Authorizer and Educational Service Provider

The Governor John Engler Center for Charter Schools

Central Michigan University Contract to Charter A Public School Academy

Ana Ulloa, Founder and CEO

Ana Maria came from El Salvador to the United States when she was only 18. She is a product of a civil war that tore her land. That shaped her commitment that everyone, regardless of background, has the right to an excellent education that is inclusive and equitable. Her experiences as a bilingual immigrant, fluent in both English and Spanish, would be the foundation for her impact in the educational field and as an agent for social change.

During her 30-plus years in the educational system, Ana transitioned from International Student Advising at Lawrence Tech to founding the first Latina-led community-driven school in the State of Michigan, Escuela Avancemos!. Her motivations to open a school were a product of time spent in the Detroit Public School system as a bilingual community agent and as a pioneer in after-school tutoring programs. During her 10 years the Detroit school system, Ana’s main tasks were two-fold: to reach sustainably effective communication between schools and families living in Detroit and to access resources that empowered families to advocate for the academic and emotional success of their children.

As a prominent entity in after-school programs, she surpassed and redefined standards of quality for the students of Southwest Detroit. From inception to fruition, Ana's involvement in tutoring programs brought about a 300% increase in student enrollment. From these experiences, she learned that barriers are placed on students of diverse backgrounds when there is a disconnect between the home and school. She sought to advocate for young people and the families that have been negatively impacted by the educational system. The key to success was that parent involvement was never an afterthought, and culture and learning are key factors when it comes to real educational impact.
With these beliefs in mind, Escuela Avancemos! was established in 2012. One of Ana's biggest qualities is being resilient, driven, and firmly committed to the families as key partners in Education. Despite many challenges, the E.A. is thriving and disrupting the status quo in Education by being faithful to its mission: To educate, prepare, and inspire every child Every Day for lifelong success. 

Ana continues following her passion: building bridges and seeking the cooperation of the families and community because it truly takes a village to achieve excellence in education. LA EDUCACION DE LOS NINOS ES LABOR DETODOS... SOLO UNIDOS LOGRAREMOS EL EXITO.