About
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Vanessa Rodriguez began her career in education as a bilingual elementary school teacher in the Bronx and as a chapter leader for the United Federation of Teachers. Vanessa brings expertise in instruction, change management, and talent. She joined Citizens of the World Charter Schools (CWCS) as Chief Program Officer in 2016 after serving as the Chief Talent Officer of Newark Public Schools (NPS) where she led the implementation of a ground-breaking pay for performance teacher contract. NPS has 64 schools, 7,000 employees and a student population of approximately 36,000, and is the largest school system in New Jersey.
Previously Vanessa was the Chief Executive Officer of District 79 - Alternative Schools and Programs, a unique citywide network serving disengaged, over-aged, under-credited students within the New York City Department of Education. Vanessa also served as chief of staff and chief operating officer of District 79. Prior to her time at District 79, Vanessa was the national director of recruitment and admissions for New Leaders where she helped school districts across the country recruit and select exemplary school leaders. She also worked in various capacities for Teach For America, including leadership roles in Houston and New York City. Vanessa is currently the Chief Executive Officer at NYC Outward Bound Schools as well as the proud mom of a fourteen year old son.
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