Excell Academy For Higher Learning is dedicated to providing a high-quality educational environment, and this commitment is driven by its exceptional leadership team. Get to know the individuals at the helm, guiding Excell Academy towards excellence in education and community impact.
Sabrina Williams – Founder, Executive Director, CEO
Sabrina Williams, Founder, Executive Director, CEO of Excell Academy for Higher Learning, smiling professionally in a headshot.
Sabrina Williams is the visionary Founder, Executive Director, and CEO of Excell Academy for Higher Learning Charter School. Her deep-rooted passion for equitable education stems from her own experiences in under-resourced public schools and her time as a licensed elementary teacher. Witnessing the disparities in educational opportunities for low-income students of color compared to their more affluent peers ignited a lifelong commitment to change.
In 1998, armed with a Master of Arts degree in Curriculum, Instruction & Gifted Education, Sabrina took decisive action. Fueled by her unwavering dedication, she secured approval from the Minnesota Department of Education and founded Excell Academy for Higher Learning in 1999. The academy opened its doors in 2001, initially serving 65 students in grades K-4.
Under Sabrina’s guidance, Excell Academy has flourished into a thriving educational institution serving over 450 children, from 3½ years old through 8th grade. The academy employs a dedicated team of over 85 faculty and staff members. Her leadership extends beyond the classroom, encompassing a wide array of on-campus and community-based services. These include partnerships with Reading Corps and Senior volunteers, an on-site daycare for employees, a comprehensive preschool program for 3½-year-olds, a Kindergarten Readiness program for 4-5-year-olds, and multiple community-based Voluntary Pre-K programs. Excell Academy also offers on-site Before and After Care, Before School tutoring, After School Athletics, and diverse enrichment programs, all reflecting Sabrina’s commitment to holistic child development.
Sabrina’s influence in the educational landscape extends beyond Excell Academy. She played a pivotal role in establishing the Minnesota Charter Schools Athletic League in 2008 and co-founded the Minnesota Charter Leaders of Color Collaborative, demonstrating her commitment to collaborative leadership and equity in education. Her dedication has been recognized through numerous accolades, including participation in the Minnesota Educational Policy Fellowship, the University of St. Thomas Executive Director Leadership Institute, and multiple listings in the National Who’s Who in Education Administration. She is also an alumna of the Minnesota Principals’ Academy and holds numerous certifications and recognitions for her leadership and community contributions. Sabrina Williams’ enduring vision continues to drive Excell Academy for Higher Learning as a beacon of educational opportunity.
Justin Balvin – Academic Dean
Justin Balvin serves as the Academic Dean at Excell Academy for Higher Learning, bringing a wealth of classroom and administrative experience to his role. Prior to becoming Academic Dean, Mr. Balvin was a Social Studies teacher, providing him with a unique perspective on curriculum and student needs. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a K-6 Teaching License from Augsburg College, providing a strong foundation in pedagogical practices.
Mr. Balvin’s dual experience as a teacher and administrator within Excell Academy has equipped him with a comprehensive skill set. He is particularly adept at fostering strong relationships with both students and staff, creating a supportive and challenging learning environment. His leadership style prioritizes student comfort and encourages them to push their academic boundaries, knowing they have the backing of understanding and supportive educators.
As Academic Dean, Justin Balvin directly supervises over 60 staff members and shares principal responsibilities with the Executive Director. He plays a crucial role in overseeing the Instructional Leadership Team, managing the Professional Learning Communities teacher development program, and conducting both informal and formal teacher observations. His involvement extends to the Executive Leadership Team, where he contributes to the daily management and administrative operations of Excell Academy, ensuring its smooth and effective functioning.
Candace Dunbar – Facilities & Transportation Director
Candace Dunbar is the Facilities & Transportation Director at Excell Academy, a role she has dedicated herself to since 2001. Her extensive experience in student transportation spans over two decades, complemented by her Building Operator License, which she has held for over 12 years, demonstrating her commitment to maintaining safe and efficient school operations.
Candace’s dedication to Excell Academy is further highlighted by her past service on the Board of Directors and her continued close collaboration with the Board. She is also an integral member of the Executive Leadership Team, actively participating in the daily management and administrative functions of the academy.
Candace Dunbar views her role at Excell Academy as vital to creating a secure and conducive learning environment. She is deeply committed to ensuring that Excell Academy provides both an academically stimulating and physically safe atmosphere where students can thrive and reach their full potential. Her focus on facilities and transportation is fundamental to the smooth operation of Excell Academy for Higher Learning.
Cassandra Holbrook – In-House Business Manager and Reserve Teacher
Cassandra Holbrook holds the dual role of In-House Business Manager and In-House Reserve Teacher at Excell Academy of Higher Learning, bringing a diverse background in non-profit and education sectors. Her academic credentials include a Bachelor of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership from The University of Memphis and a Master of Education in Adult Education from American Intercontinental University, providing her with a robust understanding of organizational management and educational principles.
Ms. Holbrook’s professional experience is varied and impactful. She has worked within a Level 4 organization, supporting individuals aged 12-21 facing challenges such as self-harm and those who are sex offenders. She also has experience in both private and public-school settings, working with students from ages 3 to 18. Furthermore, her commitment to the community is evident through her extensive involvement in various volunteer programs within the education and non-profit sectors.
Cassandra Holbrook’s professional goals center around ensuring that organizations effectively achieve their missions and visions through efficient operations and organizational structure. In the context of Excell Academy for Higher Learning, she is dedicated to ensuring learners receive a comprehensive education that equips them for future success. She sees her work as an opportunity to empower individuals with knowledge, cultivate growth mindsets, and provide them with essential tools for navigating life’s journey.
Mary Gryz – Director of Human Resources
Mary Gryz serves as the Director of Human Resources at Excell Academy for Higher Learning, bringing over 20 years of seasoned HR leadership to the academy. Her extensive career spans a variety of industries, including retail (Cabela’s and Accenture), manufacturing (Brunswick Corporation), medical (UnitedHealthCare), and service sectors (Ascensus and Sparks Automotive), providing her with a broad and adaptable HR skill set.
Mary’s expertise encompasses a comprehensive range of HR functions. She is proficient in executive HR leadership, HR management, organizational development, training, ethics and diversity management, HR consulting, payroll, and benefits administration. This wide-ranging expertise makes her an invaluable asset to Excell Academy.
Mary Gryz holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Human Resources Management/Organizational Development and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Bethel University, demonstrating her strong academic foundation in both human resources and business management. Her leadership in Human Resources is crucial to supporting the dedicated staff of Excell Academy for Higher Learning.
The Executive Leadership Team at Excell Academy for Higher Learning exemplifies dedication, expertise, and a shared commitment to providing an exceptional educational experience. Their diverse backgrounds and combined experience create a strong foundation for the continued success and growth of Excell Academy and its students.
