Staff Directory

Ashley Redfearn

Chief Executive Officer

aredfearn@ap-schools.org

Ashley Redfearn, has been educating children in Philadelphia for two decades. After earning her BA from the University of Maryland, and MA from Arizona State University, Ashley completed her studies in education with an MeD and Principal Certification from Temple University. She believes in creating safe and supportive school communities where families, children, and educators can learn together. A founding administrator at Tacony Academy, Ashley served students there for ten years prior to joining American Paradigm Schools.

Ashley is committed to providing families with choice in public school education through high-quality public charter schools. She seeks to inspire each child to utilize their unique talents to make positive contributions in their communities. Emphasizing team building and equitable leadership practices are the foundations of her work in educational leadership. Additionally, Ashley serves on the volunteer board of the Tesla Science Foundation, and coordinates and participates in other science-based volunteer activities for local families.

Todd Parker

Tparker@ap-schools.org

I am a dedicated professional with a diverse background in pharmaceuticals, education, accounting and operations management. After earning my degree from Coppin State University, I initially embarked on a career in the pharmaceutical industry. During this time, I developed a strong attention to detail, organizational skills and a results driven mindset. While I valued my time in the field, I found myself reflecting on my college experiences and the passion I had for contributing to the growth and development of others, particularly in education settings.

During my undergrad years, I spent my summer and winter breaks working at West Oak Lane Charter School. In this role, I managed maintenance staff, ensuring the school facilities were in excellent condition and ready to support a positive learning environment. This experience introduced me to the behind the scenes operations and planted the seed for my eventual return to the field. I quickly realized the vital role that operational efficiency plays in the success of schools and their ability to serve students effectively.

Motivated by this realization, I transitioned back into education. I joined Tacony Academy Charter School 14 years ago as the assistant to the C.E.O. This role gave me the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of the complexities of educational administration. It also allowed me to combine my leadership skills, strategic thinking and passion for education to make a tangible impact on the school community.

Throughout my career, I have remained committed to fostering environments where student and staff can thrive. My unique journey which bridges the pharmaceutical industry and educational leadership, has equipped me with a versatile skill set and a strong dedication to excellence

Richard Trzaska

Educational Consultant 

Rtrzaska@ap-schools.org

Richard Trzaska is an experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the educational management industry. Skilled in K-12 Education, Elementary Education, Special Education, Literacy, and Staff Development. Strong business development professional with a Master’s Degree in Education focused on educational leadership from Arcadia University.

A proven leader in urban traditional public schools, suburban schools, and charter schools. An experienced college Professor for the last eight years at Temple University in the College of Education and Human Development. He is teaching courses in School Operations and Clinical Leadership.

He has been married for many years, with five children and thirteen grandchildren.

Jessica Bowers

Director of Facilities, Safety, and Health

jbowers@ap-schools.org

Jessica Bowers is a lifelong Philadelphia resident and has attended Peirce College where she obtained two degrees. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master’s degree in Organized Leadership and Management.  Formerly employed by the City of Philadelphia she brings 18+ years of solid operational experience to American Paradigm Schools. Jessica currently resides in Northeast Philadelphia with her family. She is an animal lover and has volunteered at the Women’s Human Society in Bensalem in the past. She also is passionate about cooking and nature. Jessica is very excited to join the American Paradigm Schools in her new role as Manager of Facilities and Safety.

Frances Cruz

Compliance Coordinator and Project Manager

fcruz@ap-schools.org

Frances Cruz commenced her tenure with Charter World in July 2011, assuming the role of School Fiscal Officer for Memphis Academy Charter School, following an offer from Santilli & Thomson. In this capacity, she not only fulfilled her primary responsibilities but also undertook additional tasks as assigned. In July 2014, she sought to broaden her professional horizons and transitioned to Tacony Academy Charter School, assuming the dual responsibilities of Food Service Director and School Fiscal Officer 2. Frances dedicated numerous years to her role at Tacony Academy Charter School, driven by her profound commitment to her work and a fervent enthusiasm for fostering children’s welfare.

