Meet Our Leadership Team

Our experienced leadership team brings together diverse expertise, unwavering commitment to educational excellence, and a shared passion for developing every scholar's potential. Each leader plays a vital role in creating the supportive, high-achieving environment that defines the DC Scholars experience.

Amy Helms

Head of School

  • Amy Helms is a dedicated educational leader who has devoted her career to transforming opportunities for students in underserved communities. As the Head of School at DC Scholars Public Charter School in Washington, DC's Ward 7, she guides a dynamic team of educators in delivering exceptional learning experiences for students from preschool through eighth grade.

    Her journey in education began in the classroom, where she spent seven years teaching fourth and fifth-grade English Language Arts. During this time, she distinguished herself by earning a District award for her outstanding ability to meet the diverse needs of all students. This early experience shaped her understanding of how to create inclusive, engaging learning environments that help every student thrive.

    Amy's commitment to educational excellence is reflected in her own academic pursuits. After completing her undergraduate studies at Tufts University, she went on to earn a Master's in the Arts of Teaching from American University. Furthering her expertise in educational leadership, she later obtained a Master's in Education Leadership from the prestigious Harvard Graduate School of Education.

    Throughout her career, Amy has developed particular expertise in teacher and leader development, strategic planning, and talent strategy. These skills serve her well in her current role, where she leads a growth-oriented team focused on achieving breakthrough results for their scholars. Her leadership philosophy centers on providing rigorous, innovative, and caring educational experiences that empower students to reach their full potential.

    At DC Scholars, Amy combines her classroom experience, academic training, and leadership skills to foster an environment where both educators and students can excel. Her work exemplifies her deep commitment to educational equity and her belief in the transformative power of high-quality education.

LeAngelo Emperator

Chief of Academics and Operations

  • LeAngelo Emperator is an accomplished educational leader serving as Chief of School Programs, bringing 13 years of comprehensive experience in education across teaching and administrative roles. He holds a Master of Science in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies in Elementary Education, forming a strong foundation for his leadership in educational program development.

    A founding member of DC Scholars, Mr. Emperator's career began in early childhood and elementary education. He spent eight years teaching students from PreK3 through 3rd grade; his success in the classroom led to progressive leadership roles over the next five years, including Director of Culture and Family Engagement, Elementary Principal, and ultimately Principal overseeing both elementary and secondary education.

    As Chief of School Programs, he leverages his expertise in Leadership and Executive Coaching Development to enhance educational outcomes and support professional growth among staff. His leadership approach is particularly focused on creating comprehensive educational programs that serve diverse student populations and promote academic excellence.

    Mr. Emperator's educational philosophy is deeply rooted in equity and high expectations, with a particular focus on empowering students from underserved communities. As a Black male educator, he is passionate about creating learning environments where students of color feel seen, heard, and valued. His commitment to transformative education has been recognized through his participation as a panelist for CityTutor DC, where he shared insights on innovative teaching practices.

    Throughout his career, Mr. Emperator has demonstrated a consistent commitment to fostering educational environments that combine rigorous academic standards with culturally responsive practices. His experience spanning early childhood through middle school education, coupled with his focus on culture and family engagement, makes him particularly effective in developing comprehensive educational programs that serve diverse student populations.

Osato Omokaro

Associate Director of Operations

  • Osato Omokaro is a Jersey-born leader and advocate with over six years of experience in education, both inside and outside the classroom. After relocating to the DMV to pursue her Master’s in Counseling Psychology, she deepened her commitment to student wellness through a thesis focused on the “Implications of Negative Communication in the Educational System”. This powerful research continues to shape her approach to creating supportive, affirming environments for all students.

    With a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master’s in Counseling Psychology, and certification in Mental Health First Aid USA, Osato brings a trauma-informed, equity-centered perspective to her work as Associate Director of Operations at DC Scholars. She leads core operational systems—spanning facilities, technology, safety, enrollment, compliance, and crisis response with the belief that efficient operations are a foundation for academic and emotional success.

    Osato is driven by her love for children and a deep-rooted passion for mental health. She blends compassion with strategy, ensuring her work not only supports day-to-day functionality but also reflects a broader commitment to advocacy, access, and whole-child well-being. Her leadership plays a critical role in helping DC Scholars remain a place where students and staff feel seen, supported, and set up to thrive.

Alexis Redeemer

Principal

  • Alexis Redeemer serves as Principal, bringing 14 years of comprehensive experience in education spanning teaching, coaching, and administrative roles. Her extensive academic credentials include a Master of Science in Educational Research from Johns Hopkins School of Education, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Queens University of Charlotte, and a Bachelor of Arts in Political, Legal, and Economic Analysis & Mathematics from Mills College.

    Ms. Redeemer's professional journey began in the classroom, where she spent four years teaching and coaching Middle School English Language Arts (ELA). She then transitioned into leadership roles, serving as an Assistant Principal with an ELA focus at the high school level and later as Director of ELA for K-8 programs. Through these roles, she has accumulated nine years of leadership experience, demonstrating expertise in curriculum development, instructional leadership, and program management.

