Sam Gradess joined Classical Charter Schools in 2019 as an Instructional Coach. After two years of successful coaching and curriculum development, they served as Director of Summer Learning Academy where they directed the only dual learning summer program in Classical’s history. After taking on this role, Mx. Gradess added to their commitment by joining Classical’s School Leader Fellowship, after which they were promoted to School Director. Prior to joining Classical, Mx. Gradess worked in education programming in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, and Afghanistan. As an educator, with a particular passion for mathematics education, Mx. Gradess taught in one of few New York State classrooms that achieved 100% of scholars getting a 4 on math state tests. They attended St. Lawrence University, graduating with honors in psychology and French and hold a Masters and Professional Certification in Elementary General and Special Education.