In 2022, leveraging her unwavering commitment to children’s well-being and her innate affinity for their company, Frances embraced a new challenge as Compliance Coordinator at American Paradigm Schools. In this role, she is poised to make a more impactful contribution to the comprehensive compliance endeavors spanning all institutions within the American Paradigm Schools network. Her steadfast dedication to upholding compliance standards remains unwavering as she continues to advance the organization’s mission and objectives.

Rita Estrada

Executive Assistant 
restrada@ap-schools.org

Gabrielle Capanna

Client Experience Coordinator
gsnow@ap-schools.org

Scott L. Kramer, SPHR, SHRM-SCP

Chief of Staff & CHRO
skramer@ap-schools.org

Scott Kramer is a Senior Human Resources Executive and a Nationally Certified Mediator with the National Association of Certified Mediators, bringing over 30 years of progressive experience in Line Management and Human Resources Leadership. He has demonstrated success in translating business strategies into value-based, multi-domain HR initiatives focused on performance, organizational development, workforce planning, and cultural turnaround initiatives within corporate, health care, e-commerce, education, and manufacturing environments.

Scott is a hands-on, results-oriented leader who leverages business metrics, employee performance, and management accountability to maximize business results. In his previous role as the Senior Director of Human Resources for CheapCaribbean.com, Scott played a major role in the acquisition by Apple Leisure Group and Bain Capital, remaining on the Executive Team post-acquisition. He was also an adjunct professor of Management at Rowan University for over eight years and has published a book on 529 plans with Tate Publishing.

Before joining American Paradigm Schools, Scott served as Vice-President and CHRO of Corporate Call Center prior to their acquisition by The Results Group. Most recently, Scott was appointed as a judge for the Human Resource Department of the Year awards.

Brittney Colarullo

Director of Human Resources and Workforce Development
bburgos@ap-schools.org

Brittney Colarullo serves as the Director of Human Resources and Workforce Development at American Paradigm Schools, where she provides strategic leadership in human resources, educator certification, talent development, and workforce strategy throughout the network. Her work focuses on building sustainable pathways into the education profession, developing and retaining high-quality educators, and removing barriers to teacher certification and career advancement.

Brittney holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources, an MBA in Human Resource Management, and the Professional Human Capital Leader in Education (pHCLE) credential through the American Association of School Personnel Administrators (AASPA).

Dania Rivera

Human Resources Business Partner
drivera@ap-schools.org

Dania Rivera joined American Paradigm Schools in 2015 as the Office Manager. Ms. Rivera performs a variety of duties around the office that include maintaining office services by organizing operations and procedures, preparing payroll, controlling correspondence, reviewing and managing supply requisitions and monitoring clerical functions.

Dania started her career as an Administrative Professional in 2000, while working at John F. Kennedy Community Center. Prior to her current role, Dania served as the Administrative Assistant at the Health Promotion Council and as the Center Manager at CORA’s Early Years Preschool. In both roles, she oversaw the support operations of the organization, ensured that there were effective information/ communication flow, and that resources were employed efficiently throughout the business. In addition, Dania holds a part time job at the Philadelphia International Airport where she performs the duties of a Customer Service Agent.

In her free time, Dania enjoys dancing, listening to music, reading and taking road trips with her family.

Kristine Magargee

Chief Academic Officer
kmagargee@ap-schools.org

As the Chief Academic Officer for American Paradigm Schools, Kristine Magargee is responsible for the effective operation of the general administration of all Academic programs and supports at American Paradigm schools.  She has created and presented parent workshops and promoted the organizational mission with programs and services consistently presented in a strong and positive image.

Under her leadership, the Academic Team’s focus lies on meeting the needs of all learners through purposeful instruction and a supportive community.  Prior to her current role, Magargee was CEO, and Principal at First Philadelphia Charter School for Literacy.

