Uncommon Schools Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Uncommon Schools has 11 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and information technology.

Driven by a commitment to educational excellence, Uncommon Schools provides diverse academic programs and fosters student success through government-funded initiatives without entrance exams, impacting the New York educational landscape.

Leadership Roles at Uncommon Schools

  • Co-Chief Executive Officer - Brett Peiser
  • Chief Operating Officer - Priam Dutta
  • Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Superintendent of Operations - Alejandro Montoya
  • Regional Superintendent of Operations Associate & Chief Operating Officer - Thien-Chan Vu
  • Associate Chief Operating Officer - Mary Miller
  • Regional Superintendent of Operations Associate & Chief Operating Officer - Thien-Chan Vu
  • Chief Information Officer - Heather Evans
  • Strategy Chief of Staff - Allison Washabaugh
  • Strategy Chief of Staff - Laura McGovern
  • Chief of Staff To Chief Schools Officer, K-8 - Robert Sgobbo
  • Chief of Staff To the Chief Schools Officer, 9-12 - Brendan Campbell
  • Brett Peiser - Co-Chief Executive Officer

    Brett Peiser, the Co-Chief Executive Officer at Uncommon Schools, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational framework for the organization. This leadership position involves guiding the development and implementation of educational programs designed to maximize student achievement across all campuses. Peiser ensures alignment between the school's mission and its day-to-day activities, fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth. The Co-Chief Executive Officer oversees key initiatives aimed at enhancing academic outcomes and expanding the reach of Uncommon Schools' unique educational model. This role requires close collaboration with other executive leaders to drive innovation and maintain high standards of educational delivery. Brett Peiser's strategic direction is critical for navigating the complexities of the charter school landscape and ensuring the long-term sustainability and impact of the institution.
    Brett Peiser

    Priam Dutta - Chief Operating Officer

    Priam Dutta, the Chief Operating Officer at Uncommon Schools, manages the comprehensive operational infrastructure supporting the organization's educational mission. This executive oversees critical functions including finance, human resources, and facilities management, ensuring efficient resource allocation and operational excellence across all school sites. Dutta's responsibilities extend to developing and implementing policies that enhance organizational efficiency and support student learning environments. The Chief Operating Officer plays a pivotal role in scaling operations to accommodate growth and maintain the high standards associated with Uncommon Schools. This leadership function involves close coordination with regional directors and campus administrators to address operational challenges and implement best practices. Priam Dutta's focus on operational effectiveness directly contributes to the stability and success of the educational programs offered.
    Priam Dutta

    Alejandro Montoya - Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Superintendent of Operations

    Alejandro Montoya, the Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Superintendent of Operations at Uncommon Schools, oversees operational execution across designated regions. This leadership role focuses on ensuring the efficient functioning of school sites, managing resources, and implementing operational strategies to support academic goals. Montoya's responsibilities include supervising regional operational staff, driving process improvements, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies and government regulations. The Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Superintendent of Operations plays a key part in the day-to-day management of school operations, addressing logistical challenges and optimizing resource utilization. This position requires a deep understanding of operational dynamics within the education sector. Alejandro Montoya's leadership ensures that regional operations effectively support the delivery of high-quality education.

    Thien-Chan Vu - Regional Superintendent of Operations Associate & Chief Operating Officer

    Thien-Chan Vu, the Regional Superintendent of Operations Associate & Chief Operating Officer at Uncommon Schools, manages critical operational aspects within specific geographic areas. This executive role involves overseeing the implementation of operational policies and procedures to ensure smooth functioning of educational facilities and support services. Vu's responsibilities include coordinating with campus leaders to address operational needs, optimize resource allocation, and enhance overall efficiency. The Regional Superintendent of Operations Associate & Chief Operating Officer ensures that regional operations align with the broader organizational strategy, contributing to the effective delivery of educational programs. This leadership function requires a strong focus on logistical coordination and problem-solving within the educational context. Thien-Chan Vu's contributions are vital for maintaining operational integrity across the regions served.
    Thien-Chan Vu

    Mary Miller - Associate Chief Operating Officer

    Mary Miller, the Associate Chief Operating Officer at Uncommon Schools, supports the Chief Operating Officer in managing the organization's extensive operational framework. This executive role involves overseeing specific operational functions, ensuring compliance with policies, and contributing to the efficiency of school site operations. Miller's responsibilities include coordinating with various departments to streamline processes, manage resources effectively, and support the delivery of educational services. The Associate Chief Operating Officer plays a crucial part in implementing operational strategies and addressing day-to-day challenges that impact the learning environment. This position requires a keen understanding of operational logistics within the education sector. Mary Miller's focus on operational support is vital for the smooth functioning of Uncommon Schools.

