Our Leadership
Dr. Leah Skinner — Executive Director
Dr. Leah Skinner, a proud transplant to Atlanta, Georgia by way of Los Angeles, California, has passionately served as an educator and executive since 2000. Her educational journey began at California State University, Los Angeles, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in English. She went on to pursue advanced degrees, including a Master of Arts in Education from Pepperdine University, a Master of Science in Educational Administration from National University, and a Doctorate in Educational Administration from Argosy University.
With more than 25 years of experience in education, Dr. Skinner has served in a broad range of roles, including Language Arts Teacher, Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal, Principal, President & Head of School, and Executive Director. Her leadership spans public, private, and charter schools across all grade levels—from pre-kindergarten to high school.
Throughout her career, Dr. Skinner has remained grounded in the belief that, regardless of the school model, one common thread binds them all: the essential role of educational opportunity in helping students and families achieve their dreams. She has dedicated her life’s work to supporting, developing, and empowering children and families from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic statuses.
A proud mother to one son, whom she describes as “the love of her life,” Dr. Skinner brings both personal passion and professional purpose to her leadership. As Executive Director of Peace Preparatory Academy, she is committed to cultivating a community of high academic standards, collegiality, trust, and unwavering commitment.
Dr. Skinner leads with humility, honor, and a heart for service. She embraces the philosophy of servant leadership and looks forward to supporting and serving the staff, students, families, and greater community of Peace Preparatory Academy.
Mrs. Shannon Holloman — Principal
Shannon Holloman was born and raised just outside of Atlanta, in Gwinnett County. Her educational journey began at Berry College, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She went on to receive her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida and her Specialist degree in Educational Leadership and School Improvement from the University of West Georgia.
Mrs. Holloman is entering her fourteenth year in the education sector. Prior to serving as the proud Principal of Peace Preparatory Academy, she held a variety of roles, including elementary teacher, Math Instructional Coach, Turnaround Math Specialist, and Assistant Principal. While the majority of her professional career has been in the public education sector, she is excited to embark on a new journey in private education.
Mrs. Holloman believes that all scholars—regardless of their zip code—deserve a high-quality education through meaningful learning experiences, both inside and outside the classroom. She is deeply passionate about quality early childhood and elementary education, recognizing these years as a critical foundation for lifelong learning and character development.
Outside of school, she cherishes time with her family and friends. She is married to her husband of 13 years and is a proud mother to two energetic sons. Whether exploring new restaurants or enjoying the outdoors, she values connection and curiosity in all aspects of life.
Peace Preparatory Academy holds deep personal significance for Mrs. Holloman—not only as her place of work, but as a vital part of the neighborhood she calls home. She has witnessed the transformative power of a united community and is committed to uplifting scholars and families across English Avenue and the west side of Atlanta.
As Principal, Mrs. Holloman is dedicated to creating a Christ-centered environment where scholars, staff, and families feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow. She leads with a servant’s heart, striving to remove barriers and build systems that empower every member of the school community to thrive. She lives by the moto that ‘no one rises to low expectations’, and strives to hold herself and others to that standard.
Kelley Byrdsong — Director of Development
Since coaching her first middle school boys basketball team as a young high schooler, Kelley knew that much of her life’s work would be centered around supporting children, youth, and families. Always with a balance of patience and push, for 20 years, she has proven to be dedicated to uplifting and creating transformative experiences for the next generation.
Although this personal passion and experience began as a teenager in a suburb north of Chicago, Kelley’s professional journey started in college at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, in Greensboro, NC. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History while student-teaching in high school classrooms in the area, and serving as a support in a transitional home for teen girls aging out of the foster care system. However, it was her experience with youth after college that led her to pursue a full-time career in education.
As the Youth Director of Create Your Dreams, a non-profit supporting children living in underserved communities in Atlanta, she realized that a quality education is one of the greatest opportunities a child has to realize their full potential. She knew that with her passion and her gift of building deep relationships, she could be the kind of educator who changes the trajectory of her students’ lives. This led her to return home to Chicago and pursue a Master’s Degree in Special Education from DePaul University. In 2016, she began as a teaching fellow in the Academy for Urban School Leadership, building not just her teaching skills, but her leadership skills in Chicago Public Schools.
After educating Chicago’s youth for six years, Kelley returned to Atlanta and found a hidden gem in its westside, Peace Preparatory Academy. Immediately feeling connected to its mission and falling in love with its children, Kelley began as the middle school math teacher. Seeing exciting possibilities and potential for the future of Peace, she then served as the Assistant Principal for one year, before proudly accepting the role of Director of Development.
For her, this is an opportunity that brings her experience, passion, and interests together for the greater good of seeing Peace thrive. Whether in the classroom, sitting at the table with a donor, or wherever God’s call takes her, her heart will always be in service of children, youth, and families. She believes that lives can be changed and a generation can be built up that transforms Atlanta and beyond through the work at Peace Prep.
Dr. Marie S. Hall
Dr. Marie S. Hall is an accomplished educator and literacy specialist with over 20+ years in the field committed to fostering academic growth and systemic change in education. With a doctorate in Organizational Leadership from National University and extensive experience in K-8 instruction and leadership. She has served in roles such as classroom teacher, EIP, MTSS specialist, and instructional coach supporting countless students and educators through implementation of high yield instructional strategies and materials and development of professional development trainings. Marie's expertise spans structured literacy coaching, curriculum development, and student support services, including 504 plans and MTSS. Her work at the Georgia Department of Education and various school districts has centered on advancing equity, literacy, and teacher development while serving students, families, and communities with passion, persistence, and patience. Notably, Dr. Hall has received awards for her commitment to education such as Teacher of the Year and MTSS.
Born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio, Marie is a transplant to Atlanta by way of Los Angeles, CA. She is the proud mother of one son. She enjoys Mexican food, traveling, and adventure.
Beyond the classroom, Marie is an instrumental voice in uplifting communities through faith, mentorship, and advocacy. She actively engages in leadership coaching, community outreach, and spreading the gospel. As a passionate advocate for equity in education, Marie volunteers with organizations such as Braven Inc.to mentor future leaders and empower students from diverse backgrounds and supports AARP in educating seniors on brain health and caregiver support. Through ministry, she is devoted to illuminating darkness, bringing forth the light of Christ, and guiding others into deeper revelation and transformation. Dr. Hall is a public speaker and has participated on panel discussions such as Black Boys and Resilient Schools: Strategies for Mental Health. As a published author, she has penned three children’s books and two anthologies that embody her love to educate, elevate, and empower people and children alike. Marie has been recognized with several awards for her work in the community, receiving the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award for her volunteerism, Peace Award, among others. With a career marked by continuous growth and a servant leader heart, Dr. Hall remains committed to shaping the future of education and empowering teachers, students, and families as she embarks in her new role as Assistant Principal at Peace Preparatory Academy.