A 1997 graduate of Vassar College with a BA in Religion and Education, Magargee earned a Masters in Educational Leadership from Arcadia University in 2005 and holds a K-12 Pennsylvania Administrator’s Certificate and a K-6 Pennsylvania Teaching Certification.

Dr. Nicole Allison, Ed.D., ABA, LBS

Director of Caring School Communities
nallison@ap-schools.org

In 1992, Dr. Allison attended Millersville University where she majored in Psychology, earning a B.A. In 2004, in pursuit of continuing the path of higher education, Dr. Allison attended Cheyney University where she completed the degree requirements for her Master’s in Special Education with a focus on Behavior Modification. In 2008, Dr. Allison was accepted into the doctoral program at Arcadia University and in 2013 earned the degree of Doctor of Education with a concentration in Special Education. As Dr. Allison has always maintained an interest in behavior and what motivates others, Dr. Allison continued to pursue this path of interest and in August 2019, Dr. Allison received her certification in Applied Behavior Analysis from Acadia University.

Dr. Allison has worked in the Behavioral Health and Education field for over 25 years as a Mental Health Professional, Outpatient/Mobile/Lead Therapist, Licensed Behavior Specialist Consultant, Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Service Supervisor, and Certified Applied Behavior Analyst. Dr. Allison believes in providing an equitable learning environment for all our young scholars empowering them with “voice and choice,” coupled with a safe and nurturing community. The educational environment should highlight each scholar’s strengths and foster a genuine partnership of support and mutual respect for our families and surrounding community.

Max Klink, Ed.D

Director of Integrated Learning
mklink@ap-schools.org

Max Klink began his career in education as a teacher at Taggart Elementary School in South Philadelphia in 2002 and continued as a first grade teacher at Willard Elementary and Folk Arts Cultural Treasures Charter School. For the past fourteen years he has served in a number of school based and central office leadership roles in charter and public schools in Philadelphia. Prior to this role he was the Chief Academic Officer at First Philadelphia Preparatory Charter School before going to American Paradigm Schools.

Max believes that all children deserve access to high quality schools and teachers so they can be successful in their chosen careers and life. He is excited to continue his support of students, teachers and administrators with American Paradigm Schools.

He has a Doctorate in Education Leadership, with his studies focused on distributed leadership and the sustainability of leadership practices, from the University of Pittsburgh, a Masters of Education in Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment form Walden University, principal and teaching certifications from the University of Pennsylvania, ESL program specialist certification from Temple University and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Rhode Island School of Design.

Lydia Jerchau

Director of Pupil Services
ljerchau@ap-schools.org

Lydia Jerchau, Director of Pupil Services joined American Paradigm Schools during the summer of 2019. She has had the privilege of supporting students and their families,  participating in the professional development of teachers and administrators, and ensuring that special education programs are compliant in the delivery of services to students from kindergarten through high school including post secondary transition and beyond for the past 4 decades.

Lydia graduated from Pennsylvania State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education followed by a Master of Education and Secondary Principal’s certification while attending Arcadia University.  She was nominated to and joined the Governor’s Advisory Committee on behalf of special education, crafted a grant for School Wide Positive Behavior Support, and participated in the founding of two charter schools .Lydia has been part of the charter school movement since 2004.

Victoria Wood

College Counselor 
vwood@ap-schools.org

Victoria Wood has been counseling students in Philadelphia’s charter and public schools for close to six years. Victoria earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Psychology in 2005 and a Master of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education in 2008. In 2009, Victoria continued her education at Eastern University where she earned a Dual Certification in School Counseling.

Victoria is committed to providing students with the guidance and support that they need to succeed. She is passionate about supporting, encouraging and motivating students to help them achieve their goals.

Victoria is a Philadelphia native who loves to spend time with her daughter, husband and family. She also enjoys traveling, bowling and relaxing during her free time!

