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The Ascent Classical™️ Academies (ACA) leadership team is comprised of professionals in their fields who are committed to providing access to a high-quality education of choice to students across the nation.

ACA previously opened and operated four schools in Colorado. They currently operate in South Carolina. If you are interested in starting an Ascent Classical™️ Academy in your area, please click here for information on how to partner with Ascent Classical™️ Academies to start a classical school.

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Derec Shuler

Executive Director

Mr. Shuler is an entrepreneur and, prior to founding Ascent Classical™ Academies and Golden View Classical Academy, worked in technology and technical operations with the U.S. government. He obtained his undergraduate degree in business administration from Appalachian State University in North Carolina. Shuler served on the Advisory Board of the Leadership Program of the Rockies and is a graduate of Leadership Denver through the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation.
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Amy Willis

Chief Marketing and Communications Officer

Mrs. Willis discovered classical education as a parent and volunteer for a classical school in Texas. She utilized a fourteen-year career in education marketing to partner with schools and nonprofit organizations across the state, aiding with fundraising, grants, and branding/advertising design. Mrs. Willis is an award-winning graphic designer who earned degrees from Texas Tech University and Abilene Christian University. Prior to joining Ascent Classical™, she ran a successful small business dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations through the sale of branded promotional gear and fundraising events.
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Heather Williams

Director of Human Resources

Mrs. Williams comes to the Ascent Classical™ Academies network with over 15 years of experience working in and managing educational organizations. She has been a leader in child development, operations, and administration. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Kendall College and a master’s degree in Education from Ashford University.
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Anna Unversaw

Superintendent

Mrs. Unversaw joins the Ascent Classical™️ Academies network with over thirteen years of experience in education and educational management. Throughout her career, she has led staff and school as headmaster and managed operations, bringing invaluable experience to this role. Unversaw is a three-time graduate of the University of South Carolina, where she earned her bachelor’s and two master’s degrees.