Lauren Hilliard joined KIPP DC in January 2023 as a Floating Administrator and currently serves as the Interim Principal at Lead Academy. Prior to her time at KIPP DC, Lauren held leadership roles in charter schools across Washington, D.C., and Northern California, including Principal, Assistant Principal, and Dean of Students. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to fostering a strong, positive school culture and creating culturally responsive schools and classrooms where all students feel seen, valued, and supported. This commitment helped her California school become one of the highest-performing in its district.
Originally from the DMV area, Lauren is excited to be back in Washington, D.C.—the city she calls home. She began her education career as a DC Teaching Fellow, specializing in the Early Childhood/Elementary cohort. Lauren holds an undergraduate degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management & Criminal Justice from Virginia Commonwealth University, and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with a focus in Educational Leadership from American University.
Lauren Hilliard | Principal in Residence, Lead Academy, KIPP DC, Washington, DC