Our Team
- Lakesha Curtain, Dean of Instruction
- Terri Ghee, Principal
- Larissa Ross, School Operations Manager
- Freddie Riley, Dean of Students
- Kercia Scott, Dean of Students
- Dante Donelson, School Admissions Manager
Lakesha Curtain, Dean of Instruction
Mrs. Curtain is a thought-provoking educational leader with 19 years of experience in the early childhood and educational fields. Working with scholars and their families is her calling. “I believe all students can excel through opportunities for meaningful learning and given the appropriate resources.” Mrs. Curtain also believes that partnering with families and displaying the love of God creates the most desirable learning environments. Mrs. Curtain earned her Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Cardinal Stritch University and her Master of Education and Leadership from National Louis University. Mrs. Curtain is also passionate about ministry, serving her community through programs led by her faith-based organization, and family.
“By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:35
Terri Ghee, Principal
Ms. Ghee is the proud Principal at HOPE Fortis. Fortis mean strong in Latin. Strength is what the Fortis famly exudes. Her strength in leadership comes from Christ; it's apparent in our relationships with scholars, parents, and community members. Ms. Ghee is a graduate of Mount Mary University, and an award-winning educator. She has been a part of Milwaukee's urban education community for many years. Her background and strength are in STEM education and youth empowerment.
Ms. Ghee enjoys getting to know new people, believes in continuous education and life-long learning, and is committed to driving excellence.
Larissa Ross, School Operations Manager
Hello, my name is Larissa Ross and I am privileged to serve as HOPE Fortis’ School Operations Manager. I am a Milwaukee native and received my education from Milwaukee Public Schools. I am wife and a mom of 5; 3 boys and 2 girls. I began my career at HOPE Christian School: Fortis as the Office Manager. While in that role I built everlasting relationships with the staff, scholars, and their families. I am passionate about supporting the mission and vision of HOPE.
Freddie Riley, Dean of Students
As Dean of Students, my mission will focus on Christ centered values, while collaboratively working with my Administration team to promote and maintain a climate that is conducive to student learning, emphasizing mutual respect and safety. I will focus on attendance rates and disciplinary issues as I foster strong relationships with staff, scholars, and parents. Under my care, scholars will have the freedom of expression and creativity to aid in developing character and accountability. Scholar development is vital to the growth of our youth, particularly in middle school. My mission is to create the path that produces responsible young people that are empowered, responsible, and has cultivated leadership skills that will trailblaze the future for the next generation.
Kercia Scott, Dean of Students
Kercia Scott has always had a sincere love for helping others within her community, especially our youth. This is what prompted her to receive her Bachelor of Science degree in Community Education from the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee in 2003.
Kercia taught school for five years in Milwaukee before pursuing a career in the mortgage industry. She continued to make a difference in the life of others by helping them to purchase/ refinance their dream home.
Still never leaving behind her love of children. She worked as the Youth Director at her church. She still currently holds a position within the youth department in her church working side by side with the current director as an advisor.
Following God’s instruction she returned back to her passion of working back in the school system. She accepted the School Admission Manager position with HOPE Fortis in October of 2022 and recently accepted the position of Dean of Students in December of 2023. Kercia stands on Philippians 4:13 -I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.
Dante Donelson, School Admissions Manager
Welcome to HOPE Christian School Fortis Family and Friends!
My name is Dante Donelson, School Admissions Manager at HOPE Fortis. I have a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Applied Behavioral Sciences. I am blessed and honored to serve you and your family at HOPE Fortis. As a seasoned educator and father, I understand the importance of choosing a quality education institution for your children. I want to assist in developing quality scholars who are ready to learn so that they can take one step closer to achieving their dreams. I genuinely believe in the HOPE’s motto: Christ, College, and Character.
I am here to help, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to me at (414) 305-1804.