Administration

Mr. Karl Mercer, Principal

It is my honor and pleasure to serve the Alliance Family.  The 2026-27 school year will be my 27th year in education, 23rd year with Forsyth County Schools, and 4th year as Principal of Alliance Academy for Innovation.  I hold a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Math Education from the University of Georgia.  I received my specialist of Educational Leadership degree from Lincoln Memorial University.  During my career, I have been blessed with the opportunity to work as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, district leader, and principal.   

My mission is to Create the Ideal Learning Environment and my vision is Success for All.  I believe in the importance of building relationships, collaboration, communication, and serving others.

At Alliance, we strive to instill the attributes of the FCS Learner Profile through our vision, mission, and beliefs.  

Remember to always…  Be awesome.  Have fun.  Make this the best day ever.

Have an Amazing Avenger Day!

Mr. Tony Jones, Assistant PrincipalHello AMAZING AVENGERS!  I am thrilled to be serving in my 4th year at Alliance as an Assistant Principal.  I am passionate about supporting students, fostering a positive school culture, and working collaboratively with staff and families to ensure every student thrives.

I believe in building strong relationships, promoting high expectations, and creating a safe and inclusive learning environment where everyone feels valued. 

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me with any questions, concerns, or just to say hello. I look forward to an AMAZING school year!  

Ms. Lisa Robinson, Assistant PrincipalI am excited to begin my 8^th year serving the students and families of Alliance Academy for Innovation and my 26^th year in Forsyth County Schools.  Prior to joining the administrative team at Alliance I served as ETC and World Language Department Chair at Lambert High School and as a Spanish teacher at South Forsyth High School before that.  I earned by BA from the University of Wisconsin, my Master’s from the University of Arizona and my Ed.S. from Lincoln Memorial University. My husband and I have five children and four grandchildren.  We live in Forsyth County with our two dogs and enjoy traveling and gardening.

Mr. Tim Tidwell, Assistant PrincipalIt is such a privilege to serve the students, staff, and families of Alliance Academy for Innovation—Go Avengers! As an educator with two decades of experience and a proud member of Forsyth County Schools, I am honored to contribute to the innovative and future-focused mission of this exceptional school.

Throughout my 20-year career in education, I have served in a variety of roles that have shaped my passion for student success, including Physical Education and Health teacher, Math and Special Education teacher, Graduation Coach, and Assistant Administrator. In my current role as, Assistant Principal, I am committed to fostering a positive, student-centered environment.

I earned a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education and Health from Georgia College & State University, a Master of Science in Kinesiology from Georgia Southern University, and my Educational Leadership Certification from the University of West Georgia. In addition to my work in the classroom and as an administrator, I have enjoyed coaching football, wrestling, basketball, and soccer over the years.

My wife and I are blessed with a blended family of four children. As both a parent and an educator, I believe in building strong relationships, modeling integrity, and creating opportunities that help all students thrive.

Ms. Jen Foster, Assistant Administrator

Welcome, Avengers! I am honored to join Alliance Academy for Innovation as an Assistant Administrator this year, which marks my 24th in education and my 10th year with Forsyth County Schools.  I could not be more excited to begin this new chapter with our school community.

I believe education is the bridge that connects aspirations to reality, and it is our duty to make that foundation as strong as possible for students. Guided by the principle that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued, my goal is to support an environment in which everyone’s unique gifts can flourish. 

I live here in Forsyth County with my family and enjoy hiking, traveling, gardening and watching the Georgia Bulldogs win football games.  My educational background includes a Business degree from the University of Georgia, a Master’s in Inclusive Education from Kennesaw State.  I am currently earning my Educational Leadership Certification from the University of North Georgia. 

I look forward to partnering with our students, staff, and families to make this a phenomenal year! My door is always open—please feel free to reach out to connect, share your ideas, or introduce yourself!

Mr. Frank Gordy, Assistant AdministratorI’m grateful to be in my fifth year working alongside an incredible administrative team at Alliance Academy, supporting both students and staff each day. Secondary education has been my passion for more than forty years, during which I’ve served as an administrator, science teacher, and coach. Along the way, I’ve had the privilege of working in six school systems across Middle and North Georgia, with the last twenty-five years proudly spent here in Forsyth County.

I earned my B.S.Ed. from the University of Georgia, my M.S.Ed. from Georgia Southern University, and my Ed.S. from Lincoln Memorial University. What drives me most is being part of a team that assists students in discovering their potential and creating an environment where teachers can thrive.

Ms. Lauren Nickell, Assistant Administrator

It is my honor to serve our Alliance Academy community as an Assistant Administrator and Athletic Director.  Go Avengers! 

This year marks my 19^th year in education and my 10^th year with Forsyth County Schools.  I am thrilled to step into these new roles after helping support Alliance as both a Spanish Teacher and Instructional Coach since our opening day nine years ago.

I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from Bates College and my Master of Arts in Curriculum & Instruction from the University of Denver.  I also completed the Teacher Support and Coaching endorsement from Georgia Southern University and am currently pursuing my Educational Leadership Certification from the University of North Georgia.  

In addition to my work at Alliance, I love to spend time with my family and dog, play tennis, and harness my inner Ina Garten.

I am looking forward to working with you all and a great year ahead at AAI!

Mr. James Parrish, Assistant Administrator

With over 35 years of experience in education, Mr. Parrish is a seasoned leader committed to student success and academic excellence. A native of DeKalb County, Georgia, he began his career as a classroom teacher and coach in DeKalb County and later expanded his impact through teaching roles and coaching in Gwinnett County.

Mr. Parrish has served as an assistant principal in both Gwinnett and Forsyth Counties, where he has consistently fostered collaborative school cultures, supported instructional growth, and championed student achievement. His leadership is grounded in decades of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of the needs of students and educators alike.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from the University of Georgia, a Masters in Education from Georgia State University, and a Specialist in Education from Piedmont College. Additionally, he earned a Leadership Add-On certification from the University of Georgia, further enhancing his administrative expertise.