School Leadership

Principal

Felicia Woods

CEO

Dr. Ron Large

Dean

Kalia Ogden

Felicia Woods

Principal

Felicia Woods has dedicated over a decade to education—seven years in the classroom and three as a principal—serving with compassion, purpose, and a deep commitment to student success. Currently the Principal of Albany Leadership Charter School for Girls, overseeing grades 6–12, Felicia brings both professional expertise and personal care as a wife, mother, and lifelong Albany resident. She earned her associate degree in Education with a concentration in Mathematics from Schenectady County Community College, a bachelor’s in Psychology with a minor in Africana Studies from the University at Albany, and two master’s degrees from Grand Canyon University in Elementary Education and Educational Leadership and Administration, along with New York State School Building Leader certification. Her approach to leadership is grounded in relationships, structure, and high expectations—prioritizing safe, joyful classrooms, collaboration with families and staff, and data-informed instruction that drives achievement. As a Black woman leading in the community where she grew up, Felicia views her work as a calling. She understands the unique strengths and needs of her students and embraces the responsibility to model excellence, integrity, and love. For her, representation matters—when young women see leaders who reflect their experiences, they begin to see new possibilities for themselves. Her vision is simple yet powerful: a school where every student is known, challenged, supported, and prepared for college, career, and life. Together we lead, together we succeed.

Dr. Ron Large

CEO

Dr. Ron Large, a visionary leader in the fields of organizational culture, educational leadership, and school transformation. For over two decades, Dr. Large has championed the power of relationships, connection, and community to drive meaningful change.

Dr. Large currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Albany Leadership Charter School, where he leads the charge in reimagining educational excellence and student empowerment. Prior to this role, he served as the Director of School Quality for National Heritage Academies, overseeing six K–8 urban schools across New York State.

A proven turnaround leader, Dr. Large holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, and both a Master’s and Doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Kalia Ogden

Dean

Kalia Ogden was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. She moved to Albany officially in 2010. She was a graduate of the first graduating class of Albany Leadership in 2013. Now, she currently serves as the dean at Albany Leadership Charter School, where she focuses on promoting student growth and relationships, equity, and a strong culture of accountability and support.

With over 8 years of experience in education, Kalia has worked as an educator for six years at Brighter Choice Charter School for Boys and two years at KIPP Albany Community Charter School. She is committed to the success of all students and every team she serves with.

Kalia holds a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University and a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics from the University at Albany. Outside of work, she enjoys mentoring youth, traveling and being involved in church.

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