KIPP NYC Executive and Leadership Team

Alicia Johnson, the Chief Executive Officer at KIPP NYC, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire network of public charter schools. Johnson architects the long-term academic goals that define the student experience from elementary through high school. By aligning the board of directors with the mission of educational equity, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that resources reach the classrooms where students need support most. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan to maintain high standards of performance. Alicia Johnson drives the organizational culture, focusing on character development and rigorous academic outcomes. Through constant evaluation of school performance metrics, the Chief Executive Officer secures the necessary funding and community partnerships to sustain growth. Ultimately, Johnson guarantees that every student receives the personalized support required to thrive in college, career, and beyond, solidifying the reputation of the network as a leader in urban education.

Aric Dershem, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Information Officer at KIPP NYC, manages the complex infrastructure and digital systems supporting the school network. Dershem architects the operational frameworks that allow schools to function efficiently across diverse urban environments. By overseeing the integration of advanced information technology, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Information Officer ensures that data security and digital learning tools remain at the forefront of the educational experience. This role involves streamlining administrative processes to reduce overhead, thereby maximizing the resources available for direct student instruction. Aric Dershem coordinates with regional leadership to optimize facility management and logistical support throughout the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. Through the implementation of scalable technology solutions, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Information Officer enhances the ability of educators to track student progress effectively. Ultimately, Dershem maintains the operational stability required to support the mission of empowering students through high-quality public education.

Paola Leon, the Founder & Co-President, Stand Up Speak Out at KIPP NYC, directs advocacy initiatives that amplify student voices and community engagement. Leon architects platforms that empower students to address systemic challenges and advocate for educational equity within the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. By overseeing the development of leadership programs, the Founder & Co-President, Stand Up Speak Out ensures that students gain the skills necessary to influence public policy and community discourse. This role involves building coalitions with families and local organizations to strengthen the impact of the school network. Paola Leon manages the strategic outreach efforts that connect classroom learning to real-world civic participation. Through the promotion of active citizenship, the Founder & Co-President, Stand Up Speak Out drives the mission of fostering a future without limits. Ultimately, Leon secures the community support required to sustain the long-term success of students, ensuring that every child possesses the tools to make a positive impact in society.

Carolyn Hack, the President at KIPP NYC, directs the execution of the organizational mission and oversees the daily management of the school network. Hack architects the financial and administrative policies that support the expansion of high-quality public education across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. By coordinating with the Chief Executive Officer, the President ensures that the strategic vision translates into measurable academic and operational success. This leadership role involves managing the fiscal health of the organization, ensuring that resources align with the commitment to personalized student support. Carolyn Hack drives the implementation of rigorous academic standards, working closely with school leaders to maintain excellence in every classroom. Through the oversight of institutional performance, the President guarantees that the network meets the needs of families and communities. Ultimately, Hack secures the stability and growth of the organization, fostering an environment where students develop the skills required for success in college, career, and beyond.

Lakeshia Highsmith, the Chief People Officer at KIPP NYC, directs the talent acquisition, professional development, and human resources strategies for the entire organization. Highsmith architects programs that attract and retain high-performing educators dedicated to the mission of closing the opportunity gap. By overseeing the recruitment of diverse staff members, the Chief People Officer ensures that classrooms reflect the communities served across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive training initiatives that foster character development and pedagogical excellence among teachers. Lakeshia Highsmith manages the internal culture, promoting equity and inclusion to support the well-being of the entire workforce. Through the alignment of human capital strategies with organizational goals, the Chief People Officer drives the professional growth of staff members. Ultimately, Highsmith secures the talent necessary to provide the rigorous academic support that defines the student experience, ensuring that the network remains a premier destination for educators committed to social impact.