KIPP DC Announces Leadership Transition: Founder and CEO Susan Schaeffler to Step Down; President Shannon Hodge Named Next Chief Executive Officer
WASHINGTON, D.C. — November 19, 2025 — The Board of Directors of KIPP DC Public Schools today announced that Founder and Chief Executive Officer Susan Schaeffler will transition out of the CEO role in February 2026. President Shannon Hodge has been named the organization’s incoming Chief Executive Officer.
“Susan has built something extraordinary, an enduring institution grounded in joy, excellence, and equity,” said Tony Lewis, Chair of the KIPP DC Board of Directors. “Her leadership has transformed public education in Washington, D.C. Shannon Hodge is exactly the right leader to guide KIPP DC into its next era. Her deep experience in D.C.’s education landscape and unwavering belief in our students make her uniquely qualified to build on the strong foundation left by Susan.”
Schaeffler founded KIPP DC in 2001, opening a single middle school that has since grown into one of the highest-performing charter school networks in the District, serving 7,500 students across 22 schools. Under her leadership, KIPP DC established a national reputation for academic excellence, strong community partnerships, and a commitment to preparing students for success in college and careers.
“It has been the privilege of my life to serve the students and families of Washington, D.C.,” said Schaeffler. “KIPP DC has a bright future, and I know Shannon will lead with the same courage, conviction, and care that have defined this work from the beginning.”
Hodge joined KIPP DC in 2022 as president following a national search. A respected education leader in Washington, D.C., she served as founding Executive Director of the DC Charter School Alliance and founding Executive Director of Kingsman Academy Public Charter School.
“I am deeply grateful for Susan’s vision and for the community that has made KIPP DC what it is today,” said Hodge. “With such a strong foundation, I am excited to lead our next chapter—continuing to create joyful, affirming schools where students learn with purpose and grow into young people who will shape the future of our city.”
Media Contact:
Aaron Hampton
Director of Communications & Media Relations
KIPP DC Public Schools
(202) 383-4042
aaron.hampton@kippdc.org
