Stride Executive and Leadership Team

Gregory Gerla, the Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Stride, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the education company. Gerla guides the organization's expansion into online and blended K12 schooling programs, partnering with public school districts and charter schools to deliver accessible education. This leadership role encompasses the development and execution of initiatives for career learning, adult education, and skills-based training, preparing students and adult learners for critical sectors such as IT, healthcare, and business. Gregory Gerla ensures Stride's services, including full-time online public and private schools and curriculum technology platforms, align with market demands and educational best practices. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on driving innovation and impact across all educational offerings, solidifying Stride's position as a leader in modern education solutions.

Donna Blackman, the Chief Financial Officer at Stride, manages all financial operations and strategic financial planning for the education technology company. Blackman oversees budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility across Stride's diverse service offerings, which include K12 schooling programs and career learning initiatives. This executive role involves optimizing financial performance and resource allocation to support the company's growth in online education and skills-based training. Donna Blackman works closely with other leaders to secure funding, manage investments, and maintain strong relationships with financial stakeholders, driving Stride's mission to prepare learners for indemand fields. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise is critical in navigating the financial landscape of educational services and ensuring sustainable operations.

Levon Hooks, the Chief Information Officer at Stride, architects and oversees the company's entire technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Hooks directs the development and implementation of robust IT systems that support Stride's online K12 schooling programs, career learning platforms, and adult education services. This critical role ensures the security, scalability, and efficiency of all technological operations, enabling seamless delivery of educational content and services to students and adult learners nationwide. Levon Hooks collaborates with executive leadership to integrate innovative technologies that enhance the learning experience and prepare individuals for indemand fields like IT and healthcare. The Chief Information Officer's leadership is fundamental to Stride's mission of providing accessible, high-quality education through advanced digital solutions.

Valerie Maddy, the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Stride, leads all human capital strategies and organizational development initiatives. Maddy oversees talent acquisition, employee engagement, and workforce planning to support Stride's mission of delivering innovative K12 schooling and career learning programs. This executive position involves cultivating a strong company culture, ensuring compliance with labor laws, and developing programs that foster professional growth for employees across the organization. Valerie Maddy collaborates with other leaders to align HR strategies with business objectives, supporting the company's expansion in online education and skills-based training. The Chief Human Resources Officer's focus is on building and retaining a high-performing team essential for Stride's success in preparing learners for indemand fields.