KIPP Atlanta Schools, a network of 10 tuition-free, public charter schools and one partner school serving scholars in kindergarten through 12th grade across Atlanta and East Point, has launched a nationwide search for its next chief executive officer (CEO). The board of directors has partnered with executive search firm Edgility Search to identify a leader who will build on the organization’s academic achievements and strengthen partnerships among scholars, families, educators, and the community.  

“After years of academic success, our board is excited about the opportunity to hire a CEO who can continue the momentum and create a learning environment where every scholar has the tools, resources and confidence to create the future they want for themselves and their community,” said Joe Arnold, chair of the KIPP Atlanta Schools Board of Directors. “We are focused on finding a leader who embodies our belief that every scholar deserves a joyful and excellent education and opportunities that lead them toward a fulfilling life.”

The search follows a milestone school year, culminating in the graduation of KIPP Atlanta Schools’ inaugural Full Promise Scholars class. These 44 students, the first to begin and end their K-12 education journey within the KIPP system, are part of a graduating class that earned more than $19.4 million in scholarships, with many attending top-tier colleges and universities this fall.

KIPP Atlanta Schools continued its academic progress in the 2024-2025 school year. Year-over-year gains included a rise in Literature and Composition end-of-course results, from 17.6% to 32.2% at the proficient and above levels, and an increase in science end-of-grade (grades 3-8) scores, from 41.8% to 55.5% at the developing and above achievement levels. Reading achievement reached 51.2%, meeting the network's internal goal for the third consecutive year. Additionally, three of four high school course assessments showed improvement, with Algebra I performance exceeding pre-pandemic 2019 levels

Ra’Chel Ford, who has held various leadership positions since joining the organization in 2014, most recently as deputy CEO, will serve as interim CEO during the search process. The search is expected to conclude in December 2025, with a permanent CEO announced in January 2026.