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 commitment to serving underserved communities through high-performing elementary education. This leadership role involves ensuring the network's mission of providing equal access to quality education is consistently met across all locations. Smith drives the focus on personalized learning and talent development, critical components for accelerating student learning by 5-7 months annually. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering community empowerment and supporting families in championing their children's educational journeys. Preston Smith ensures the strategic alignment of all operational facets with the core objective of unlocking student potential.

Benjamin Carson, the Chief Financial Officer at Rocketship Public Schools, manages the financial health and strategic resource allocation for the entire network. Carson oversees all fiscal operations, including budgeting, financial planning, and reporting, ensuring compliance with educational funding regulations. This leadership position is crucial for sustaining the network's commitment to providing free, high-performing charter schools. The Chief Financial Officer directs financial strategies that support personalized learning initiatives and talent development programs. Benjamin Carson ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to maximize student learning acceleration and community empowerment efforts. By maintaining fiscal responsibility, Carson enables Rocketship Public Schools to expand its reach and impact in underserved communities.

Kristen Duprel, the Chief of Staff at Rocketship Public Schools, executes strategic initiatives and operational improvements across the network. Duprel manages key projects that advance the organization's mission of providing high-quality education in underserved communities. This role involves facilitating communication and collaboration between different departments and leadership levels, ensuring seamless execution of the company's vision. The Chief of Staff supports the Chief Executive Officer in driving talent development and community empowerment programs. Kristen Duprel oversees the implementation of policies and procedures designed to accelerate student learning and support families. By streamlining operations, Duprel ensures the efficient delivery of educational services and maintains the network's commitment to free, accessible schooling.

Meghan Pierce, the Chief of Staff & Academics & Learning Professional at Rocketship Public Schools, drives academic excellence and learning innovation across the network. Pierce leads the development and implementation of curriculum and pedagogical strategies that accelerate student learning by 5-7 months each year. This role is central to the company's mission of providing high-performing education in underserved communities. The Chief of Staff & Academics & Learning Professional ensures that personalized learning approaches are effectively integrated into daily classroom instruction. Meghan Pierce collaborates with school leaders and educators to foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional development. By focusing on academic rigor and student-centered learning, Pierce directly supports the goal of empowering students and families through quality education.

Lamar Wade, the Chief People Officer, National at Rocketship Public Schools, directs all human capital strategies and talent management initiatives across the network. Wade is responsible for attracting, developing, and retaining exceptional educators and staff who are dedicated to serving underserved communities. This critical role ensures that the organization's talent pool is aligned with its mission of providing high-performing, personalized learning experiences. The Chief People Officer, National oversees the implementation of programs that foster a positive and empowering work environment, supporting the professional growth of all employees. Lamar Wade drives initiatives that reinforce the company culture and its commitment to community empowerment. By prioritizing people, Wade ensures the sustained success of Rocketship Public Schools' educational model.

Kris Murphy, the Chief Marketing & Communications Officer at Rocketship Public Schools, shapes and disseminates the organization's brand narrative and public image. Murphy leads strategies to communicate the network's mission of providing high-performing, free charter education to underserved communities. This role is vital for engaging families and community stakeholders in championing student education. The Chief Marketing & Communications Officer oversees all external communications, public relations, and marketing campaigns designed to highlight the success of personalized learning and talent development initiatives. Kris Murphy ensures consistent messaging that underscores the proven track record of accelerating student learning. By amplifying the impact of Rocketship Public Schools, Murphy contributes to broader awareness and support for educational equity.