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 regional campuses in Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island. Lisa Margosian architects high-level partnerships with stakeholders and board members to secure the resources necessary for expanding educational access. This leadership role involves constant evaluation of school performance metrics to maintain rigorous standards. Through the implementation of innovative pedagogical frameworks, the Chief Executive Officer drives the mission of closing the achievement gap. By fostering a culture of excellence and accountability, Margosian empowers educators to deliver transformative learning experiences. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the organization by prioritizing student outcomes and sustainable operational expansion within the competitive landscape of public education.

Max Polaneris, the Chief Financial Officer at Achievement First, governs the fiscal health and long-term financial sustainability of the charter school network. By managing annual budgeting, capital allocation, and grant reporting, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that every dollar directly supports student learning and school-level operations. Max Polaneris architects robust financial models to forecast growth and mitigate risks associated with public funding fluctuations. This leadership role involves frequent collaboration with the board to present transparent financial reports and strategic investment plans. By overseeing audits and internal controls, the Chief Financial Officer maintains the integrity of the organization's fiscal practices. Polaneris drives efficiency by identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising the quality of educational programs. Through disciplined financial stewardship, the Chief Financial Officer enables the network to scale effectively across Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island, ensuring that resources remain focused on the core mission of student achievement.

Jason Russell, the Chief Operating Officer at Achievement First, manages the complex logistical infrastructure required to support K-12 schools across multiple states. Overseeing facility management, transportation, and safety protocols, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that every campus operates with maximum efficiency. Jason Russell coordinates with regional directors to streamline administrative workflows, allowing school leaders to focus exclusively on classroom instruction. This role involves the integration of data-driven systems to monitor operational health and resource allocation throughout the network. By optimizing supply chain processes and vendor relationships, the Chief Operating Officer reduces overhead costs while enhancing the quality of support services. Russell maintains strict compliance with state regulations, ensuring that all operational activities align with the broader mission of the organization. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Chief Operating Officer provides the stable foundation necessary for academic success across the entire Achievement First footprint.

Cristina Tokeshi, the Associate Chief of Staff at Achievement First, facilitates seamless communication and project execution across the executive leadership team. By managing high-priority initiatives and cross-functional workflows, the Associate Chief of Staff ensures that organizational goals remain on schedule. Cristina Tokeshi coordinates the preparation of board materials and executive briefings, providing the necessary context for informed decision-making. This role involves bridging the gap between strategic planning and daily operational execution to maintain organizational alignment. By monitoring key performance indicators, the Associate Chief of Staff identifies bottlenecks and implements solutions to improve internal productivity. Tokeshi supports the Chief Executive Officer by managing sensitive projects and ensuring that leadership directives reach all levels of the network. Through proactive problem-solving and meticulous organization, the Associate Chief of Staff strengthens the operational capacity of the entire organization, allowing the network to focus on delivering high-quality education to students.

Jeffrey Wooten, the Chief People Officer at Achievement First, leads the talent acquisition, professional development, and human resources strategy for the entire network. By architecting recruitment pipelines to attract top-tier educators, the Chief People Officer ensures that every classroom features highly qualified and motivated staff. Jeffrey Wooten oversees the design of training programs that foster continuous growth and retention among teachers and administrators. This leadership role involves cultivating an inclusive organizational culture that values diversity and excellence. By implementing performance management systems, the Chief People Officer aligns individual contributions with the broader mission of closing the achievement gap. Wooten collaborates with school leaders to address staffing needs and improve employee engagement across all regional campuses. Through the development of comprehensive benefits and wellness initiatives, the Chief People Officer supports the well-being of the workforce. Ultimately, Wooten drives the human capital strategy that sustains the long-term success of the organization.