    Her commitment to professional growth is evidenced by her diverse certifications, including designation as a Licensed Trainer in Restorative Practices from the International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP). She has further enhanced her expertise through specialized certifications in Instructional Design and Educational Finance from Georgetown University. She maintains valid administrative and teaching licenses, ensuring her continued ability to serve in both instructional and leadership capacities.

    As a specialist in Leadership, Learning, and Development, Ms. Redeemer's educational philosophy emphasizes creating equitable learning environments that empower students to discover their unique strengths. She is particularly skilled at implementing programs that foster critical thinking, collaboration, and compassion, with a focus on preparing students for success in a diverse and dynamic world.

    Throughout her career, Ms. Redeemer has demonstrated a consistent commitment to educational excellence, combining her strong academic background with practical leadership experience to create meaningful impact in educational communities. Her multifaceted approach to education, informed by both research and hands-on experience, positions her as an effective leader in modern educational administration.

Sharneise Jones

Assistant Principal - ECE and Specials

  • Sharneise Jones is an accomplished educational leader serving as Assistant Principal, with extensive expertise in early childhood education and instructional leadership. She holds a Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus on Early Childhood Education and a Bachelor of Science in Child Development & Family Studies, forming a strong foundation for her educational leadership approach.

    With 14 years of combined teaching and leadership experience, Ms. Jones has demonstrated exceptional skill in both classroom instruction and administrative roles. Her seven years of teaching experience in PreK3 and PreK4 classrooms were marked by excellence, achieving an impressive 5.11 score in the Instructional Support Domain. This classroom success translated into effective leadership, as evidenced by her coaching performance with a 4.12 score in the same domain.

    Ms. Jones has progressively advanced in educational leadership, spending four years as an instructional coach for Early Childhood Education before assuming her current role as Assistant Principal of Early Childhood for the past three years. As a certified CLASS Observer, she brings specialized expertise in evaluating and enhancing classroom interactions and instructional quality.

    Her teaching philosophy emphasizes the individuality of each learner and the importance of creating nurturing environments that promote curiosity and creativity. She is particularly skilled at implementing hands-on exploration techniques and building strong relationships that support comprehensive child development across social, emotional, and cognitive domains.

    Throughout her career, Ms. Jones has consistently demonstrated her commitment to early childhood education excellence, focusing on creating developmentally appropriate learning environments that allow young learners to thrive at their own pace. Her combination of classroom expertise and leadership experience makes her a valuable asset in shaping effective early childhood education programs.

Tyriq Simmons

Assistant Principal - Student Support

  • Dr. Tyriq Simmons is a dynamic educational leader who serves as Assistant Principal with a deep commitment to empowering students as autonomous learners. His diverse classroom experience spans multiple subjects and grade levels, including World History, Language Arts, DC Government, AP Literature, and specialized adaptive curriculum development for both ELA and Mathematics.

    Following his undergraduate studies in Psychology at Bowie State University, Dr. Simmons pursued advanced degrees that reflect his dedication to educational excellence. He earned his Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Southern California, with dual specialization in Secondary Social Sciences and Special Education. His academic journey culminated in a Doctorate of Education Leadership & Administration from Liberty University, where his research focused on principals' preparedness to lead special education programs effectively.

    Dr. Simmons's scholarly contributions include his published case study examining the intersection of principal leadership training and special education program management. This research aligns with his professional expertise in special education leadership development and intervention systems planning. His credentials, including the District of Columbia Administrative Services Credential and recognition as a Principal Instructional Leader by the Texas Education Agency, underscore his commitment to excellence in educational leadership.

    As an educational leader, Dr. Simmons specializes in developing comprehensive intervention systems, fostering teacher growth, and conducting quality educational research. His approach to education is grounded in the belief that students are capable of directing their own learning journey when equipped with the proper support and opportunity. This philosophy has shaped his leadership style, emphasizing student agency and investigative learning.

    Through his role as Assistant Principal, Dr. Simmons continues to advocate for innovative educational approaches that recognize and nurture students' inherent abilities to drive their own learning experiences. His combination of classroom experience, research expertise, and leadership skills makes him a valuable asset in shaping the future of education.

Deborah McClary

Assistant Principal for 3-8 ELA

  • Deborah McClary brings nearly two decades of educational excellence to her role as Assistant Principal of 3-8 Humanities at DC Scholars. She has developed expertise across multiple areas of instruction and leadership. Ms. McClary holds a Bachelor of Science from Francis Marion University and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Concordia University.

    Now entering her fifth year at DC Scholars, Deborah has witnessed firsthand the remarkable progress and evolution of the organization. She has observed DC Scholars' transformation into an institution that pays careful attention to student needs and responds thoughtfully to those needs. What keeps her deeply committed to DC Scholars is her alignment with the school's vision, mission, and overarching goals, which ground her in the important work of ensuring comprehensive student development.

