Charo Chaney is a results-oriented leader in education with a proven track record of success in our region. She is a certified teacher and administrator dedicated to providing leadership, expertise and ongoing support for the teachers, administrators and students she serves.

Prior to accepting the Head of School co-lead position, Chaney served as Director of Data, Assessment and Professional Development at School District of Beloit. She’s also held influential positions within RPS 205, Chicago International Charter School (CICS) Patriots and Distinctive Schools, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and accelerating the work of charter schools. She volunteers her time as a Board Member for Burpee Museum of Natural History and for Global Outreach Solutions, a non-profit organization supporting development of the continent Africa through professional development and hands-on learning experiences.

Chaney is a lifelong Rockford resident only leaving to attend college at Eastern Illinois University. She and her husband Robert “Bo” are proud parents of sons Robert (18) and Rakim (16).

Annie Baddoo is passionate about the impact a quality education can have on students. She has more than 20 years of experience in education with a strong emphasis and focus on student success and teacher development. Her background includes work at/with public and private schools as well as at higher education institutions with a strong emphasis on teacher development.

Her two decades of education experience is extensive and includes leadership roles at elementary and high schools, curriculum development for teacher/faculty training at higher education institutions, talent development executive for education institutions, and an instructional coach for schools within – and outside – of the Rockford region. Baddoo is well recognized by educators for her positive impact, influence, and outcomes for students and teachers.

Baddoo earned Doctor of Education at Peabody College at Vanderbilt University. She has a Master of Science degree in Teaching (STEM) from Northern Illinois University, Master of Education in Administration and Supervision degree from National Louis University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Oral Roberts University.