Leadership

We have charted our vision for Pioneer Academy’s future: strengthening our fundamental proposition of educational excellence, redefining our ethos and values, innovating our growth and communications strategy.

Leadership

students at auditorium during a leadership seminar

We have charted our vision for Pioneer Academy’s future: strengthening our fundamental proposition of educational excellence, redefining our ethos and values, innovating our growth and communications strategy.

Owen O. Akman

Head of School
(973) 405-4169 x 236
E-mail

Monica Bajraktarevic

Assistant Head of School
(973) 405-4169 x 129
E-mail

Ali Bilgin

Head of Upper School
(973) 405-4169 x 208
E-mail

Dr. Mevla Gavaz

Head of PreK-8
(973) 405-4169 x 133
E-mail

Priscilla Lainez

US Dean of Students & DoO
(973) 405-4169 x 118
E-mail

Oznur Duzgun

PreK-4 Dean of Students & DoO
(973) 405-4169 x 180
E-mail

Alex Benevenga

MS Dean of Students & DoO
(973) 405-4169 x 123
E-mail

Brian Caiazzo

K-8 Director of Curriculum & Instruction & PD
(973) 405-4169 x 133
E-mail

Aziz Cubuk

Assistant Head of Upper School
(973) 405-4169 x 126
E-mail

Nermin Selman

HR & Administrative Assistant
(973) 405-4169 x 210
E-mail

Daniel Brooks

Director of Business Operations
(973) 405-4169 x 211
E-mail

Serif Kaplan

IT Director
(973) 405-4169 x 132
E-mail

Luca Gray

Director of Advancement
(973) 405-4169 x 238
E-mail

Board of Trustees

Pioneer Academy’s Board of Trustees is responsible for thegovernance, long-term sustainability, and strategic direction of the School.Guided by Pioneer’s mission and values, the Board works in partnership with theHead of School to ensure that the institution remains academically strong,financially sound, and positioned for continued growth.

As stewards of Pioneer Academy, Trustees provide oversightof the School’s strategic priorities, financial health, institutional policies,and long-term planning. The Head of School and administrative leadership teamare responsible for the day-to-day leadership and operation of the School.

Board members serve without compensation and bring a broadrange of professional experience, perspectives, and commitment to PioneerAcademy and independent education.

Board Officers
Trustees
Honorary Trustee
Advisory Board Members

Mission and Strategy

Safeguarding Pioneer Academy’s mission and establishing the School’s long-term strategic direction.

Financial
Stewardship

Providing oversight of the School’s financial health, resources, facilities, and long-term sustainability.

Governance and Accountability

Maintainingsound governance practices and ensuring that institutional policies support the School’s mission and objectives.

Head of School Partnership

Supporting and evaluating the Head of School while maintaining a clear distinction between Board governance and the School’s day-to-day administration.

Questions or correspondence for the Board of Trustees may bedirected to: board [at] pioneeracademy.org.
WHO WE ARE2027 STRATEGIC PLANSCHOOL PROFILE