Rocketship Public Schools Executive and Leadership Team

Preston Smith, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Rocketship Public Schools, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the national network of charter schools. Smith guides the organization's mission to serve underserved communities by ensuring access to quality education and accelerating student learning. This leadership involves fostering talent development and community empowerment across all school sites. The Chief Executive Officer's role is critical in maintaining the network's commitment to personalized learning and achieving significant annual student academic gains. By championing the core values of Rocketship Public Schools, Preston Smith ensures the organization remains at the forefront of educational innovation and impact, driving forward the goal of equal educational opportunity for all students. Smith's strategic direction solidifies the network's proven track record in student achievement and family engagement.

Benjamin Carson, the Chief Financial Officer at Rocketship Public Schools, manages the financial health and strategic resource allocation for the entire charter school network. Carson oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, financial planning, and ensuring compliance with funding regulations across multiple states. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to optimizing financial performance to support the network's growth and its commitment to providing free, high-quality education. This involves developing financial models that sustain the accelerated learning initiatives and talent development programs. Benjamin Carson plays a vital role in securing the financial stability necessary for Rocketship Public Schools to expand its reach and impact in underserved communities. By meticulously managing financial resources, Carson enables the organization to maintain its focus on student potential and community empowerment, ensuring long-term operational success and educational equity.

Fausto Evans, the Chief of Staff at Rocketship Public Schools, provides direct operational and strategic support to executive leadership, ensuring alignment across the network's initiatives. Evans facilitates the execution of key organizational priorities, streamlining communication and workflow between departments and school sites. The Chief of Staff's role is integral to driving the mission of serving underserved communities through effective management of resources and programs. Fausto Evans contributes to the network's focus on personalized learning and talent development by coordinating cross-functional projects and ensuring operational efficiency. This leadership position is crucial for translating strategic goals into actionable plans, supporting the acceleration of student learning and the empowerment of families. Evans's efforts enhance the overall effectiveness of Rocketship Public Schools' operations.

Alexandra McGroarty, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer at Rocketship Public Schools, leads the strategic direction for talent management and organizational development across the network. McGroarty oversees all human resources functions, including recruitment, employee relations, compensation, and benefits, with a focus on attracting and retaining high-caliber educators and staff. The Interim Chief Human Resources Officer's mandate is to support the mission of providing quality education by cultivating a robust talent pipeline and fostering a positive work environment. Alexandra McGroarty ensures that HR strategies align with the organization's commitment to personalized learning and community empowerment. This leadership role is essential for building a dedicated team that drives student success and upholds the network's values. McGroarty's oversight strengthens the foundation of Rocketship Public Schools by prioritizing its most valuable asset: its people.

Meghan Pierce, the Chief of Staff & Academics & Learning Professional at Rocketship Public Schools, drives the strategic development and implementation of academic programs and learning initiatives network-wide. Pierce focuses on enhancing the personalized learning approach that accelerates student achievement and ensures equitable educational outcomes for all students. The Chief of Staff & Academics & Learning Professional's responsibilities include curriculum oversight, instructional best practices, and professional development for educators. Meghan Pierce plays a critical part in translating the organization's mission into tangible academic results, supporting families in championing their children's education. This role is fundamental to maintaining Rocketship Public Schools' proven track record of accelerating student learning by 5-7 months each year, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and educational excellence.

Kristen Duprel, the Chief of Staff & Interim Director, Schools at Rocketship Public Schools, oversees the operational effectiveness and strategic direction of the network's school sites. Duprel ensures that each school environment fosters high-performance, supporting the mission of serving underserved communities with quality education. The Chief of Staff & Interim Director, Schools' responsibilities include managing school-level operations, supporting principals, and driving initiatives that enhance student learning and talent development. Kristen Duprel is instrumental in translating the network's strategic vision into practical application at the school level, ensuring alignment with the commitment to personalized learning and community empowerment. This leadership position is key to maintaining the accelerated student learning gains and upholding the organization's dedication to educational equity across all locations.