By: Nic Abelian
In the world of education, few individuals have made as profound an impact as Dr. Annise Mabry. Founder of The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation, she has dedicated her life to transforming the educational landscape, especially for at-risk youth and marginalized communities. Her journey from a concerned mother to a trailblazing educational advocate has not only revolutionized homeschooling in Georgia but has also set a new standard for community engagement and empowerment.
The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation stands out with its mission to break down barriers to education, provide support for at-risk youth, and foster an environment where every individual has the opportunity to succeed and thrive. This mission is driven by core values of inclusivity, empowerment, community engagement, and innovation, which are reflected in the Foundation’s diverse programs and initiatives.
The Genesis of a Movement
Dr. Annise Mabry’s journey began in 2012 when she created the Tiers Free Academy Homeschool Cooperative for her own children. Dissatisfied with traditional educational options, she sought to provide a more nurturing and personalized learning environment. This decision not only benefited her own children but also paved the way for hundreds of others. Since its inception, Tiers Free Academy has successfully graduated homeschool high school students, with graduates going on to prestigious institutions such as Princeton, Georgia State University, and the University of Georgia.
Dr. Mabry’s innovative approach to education didn’t stop at homeschooling. Recognizing the systemic barriers that many students face, she expanded her efforts to include comprehensive support for at-risk youth. Her work has led to the creation of the only trauma-informed homeschool cooperative in Georgia, which accepts student referrals from school districts and has service-level education contracts with law enforcement agencies to provide educational services for youth and at-risk adults.
A Commitment to Social Justice and Community Engagement
Dr. Mabry’s commitment to social justice and educational equity is evident in every facet of her work. She is a GA POST Certified Peace Officer and holds a Ph.D. in Education with a specialization in K-12 teaching and learning. This academic background, combined with her personal experiences, has given her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by marginalized communities and fueled her determination to create positive change.
Under Dr. Mabry’s leadership, The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation has launched numerous successful initiatives. These include homeschooling support and resources, youth mentorship and leadership development, community outreach and advocacy, and adult education and workforce development. Each program is designed to provide the tools, resources, and support needed to overcome obstacles and achieve success.
Recognizing and Bridging Educational Gaps
What sets Dr. Mabry apart from others in the field is her focus on addressing the gaps in traditional education. While many organizations aim to innovate within the existing system, Dr. Mabry seeks to fill the voids left by conventional approaches. This has led to the development of unique partnerships and programs that provide comprehensive support for individuals who are often overlooked by mainstream educational initiatives.
One notable achievement is her work with the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, where she wrote the grant to create the first rural Residential Substance Abuse Treatment program in the jail. This program is one of the few education-centered initiatives in rural Georgia that includes an active workforce development partnership with a technical college, providing participants with industry certifications upon graduation. Additionally, Dr. Mabry established the first multi-agency rural co-responder crisis team that embeds a mental health professional with a deputy when responding to mental health calls.
A Legacy of Empowerment and Innovation
Dr. Annise Mabry’s work has been recognized by various organizations and institutions. She is the author of “Educational Disobedience” and has received a proclamation from GA State Representative Doreen Carter for her contributions to education. In 2023, she was honored with the Community Impact Award from Georgia City Solutions of the Georgia Municipal Association.
Her achievements and impact extend beyond the accolades. Dr. Mabry’s personal philosophy centers around the belief that education is a powerful catalyst for change. She is deeply committed to empowering others, fostering collaboration, and advocating for policies that promote equity and inclusion.
The Future of The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation
Looking ahead, Dr. Mabry envisions a future where all individuals have access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Through The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation, she continues to inspire change, advocate for justice, and empower communities to build a brighter future for generations to come.
The Foundation’s innovative programs and initiatives are designed to create sustainable change and lasting impact. From comprehensive homeschooling resources and education programs to community advocacy and adult education, the Foundation’s work is rooted in a deep commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and community engagement.
For more information about Dr. Annise Mabry and the transformative work of The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation, visit drannisemabry.com and tiersfreeacademy.org. Follow the Foundation on Facebook at The Dr. Annise Mabry Foundation to stay updated on their latest initiatives and success stories. Sign up for the Educational Disobedience newsletter to stay informed, inspired, and equipped to make a difference in the classroom and beyond!
Published by: Nelly Chavez
