New CEO Announced: Freedom Preparatory Academy Charter Schools

After a national search, Ra’Chel Ford will take the reins in May.

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Education

Freedom Preparatory Academy Charter Schools (FPA), a public charter school network serving students in Tennessee and Alabama, recently announced its next leader.

Ra’Chel Ford has been named chief executive officer (CEO) of FPA after a national search led by its board of directors in partnership with the K12 Search Group, an executive search firm for charter schools and other education sectors. Ford will take the helm full-time on May 1.

FPA’s mission is to prepare students through rigorous academics, character development, and a commitment to community, to excel in college and life. Ford brings over a decade of leadership experience in public education: interim chief executive officer of KIPP Atlanta Schools, and executive roles including deputy chief executive officer and chief operating officer. Moreover, she has strengthened school operations, developed leadership pipelines, and supported improved student outcomes for students across the network. 

Ra’Chel stood out throughout the national search process for her commitment to strong academics, her ability to lead complex organizations, and her alignment with Freedom Prep’s mission,” says Andre Gibson, chair of FPA’s Tennessee Board of Directors. “We are confident she is the right leader to guide Freedom Prep into its next chapter and continue strengthening opportunities and outcomes for our students across the network.” 

Ford also served as chief of staff for District Support at the Tennessee Department of Education, supporting school districts across the state. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Urban Policy Studies from Georgia State University, an MBA in Global Management from the University of Phoenix, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership through the Broad Center’s Urban Educational Leadership Residency. 

Ford brings a deep belief in the potential of all students and a strong commitment to ensuring opportunities and support are accessible for them to succeed in college and in life.