We Are Hiring!!
Founder
Dr. Hollie Russell-West
Dr. Hollie Russell-West has served more than 20 years in urban education. Her dedication to serving children and families is anchored in her belief that children are the future, and we can only expect from our future what we have invested today. Dr. West started her career as a substitute teacher and subsequently became a special education teacher, high school assistant principal, and elementary school principal in St. Louis. She recently joined The Opportunity Trust as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence and is currently the founder of St. Louis Voices Academy.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, a Masters’ Degrees in Special Education from Fontbonne University and Education Administration from Lindenwood University. Dr. West entered the New Leaders Program that trains successful teachers to become successful principals and earned an Education Specialist Degree in Education Leadership from the University of Missouri-Columbia. To complete her academic journey, she completed her Doctor of Education in Education Leadership from Maryville University.
Every day, she remains committed to creating a culture of excellence for students and teachers and raising the standards for underserved students and the individuals who serve them.
Asst. Director of Compliance
Bridgette Taylor
Bridgette Taylor began exploring her journey in education as a Head Start teacher in 1999. For almost two decades, she had the privilege of teaching core subjects in elementary schools and middle school math as a continuing substitute teacher. Ms. Taylor is guided by focus on all students' academic success and enabling them to reach their full potential. She also believes that each student's academic performance is individualized and unique, necessitating the use of outstanding teaching practices. She continues to be committed to providing families with a loving and developmentally sound foundation for a lifetime of learning. Ms. Taylor joined St. Louis Voices Academy of Media Arts in 2021 as an Educator in Residence and is currently the School Operations Manager.
Director of Instruction - Humanities
Megan Prouhet
Megan Prouhet serves as the Director of Instruction – Humanities at St. Louis Voices Academy, bringing a deep commitment to educational excellence and equity. With a career that includes roles such as Dean of Instruction, Chief of Curriculum and Instruction, and Elementary Teacher, Megan has consistently led efforts to improve student outcomes and drive systemic change. She holds a Master of Teaching from Missouri Baptist University and a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and Psychology, and is certified in Elementary Education in Missouri. Known for her expertise in coaching educators, leading professional development, and implementing strategic instructional systems, Megan most recently led regional academic initiatives that resulted in Top 10 growth in the state. Outside of school, she enjoys family time with her husband and two daughters, staying active outdoors, and cheering on St. Louis sports teams.
Director of Instruction - STEAM
Rychinda Johnson
Rychinda Johnson is a passionate educator with experience in both traditional public and charter schools in Kansas City, MO. She holds a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and has supported new teachers in the St. Louis area as an instructional coach and course instructor. Rychinda brings expertise in curriculum design, classroom support, and inclusive practices. She is excited to partner with staff and families to empower students to use their VOICES and foster a lifelong love of learning.
Director of Student Supports
Jermain Williams
Jermain Williams brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to comprehensive student development to his role. His professional journey includes serving as an assistant principal and special education teacher, as well as contributing to numerous leadership initiatives. Jermain holds a Master's Degree in School Administration from Grand Canyon University. He is passionate about collaborating with students, families, and staff to cultivate an outstanding educational experience. In his personal life, Jermain is a dedicated husband and father of three sons.
Our Board of Directors
Deborah Catchings-Smith, Board Chair dcatchings-smith.board@stlouisvoicesacademy.org
Deborah Catchings-Smith is a Vice President of Risk Management in the North America Consumer Bank Division of Citi, where she’s served in leadership for the past two decades. Including Ms. Catchings-Smith’s career at Citi, she has worked in financial services for more than 30 years.
Ms. Catchings-Smith served as the 24th International President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. from 2016-2020. In this position, she was responsible for more than 100,000 members within 500 chapters internationally.
Evelyn Woods, EDD
Evelyn Woods, EdD is the Director of Human Resources and Evaluation at the Hazelwood School District. Dr. Woods has more than 16 professional years in the St. Louis educational community. She has spent 8 of her 11 years as a turnaround-focused school principal. Before she served as an administrator, Dr. Woods taught middle school communication arts. She has a bachelor’s degree in criminology and criminal justice from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, a master’s degree in legal studies, a master’s degree in teaching with an emphasis in communication from Webster University, and an educational specialist degree from MIZZOU in 2012. Dr. Woods earned her doctorate in educational leadership from Maryville University.
LaTonya Jackson, MBA
LaTonya Jackson, MBA, is in her seventh year in banking. She has served as a BankCentre Leader, the VP of Community Development, and she currently serves as the Asst. VP of Business Services at St. Louis Community Credit Union. Her focus was, and continues to be, building and expanding relationships between Banks and the communities within the St. Louis Metropolitan Area. With more than 20 years of professional experience in social services, LaTonya has a unique understanding and intimate knowledge of how to best serve under-served St. Louis communities. Jackson has a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Benedictine College and a master’s in business administration degree from Fontbonne University.
Kimberly Scott
Kim Scott is a seven-time published author, screenwriter, TV producer, non-profit founder, speaker, and overall creative. She has worked and written for some top TV networks, including ABC, FOX, BET, NBCUniversal, TV One, Cleo TV, and YouTube Space. Kim has a passion for helping people become the best version of themselves. As a speaker and coach, she has mentored and coached hundreds of people on effective goal setting that yields results. She has touched the lives of thousands of girls and women across the globe through her books, speaking engagements, online community, and simple but meaningful daily conversations.
Robert Payne
Dr. Robert K. Payne is a dynamic K-12 instructional leader, adjunct professor, and
professional speaker with over 25 years of experience in education, business, and
telecommunications. As an Assistant Principal, he leads school-wide initiatives focused
on equity, restorative practices, student support, and professional learning. He is known
for building inclusive, high-performing teams and creating collaborative, student-
centered school cultures. As an adjunct professor, he prepares future educators and
professionals by connecting real-world leadership practices with academic growth. Dr.
Payne proudly serves on the boards of the St. Louis Voices Academy, the YMCA of
Greater St. Louis, and the Guide Right Foundation of St. Louis, and is a member of
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Ways to Get Involved!