Kyle Black

Director of ELA Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment K-12
kblack@ap-schools.org

BS Secondary Education & BA English (Temple University, 2013)
MEd. Educational Leadership (Grand Canyon University, 2020)

Kyle Black is honored to be joining the Academic Team at American Paradigm Schools after completing seven years of service at First Philadelphia Preparatory Charter School. In his time at First Philadelphia, Kyle was a founding English Language Arts Teacher for the high school, Dean of Academics, and Assistant Principal for the Middle School. He is excited to utilize his experience and knowledge as a teacher, instructional leader, and administrator to serve the students at all four American Paradigm Schools.

In 2016, Kyle co-authored the first-prize-winning grant in the National Constitution Center’s Civic Literacy Contest. In 2017, he delivered the keynote address at a Google ExploreEDU event sponsored by Promevo and published an entry on Google’s education blog. Later that year, he joined the National Association for the Advancement of Teacher Education (NAATE) as a member of Cohort XI. Throughout his time at First Philadelphia, he partnered with Women’s Campaign International to offer the Girls’ Advocacy and Leadership Series to help cultivate advocacy skills in the young women with leadership potential in the school community. For this work, he was recognized by Vision 2020, a national coalition of individuals and organizations working together for women’s economic, political, and social equity.

He is a lifelong resident of Philadelphia and proud graduate of Temple University.

Brittany Reid-Harden

Director of ELA Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment K-12
breid@ap-schools.org

Brittany’s divine purpose is to create an academy that consistently elevates the full scholar using the rigorous culturally relevant curriculum that cultivates healthy relationships and builds and maintains productive and progressive relationships. Her driving force is her late parents who exhibited equal parts love, hard work, and work ethic in their own lives. Her goal is to one day open a school that embodies what they dreamt for her and what she’s dreamt for herself.

In her 18 years of teaching, she has taught grades 4 – 12 ELA and Social Studies. She has served in Administration as an Academic Advisor, led content workshops, and wrote curriculum for ELA departments. In her work, she enjoys teaching Social Justice and our stories (history) through literature.

In her personal life, Brittany is a Philadelphia Eagles fan and a BIG aunt to 13 nieces and nephews ranging from 1 yr. – 21 years old. She enjoys traveling and vows to take at least one trip a year. Brittany is also a dog mom to the most handsome and affectionate chocolate labrador/pitbull mix named Vin, affectionately referred to as Bubs or Bubba.

Brittany recently decided to return to school to earn her doctorate in Educational Leadership. She previously earned her Associates and Bachelors degrees in Advertising Communications and Marketing Communications (respectively) from Johnson & Wales University in Providence, Rhode Island. Earlier in her career she worked with a Domestic Violence agency doing public relations. In doing that work she helped get a bill passed that prohibits domestic violence offenders from purchasing and/or owning a firearm. While in Providence she worked as a teacher (high school) as well as hosting workshops supporting the positive development of young ladies. She went on to pursue and achieve her Masters degree in Multicultural Education from Eastern University in St. David’s, PA.

Teaching has been an amazing experience for Brittany and she expresses gratitude for all that she has learned and all of her supporters. She’s excited to join the team at APS on this journey, creating and elevating curriculum and cultivating growth.

Susan Senek

Director of ELA Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment K-12
ssenek@ap-schools.org

B.A. International Relations – University of Pennsylvania
M.S.Ed. Reading, Writing, and Literacy – University of Pennsylvania

Susan has 16 years of teaching experience, including 14 in American Paradigm schools, where she has promoted the love of reading as K-8 Librarian at both Tacony Academy (2013-2021) and First Philadelphia Prep (2007-2013). She began her career as an educator at Blaine Elementary in the School District of Philadelphia, where she taught 1st and 2nd grades. She has also worked as a research coordinator and a website designer. Susan’s research interests include the interrelationship of theory and practice, inquiry stance, and ethnography of education.

