Principal 6-12
Tamara Smith
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Ron Large
Dean of Students
Kalia Ogden
Tamara Smith
Principal 6-12
Tamara Smith proudly serves as the Principal of Albany Leadership Charter School for Girls, where she leads with a deep commitment to academic excellence, student empowerment, and strong community connection. Prior to this role, Ms. Smith served as the school’s Director of Curriculum, where she strengthened instructional practices and supported teacher development to ensure rigorous, high-quality learning experiences for all scholars.
Before joining Albany Leadership, Ms. Smith spent five years as an Assistant Principal across Ulster and Dutchess Counties, following 13 years as a dedicated classroom teacher in the Bronx, New York. Throughout her career, she has held a range of leadership roles—including Dean of Students, Math Coach, and Peer Collaborative Teacher—each shaping her belief in continuous professional growth, collaboration, and a relentless pursuit of educational excellence.
Ms. Smith is a passionate instructional leader committed to cultivating a school environment where scholars are challenged, supported, and inspired to lead. She believes in educating the whole child—academically, socially, and emotionally—while fostering a culture grounded in high expectations, accountability, and a strong sense of belonging.
Outside of her professional role, Ms. Smith is a devoted mother, sister, and friend. Her two daughters, Zaryiah and Jahirah, are her greatest source of inspiration and continue to fuel her dedication to education and leadership.
A self-proclaimed nerd and avid Star Wars fan, Ms. Smith enjoys spending time with her family and close circle of friends. She is also a strong advocate for the power of community and is deeply committed to building meaningful connections that support both educators and scholars in achieving success—inside and beyond the classroom.
Together we lead, together we succeed!
Dr. Ron Large
Chief Executive Officer
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 of Students (ALCS Class of 2013)
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.