Before coming to Ferguson Middle School , I served as Principal at the Academy of Entrepreneurship Studies Middle in the St. Louis Public School System for the last six years.  I have also served as an Assistant Principal, Instructional Support Coach, and science teacher in  both St. Louis Public School System and the Memphis City School District. 

I completed my undergraduate work in my home state of Tennessee at the University of Memphis, where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. I obtained both my Educational Specialist degree in Educational Administration and my master’s degree in Educational Administration from the University of Missouri-St. Louis.   I received my Doctorate in Education from Maryville University.

When I’m at home and work needs are met, I love spending time with my family, reading and playing basketball.

Prior to my current position as the 8th grade Assistant Principal at Ferguson Middle School, I served as the Dean of Students at the Academy of Entrepreneurship Studies Middle School as well as LaSalle Middle School.  Before transitioning into leadership, I taught middle and high school Language Arts at Long International Middle School in Saint Louis Public School District and Confluence Academy School District, over a span of 10 years.

I hold an Educational Specialist Degree from Webster University.  I received my Masters in Education with ELA certification from Fontbone University in St. Louis, Missouri.  I received my B. S. in Journalism from Lincoln University in Jefferson City, Missouri.

Outside of education, I enjoy traveling, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with my two wonderful daughters.

Demetria Handley

Assistant Principal, Ferguson Middle

Handley serves as the 7th Grade Assistant Principal at Ferguson Middle School. She is entering her ninth year in education. She previously served two years as the Math Instructional Support Leader at McCluer High School. Prior to that role, Ms.Handley served five years as a math teacher at McCluer North. Ms. Handley began her teaching career teaching math at Confluence Preparatory Academy.

Ms. Handley holds an educational specialist degree in education administration from University of Missouri-St. Louis. She holds a master’s degree from Lindenwood University. She earned her bachelor’s degree in secondary education with an emphasis in mathematics from Southeast Missouri State University.

Greetings, I'm Aschlei Gathing.  I recently graduated from UMSL as an Educational Specialist.  I've been an educator for 10+ years.  I've always dreamed of being an educator. I used to play school during break.  It is a privilege to be an Instructional Support Leader.  I am able to share my passion for teaching as well as a variety of strategies to ensure student success.  I am happy to be a part of a school district that shares that same values and mission for education as myself.