KIPP NYC Executive and Leadership Team

Leslie-Bernard Joseph, the Chief Executive Officer at KIPP NYC, directs the overarching strategic vision for the entire network of public charter schools. Overseeing the alignment of academic goals with community needs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that every student receives high-quality instruction from elementary through high school. This leadership role involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and driving the long-term mission of educational excellence across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. By prioritizing rigorous academic standards and character development, Leslie-Bernard Joseph secures the resources necessary for sustainable growth. The Chief Executive Officer maintains constant communication with the Board to refine operational strategies and expand the reach of the organization. Through this dedicated focus on student outcomes, the Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of achievement that prepares graduates for success in college and beyond, ultimately strengthening the impact of the network within diverse urban communities.

Aric Dershem, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Information Officer at KIPP NYC, manages the critical infrastructure and technological systems supporting the school network. Overseeing the integration of data-driven platforms, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Information Officer ensures that administrative processes remain efficient and scalable across all regional locations. This leadership role involves architecting secure digital environments that protect student information while facilitating seamless communication between faculty and families. By optimizing operational workflows, Aric Dershem directly supports the academic mission through robust resource allocation and technical reliability. The Chief Operating Officer & Chief Information Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to implement innovative solutions that enhance school-level performance. Through the continuous improvement of internal systems, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Information Officer maintains the operational stability required to serve thousands of students, ensuring that the organization remains at the forefront of educational technology and administrative excellence.

Paola Leon, the Founder & Co-President, Stand Up Speak Out at KIPP NYC, drives advocacy initiatives that empower students to engage with their communities and influence public discourse. Overseeing the development of programs that encourage civic participation, the Founder & Co-President, Stand Up Speak Out ensures that student voices remain central to the mission of the organization. This leadership role involves building partnerships with families and community leaders to address systemic challenges and promote educational equity. By facilitating platforms for student expression, Paola Leon fosters character development and leadership skills that extend far beyond the classroom. The Founder & Co-President, Stand Up Speak Out collaborates with the executive team to integrate advocacy into the broader strategic framework, ensuring that the organization remains responsive to the needs of the communities served. Through this commitment to social impact, the Founder & Co-President, Stand Up Speak Out inspires students to become active, informed citizens who contribute positively to society.

Lakeshia Highsmith, the Chief People Officer at KIPP NYC, leads the human capital strategy to attract, develop, and retain top-tier educators and staff. Overseeing talent acquisition and professional development programs, the Chief People Officer ensures that the workforce remains aligned with the core values of the organization. This leadership role involves designing comprehensive support systems that foster a positive and inclusive culture for all employees across the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Manhattan. By implementing effective performance management frameworks, Lakeshia Highsmith drives organizational growth and maintains high standards of instructional quality. The Chief People Officer works closely with school leadership to address staffing needs and promote long-term career pathways within the network. Through the strategic management of human resources, the Chief People Officer strengthens the capacity of the organization to deliver personalized support to students, ultimately ensuring that every classroom benefits from dedicated and highly skilled professionals.