Aurora Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

Mary Cooper, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Aurora Public Schools, manages critical financial operations and fiscal planning for the district. Cooper oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and the allocation of resources across elementary, middle, and high schools, ensuring fiscal responsibility and compliance with all regulatory requirements. This position is vital for maintaining the financial health of the district, supporting the operational needs of all educational programs, including pilot schools and charter schools. By implementing sound financial management practices, Mary Cooper safeguards the district's assets and optimizes expenditures to maximize educational impact. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer works in tandem with the Chief Operating Officer and other executives to align financial strategies with the district's overarching mission and strategic objectives, ensuring sustainable growth and operational efficiency. Cooper's expertise is fundamental to the district's ability to provide comprehensive educational services.

Anthony Sturges, the Chief Operating Officer at Aurora Public Schools, directs all operational facets of the educational district. Overseeing the management of elementary, middle, and high schools, Sturges ensures efficient resource allocation and facility maintenance across all campuses. This leadership role involves optimizing daily school operations, from transportation logistics to campus safety protocols, directly supporting the district's mission of providing a robust learning environment. By streamlining administrative processes, Anthony Sturges enhances the overall effectiveness of educational delivery. The Chief Operating Officer also coordinates with other executive leadership to align operational strategies with the district's long-term educational goals, ensuring seamless integration of pilot schools, charter schools, and alternative programs into the broader operational framework. Sturges's focus remains on driving operational excellence throughout the Aurora Public Schools system.

Jeff Konishi, the Chief Technology Officer at Aurora Public Schools, architects the district's technological infrastructure and digital learning initiatives. Konishi oversees the implementation and maintenance of all IT systems, ensuring reliable access to educational technology for students and staff. This critical role involves developing strategies for cybersecurity, data management, and the integration of innovative learning platforms that support the district's diverse educational offerings. By driving technological advancement, Jeff Konishi empowers educators and students with the tools necessary for academic success. The Chief Technology Officer collaborates closely with other departments to ensure technology solutions are aligned with pedagogical objectives and operational requirements, fostering an environment where digital resources enhance the learning experience across all school levels, including pilot and charter programs. Konishi's leadership ensures Aurora Public Schools remains at the forefront of educational technology.

Kirk Witulski, the Chief People Officer at Aurora Public Schools, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies for the district. Witulski oversees recruitment, employee relations, professional development, and compensation structures, ensuring the attraction and retention of highly qualified educators and staff across elementary, middle, and high schools. This role is essential for fostering a positive and productive work environment that supports the district's commitment to educational excellence. By developing comprehensive HR policies, Kirk Witulski cultivates a culture of growth and support for all personnel. The Chief People Officer collaborates with executive leadership to align human capital strategies with the district's mission, ensuring that staffing levels and professional development initiatives effectively support the unique needs of pilot schools, charter schools, and alternative programs. Witulski's leadership is key to building and maintaining a dedicated and skilled workforce.

Patricia Moon, the Chief Communications Officer at Aurora Public Schools, directs all internal and external communication strategies for the district. Moon is responsible for managing public relations, media outreach, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring clear and consistent messaging across all platforms. This position is crucial for building and maintaining strong relationships with parents, community members, and educational partners, reinforcing the district's mission and values. By crafting effective communication campaigns, Patricia Moon enhances the district's public image and fosters community support for its educational initiatives. The Chief Communications Officer works closely with the Superintendent and other executives to disseminate information about school programs, achievements, and important updates, including those related to pilot schools and charter schools. Moon's strategic communication efforts are vital for transparency and stakeholder alignment within Aurora Public Schools.

Brandon Eyre, the Legal Counsel at Aurora Public Schools, provides comprehensive legal guidance and oversight for the district's operations. Eyre advises on a wide range of legal matters, including compliance, policy development, and risk management, ensuring adherence to all federal, state, and local regulations governing educational institutions. This role is fundamental to protecting the district's interests and upholding its commitment to providing a safe and equitable learning environment for students across elementary, middle, and high schools. By offering expert legal counsel, Brandon Eyre supports the strategic decision-making of the executive team and the Board of Education. The Legal Counsel collaborates with all departments to mitigate legal risks and ensure that district policies and practices align with current legal standards, including those pertaining to pilot schools and charter schools. Eyre's diligence is essential for the lawful and ethical operation of Aurora Public Schools.