Administration

Robert Williams became principal of B.E.S.T. Academy at the Thomas W. Dortch Jr. Institute in June 2024. A Los Angeles native, he first came to Atlanta to attend Morehouse College before beginning his career in corporate America and volunteer work with underserved youth.

He transitioned into education in 2002 through the New York City Teaching Fellows program, teaching elementary school while earning a Master’s degree from Pace University. He later helped open Young Scholars Academy in the Bronx, where he served as a math lead teacher and instructional coach, and earned a second Master’s in Educational Leadership from Teachers College.

After moving to Georgia, he taught at Marietta Middle School before entering school leadership. His administrative roles include assistant principal and interim principal positions across multiple schools, including eight years at B.E.S.T. Academy. Most recently, he served as principal of M. Agnes Jones Elementary, leading STEAM initiatives and building strong partnerships.

Mr. Williams is committed to student success, innovation, and preserving the strong culture of the B.E.S.T. community.

Farod T. Brooks is a dedicated educator and leader committed to fostering academic excellence and student engagement. Originally from New Jersey and now based in Atlanta, Georgia, he was inspired in high school to address gaps in how African American history was taught—an experience that shaped his mission to make learning more inclusive and meaningful.

He earned a Bachelor’s degree in History from Rutgers University, a Master’s in Teaching Social Sciences from Western Governors University, and an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Columbus State University. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Liberty University.

Farod holds multiple certifications in Educational Leadership, History, Science, and STEM, as well as endorsements in Gifted Education and AP Sciences. His career spans roles as a teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal across several schools in Atlanta Public Schools, where he now serves as an assistant principal at B.E.S.T. Academy.

Throughout his career, Farod has focused on improving student outcomes, supporting teachers, and building strong school communities. His leadership emphasizes collaboration, high expectations, and the creation of an inclusive environment where both students and staff can thrive.

Dr. Harris earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Master of Science in Teacher Education from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He later completed an Educational Specialist degree in Instructional Leadership from Lincoln Memorial University and a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands. Driven by a dedication to do what is best for all stakeholders, his academic research focuses on teacher job satisfaction and closing the discipline gap for African American males in secondary education.

Dr. Harris brings more than 14 years of experience in public education. He has expertise across grades 6–12, with a proven track record of managing critical school operations and supporting student achievement. Dr. Harris has extensive administrative and instructional leadership experience across both middle and high school settings in multiple districts, having served as a high school Academy Principal, an Alternative School Director, a District Administrator, and a District Coach. Most recently, Dr. Harris served as a District Content Specialist for Secondary Social Studies with Atlanta Public Schools.  

Dr. Harris is committed to fostering academic excellence, supporting instructional staff, and ensuring every student is empowered to achieve sustainable success.