Dear Friends of Yu Ying, Welcome to Washington Yu Ying. Each day as the school’s Executive Director, it is with great excitement and commitment that I get to lead this vibrant community that I've come to know and love over the years.

My journey with Yu Ying began much like yours - as a parent and supporter of our school's PA-led events, from the lively Lunar New Year Celebration to the fantastic KidFest. Prior to Yu Ying, I served as the Chief of Staff in the Office of the DC Deputy Mayor of Education. In this capacity, I had the opportunity to work closely on initiatives aimed at supporting the DC community through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. From stabilizing early childcare services to accelerating K-12 learning, my focus has always been on ensuring the well-being and success of children.

I am proud to call DC home and even more grateful to have spent much of my career working with DC schools and non-profit leaders in the District. After graduating from Georgetown University, I began my career teaching elementary and middle school students. This hands-on experience laid the foundation for my subsequent roles, including serving as the Founding Principal at Excel Academy Public Charter School, DC’s first public charter school for girls. During my tenure as principal at DC Scholars Stanton Elementary, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of community engagement and collaborative leadership. Together, we built a nurturing environment where students thrived, teachers flourished, and families felt empowered to actively participate in their children's education.

In July 2022, I returned to my favorite place - elementary school - to join the fantastic Yu Ying team. As the Executive Director, I am thrilled to lead the school through an exciting phase in its development and help the organization expand to serve more students and add a second site slated to open in Fall 2024.

Above all else, I am passionate about bringing communities together to solve complex challenges. I am deeply committed to each and every one of our students and families here at Yu Ying.

I invite all who are new to Yu Ying to come visit us, experience the magic of childhood in person, and I look forward to welcoming you personally.

Carlie