 years in the areas of mathematics and special education. She is dedicated to ensuring her students experience success within her classroom, but also helps prepare her students for postsecondary success. Ms. Dassow goes above and beyond when servicing her students, often staying after school hours to support students. This dedication is not loud, but a quiet and consistent steady throughout the halls of CCAH.

Ms. Dassow has impacted the lives of thousands of CCAH graduates. She has served in various roles such as a senior math teacher, algebra intervention teacher, as well as provided special education supports. “Her impact often goes beyond the classroom; Ms. Dassow has been instrumental in helping design postsecondary plans for special education students, ensuring that students have options after high school. Ms. Dassow always puts student success at the heart of what she does,” says school leader Carissa Rusnak.

Ms. Kirsten Cady consistently goes above and beyond in everything she does. She keeps students at the center of her work...
05/08/2026

Ms. Kirsten Cady consistently goes above and beyond in everything she does. She keeps students at the center of her work and continually seeks ways to strengthen the supports she provides. She is committed to refining her instructional practice through ongoing research and learning. She is always looking for new techniques and strategies to support her students and generously shares these insights to enhance the school community. She truly embodies the mindset of a lifelong learner.

Ms. Cady is the kind of teacher who spends her free time listening to education podcasts and thinking about how to better support her students. “She does not just raise questions; she tackles them head on, often coming the next day with a fully researched plan and actionable solutions. Her curiosity, energy and slightly quirky love of learning make her an inspiring role model for both colleagues and students,” shares school leader Andrew Wright.

Mr. Daniel Baker stands out as an exceptional educator whose passion for learning is evident in everything he does. His ...
05/07/2026

Mr. Daniel Baker stands out as an exceptional educator whose passion for learning is evident in everything he does. His enthusiasm naturally inspires curiosity, confidence and personal growth in his students. He transforms complex ideas into meaningful learning experiences, encouraging students to think critically and dream boldly. His genuine love of teaching and learning, combined with the strong relationships he builds with his students, creates a lasting impact that reaches far beyond the classroom.

Mr. Baker continuously supports students who struggle academically and socially by creating a safe, encouraging environment where mistakes become opportunities to grow. “Through strong relationships and genuine belief in their potential, he helps his students gain confidence, improve academically and develop a sense of belonging. This opens their eyes to new possibilities for their future,” acknowledges math specialist Amira Abunadi.

Address

2125 University Park Drive
Okemos, MI
48864

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 5pm
Tuesday 8am - 5pm
Wednesday 8am - 5pm
Thursday 8am - 5pm
Friday 8am - 5pm

Telephone

+15173339030

Website

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