Faculty & Staff
Administration
Dr. Willie Goldsmith Jr.
Dr. Goldsmith, Head of School at Banks Academy, is an accomplished educational leader with more than 20 years of experience in school leadership and student development. Passionate about faith-based education, he is committed to creating Christ-centered learning environments where students can grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
Before joining Banks Academy, Dr. Goldsmith served as a principal in Birmingham City Schools for 15 years, leading school improvement efforts and helping students, teachers, and communities thrive. He holds a Doctor of Education in Administrative Leadership from Argosy University, an Education Specialist degree in Educational Leadership, a Master of Arts in Education, and a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education, all from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Dr. Goldsmith is an active member of Refresh Family Church and a former member of the United States Army National Guard. He is dedicated to equipping students and educators with the knowledge, values, and opportunities needed to succeed both in and beyond the classroom.
Meet our faculty & staff
Jermaine Watson
Athletic Director, Head Football and Track Coach, Transportation/Security
Coach Watson became the Head Football Coach at Banks Academy in 2022 after serving as Defensive Coordinator with Head Coach Riley White in 2021. Coach Watson’s record as Head Coach in 2022 was 6-5 and in 2023 11-2 after winning the division and making the State Championship game.
Shuntel McMillon
Administrative Assistant
Ms. McMillon was born here in Birmingham, AL, she graduated from Ensley High School. Then went to college at The University of Phoenix, where she received her Associates & Master’s Degree in Business Administration. She later received her Masters from American International University. “I have been the Administrative Assistant at Banks Academy for 5 years, and I enjoy helping the kids and parents with whatever they may need.”
Caleb Sears
Guidance Counselor/Director of Spiritual Formation
Mr. Sears received his bachelor’s degree from the Baptist College of Florida and a master’s degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Before coming to Banks, Mr. Sears has 10+ years of ministry experience both in churches and nonprofits. He has a strong desire to God move in the lives of these scholars and wants to do whatever it takes to give them opportunities for it. He loves spending time with his family which consist of his wife and four children.
Kristal McKinney
Middle School Math
Mrs. McKinney has over 10 years of teaching experience.She earned a bachelor’s degree from UAB and a Masters from UAGC.
Lindsey Culliver
Middle School Science
Shunta Johnson
Middle School English
Marisa Rimpsey
9th and 10th Math
Kevin Mason
9th and 10th Science
He attended Miles College where he obtained a B.A. in Political Science and B.S. in Environmental Science. In addition to his regular teaching responsibilities, Mr. Mason teaches instruments in the SOAR Music program after school.
Michelle Johnson
9th and 10th English
Curtis Goldsmith
11th and 12th Math
Aquanetta Thompson
11th and 12th English
Rev. Jermaine Johnson
High School Bible
