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Los Angeles, CA – Options For Youth (OFY), a tuition-free, accredited public charter school serving students in grades 9–12 across California, proudly announces the appointment of Ileana Kiriakos as Superintendent. Her selection marks a historic milestone as the first time in the organization’s history that the role will be held by a Latina and first-generation college graduate.
For Kiriakos, this moment represents both a personal achievement and a collective step forward for representation in educational leadership. Her journey from the classroom to the superintendent’s office embodies OFY’s mission: to create schools designed for every student—schools made for you.
From Classroom to Leadership
Kiriakos’ career began where her heart still lies: in the classroom. She joined OFY in 2010 as a math teacher at the Fontana center, quickly gaining recognition for her ability to connect with students and inspire confidence in their own potential.
“I fell in love with this work,” she says. “These students are incredible. All they really want is love, respect, and someone to believe in them. When you show up with those things, you can go a long way together.”
Her dedication and results led to her appointment as Principal of OFY San Bernardino, where she strengthened student engagement and raised graduation rates through innovative, relationship-centered approaches.
A Career Defined by Growth and Purpose
After leading San Bernardino, Kiriakos transitioned into network-wide leadership roles focused on instructional design, program development, and organizational improvement. She later worked with a human resources firm specializing in diversity, equity, and inclusion, gaining deeper insight into how culture and representation shape thriving teams and learning environments.
When she returned to OFY, she brought with her a broadened vision—one that balances academic rigor with belonging, and operational excellence with empathy. That vision has now culminated in her role as Superintendent, where she continues to champion equity, opportunity, and authentic connection.
Representation That Matters
As a first-generation college graduate from San Bernardino, Kiriakos knows firsthand what it means to build pathways where few existed before.
“Being the first Latina, first-generation Superintendent is not just about me,” she shares. “It’s about showing students that they belong in every space where decisions are made. If they can see me here, they can see themselves here too.”
Her leadership is rooted in her own story—one defined by resilience, faith in students’ potential, and a belief that education should meet learners where they are.
A Vision for Schools Made for You
Under Kiriakos’ leadership, OFY continues its mission to provide an education model that adapts to the needs, goals, and realities of its students.
“I want parents and students to know that school can feel like it was made for them,” she says. “Every learner deserves a place where they’re understood, respected, and supported in reaching their goals. That’s what we do here.”
Her student-centered approach reflects OFY’s values of connection, compassion, and purpose—values that guide everything from curriculum to community partnerships.
About Options For Youth
Options For Youth (OFY) is a tuition-free, accredited public charter school offering a flexible, personalized learning model for students in grades 9–12. With small class sizes, one-on-one teacher support, and career-focused opportunities, OFY empowers students to graduate and prepare for college, vocational training, or the workforce.
To learn more about OFY’s programs, visit ofy.org.
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