Achievement First Executive and Leadership Team

Lisa Margosian, the Chief Executive Officer at Achievement First, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire network of K-12 public charter schools. By aligning academic goals with long-term institutional growth, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent performance across all campuses in Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. Lisa Margosian maintains direct oversight of the executive leadership team, fostering a culture of accountability and high achievement. This leadership role involves constant engagement with the Board to secure resources and support for educational initiatives. Through rigorous data analysis and pedagogical innovation, the Chief Executive Officer drives the mission of closing the achievement gap. By prioritizing student outcomes and operational sustainability, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the network's market position. Ultimately, Margosian secures the future of the organization by championing equitable access to high-quality education for every student within the diverse communities served.

Benjamin Schanback, the Chief Financial Officer at Achievement First, manages the fiscal health and resource allocation for the entire network of schools. Overseeing complex budgetary processes, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that every dollar directly supports classroom instruction and student development. Benjamin Schanback architects robust financial models that sustain long-term growth across Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. This leadership role requires close collaboration with the Board to maintain transparency and regulatory compliance. By optimizing capital expenditures and streamlining procurement, the Chief Financial Officer maximizes the impact of public funding. Schanback monitors economic trends to mitigate risks and identify opportunities for expansion. Through precise financial planning and rigorous auditing, the Chief Financial Officer provides the stability necessary for academic success. Ultimately, Schanback secures the financial foundation required to deliver high-quality education to thousands of students across the regional network.

Jason Russell, the Chief Operating Officer at Achievement First, directs the daily operational infrastructure that supports schools across Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. Overseeing facilities management, technology integration, and logistical efficiency, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that every campus functions at peak capacity. Jason Russell architects scalable systems that allow educators to focus entirely on student learning rather than administrative burdens. This leadership role involves coordinating with regional directors to standardize safety protocols and operational excellence. By implementing data-driven improvements to school infrastructure, the Chief Operating Officer enhances the overall learning environment. Russell manages complex supply chains and vendor relationships to reduce costs and improve service delivery. Through meticulous attention to detail and process optimization, the Chief Operating Officer supports the network's mission of academic achievement. Ultimately, Russell secures the operational reliability needed to sustain high-performing schools in diverse urban environments.

Cristina Tokeshi, the Associate Chief of Staff at Achievement First, coordinates cross-functional initiatives to ensure alignment with the network's strategic objectives. Overseeing internal communications and project management, the Associate Chief of Staff facilitates seamless collaboration between the executive team and school leadership. Cristina Tokeshi architects efficient workflows that streamline decision-making processes across Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. This leadership role involves managing high-priority projects that directly impact organizational culture and operational effectiveness. By synthesizing complex information for the executive team, the Associate Chief of Staff enables rapid, informed responses to emerging educational challenges. Tokeshi monitors progress on key performance indicators to ensure that every department remains focused on the core mission. Through proactive problem-solving and organizational design, the Associate Chief of Staff drives internal cohesion. Ultimately, Tokeshi secures the operational rhythm necessary for the network to maintain its commitment to academic excellence.

Jeffrey Wooten, the Chief People Officer at Achievement First, directs the human capital strategy for the entire network of schools. Overseeing talent acquisition, professional development, and employee retention, the Chief People Officer ensures that every classroom features highly effective educators. Jeffrey Wooten architects comprehensive training programs that empower staff to meet the rigorous demands of K-12 public charter education across Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. This leadership role involves fostering an inclusive culture that attracts top-tier talent to the organization. By implementing performance management systems, the Chief People Officer drives continuous improvement in teaching quality. Wooten collaborates with school leaders to address staffing needs and promote leadership development from within. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief People Officer ensures that the network maintains a pipeline of skilled professionals. Ultimately, Wooten secures the human resources necessary to sustain the mission of providing equitable, high-quality education to all students.