Rowlett Academy Names Cathy Choate as First Head of Schools
Rowlett Academy K-8 has selected Cathy Choate to serve in the newly created position of Head of Schools, a new leadership role designed to oversee the organization’s K–8 operations and long-term strategic direction.
The appointment becomes effective July 1, 2026, following a multi-year review process by the school’s Board of Directors and organizational committees.
According to information released by the school, discussions about creating a K–8 leadership structure began in April 2023 when former Director of Operations Dr. Chuck Fradley presented a proposal to the board outlining the potential need for a Head of Schools position. An exploratory committee was formed to study the idea before the board created a Director of Operations role later that year, which Dr. Fradley filled.
Fradley resigned from the position in October 2025 after accepting a role with the School District of Manatee County. Following his departure, the board revisited the original proposal and formed a new committee to review the organization’s K–8 structure. The committee ultimately recommended establishing a Head of Schools role in January 2026.
The updated organizational structure and job description were approved by the board in February 2026, followed by a search process involving both internal and external candidates. The Search Committee presented finalists to the board in April, and Choate was selected for the position after interviews and review of supporting materials.
The Head of Schools position will serve as the lead administrator for the K–8 organization and oversee areas including academics, strategic planning, finance, facilities, transportation, food services, and charter compliance. School officials said the role is intended to strengthen communication, organizational consistency, and long-term planning across both campuses while preserving the unique identity of the elementary and middle school programs.
Rowlett Academy stated that both campuses will continue to operate with separate principals responsible for daily operations, students, staff, and families. Choate will continue serving as Elementary Principal through the remainder of the 2025–2026 school year while transitioning into the new leadership role. A search for the next elementary principal is already underway.
School leaders said the transition is not expected to significantly affect students’ day-to-day experiences and that the goal of the new structure is to support stronger K–8 continuity, leadership development, and long-term organizational success.
