School Leader Lab Announces New Executive Leader Cohort for 2025

We're thrilled to announce the newest Executive Leader Cohort (EdEx), a highly selective program welcoming 11 exceptional C-suite leaders from DC schools. They're joining the vibrant School Leader Lab community, all working to create inclusive, high-performing learning environments where every student can thrive.

This ten-month, cohort-based program empowers EdEx leaders to refine their personal, adaptive, and people leadership abilities to drive meaningful, equitable change. They'll also develop crucial technical skills that boost organizational coherence and student success. Throughout the program, leaders will gain the expertise to:

• Achieve significant results within their departments and organizations.

• Understand and navigate the complexities of their leadership role and new responsibilities in enabling change.

• Cultivate psychological safety and a sense of belonging within their teams.

• Build a powerful community of peers to enhance their impact and sustainability.

• Increase their readiness to ascend to the highest leadership roles in their networks.

EdEx 2025 includes 11 leaders from 9 LEAs across DC, representing Wards 1, 4, 5, 7, and 8:

• Brandon Johnson, Managing Director of School, Social Justice School

• Chelsea Bradford, Chief Schools Officer, Carlos Rosario International PCS

• Elani Lawrence, Chief Academic Officer, Carlos Rosario International PCS

• Nicole Gittens, Chief Academic Officer, Capital City PCS

• Mary Gornick, Chief Human Resources Officer, Two Rivers PCS

• Erin McKan Thomas, Chief Talent Officer, DC International PCS

• Ashlee Watson, Senior Director, Student Supports, Rocketship DC PCS

• Felicia Owo-Grant, Deputy Chief Academic Officer, Friendship PCS

• Denise Brijbasi Edwards, Principal, Sojourner Truth PCS

• Patrice Billups, Deputy Chief of Schools, KIPP DC

• Kate Finley, Chief Academic Officer, DC International PCS