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A Team of Educators Who Believe in Battle Creek
About Ascend Academy
Ascend Academy was built by educators who have spent decades in classrooms and communities just like Post Addition and who refused to walk away when students and families needed more.
Together, our founding team brings over 100 years of experience as teachers, principals, nonprofit leaders, curriculum designers, and community advocates. What unites them is a simple belief: every child in Battle Creek deserves to be seen, supported, and challenged to rise.
Our Heart and Legacy
Our founders and board members share a deep commitment to Battle Creek, bringing decades of proven results in turning around schools and launching successful community initiatives. They have carried this vision for more than eight years because they believe your child deserves a school that will never give up on them.
- Deep experience in teaching, leading schools, and designing curriculum
- Proven results in school turnaround and non-profit success
- Long-term commitment to Battle Creek & Post Addition
- A shared belief that every child can succeed when challenged
At Ascend Academy, your child will be surrounded by educators who see their potential, hold them to high expectations with warmth, and partner with you as the expert on your child. Together, we work every day to make school a place your child feels safe, loved, and proud to belong.
Timothy Reese
Founding Principal
For more than 30 years, Timothy has served students as a teacher and principal. Born and raised in Battle Creek, he has spent over 60 years in this community.
- Building a safe, joyful school culture
- Hiring and supporting excellent staff
- Partnering with families
Cheryl Peters
Board Member & Curriculum Leader
Cheryl spent over 25 years as a teacher and co-founded Generation E Institute. She has lived in Battle Creek for more than 50 years.
- Designing engaged curriculum
- Build trusting relationships
- Individualizing education
Meet Our Founders & Board
Experienced educators and community leaders with deep roots in Battle Creek
David D. Evens, M.Ed
Founder
David is a turnaround specialist with over 30 years in education. He is also the founder of David’s Hope, a Battle Creek nonprofit.
- Aligning school to clear vision
- Creating smaller class sizes
- Ensuring families feel loved
Barbara Russell
Board President
Barbara brings over 30 years of experience working with youth. A Battle Creek native, she has led Sunday school for over 20 years.
- Building a caring school
- Treating families as partners
- Restoring pride in schools
Our Promise to Battle Creek
Ascend Academy exists because a group of educators, parents, and community leaders refused to accept that students in Post Addition and across Battle Creek should have anything less than an excellent, caring school in their own neighborhood.
We believe Battle Creek is worth betting on. When experienced, purpose-driven educators partner with families and the community, a school can can restore pride, strengthen neighborhoods, and change the trajectory of a generation.
We invite you to learn more, visit us, and see what’s possible when every child is truly seen.