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Our Founder: JoAnn Mitchell, Ed.S.

A Visionary Leader Committed to Breaking Barriers in Education

JoAnn Mitchell, Ed.S., is more than an educator — she is a relentless advocate for equity, access, and student success. As the Founder & CEO of Mission Achievement and Success (MAS) Charter School, she has dedicated her career to ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has the opportunity to achieve at the highest levels.

Under her leadership, MAS has grown from a bold vision into one of New Mexico’s top-performing schools, consistently outperforming state and district averages while serving a predominantly underserved student population.

JoAnn is also the Director of the Mission Achievement and Success Education Foundation — a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports MAS’s mission. In 2022, the foundation received an unrestricted $3 million gift from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, a testament to MAS’s transformational impact.

 

A Career Defined by Innovation and Excellence

With over 30 years of experience in education reform, JoAnn has held roles as a school founder, district administrator, school psychologist, and classroom teacher. Her expertise spans student achievement, school leadership, social emotional learning, and system-wide educational transformation.

She holds degrees and certifications from prestigious institutions, including:

  • Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education & Psychology - Elmira College (Elmira, NY)
  • Master of Education (M.Ed.) & Educational Specialist (Ed.S) in School Psychology - Georgia State University (Atlanta, GA)
  • Certificate of Advanced Study in School Administration - SUNY Cortland (Cortland, NY)

Transforming Lives Through Education

Under JoAnn’s leadership, MAS has become a game-changer in public education, delivering results that defy expectations:

  • Top 25% Ranking in New Mexico - Designated as an “A-rated” or “Spotlight School” for 12 consecutive years
  • Unprecedented 100% Graduation Rate - Every MAS senior has successfully graduated and pursued college, trade school, or military service
  • Outperforming District & State Averages - MAS students achieve higher literacy and math proficiency rates (for students with their demographics) than Albuquerque Public Schools and the state as a whole
  • Serving Over 2,200 Students - MAS continues to grow, now operating two high-performing campuses in Albuquerque

 

Recognized for Excellence

JoAnn’s groundbreaking work has earned her widespread recognition, including:

  • 2024 Excellence in Workforce Development Award - Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance (AREA)
  • 2023 President’s Award - Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce - Education Excellence
  • 2022 Woman of Influence - SUCCESS Magazine
  • Featured in multiple news outlets for MAS’s transformative impact on student achievement

A Leader Who Believes in What’s Possible

JoAnn Mitchell is proving that education can be the great equalizer, but only when students, teachers, and leaders refuse to accept mediocrity. Her vision for MAS is simple: every child deserves a future without limits.