- Principal
- Assistant Principal
- Assistant Principal
Meet Our Principal
Robert Powell
Principal, Propel Homestead
Hometown: Charleroi, PA
Years with Propel: 5
Mr. Powell began his career in education at Urban Pathways Charter School after graduating from Kent State University with a degree in special education. He completed the master’s degree program at California University of Pennsylvania for Educational Leadership in 2015. He believes that structure, empathy, and culturally appropriate instructional strategies are key to the consistent growth of all scholars. After Mr. Powell’s first three years of teaching, he was awarded teacher of the year and then was made the lead teacher for middle school. As a Supervisor of Student Services, Mr. Powell was able to decrease behavior referrals, suspensions and uniform infractions and increase the average daily attendance rate. He counts his biggest accomplishments as being the positive relationships he builds with families. Mr. Powell’s goal in education is to impact change. The impact he has on school culture and scholars’ self-efficacy is unmeasurable, yet observable. He is dedicated to working collaboratively with educators and families to create 21st century learners.
I am #PropelProud because…
all children are born excellent and I get the opportunity to help them exemplify their excellence to the world.
When I am not working I enjoy…
riding my bike and watching good television.
Who is your favorite recording artist/group?
Music from the 90s (MJB, Jay-Z).
What is your favorite book?
The Secret by Rhonda Byrne
Meet Our Assistant Principal
Krystle Yanoff
Assistant Principal, Propel Homestead
Hometown: Fort Worth, TX
Years with Propel: 6
Background
I have my BSEd in Biology from Indian University of Pittsburgh and a MScEd in Educational Leadership from the Univresity of Texas. I am currently working on a doctorate degree in Education Administraton and Leadership from California University of Pennsylvania. I worked as a high school science teacher and coach for a decade in Texas, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania teaching biology, chemistry, physics andother elective science courses. Prior to moving into administration, I served as a Data Coach, Standards Based Grading Lead, and Science Department Lead for Propel Braddock Hills High School. I spent time during my transition into administrtion to improve scholar’s educational experience by co-writing the high school science curriculums. I started my career in leadership by serving at both Propel Hazelwood and Propel Northside as a Principal-In-Training before transitioning to the assistant principal role here at Propel Homestead.
I am #PropelProud because…
the Promising Principles hold me steadfast to my values of providing access to a high quality education for all childen. We as educators simply light the path for our scholars and support them as they journey to successful futures. I am committed to cultivating and nurturing relationships with our scholars, their families, and the community so that we can be allies in the fight for equity in education.
When I am not working I enjoy…
running and participating in family Saturdays each week.
Who is your favorite recording artist/group?
Micah Tyler
What is your favorite book?
Ayn Rand the Fountainhead
Ronald Jones
Principal In Training, Propel Homestead
Hometown: Pittsburgh
Years with Propel: 3
Background
I am back where I began my career in education, scholar intervention and engagement. I was fortunate to first join the Propel Homestead team in 2003 as a Behavior Coach. After pursuing and attaining my Masters Degree and certification in Counseling Psychology and School Counseling, I continued my career as a Chld and Family Therapist, Dean of Students/Project Manager and Scholastic Outreach STEM Supervisor. I was nurtured to understand purpose and vision for opportunity. I am humbled to have been given the opportunity to return to Propel as an Assistant Principal/Principal-In-Training. Community service, scholar support and family engagement are actions that I stand by and will continue to practice inside and outside of the school building.
I am #PropelProud because…
it provides the opportunity to strengthen and grow scholars to their greatness. I am proud to be a bridge builder who connects educators, scholars, teachers, and communities.
When I am not working I enjoy…
exercise and family.
Who is your favorite recording artist/group?
I have several different reasons by without naming them all, A Tribe Called Quest is one of my favorite groups.
What is your favorite book?
The Autobiography of Frederick Douglass.