Aurora Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Aurora Public Schools has 6 executives leading key functions including operations, technology, finance, human resources, communications, and legal affairs.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, Aurora Public Schools provides a comprehensive range of learning environments, from traditional schools to innovative pilot and charter programs, shaping the future of students in Colorado.

Leadership Roles at Aurora Public Schools

  • Deputy Chief Financial Officer - Mary Cooper
  • Chief Operating Officer - Anthony Sturges
  • Chief Technology Officer - Jeff Konishi
  • Chief People Officer - Kirk Witulski
  • Chief Communications Officer - Patricia Moon
  • Legal Counsel - Brandon Eyre
  • Mary Cooper - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Mary Cooper, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Aurora Public Schools, supports the strategic financial management of the district's extensive operations. Overseeing key financial functions, Cooper ensures fiscal responsibility and resource optimization across all educational levels, from elementary to high school. This role is integral to maintaining the financial health of pilot schools, charter schools, and alternative programs, guaranteeing their operational sustainability. By managing budgets and financial planning, Mary Cooper directly contributes to the district's ability to provide a comprehensive educational experience. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer's expertise is crucial in navigating complex funding landscapes and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Cooper's diligent oversight enables Aurora Public Schools to allocate resources effectively, supporting its mission of educational excellence and innovation in Colorado.

    Anthony Sturges - Chief Operating Officer

    Anthony Sturges, the Chief Operating Officer at Aurora Public Schools, directs the district's extensive operational framework, ensuring efficient resource allocation across its diverse educational institutions. Overseeing the daily functioning of elementary, middle, and high schools, Sturges manages the logistical complexities inherent in a large public school system. This leadership role involves optimizing operational processes to support the delivery of quality education, aligning with the district's mission to provide a wide array of learning opportunities. By focusing on operational excellence, Anthony Sturges directly contributes to the effective management of pilot schools, charter schools, and alternative programs, ensuring they meet established standards and contribute positively to the student experience. The Chief Operating Officer's purview extends to facility management and support services, critical components for maintaining a conducive learning environment throughout Aurora, Colorado.
    Anthony Sturges

    Jeff Konishi - Chief Technology Officer

    Jeff Konishi, the Chief Technology Officer at Aurora Public Schools, architects the district's technological infrastructure and digital learning strategies. Overseeing all aspects of IT operations, Konishi ensures that technology effectively supports the educational mission across elementary, middle, and high schools. This critical role involves implementing innovative solutions that enhance student engagement and teacher effectiveness, aligning with the district's commitment to diverse learning environments. By driving technological advancement, Jeff Konishi enables the seamless integration of digital tools within pilot schools, charter schools, and alternative programs. The Chief Technology Officer's responsibilities include safeguarding data integrity and ensuring robust cybersecurity measures, vital for protecting sensitive student and staff information. Konishi's leadership ensures Aurora Public Schools remains at the forefront of educational technology, fostering an environment where innovation thrives.

    Kirk Witulski - Chief People Officer

    Kirk Witulski, the Chief People Officer at Aurora Public Schools, directs the comprehensive human resources strategy for the district's vast workforce. Overseeing talent acquisition, employee development, and retention initiatives, Witulski ensures that Aurora Public Schools attracts and retains highly qualified educators and staff across all its institutions. This leadership position is fundamental to fostering a positive and productive work environment, supporting the district's mission to deliver exceptional education. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Kirk Witulski enhances the capacity of staff within elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as pilot schools, charter schools, and alternative programs. The Chief People Officer's focus on cultivating a strong organizational culture is paramount to the district's success. Witulski's strategic approach to human capital management directly impacts the quality of instruction and support services provided to students throughout Aurora.

    Patricia Moon - Chief Communications Officer

    Patricia Moon, the Chief Communications Officer at Aurora Public Schools, leads the district's strategic communication efforts, fostering strong relationships with stakeholders. Overseeing public relations, media engagement, and internal communications, Moon ensures clear and consistent messaging across all platforms, supporting the district's educational mission. This role is vital for articulating the value and impact of Aurora Public Schools' diverse offerings, including its elementary, middle, and high schools, pilot schools, charter schools, and alternative programs. By managing the flow of information, Patricia Moon enhances community understanding and support for the district's initiatives. The Chief Communications Officer's expertise is critical in navigating public perception and promoting the district's commitment to innovation and student success. Moon's strategic communication ensures Aurora Public Schools effectively shares its story and advances its goals in Colorado.
    Brandon Eyre, the Legal Counsel at Aurora Public Schools, provides essential legal guidance and oversight for the district's operations. Overseeing all legal matters, Eyre ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, safeguarding the district's interests across its diverse educational settings. This critical function supports the integrity of elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as pilot schools, charter schools, and alternative programs. By offering expert legal advice, Brandon Eyre enables Aurora Public Schools to navigate complex legal challenges and mitigate risks effectively. The Legal Counsel's responsibilities include drafting and reviewing contracts, advising on policy development, and representing the district in legal proceedings. Eyre's diligent work ensures that Aurora Public Schools operates within the bounds of the law, upholding its commitment to providing a safe and equitable learning environment for all students.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Aurora Public Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Aurora Public Schools?
    Aurora Public Schools is led by Mary Cooper (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Anthony Sturges (Chief Operating Officer) and Jeff Konishi (Chief Technology Officer).
    Who is part of Aurora Public Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Aurora Public Schools includes leaders such as Mary Cooper (Deputy Chief Financial Officer), Anthony Sturges (Chief Operating Officer), Jeff Konishi (Chief Technology Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Aurora Public Schools have?
    Aurora Public Schools has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Aurora Public Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Aurora Public Schools includes roles such as Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Technology Officer, Chief People Officer, Chief Communications Officer.