In this newly developed role, Sasha will lead AERDF’s growing portfolio of Advanced Inclusive R&D programs — including existing programs EF+Math, Assessment for Good, and Reading Reimagined; as well as future programs AERDF will launch over the next year and beyond. As CPSI, Sasha will provide strategic vision and leadership for all AERDF programs, enhance and codify rigorous program evaluation efforts, and strengthen our technical and R&D infrastructure. He will also oversee a team of research and technology experts across our programs. These experts maintain an evolving infrastructure that safeguards and enables ethical use of data as AERDF programs pursue their R&D goals.
Sasha brings an entrepreneurial spirit and a track record of innovation to his work. He is passionate about leveraging education’s transformative power and driving positive change for districts, schools, students, and communities. Previously, Sasha served as president of Equal Opportunity Schools, where he spent more than 11 years in various roles including Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Program Officer. Before his tenure at EOS, Sasha dedicated himself to grassroots advocacy, organizing students and families for social change through The Institute for Community Leadership. He was also a founding member of the Jack Hunter O’Dell Nonviolence Leadership Education Center.
“AERDF is entering an exciting phase with our growing portfolio of programs now 3 to 5 years into their work at a time when the education R&D ecosystem is maturing and eager to learn, collaborate, and contribute to the field,” said AERDF Chief Executive Officer Auditi Chakravarty. “Sasha’s leadership offers a rich blend of experiences and expertise to build on our progress of the last several years, including a deep commitment to equity-centered school partnerships, a fierce technical acumen, and most importantly, a vision for innovation and how education systems can be reinvented through a deliberate, R&D-driven approach. I am excited to welcome Sasha on board.”
Look out for reflections from Sasha as he’s diving into the role and learning in the coming weeks!
