American Paradigm Schools Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

American Paradigm Schools has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and governance.

Driven by a commitment to academic excellence, American Paradigm Schools provides a literacy-based education fostering lifelong learners and leaders across diverse school communities in North and Northeast Philadelphia.

Leadership Roles at American Paradigm Schools

  • Chief Executive Officer - Deborah Smith
  • Chief Executive Officer & Principal - Steven Bilski
  • Chief Executive Officer & Principal - Sterling Garris
  • Board President, Building and Department Assignments - Josephine Chan
  • Deborah Smith - Chief Executive Officer

    Deborah Smith, the Chief Executive Officer at American Paradigm Schools, directs the overarching strategy and operational framework for the organization's non-profit education management services. Smith guides the development and management of diverse school communities, focusing on delivering a literacy-based education that cultivates academic excellence. This leadership role ensures the expansion of opportunities for all students within the four charter schools operated by the organization. By championing inclusive education and robust community engagement, Deborah Smith drives the mission to create lifelong learners and leaders. The strategic vision executed by Smith directly impacts the educational outcomes and future prospects of students in North and Northeast Philadelphia. Smith's focus remains on enhancing the quality of education and fostering a supportive learning environment across all managed institutions.

    Steven Bilski - Chief Executive Officer & Principal

    Steven Bilski, the Chief Executive Officer & Principal at American Paradigm Schools, executes the strategic vision and day-to-day operational leadership for specific school communities. Bilski oversees the implementation of the literacy-based education model, ensuring academic rigor and fostering student development. This dual role involves managing school-level administration and aligning institutional goals with the broader organizational mission of expanding opportunities. By driving initiatives that promote academic excellence and community engagement, Steven Bilski cultivates an environment conducive to creating lifelong learners. The leadership provided by Bilski directly supports the success of students within the managed charter schools, particularly in North and Northeast Philadelphia. Bilski's commitment to inclusive education shapes the learning experience and enhances the overall impact of the organization's educational programs.
    Steven Bilski

    Sterling Garris - Chief Executive Officer & Principal

    Sterling Garris, the Chief Executive Officer & Principal at American Paradigm Schools, spearheads the strategic direction and principal leadership for designated educational institutions. Garris manages the comprehensive delivery of a literacy-based curriculum, emphasizing academic achievement and student growth. This executive position involves overseeing school operations and ensuring adherence to the organization's core mission of broadening educational access. Through dedicated leadership in fostering academic excellence and community involvement, Sterling Garris cultivates environments where students become lifelong learners and future leaders. The operational oversight by Garris directly influences the educational quality and student success within the charter schools. Garris's dedication to inclusive practices strengthens the learning communities and advances the organization's commitment to equitable educational opportunities.

    Josephine Chan - Board President, Building and Department Assignments

    Josephine Chan, the Board President, Building and Department Assignments at American Paradigm Schools, provides critical governance and strategic oversight for the organization's infrastructure and departmental functions. Chan leads the board in setting policy and ensuring the effective management of school facilities and administrative departments. This leadership position involves guiding the organization's commitment to academic excellence and the expansion of opportunities for all students. By directing building and department assignments, Josephine Chan ensures that the physical and administrative resources effectively support the literacy-based education mission. Chan's role is pivotal in maintaining the operational integrity and strategic alignment of the four charter schools. The governance provided by Chan reinforces the organization's dedication to inclusive education and community engagement, fostering an environment for lifelong learners and leaders.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding American Paradigm Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads American Paradigm Schools?
    American Paradigm Schools is led by Deborah Smith (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Steven Bilski (Chief Executive Officer & Principal) and Sterling Garris (Chief Executive Officer & Principal).
    Who is part of American Paradigm Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of American Paradigm Schools includes leaders such as Deborah Smith (Chief Executive Officer), Steven Bilski (Chief Executive Officer & Principal), Sterling Garris (Chief Executive Officer & Principal) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does American Paradigm Schools have?
    American Paradigm Schools has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in American Paradigm Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of American Paradigm Schools includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Principal, Chief Executive Officer & Principal, Board President, Building and Department Assignments.