FirstLine Schools Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

FirstLine Schools has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, human resources, and people development.

Committed to holistic student growth, FirstLine Schools fosters academic excellence and healthy living through innovative programs like the Edible Schoolyard across the New Orleans public charter network.

Leadership Roles at FirstLine Schools

  • Chief Executive Officer - Sabrina Pence
  • Chief Operating Officer - Rebekah Cain
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Brittney Richardson
  • Chief People Officer - Scott Shirey
  • Sabrina Pence - Chief Executive Officer

    Sabrina Pence, the Chief Executive Officer at FirstLine Schools, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire charter network. Overseeing the academic and operational success of four distinct campuses, the Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the mission to educate the whole child. Pence manages high-level relationships with the Board and external stakeholders to secure long-term sustainability for the organization. By prioritizing the integration of the Edible Schoolyard program, the Chief Executive Officer drives initiatives that connect nutrition with classroom learning. Sabrina Pence maintains a focus on equitable access to quality education for all New Orleans families. Through rigorous oversight of school performance metrics, the Chief Executive Officer guarantees that every student receives preparation for future college and career success. This leadership role demands constant evaluation of educational outcomes and community impact to maintain the high standards expected within the Louisiana public education landscape.

    Rebekah Cain - Chief Operating Officer

    Rebekah Cain, the Chief Operating Officer at FirstLine Schools, manages the complex logistical infrastructure required to support four public charter schools. Overseeing facility maintenance, safety protocols, and daily campus operations, the Chief Operating Officer ensures that every learning environment remains safe and conducive to student development. Cain coordinates with the finance department to optimize resource allocation, allowing the network to maximize the impact of tuition-free enrollment. By streamlining administrative processes, the Chief Operating Officer supports the broader mission of nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Rebekah Cain monitors operational efficiency across the New Orleans region to ensure that school resources directly benefit the classroom experience. This role involves managing vendor relationships and infrastructure projects that sustain the long-term viability of the organization. Through meticulous planning and execution, the Chief Operating Officer provides the stable foundation necessary for academic staff to focus entirely on student achievement and holistic growth.
    Rebekah Cain

    Brittney Richardson - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Brittney Richardson, the Chief Human Resources Officer at FirstLine Schools, architects the talent acquisition and retention strategies necessary to staff four high-performing charter schools. Overseeing the recruitment of educators and support staff, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the organization attracts professionals dedicated to the mission of educating the whole child. Richardson manages complex compliance requirements and benefits administration to support the workforce across the New Orleans network. By implementing professional development programs, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters a culture of continuous improvement and pedagogical excellence. Brittney Richardson collaborates with leadership to align staffing levels with the specific needs of the Edible Schoolyard program and other core initiatives. This role involves navigating labor regulations and maintaining a positive organizational climate that encourages long-term commitment from faculty. Through strategic workforce planning, the Chief Human Resources Officer secures the human capital required to deliver exceptional educational experiences to students from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade.

    Scott Shirey - Chief People Officer

    Scott Shirey, the Chief People Officer at FirstLine Schools, drives the organizational culture and internal engagement initiatives that define the network. Overseeing employee wellness and internal communications, the Chief People Officer ensures that the staff remains aligned with the core values of nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. Shirey develops programs that promote inclusivity and professional satisfaction, which directly impacts the quality of instruction provided to students. By facilitating feedback loops between the faculty and executive leadership, the Chief People Officer strengthens the internal community across all four campuses. Scott Shirey monitors engagement metrics to identify areas for improvement in the workplace environment. This role involves designing initiatives that support the emotional and professional well-being of the entire team. Through a focus on people-centric management, the Chief People Officer creates a supportive atmosphere that enables educators to focus on preparing students for success in college and careers within the New Orleans community.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding FirstLine Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads FirstLine Schools?
    FirstLine Schools is led by Sabrina Pence (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Rebekah Cain (Chief Operating Officer) and Brittney Richardson (Chief Human Resources Officer).
    Who is part of FirstLine Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of FirstLine Schools includes leaders such as Sabrina Pence (Chief Executive Officer), Rebekah Cain (Chief Operating Officer), Brittney Richardson (Chief Human Resources Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does FirstLine Schools have?
    FirstLine Schools has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in FirstLine Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of FirstLine Schools includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer, Chief People Officer.