National Heritage Academies Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

National Heritage Academies has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and governance.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, National Heritage Academies focuses on providing high-quality K-12 education through innovative management and a strong leadership philosophy that prioritizes student success and community impact.

Leadership Roles at National Heritage Academies

  • Chief Executive Officer - Jason Pater
  • President - Scott Iden
  • President - Eduardo Amaya
  • President - Kwame Simmons
  • Board President - Richard Gordon
  • President of the Board of Directors - Jason Holder
  • President - Peter Stickney
  • Board President - Renee Shepherd
  • President - Deborah Howell
  • President - Tom Zorn
  • Jason Pater - Chief Executive Officer

    Jason Pater, the Chief Executive Officer at National Heritage Academies, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the organization. This leadership role involves guiding the company's expansion and ensuring alignment with its core mission of providing exceptional K-12 education. Pater's responsibilities encompass fostering innovation within educational programs and management practices, driving efficiency across all departments, and maintaining the organization's commitment to academic excellence. The Chief Executive Officer works closely with the board and other executive leaders to set long-term goals and ensure the sustainable growth of National Heritage Academies. By championing a culture of continuous improvement, Jason Pater ensures the organization remains at the forefront of educational management, impacting thousands of students across its network.

    Scott Iden - President

    Scott Iden, the President at National Heritage Academies, oversees critical operational functions and strategic initiatives that support the company's educational mission. This executive role involves driving the implementation of best practices across all managed schools, ensuring high standards of academic delivery and operational efficiency. Iden's focus includes enhancing the student learning environment and supporting school leadership teams in achieving their objectives. The President collaborates with other senior leaders to refine operational strategies and address challenges within the K-12 education sector. Through dedicated leadership, Scott Iden contributes significantly to the effective management and growth of National Heritage Academies, reinforcing its position as a leading education management organization.

    Eduardo Amaya - President

    Eduardo Amaya, the President at National Heritage Academies, directs key strategic priorities and operational execution across the organization's educational portfolio. This leadership position involves ensuring that all managed academies adhere to the highest standards of academic performance and operational integrity. Amaya's responsibilities include fostering a culture of excellence and innovation, driving initiatives that enhance student outcomes, and optimizing resource allocation. The President works in tandem with the Chief Executive Officer and other executives to advance the company's mission and expand its reach. Through strategic oversight and a commitment to educational advancement, Eduardo Amaya plays a vital role in the continued success and development of National Heritage Academies.

    Kwame Simmons - President

    Kwame Simmons, the President at National Heritage Academies, leads critical aspects of the organization's strategic development and operational management. This executive function involves driving initiatives that enhance educational quality and ensure efficient school operations across the network. Simmons's focus includes fostering strong relationships with stakeholders and implementing programs that support student achievement and community engagement. The President collaborates closely with the executive team to align operational strategies with the company's overarching goals. By championing effective leadership and strategic planning, Kwame Simmons significantly contributes to the mission and continued growth of National Heritage Academies, reinforcing its commitment to K-12 education.

    Richard Gordon - Board President

    Richard Gordon, the Board President at National Heritage Academies, provides essential governance and strategic oversight to the organization's leadership team. This critical role involves guiding the board's deliberations and ensuring that the company's strategic direction aligns with its mission and fiduciary responsibilities. Gordon's leadership focuses on upholding the highest standards of corporate governance and ethical conduct, ensuring long-term sustainability and impact. The Board President works to foster a collaborative relationship between the board and the executive management, facilitating informed decision-making. Through dedicated service, Richard Gordon ensures National Heritage Academies operates with integrity and continues to advance its commitment to quality education.

    Jason Holder - President of the Board of Directors

    Jason Holder, the President of the Board of Directors at National Heritage Academies, directs the strategic governance and oversight functions of the organization. This leadership position involves guiding the board in its fiduciary duties, ensuring alignment with the company's educational mission and long-term objectives. Holder's responsibilities include fostering effective board dynamics and ensuring robust strategic planning processes. The President of the Board of Directors collaborates with executive leadership to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance and operational integrity. Through strategic guidance and commitment, Jason Holder plays a pivotal role in the continued success and ethical operation of National Heritage Academies.
    Jason Holder

    Peter Stickney - President

    Peter Stickney, the President at National Heritage Academies, drives key operational strategies and ensures the effective implementation of educational programs across the network. This executive role focuses on optimizing school performance and fostering an environment conducive to student success. Stickney's responsibilities include overseeing departmental functions, enhancing operational efficiencies, and supporting school leadership in achieving academic and organizational goals. The President collaborates with the executive team to align strategic initiatives with the company's core mission. Through dedicated leadership and a focus on continuous improvement, Peter Stickney significantly contributes to the operational excellence and sustained growth of National Heritage Academies.

    Renee Shepherd - Board President

    Renee Shepherd, the Board President at National Heritage Academies, provides essential leadership and strategic direction for the organization's governing board. This role involves guiding the board's oversight responsibilities, ensuring adherence to governance best practices, and supporting the executive team's strategic objectives. Shepherd's focus is on maintaining the integrity of the organization's mission and fostering its long-term viability. The Board President facilitates board discussions and decision-making processes, ensuring alignment with the company's commitment to educational excellence. Through dedicated service, Renee Shepherd plays a crucial part in the effective governance and strategic advancement of National Heritage Academies.

    Deborah Howell - President

    Deborah Howell, the President at National Heritage Academies, leads critical initiatives focused on enhancing educational delivery and operational effectiveness across the organization. This executive position involves driving strategic planning and ensuring the successful execution of programs designed to improve student outcomes. Howell's responsibilities include overseeing key departments, fostering innovation in teaching methodologies, and ensuring compliance with educational standards. The President collaborates with the executive leadership to align operational strategies with the company's mission. Through strong leadership and a commitment to academic excellence, Deborah Howell significantly contributes to the ongoing success and development of National Heritage Academies.

    Tom Zorn - President

    Tom Zorn, the President at National Heritage Academies, directs significant operational aspects and strategic planning for the organization's educational initiatives. This leadership role involves ensuring the efficient management of resources and the effective implementation of academic programs across all academies. Zorn's focus includes driving operational improvements and fostering a culture of accountability and excellence. The President collaborates with the executive team to advance the company's mission and enhance its market position. By overseeing critical operational functions, Tom Zorn plays an integral part in the sustained growth and success of National Heritage Academies, reinforcing its commitment to quality K-12 education.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding National Heritage Academies Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads National Heritage Academies?
    National Heritage Academies is led by Jason Pater (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Scott Iden (President) and Eduardo Amaya (President).
    Who is part of National Heritage Academies’s executive team?
    The executive team of National Heritage Academies includes leaders such as Jason Pater (Chief Executive Officer), Scott Iden (President), Eduardo Amaya (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does National Heritage Academies have?
    National Heritage Academies has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in National Heritage Academies’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of National Heritage Academies includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, President, President, Board President.