Our Team
Leadership
Meet Our Leadership Team
LEAP Academy University School is administered by a management team led by our Chief Officers, each overseeing specific strategic performance components. Together, they work to lead the execution of Board mandates and strategic priorities and the implementation of the LEAP Charter.

Stephanie Weaver-Rogers
Chief Operation Officer/ Lead Person

Jozian Molina
Chief Academic Officer

Nicole Kessler
Chief of Teaching & Learning

Dr. Velmina Rivera, MD, FAAP
Chief Medical Officer/School Medical Director

Yusein Durakov
Business Administrator

Jameelah Surgeon
Director of HR and Talent Acquisition

Charles Benito
District Assessment Coordinator

Diana Crespo
Director of Enrollment

Naas Yancey
Director 21st Century Leaning Center

Kia Gore
ELA Supervisor K-8

Samantha Rodriguez
Principal K-5

Nancy Torres
Vice Principal K-5

Dr. Damiso Josey
Instructional Principal 6-8

Dr. Kamika Dixon
Vice Principal 6-8

Dr. Kwanza Cogdell
Principal 9-12

Angiana Thompson
Vice Principal 9-12

Dr. Dawn Fichera
Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Matthew Steen
Math Supervisor K-12

Amir Ayres
ELA Supervisor 9-12

Tamika Rice
Director of College Access

Theodore W. Johnson Jr.
College Access Associate K-5

Amanda Mercado
College Access Associate K-5

Maria Cruz
Director of Parent Engagement Center

Lorna Quintana
Coordinator of Parental Engagement, Recruitment and Retention

Christine Skalka
ELA Supervisor K-8

Rosa Ovalles-Vargas
Director of Transportation

Tugba Hoguet
Director of ESL and Special Services

Michele Pastorello
Executive Chef Metz

Jessica Rojas
Food Manager Metz

Steve Pierre-Jacques
Director, Information Technology

Rafael Miranda
Director Fabrication Lab
Staff
Meet Our Central Services Staff
LEAP Academy is supported by an administration and service structure that allows for efficient and quality services. Meet our key personnel.