Who We Are:

Ms. Smith: Director

Hello! I am very excited to be the Director of Youth Advancement Academy. I have spent my entire career working with at-risk students. I love working with students who are struggling, needing to make up credits, and who have not been successful in a traditional public school. I live in Battle Creek with my husband and our 1 dog (Izzy) and 11 cats (not all of them live inside). I am a 4 time graduate of Ferris State University. I love education, teaching, enjoy reading, and traveling to historical sites. Please feel free to reach out to me to discuss your student or to schedule and appointment for enrollment.

“Nothing Great was Ever Achieved Without Enthusiasm” Ralph Waldo Emerson

Ms. Jones- Paraprofessional:

My name is Sheena Jones and I have been married for over 20 years and have 4 children: Three boys whose ages are 19, 16, 14, and a daughter who is 7.

This is my 6th year in education. I am so happy to have joined YAA.

I chose to work at YAA because I wanted to help youth become successful after high school and to help them reach their highest potential in life.

Mr. Reynolds Transition Coordinator:

My name is Maurice.  My family and friends call me MJ.  I am know at YAA as Mr. Reynolds.  Some things that I like are, of course, education and also reading, writing (poetry), spending time with family and friends, sports, cooking, spirituality, quiet times at home, and helping students be successful in and out of the classroom. I have been at YAA for 5 years.