Dr. Kai Mathews is a Research Director at UCLA’s Center for the Transformation of Schools. In this position, she leads a statewide project aimed at diversifying the educator pipeline. Dr. Kai (as her students call her) has dedicated her life to creating innovative and equitable learning environments for all students. She is an educator, researcher, and creative strategist who is passionate about liberatory pedagogies and structures in K-12 education. With over 12 years of practice work and research experience with students, teachers, families, and administrators around the country, her areas of expertise and passions include educational equity & justice; culturally sustaining pedagogy; social justice education, Project-Based Learning (PBL); Universal Design for Learning (UDL); Blended Learning(BL); and Design Thinking. As a former 8th grade humanities teacher at High Tech Middle, Chula Vista, Dr. Kai prides herself in creating immersive, interdisciplinary, project-based learning environments that push, uplift, and teach the whole child and allows students to engage in critical inquiry, social advocacy, and divergent dialogue. She is the founder of The Liberatory Classroom, a space that provides on-demand, online learning opportunities for educators who want to see their students thrive in and outside the classroom. Dr. Kai has a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies with a specialization in K-12 education from the University of San Diego, an M.A. in Communication from Ellis University, and a B.A. in English with a minor in Creative Writing from Spelman College.

Rachel Roberts serves as Urban Ed Academy’s Director of Operations, bringing over 12 years of professional experience in non-profit program management. Prior to joining the Urban Ed Academy team, Rachel managed various ASES and 21st CCLC funded programs throughout the Contra Costa Bay Area.

Since joining the organization in 2019, Rachel has worked to establish systems, streamline procedures, and enhance Urban Ed Academy’s operational processes. As part of the senior leadership team, she works continually to develop, implement and evaluate operational initiatives to support organizational priorities.

Dr. John Edwards brings extensive leadership experience and expertise in advocacy and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and is well-equipped to shape Urban Ed Academy’s programmatic vision. His ability to develop highly effective talent management processes, and learning and professional development programs, along with his strong legislative partnerships, positions him to drive progressive policies that foster opportunity and growth.

Dr. Edwards holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Memphis, a Master’s in Public Administration, and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. He is a proud graduate of the certificate program in Organizational Leadership and Strategy at Harvard Business School, showcasing his commitment to honing his skills in strategizing and executing transformative initiatives for maximum impact.