Administration

With over 20 years of experience in education, Craig Simmons is an education specialist who has worked at both the elementary and middle school levels. In his 23 years as an educator, he has served in a variety of roles, including general, special, and gifted education teacher; master teacher; vertical team lead; turnaround instructional coach; MTSS coordinator/interventionist; and assistant principal. A native of Detroit, Michigan, Mr. Simmons earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Wayne State University and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Marygrove College. After relocating to Atlanta in 2006, he earned an Education Specialist degree from Argosy University and an Education Leadership Certificate from the University of West Georgia.

Mr. Simmons has a deep passion for teaching and learning and an unwavering belief that all students deserve a high-quality education that enables them not only to compete globally, but also to achieve their personal goals. In support of educators striving to deliver high-quality instruction, he has authored seven articles published by ASCD, one of the largest educational organizations in the world.

Mr. Simmons is excited to join the John Lewis Invictus Academy family and looks forward to collaborating with stakeholders to support the school in achieving its vision.

Derwin Purnell is a dynamic educational leader with over 20 years of dedicated service, renowned for bringing bold, equity-focused ideas to life. As an educational change agent, he is committed to building positive, student-centered cultures that drive achievement and close opportunity gaps. Mr. Purnell’s leadership is grounded in full transparency, collaboration, and an unwavering belief in education’s power to transform society.

My name is Kimberly Wiles, and I was born and raised in the beautiful city of Savannah, GA. I graduated from the oldest public HBCU in Georgia, thee Savannah State University. During my matriculation at SSU I not only obtained my Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics and Mechanical Engineering, but I also became a member of the greatest sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. I began my journey in education over 20 years ago as a Secondary Mathematics teacher. I taught for 11 years before becoming an Academic Specialist, an Instructional Coach, and an Assistant Principal. My most recent role was Program Director within the Office of Schools. Throughout my career, I have always had one motto: If I can’t help you then I definitely won’t hurt you. Outside of work, I spend time with my two wonderful children. I travel with family and friends mainly to try new restaurants and local cuisines. I volunteer and worship at Ebenezer Baptist Church. I also enjoy strength training, cycling, and starting DIY home projects that I never finish.