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Every strong school starts with strong leadership—and across Milwaukee, our Teach For America alumni are showing what that looks like every single day. As we enter the season of gratitude, I want to take a moment to recognize the incredible principals and assistant principals who began their journeys as Teach For America corps members and have since grown into leaders shaping our city’s schools.
At Teach For America Milwaukee, more than 250 alumni continue to serve in classrooms and school communities across the region. Among them are four remarkable school leaders we’re spotlighting—each of whom now lead with the same belief in what’s possible for all kids that brought them to the classroom years ago.
We are proud to partner with these leaders who are building school environments where teachers can grow, students can thrive, and families feel deeply connected. Their vision, commitment, and care are strengthening Milwaukee’s schools every day.
Ashlei Miller / principal at Carmen Middle & High School, Northwest Campus
For Ashlei Miller, leadership is deeply personal.
“I became a principal because I believe deeply in the brilliance of our students and the power of a school to change lives,” she said.
At Carmen Northwest, Miller leads with both urgency and compassion—prioritizing student achievement while ensuring joy and belonging remain central to the school culture.
“Our staff is coming together with urgency and love,” she said. “Our students feel it. Families feel it. You can see it in the pride our young people carry.”
Miller describes being a school leader in Milwaukee as “leading with heart and courage,” and she’s grounded by a quote from Bayo Akomolafe: “The times are urgent. Let us slow down.” It’s a reminder that the work demands both urgency and humanity.
Matthew Cashman / primary school principal at Notre Dame School of Milwaukee, Mother Caroline Campus
A former Teach For America corps member in St. Louis, Matt Cashman has carried his love of teaching into his leadership role at Notre Dame School of Milwaukee.
“Becoming a principal felt like an opportunity to have a wider impact—beyond my classroom,” Cashman said. “Every day brings new joys and challenges, and getting to experience those with an amazing team on behalf of amazing students and families is a blessing.”
He’s proudest of the joyful, inclusive culture that defines his school.
“Our school is a place where people want to be—where everyone’s dignity is valued,” he said.
Cashman is inspired by the legacy of the School Sisters of Notre Dame, who founded the school nearly two centuries ago. Their mission guides his belief that “every child is deserving of a great education” and that schools must be “places where all are welcome.”
Misa Sato / Assistant Principal, Reagan High School
At Reagan High School, Assistant Principal Misa Sato draws inspiration from her students.
“Their passion, curiosity, and resilience make coming to work an absolute privilege,” she said.
Sato’s journey into school leadership began when her principal encouraged her to take on leadership roles and stretch her impact. Today, she leads with a vision of continuous improvement—ensuring Reagan remains a place of excellence and opportunity.
She finds joy in watching the ripple effect of her school community.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see our alumni making a difference throughout Milwaukee—in healthcare, non-profits, or by returning to serve within MPS,” she said.
Kristy Lowell / principal at Fernwood Montessori
At Fernwood Montessori, Principal Kristy Lowell leads with conviction and compassion. “I believe strongly that all children deserve the best education imaginable,” she said. “It paves opportunities for their futures.”
While she’s proud of Fernwood’s academic gains, Lowell’s greatest pride lies in the kindness she sees among her students. “I see them go out of their way to make others feel welcomed,” she said. “It reminds me how remarkable our students are.”Rooted in Montessori philosophy, Lowell holds close the words of Dr. Maria Montessori: “We must look to the children as a vehicle for bringing change to humanity.”
It’s a belief that shapes not only her leadership, but also the nurturing environment she’s built at Fernwood.
Honoring the heart of our schools
As we move further into the school year, it’s clear that Milwaukee’s principals are the steady force behind so much of what makes our schools work. Their leadership helps teachers thrive, families feel connected, and students believe in their own brilliance.
At Teach For America Milwaukee, we’re honored to work alongside these incredible leaders and to celebrate their dedication. w When principals lead with purpose and passion, our entire community thrives.
Michael Nguyen is the executive director of Teach For America Milwaukee
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