Our Leaders
Leslie Draper
Executive Director
Ms. Leslie Draper, who is the founder and Executive Director of the school, has a Masters Degree in Education Administration from Ball State University, a Professional Educator’s License in English Language Arts for Grades 5-12 and in Building Level Administration for Grades PK – 12, is certified as a Trauma and Crisis Management Specialist from the National Association of School Counselors, a Certificate in Charter School Leadership, and is a certified trainer of nonviolent crisis intervention with the Crisis Prevention Institute.
Ms. Draper leads staff and students to become self-accountable learners and achievers, through projects, presentations, and authentic products that further the cause of creating a more just society for all. Ms. Leslie strives to inspire those around her to achieve high standards and join in unified work toward a common mission.
Patrick Fassnacht
Principal
Mr. Patrick Fassnacht has been named the new principal of Inspire Academy. Mr. Fassnacht has an Education Specialist Degree in School Administration/Organizational Management from Oakland City University, a Masters Degree in Educational Administration from Ball State University, a Bachelors Degree in education from Purdue University, and a Professional License in Building Level Administration for Grades PK – 12.
Mr. Fassnacht most recently served as assistant principal at Yorktown High School and brings years of experience in the PK-12 setting to Inspire Academy. Mr. Fassnacht has also served as the Regional Director for The Excel Centers and as a principal in both Anderson and Indianapolis.
Mr. Fassnacht is excited to be a part of the energy and mission at Inspire Academy and enjoys supporting a team with a sense of urgency in pursuit of a mission.
Kara Bauges
Director of Culture
Ms. Kara Haley-Baugues went to college at St. Mary-of-the-Woods College in Terre Haute, Indiana and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education with a Kindergarten Endorsement. She is a licensed Indiana teacher with over ten years of classroom teaching experience. Ms. Kara has served in multiple roles at Inspire Academy, initially as a parent volunteer for her daughters before joining the Inspire crew as Instructional Coordinator in 2014, then transitioning to classroom teaching. Now, as Director of Culture, she strives to motivate students to be their best selves not only academically, but also socially and emotionally. Ms. Kara loves students for who they are and seeks to build relationships and provide resources to help students, families, and staff attain their goals.
Brittany Pickett
Financial Manager
Mrs. Brittany Pickett is the Financial Manager of Inspire Academy, where she manages the financial aspects of the school and plays a significant executive advisory role. Since Inspire Academy’s inception, Brittany has taken on multiple responsibilities and capacities: Administrative Assistant, Administrative Manager, Family Liaison, and Director of Culture. Throughout this time Brittany has built strong relationships with not only the staff, who rely on her for professional and personal support, but also parents who desire to be involved in their students' education. One of the pleasures Brittany has had while being with the school is spearheading the Student Leadership team. Brittany’s role as the leader of this team has been growing students through leadership training.