Aurora Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Committed to academic excellence, Aurora Public Schools fosters a diverse learning environment that empowers students through innovative educational programs, alternative pathways, and comprehensive community support systems across the entire district.

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 - Patti Moon
  • Legal Counsel - Brandon Eyre
  • Mary Cooper - Deputy Chief Financial Officer

    Mary Cooper, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer at Aurora Public Schools, manages the fiscal planning, budget allocation, and financial reporting processes for the entire district. Cooper oversees the distribution of funds to elementary, middle, and high schools, ensuring that resources reach classrooms effectively. The Deputy Chief Financial Officer monitors revenue streams and expenditure patterns to maintain long-term fiscal health and regulatory compliance. By analyzing complex financial data, Mary Cooper provides the strategic insights necessary for the Board to make informed decisions regarding district priorities. This leadership role involves coordinating with department heads to align spending with educational goals and operational requirements. Through rigorous auditing and transparent reporting, the Deputy Chief Financial Officer safeguards the financial integrity of the organization. Cooper drives fiscal accountability across all programs, including charter schools and alternative learning initiatives, to ensure that every dollar supports student achievement.

    Anthony Sturges - Chief Operating Officer

    Anthony Sturges, the Chief Operating Officer at Aurora Public Schools, manages the physical facilities, transportation logistics, and auxiliary services essential for daily district operations. Sturges oversees the maintenance of elementary, middle, and high school buildings to ensure safe and productive learning environments for all students. The Chief Operating Officer coordinates large-scale capital projects and facility upgrades that align with the long-term growth objectives of the district. By streamlining supply chain processes and vendor management, Anthony Sturges maximizes the utility of available resources. This leadership role requires constant coordination with school administrators to address infrastructure needs and logistical challenges. Through the implementation of sustainable building practices and efficient transportation routing, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader mission of providing equitable access to quality education. Sturges maintains high standards for operational excellence to ensure that every school site functions at peak capacity.
    Anthony Sturges

    Jeff Konishi - Chief Technology Officer

    Jeff Konishi, the Chief Technology Officer at Aurora Public Schools, directs the digital infrastructure and information systems supporting modern classroom environments. Konishi architects scalable network solutions that facilitate seamless access to educational resources for students and faculty across the district. By integrating advanced data analytics, the Chief Technology Officer optimizes administrative workflows and enhances instructional delivery methods. This leadership role involves securing sensitive student information while maintaining robust cybersecurity protocols to protect the integrity of the district network. Jeff Konishi also collaborates with academic leaders to implement emerging technologies that bridge the digital divide within the community. Through the deployment of high-speed connectivity and hardware, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that every school maintains the necessary tools for 21st-century learning. Ultimately, Konishi drives the technological evolution of the district to support long-term academic success and operational efficiency.

    Kirk Witulski - Chief People Officer

    Kirk Witulski, the Chief People Officer at Aurora Public Schools, directs human capital strategies, talent acquisition, and professional development programs for the entire workforce. Witulski oversees the recruitment of high-quality educators and support staff to ensure that every school maintains a strong instructional team. The Chief People Officer designs comprehensive training initiatives that foster a culture of continuous improvement and employee engagement. By managing labor relations and compensation structures, Kirk Witulski ensures that the district remains a competitive employer within the regional education market. This leadership role involves developing policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion across all staff levels. Through the implementation of performance management systems, the Chief People Officer aligns individual contributions with the overarching mission of the district. Witulski supports the professional growth of all personnel, ultimately enhancing the quality of instruction and student outcomes throughout the entire organization.

    Patti Moon - Chief Communications Officer

    Patti Moon, the Chief Communications Officer at Aurora Public Schools, manages internal and external messaging, public relations, and community engagement strategies. Moon oversees the dissemination of critical information to parents, staff, and the broader public to maintain transparency and trust. The Chief Communications Officer architects communication campaigns that highlight student achievements, district initiatives, and educational opportunities. By coordinating with local media and community stakeholders, Patti Moon ensures that the district voice remains consistent and impactful. This leadership role involves managing crisis communications and developing outreach programs that strengthen the connection between schools and the families served. Through the use of digital platforms and community forums, the Chief Communications Officer facilitates open dialogue and active participation in district affairs. Moon drives the narrative of academic success and innovation, ensuring that the community remains informed and supportive of the mission to provide quality education for every student.
    Brandon Eyre, the Legal Counsel at Aurora Public Schools, provides comprehensive legal guidance on regulatory compliance, contract negotiations, and policy development. Eyre oversees the legal framework governing district operations, ensuring that all actions align with state and federal education laws. The Legal Counsel manages litigation risks and advises the Board on complex matters involving student rights, labor disputes, and facility management. By drafting and reviewing essential agreements, Brandon Eyre protects the interests of the district while facilitating partnerships with external organizations. This leadership role involves interpreting legislative changes and implementing necessary adjustments to district policies to maintain full compliance. Through proactive risk assessment and sound legal judgment, the Legal Counsel supports the stability and integrity of the entire educational system. Eyre ensures that all administrative decisions remain grounded in legal best practices, ultimately allowing the district to focus on the primary mission of student learning and development.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Education

    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.