Carlos, a native of Washington Heights, New York City, has dedicated 28 years to helping young people achieve happy, self-sufficient lives through education. He began his career as a chess teacher for special needs youth at Ramapo for Children. His college essay, “Teaching Chess and Life,” was published in the New York Times, leading him to Hamilton College, where he studied Communications and Philosophy as a first-generation HEOP student. This sparked his passion for making higher education accessible to others.

Carlos joined KIPP NYC in 2007, starting as part of the KIPP Through College Team and later becoming Director of College Services. To address challenges faced by students, he transitioned to KIPP NYC College Prep High School, serving as an Ethics/Leadership teacher, Dean, Assistant Principal, and eventually Principal. After five years as a school leader, Carlos joined KIPP’s Regional Leadership team, developing leadership programs for aspiring principals and leaders.

After 18 years with KIPP, Carlos moved to the Florida Charter Institute at Miami Dade College, where he is now the District Director of Leadership Operations. Additionally, he is an Executive Coach for the National Foundation of Black and Latino Male Educators and the Noble Story Group. Carlos earned his Master’s in Educational Leadership from National Louis University in 2014 and is ACC ICF certified. He is a devoted father, husband, and son who enjoys grilling, football, and chess.