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 role involves setting the direction for talent development and community empowerment initiatives across all school sites. Smith's focus remains on fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation within the educational framework. The Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the core values of providing free, open access to education for all students. Preston Smith drives the strategic partnerships and resource allocation necessary to sustain and expand the network's impact. Overseeing the executive team, Smith ensures all functions operate in concert to achieve the ambitious goals of student potential realization and family engagement.

Benjamin Carson, the Chief Financial Officer at Rocketship Public Schools, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy for the charter school network. Carson oversees budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation to support the organization's mission of serving underserved communities. This critical role ensures the financial health and sustainability of the schools, enabling the acceleration of student learning and the empowerment of families. The Chief Financial Officer monitors expenditures, manages grants, and develops financial models to support growth and operational efficiency. Benjamin Carson works closely with the Chief Executive Officer and other leaders to align financial resources with strategic objectives. Ensuring compliance with all financial regulations and reporting requirements is a primary responsibility. Carson's oversight guarantees that funds are utilized effectively to maximize educational impact and maintain the free, open-access nature of the schools.

Fausto Jiménez-Evans, the Chief of Staff at Rocketship Public Schools, provides direct support to the Chief Executive Officer and executive leadership team, driving strategic initiatives and operational efficiency. Jiménez-Evans facilitates cross-functional collaboration, ensuring seamless execution of the company's mission to serve underserved communities through high-performing charter schools. This role involves managing key projects, optimizing internal processes, and enhancing communication across the network. The Chief of Staff acts as a strategic partner, translating the vision for personalized learning and talent development into actionable plans. Fausto Jiménez-Evans supports the leadership in navigating complex challenges and seizing opportunities for growth and improved student outcomes. Overseeing special projects and ensuring alignment with the organization's commitment to educational equity are central to this position.

Kristen Duprel, the Chief of Staff & Interim Director, Schools at Rocketship Public Schools, bridges executive strategy with on-the-ground school operations. Duprel ensures the effective implementation of the network's educational model, focusing on accelerating student learning and empowering communities. This dual role involves overseeing school leadership, driving academic performance, and supporting the Chief Executive Officer's strategic priorities. The Chief of Staff & Interim Director, Schools manages critical projects that enhance the quality of education and operational effectiveness across all sites. Kristen Duprel works to foster a supportive environment for students, families, and educators, reinforcing the commitment to personalized learning and talent development. Ensuring seamless coordination between central office functions and school-level execution is paramount to this leadership position.

Alexandra McGroarty, the Interim Chief Human Resources Officer at Rocketship Public Schools, leads talent acquisition, development, and retention strategies for the organization. McGroarty focuses on building a high-performing team dedicated to serving underserved communities and advancing the mission of educational equity. This role is crucial for attracting and nurturing educators who can accelerate student learning and foster community empowerment. The Interim Chief Human Resources Officer oversees employee relations, compensation, benefits, and compliance, ensuring a supportive and productive work environment. Alexandra McGroarty collaborates with executive leadership to align HR initiatives with the company's strategic goals, particularly in talent development and organizational culture. Ensuring the network has the skilled personnel necessary to deliver exceptional education is a primary objective.

Meghan Pierce, the Chief of Staff & Academics & Learning Professional at Rocketship Public Schools, drives the strategic direction and execution of academic programs across the network. Pierce focuses on enhancing personalized learning approaches and professional development to ensure accelerated student achievement in underserved communities. This multifaceted role involves overseeing curriculum development, instructional best practices, and learning innovation. The Chief of Staff & Academics & Learning Professional collaborates closely with school leaders and the executive team to translate the company's mission into tangible educational outcomes. Meghan Pierce champions initiatives that empower students and families, reinforcing the commitment to providing high-quality, accessible education. Ensuring pedagogical excellence and continuous improvement in learning environments is central to this position.