Susan and her husband Joe live in Fox Chase and enjoy visiting family & friends, off-season trips to the shore, and debating whether baseball (Susan) or hockey (Joe) is the greatest sport.

Kenneth Jones

Math Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment
kjones@ap-schools.org

Greetings, my name is Kenneth Jones, and am an Instructional Coach at American Paradigm Schools. My career in the profession spans over 10 years as an educator of Mathematics, in which I have supported many schools and all grade levels from K-12.

I am Philadelphia born and raised, and although I have lived in other places, I’ve always eventually returned to the city – where I have been residing for the past 5 years.  My undergraduate education was at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore with a degree in Mathematics, and my graduate education at Drexel University, with my certification in Secondary Mathematics and a degree in Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum.

My educational philosophy is all students can achieve! I have a great passion for mathematics and education in general – I enjoy learning from others and witnessing their learning.  I know that my life in education is a calling rather than a job, and coupled with relationship building have established my career foundation.

When I am not working, I enjoy reading, sports, music, games, and spending time with my soon-to-be wife.  I am really excited to be on the team!

Tho Huu Phan

Math Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment

Tho received an A.B. in East Asian Studies from Brown University and an M.S.Ed in Elementary Education from the University of Pennsylvania. Following graduation, he relocated to Philadelphia, joined the Teach For America program, and began his teaching career at the Folks Arts Cultural Treasures Charter School where he taught multiple elementary subjects.

Later, he transitioned to Mastery Charter Schools and honed in on elementary mathematics education as a teacher and teacher leader. More recently, he has taught at First Philadelphia Prep Charter School for the past 4 years. In addition to his teaching, Tho has experience in enrichment, after-school, and summer programming as well as standardized testing and admissions preparation for students and adults.

Outside of work, Tho coaches the Philadelphia Chinatown Dragon Boat Team and enjoys escape rooms and traveling with his partner.

Mohamed Hassan

mhassan@ap-schools.org

Mohamed acquired both his B.A. in Biology and History and an M.A. in European and Medieval History from Queens College – CUNY in Flushing, NYC. Upon graduating, Mohamed moved to Philadelphia to pursue his Ph.D., in Religious Studies at Temple University. Over his doctoral career, Mohamed taught for Temple, Rowan, Jefferson Universities and Ursinus College in areas such as Gender and Political theory, the History of Christianity, Islam and Judaism, and various introductory courses to Religion, Gender, Sexuality and women’s studies. While at Temple University, Mohamed worked on a committee tasked with overhauling the University-wide Learning Management System and overseeing the rollout of Canvas as the University’s standard LMS across the university system. With a strong background in academia, Mohamed eventually joined College Possible to work for a mission-driven organization serving first-generation, low-income students as they navigate the journey to and through college. There Mohamed also worked on helping his team transition CRMs to Salesforce and training team-members on its uses.  With a strong data-mindset, Mohamed worked to continuously adopt data as an underlying indicator for student progress and success to and through college. He eventually integrated data by utilizing reports and dashboards to reform how they utilized collected data to inform programming outcomes. During his free time, Mohamed enjoys cooking and catering for individuals and large groups with his partner. He is an avid fan of video games, anime and comic books and loves binging 90s sitcoms on Netflix! Mohamed has two amazing dogs: one, a German shepherd named Khaleesi and the other, a Maltese-shih tzu mix named Hodor.

Aishwarya Gautam

Education Data Analyst
agautam@ap-schools.org

Aishwarya earned her master’s in computer science from the University of Texas at Dallas in 2024. Driven by a passion for harnessing data to positively shape student careers, Aishwarya has gained experience as a Data Analyst Intern at Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, where she developed Tableau dashboards and reduced spending by 10%. Her technical expertise spans Python, SQL, Tableau, and machine learning, with significant project work including AI-driven health solutions and comprehensive data analysis on global layoffs.

Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Aishwarya holds a diploma in Indian Classical Dance, reflecting her creativity and enthusiasm for engaging conversations that inspire her. Her dedication to enhancing school education is central to her work, making her a valuable asset in the data analytics field.

Venkat Keerthan Boddu

Education Data Analyst
VBoddu@ap-schools.org

Venkat earned a master’s degree in business Analytics from the University of Texas at Dallas, which provided a strong foundation for understanding and working with data. After working with companies like Daikin and Escalent, he developed a talent for analyzing data to help organizations make informed decisions, turning complex information into clear, actionable insights. In addition to his technical skills in SQL, Python, R, Tableau, and AWS Cloud Computing, he excels at communicating data-driven insights to diverse audiences, ensuring that the information is both understandable and useful. He is an eager learner and adapts quickly to new trends in the field.

Outside of work, he enjoys watching TV shows and playing badminton, finding a balance between relaxation and staying active.

Fanty Marc

Director of Instructional Coaching
fmarc@ap-schools.org

Fanty is the Director of Instructional Coaching. She has worked in Philadelphia public schools for over fifteen years before becoming a Coach at American Paradigm Schools. During those years, she served as an elementary teacher and a Math Instructional Coach.

Although Fanty is originally from Brooklyn, she has lived in Philadelphia for most of her life. Also, Fanty has earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology and a Master’s degree in Curriculum, Instruction and Technology- (both from Temple University).

Fanty is passionate about empowering others, promoting a growth mindset, preparing 21st Century learners and developing lifelong learners. And when she is not working, she is either spending time with her husband and two sons or enjoying either a good book, a good show/movie or good food. (Her weaknesses are chocolate and baked goods!) Lastly, as a mom of 2 boys, she’s also had no choice but to love Star Wars and all superheroes!

Ashley Fisher

Academic Coach
afisher@ap-schools.org

Ashley began her teaching career with American Paradigm schools as a 7th grade English Language Arts teacher at Memphis Street Academy. For the past several years, she has also proudly taught students at Julia DeBurgos Elementary School and Benjamin Franklin High School in The School District of Philadelphia.

Ashley has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Saint Joseph’s University and a Master’s degree in Reading Education from East Stroudsburg University. In addition to her teaching experiences in elementary, middle, and high school settings, Ashley enjoys exploring topics related to K-12 literacy and serves as a Teacher Consultant for The Philadelphia Writing Project.

Outside of work, you can find Ashley spending quality time with her husband and daughter, reading a library book on her Kindle, and ordering some good Thai takeout.

Jennifer Parks

Academic Coach
jparks@ap-schools.org

Jen attended Holy Family University in Philadelphia where she received three different degrees. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Eduction, a Master’s of Education, and a Science in Counseling Psychology. She loves learning new things and sharing that knowledge with her students. She first worked for the School District of Philadelphia where she taught a variety of grade levels. After leaving the district she made Tacony Academy Charter School her home for the last six years teaching 6th grade ELA. Jen and her family are very excited about this new adventure she will be taking on here at American Paradigm.

Claire Cunningham

Academic Coach
ccunningham@ap-schools.org

Claire’s teaching career spans 13 fulfilling years, beginning at New Media Technology Charter School, where she taught 7th and 8th-grade English. She later transitioned to American Paradigm Schools, serving as a 12th-grade English/AP Language and Composition teacher at Tacony Academy for ten wonderful years. During this time, Claire developed a deep respect for 18-year-olds and their complex journeys in life and academics.

Claire earned her Bachelor’s degree in Secondary English Education and English from Temple University, where she also completed a Master’s in Urban Education. She has applied this knowledge to structure her classroom environment, methods, and materials to best serve culturally diverse student populations.

Claire and her husband are parents to a wonderful two-year-old son. They enjoy watching him thrive and love traveling together internationally. Claire hopes to raise her son to appreciate and respect different cultures and ideologies, just as she and her husband do.