    Deborah is passionate about DC Scholars' commitment to providing students with academic and social development, delivering instruction that prepares them for higher education, and creating opportunities for students to learn about the world around them, ultimately preparing them to become productive citizens. She values being part of an organization that prioritizes developing teachers to transform the learning experience for students.

Samantha Thomas

Assistant Principal - K-2 for ELA/Math

  • Samantha Thomas brings over a decade of educational expertise to her role as Assistant Principal for K-2 ELA/Math at DC Scholars. With 12 years dedicated to education, she has cultivated a deep understanding of early childhood learning through her diverse experiences as a PreK-3rd Grade Teacher for nine years and an Instructional Coach for three years.

    Samantha holds a Bachelor's degree in Human Services from the City College of New York and a Master's degree in Reading: Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University. This educational foundation has equipped her with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to support young learners in their critical early years.

    What drew Ms. Thomas to DC Scholars is the school's unwavering commitment to creating a nurturing community where every student feels valued, loved, and supported. This philosophy perfectly aligns with her own passion for fostering young minds and creating environments where children can thrive. She is particularly inspired by DC Scholars' approach of maintaining high expectations while celebrating every achievement, both big and small, on each student's journey toward excellence.

    As an educational leader, Samantha is dedicated to designing joyful learning experiences that ignite curiosity, build confidence, and cultivate a lifelong love of learning in every scholar. Her leadership style embodies the core values of passion and persistence, as she works tirelessly to create supportive and collaborative environments where both students and teachers can flourish and reach their unlimited potential. Ms. Thomas is excited to continue her leadership journey at DC Scholars, where she remains committed to contributing to the growth and success of the entire school community.

Tom Sawko

Assistant Principal for 3-8 Math

  • Tom Sawko brings a unique blend of technical expertise and educational leadership to his role as Assistant Principal at DC Scholars. With eight years of experience in education, Tom has built a comprehensive understanding of instruction and leadership through his diverse roles as an Elementary Teacher, Middle School Teacher, Instructional Coach, and Assistant Principal.

    Mr. Sawko's educational background combines technical proficiency with pedagogical expertise. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Rochester and a Master of Science in Education from Johns Hopkins University. This distinctive combination of engineering knowledge and educational training positions him uniquely to lead STEM initiatives that are both academically rigorous and developmentally appropriate.

    What initially drew Tom to DC Scholars was witnessing the extraordinary dedication of teachers to their students. He vividly recalls visiting classrooms two years ago as an instructional coach and observing incredible educators who built strong relationships, delivered rigorous lessons, and made every child feel truly seen. That powerful experience left a lasting impression and solidified his commitment to the DC Scholars community.

Jahlita Williams

Assistant Principal for Student Culture and Family Engagement

  • Jahlitta “Coach J” Williams is a dynamic leader and educational professional who combines technical expertise with a passion for student development and family engagement. With a diverse academic background including an Associate's degree in Computer Engineering and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Applications, she brings a unique analytical perspective to this role.

    Coach J holds multiple professional certifications, including Athletic Director and Athletic Trainer credentials, as well as comprehensive programming certifications in JavaScript, C++, C, Basic, and Python. She maintains active coaching licenses in both DC and Maryland, demonstrating her commitment to athletics education and professional development. Coach J has held many roles during her career, including: preschool teacher, coach, athletic director, behavior technician, and middle school dean. Each role has strengthened her passion for supporting students both inside and outside of the classroom. A proud Southeast Washington native, Coach J feels that growing professionally and personally in her community at DC Scholars has shaped her into the leader she is today.

Jennifer G. Leonard

Chief Financial Officer

  • Jennifer Leonard has committed her career to supporting high quality education, particularly in public schools in the District of Columbia. Jennifer holds a Juris Doctorate degree from Georgetown University Law Center and a BA, BS, and MBA from Louisiana State University. 

    Through her various leadership roles in the DC Deputy Mayor for Education’s office, public schools, and nonprofits, she has developed a keen understanding of the area’s education, policy, and resource landscape. She believes that anything is possible for students if we hold high aspirations coupled with joy, optimism, strategic planning, and effective execution.

    Jennifer’s journey at the individual charter school level began at DC Scholars in 2017.  She served as Executive Director from 2017 - 2021, during which time she transitioned DC Scholars to an independent LEA. Following her tenure as Executive Director, Jennifer continued supporting DC Scholars as an Executive Coach from July 2021, providing strategic guidance to the Head of School and mentoring directors in areas of her expertise. During this period, she also expanded her impact by supporting several other local charter schools, gaining valuable perspective on best practices across the charter school sector.

    Jennifer has advised and worked with education leaders in the public, non-profit, and private sectors, primarily focusing on system and policy changes to improve the lives of children, youth and families.  She brings strong management, education policy, and finance & budget experience to the team in addition to a drive for operational excellence.   

Connect With Our Leaders

Building strong relationships with families is essential to student success. Our leadership team welcomes the opportunity to connect with you about your child's educational journey, answer questions about our programs, or discuss how we can better serve your family.