Angela Brooks to lead Pinnacle Classical Academy

The board of directors of Pinnacle Classical Academy announces that headmaster Angela Brooks will become the school's leader on September 1, with the retirement of CEO Dr. Shelly Shope.

Angela Brooks began her teaching career in 2004 after graduating as a North Carolina Teaching Fellow from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She started in education as a high school social studies teacher at North Gaston High School, where she was honored as Teacher of the Year. 

In 2013, she joined the founding faculty of Pinnacle Classical Academy, where she played a key role in shaping the school’s academic foundation. While teaching middle school math and social studies, Mrs. Brooks earned her master's degree in executive leadership studies from Gardner-Webb University in 2017. 

A school administrator since 2017, Brooks was named dean of secondary education in 2020 and headmaster in 2025. 

"The Board of Directors recognizes Mrs. Brooks as one of the most dedicated and hardworking members of the Pinnacle team," said Sen. Debbie Clary, Pinnacle Classical Academy's board chair and cofounder. "Her strong advocacy for students and teachers is second to none. She has a solid grasp of school operations and exceptional business skills that actively drive our college-prep mission and prepare our students for future workplace success."

Founded in 2013, Pinnacle Classical Academy is a tuition-free K-12 public charter school in Shelby with 1,252 students. U.S. News & World Report recognizes the school as one of the best elementary schools, best middle schools, and best high schools in America.