Michael Rosskamm

Mike has over 20 years of experience in public schools and has devoted his professional career to expanding educational access for students and improving achievement outcomes. He is most energized by the vibrancy of students in the halls of a school and eager in his work to leverage opportunities for all students to achieve their dreams and passions through public schooling. He began his career as a high school math teacher in New York City. From the classroom, he moved on to leadership roles at Achievement First, a high performing charter network in New York City that serves predominantly underserved Black and Latinx students where he has led for the past 11 school years. For four years, Mike led the Achievement First Bushwick Middle School campus as principal where he significantly improved overall student achievement, leading the highest performing middle school within the network. During his tenure, the school improved student engagement while increasing reading and math outcomes above district and state averages. Prior to joining DCI, he served as a Regional Superintendent for Achievement First, overseeing four middle school campuses serving 1,300 students. Under his leadership, the schools increased staff retention and outpaced student achievement outcomes in reading and mathematics, while improving pathways in the sciences. Compassionate about coaching and mentoring, Mike has supported numerous educators, especially those from historically marginalized backgrounds, in their pursuit of leadership opportunities. An experienced instructional leader with proven results, as well as business experience, Mike also possesses the financial and operational expertise to lead DCI.

Mike earned a Bachelor of Science and Engineering in Operations Research and Financial Engineering with minors in Teacher Preparation and Finance from Princeton University and a MBA from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University. Mike completed the Broad Residency in Urban Education, a highly competitive leadership program for educational leaders. Mike also graduated from Officer Candidate School with the United States Marines where he earned a commission as a Second Lieutenant that he turned down to pursue a career in public education.

Mike and his family have really enjoyed settling into life in DC. His two kids are 5 and 7 and love that there is more space in DC to run around outdoors. Hiking in Rock Creek Park, playing wiffle ball outside, and attending DC United games have all become favorites for the family. Mike grew up in Cleveland as the second of four boys and maintains his Cleveland sports allegiances. When he gets a moment of time to himself, Mike loves reading fiction, and staying active through pick-up basketball or soccer. Mike has thoroughly appreciated the warm welcome he received as he joined the DCI community and is thrilled that he will remain as part of this vibrant, multicultural community.