Mission Possible: Leading Bold Change Through Strategic Planning
Meet the thoughtful and visionary leaders of Achieve Charter, Greater San Diego Academy, Fenton Charter Public Schools and River Charter Schools, who have guided their schools through change and growth guided by a clear vision for success. Join us to learn from their experiences developing and implementing a strategic plan, including: Knowing if you're ready, willing and able for strategic planning Key questions to ask yourself and your stakeholders Tools for building momentum and making change How to engage your community for a greater impact
Presented by
Superintendent/Executive Director
Achieve Charter School of Paradise Inc.
Casey Taylor is the founder and Executive Director of Achieve Charter Schools of Paradise. After the 2018 Paradise Camp Fire, Casey led her team in reopening schools in temporary facilities in Chico, while building a permanent school facility there. In the 2021-22 school year, Achieve opened Achieve Charter School of Chico at the new facility and reopened Achieve Charter School of Paradise at the original campus in Paradise. She and her team are now working to reopen Achieve Charter High School in Paradise in the coming years.
Director
Jamul-Dulzura Union School District - Greater San Diego Academy
Catherine Ann has been the Director of Greater San Diego Academy since 2015, after joining the school in 2008. A current LifeChanger of the Year nominee, Catherine is most proud of leading GSDA through turbulent times, emerging stronger with a cohesive staff and a thriving community excited about the school’s future direction. Catherine is passionate about discovering the unique spark in each person and helping them believe in their ability to achieve great things.
Chief Executive Officer
Fenton Charter Public Schools
Dr. David Riddick is the Chief Executive Officer for the Fenton Charter Public Schools. Dr. Riddick received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Communications from Loyola Marymount University, Master’s in Educational Leadership from California State University, Northridge, and Doctorate in Educational Leadership from California State University Northridge.
CEO
Thrive Public Schools
Dr. Nicole Assisi is an experienced superintendent, principal, teacher and entrepreneur. San Diego Business Journal recognized her as a “40 under 40” leader and a finalist for CEO of the Year. Her schools were named among the most innovative in the nation and received a CA Senate Commendation. As a professor, Dr. Assisi has worked at the University of Cambridge, UCLA, CSU Dominguez Hills and the University of San Diego. Nicole holds a doctorate in educational leadership from USC, two master’s degrees, is a certified Professional Certified Behavioral Analyst, and holds an International Coaching Federation coaching certificate.
Superintendent
River Charter Schools - Lighthouse Charter School
Roxanna Bautista Villaseñor is a visionary educational leader with 25 years of public education experience. As Superintendent of River Charter Schools, she champions systemic change, equity, and excellence for all students. Her leadership journey includes founding a California Public Charter School and holding roles such as Assistant Superintendent and Executive Director within the traditional public school setting, where she fostered staff growth and student achievement through a systems-thinking approach. A passionate advocate for dismantling barriers, Ms. Villaseñor's work ensures historically marginalized students thrive. Additionally, she serves as a Director at Large for ACSA, shaping equitable educational landscapes statewide.