    Thien-Chan Vu - Regional Superintendent of Operations Associate & Chief Operating Officer

    Thien-Chan Vu, the Regional Superintendent of Operations Associate & Chief Operating Officer at Uncommon Schools, manages critical operational aspects within specific geographic areas. This executive role involves overseeing the implementation of operational policies and procedures to ensure smooth functioning of educational facilities and support services. Vu's responsibilities include coordinating with campus leaders to address operational needs, optimize resource allocation, and enhance overall efficiency. The Regional Superintendent of Operations Associate & Chief Operating Officer ensures that regional operations align with the broader organizational strategy, contributing to the effective delivery of educational programs. This leadership function requires a strong focus on logistical coordination and problem-solving within the educational context. Thien-Chan Vu's contributions are vital for maintaining operational integrity across the regions served.
    Thien-Chan Vu

    Heather Evans - Chief Information Officer

    Heather Evans, the Chief Information Officer at Uncommon Schools, directs the technology strategy and infrastructure essential for modern educational delivery. This role encompasses overseeing all aspects of information technology, including network management, data security, and the implementation of educational technology tools. Evans ensures that technology systems effectively support teaching and learning, providing faculty and students with reliable and advanced resources. The Chief Information Officer is responsible for developing and executing a technology roadmap that aligns with the organization's strategic goals, driving innovation in digital learning environments. This leadership function involves managing IT budgets, vendor relationships, and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations. Heather Evans's expertise is crucial for maintaining a robust and secure technological foundation that empowers Uncommon Schools' educational mission.

    Allison Washabaugh - Strategy Chief of Staff

    Allison Washabaugh, the Strategy Chief of Staff at Uncommon Schools, supports the executive leadership in developing and executing strategic initiatives. This role involves facilitating cross-departmental collaboration, managing key projects, and ensuring that strategic priorities are effectively translated into actionable plans. Washabaugh assists in analyzing organizational performance, identifying areas for improvement, and developing data-driven recommendations to advance the company's mission. The Strategy Chief of Staff acts as a key liaison between different leadership functions, ensuring cohesive execution of strategic objectives. This position requires strong analytical skills and the ability to navigate complex organizational dynamics. Allison Washabaugh's contributions are essential for driving strategic alignment and operational effectiveness across Uncommon Schools.

    Laura McGovern - Strategy Chief of Staff

    Laura McGovern, the Strategy Chief of Staff at Uncommon Schools, collaborates closely with executive leadership to advance strategic objectives. This position involves supporting the formulation and implementation of key organizational strategies, managing critical projects, and ensuring effective communication across departments. McGovern contributes to strategic planning by analyzing market trends, evaluating program effectiveness, and identifying opportunities for innovation and growth. The Strategy Chief of Staff facilitates the execution of strategic initiatives, ensuring alignment with the company's mission and operational capabilities. This role requires strong project management skills and a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape. Laura McGovern's efforts are instrumental in driving strategic progress and operational coherence at Uncommon Schools.

    Robert Sgobbo - Chief of Staff To Chief Schools Officer, K-8

    Robert Sgobbo, the Chief of Staff To Chief Schools Officer, K-8 at Uncommon Schools, provides critical support for the leadership of K-8 educational programs. This role involves managing key initiatives, coordinating communication, and ensuring the effective implementation of strategies designed to enhance student learning in elementary and middle school grades. Sgobbo works closely with the Chief Schools Officer to oversee curriculum development, teacher support, and school performance metrics. The Chief of Staff To Chief Schools Officer, K-8 facilitates operational alignment and strategic execution within the K-8 division, addressing specific challenges and opportunities in this educational segment. This position requires a deep understanding of K-8 pedagogy and school administration. Robert Sgobbo's focus is essential for driving excellence in the foundational years of student education.

    Brendan Campbell - Chief of Staff To the Chief Schools Officer, 9-12

    Brendan Campbell, the Chief of Staff To the Chief Schools Officer, 9-12 at Uncommon Schools, supports the leadership of secondary education programs. This executive function involves managing strategic projects, coordinating communications, and ensuring the effective execution of initiatives aimed at improving student outcomes in grades 9-12. Campbell collaborates with the Chief Schools Officer to drive academic excellence, support faculty development, and oversee the operational aspects of high school campuses. The Chief of Staff To the Chief Schools Officer, 9-12 facilitates strategic alignment and operational efficiency within the 9-12 division, addressing the unique needs of adolescent learners. This role requires a strong grasp of secondary education principles and leadership dynamics. Brendan Campbell's contributions are vital for advancing the educational mission for high school students.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Uncommon Schools Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Uncommon Schools?
    Uncommon Schools is led by Brett Peiser (Co-Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Priam Dutta (Chief Operating Officer) and Alejandro Montoya (Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Superintendent of Operations).
    Who is part of Uncommon Schools’s executive team?
    The executive team of Uncommon Schools includes leaders such as Brett Peiser (Co-Chief Executive Officer), Priam Dutta (Chief Operating Officer), Alejandro Montoya (Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Superintendent of Operations) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Uncommon Schools have?
    Uncommon Schools has 11 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Uncommon Schools’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Uncommon Schools includes roles such as Co-Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Regional Associate Chief Operating Officer, Superintendent of Operations, Regional Superintendent of Operations Associate & Chief Operating Officer, Associate Chief Operating Officer.