Great Hearts Academies Executive and Leadership Team

Jay Heiler, the Chief Executive Officer at Great Hearts Academies, directs the overall strategic vision and operational framework for the K-12 charter school network. Heiler guides the organization's expansion and ensures alignment with its core mission of providing a humanities-based liberal arts education. Overseeing institutional growth, Jay Heiler champions initiatives that enhance academic rigor and student character development across all campuses. This leadership role involves fostering key partnerships and securing resources to sustain the tuition-free educational model. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on long-term sustainability and maximizing the impact of Great Hearts Academies' unique educational approach.

Matthew Bushard, the Chief Financial Officer at Great Hearts Academies, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the K-12 educational institution. Bushard oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support the organization's tuition-free model and growth objectives. Ensuring fiscal responsibility, Matthew Bushard implements robust financial controls and reporting mechanisms. This critical role involves managing investments, optimizing expenditures, and securing funding to advance the mission of providing a liberal arts education. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is vital for maintaining the financial health and operational capacity of Great Hearts Academies.

Jess Vidal, the President at Great Hearts Academies, oversees key operational aspects and strategic partnerships for the K-12 liberal arts charter school network. Vidal works to advance the organization's mission by fostering community engagement and ensuring the effective delivery of educational programs. Driving institutional advancement, Jess Vidal collaborates with stakeholders to enhance the reach and impact of Great Hearts Academies. This leadership position involves championing initiatives that support student success and uphold the integrity of the humanities-based curriculum. The President's focus is on strengthening the network's operational excellence and community ties.

Persephone Lee, the Blue Crew - President at Great Hearts Academies, leads initiatives focused on enhancing the student experience and fostering a vibrant campus community within the K-12 network. Lee directs programs designed to support student engagement and extracurricular development, aligning with the institution's liberal arts philosophy. Cultivating a positive environment, Persephone Lee oversees activities that promote student well-being and leadership. This role is crucial for ensuring that the student body thrives both academically and personally. The Blue Crew - President's efforts contribute significantly to the holistic development offered by Great Hearts Academies.

Helen Baxendale, the Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategy & Analytics at Great Hearts Academies, drives strategic initiatives and oversees data-driven decision-making across the K-12 network. Baxendale supports the executive team by analyzing performance metrics and identifying opportunities for operational improvement and academic enhancement. Developing strategic frameworks, Helen Baxendale ensures that analytical insights inform policy and program development. This multifaceted role involves coordinating cross-departmental projects and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. The Chief of Staff & Vice President, Strategy & Analytics's work directly supports the expansion and effectiveness of Great Hearts Academies' liberal arts curriculum.

Jerilyn Olson, the Chief People Officer at Great Hearts Academies, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies for the K-12 charter school network. Olson is responsible for recruitment, employee development, and fostering a positive organizational culture that supports the institution's educational mission. Building a high-performing team, Jerilyn Olson implements programs to attract, retain, and engage educators and staff. This vital role ensures that Great Hearts Academies has the skilled personnel necessary to deliver its humanities-based liberal arts education. The Chief People Officer's dedication to employee well-being and professional growth is central to the organization's success.