From Classroom to Leadership
Kiriakos’ career began where her heart still lies — in the classroom. She joined OFY in 2010 as a math teacher at the Fontana center, quickly earning a reputation for connecting with students and helping them see their own potential.
“I fell in love with this work,” she says. “These students are incredible. All they really want is love, respect, and someone to believe in them. When you show up with those things, you can go a long way together.”
Her impact as a teacher led to her appointment as Principal of OFY San Bernardino, where she strengthened student engagement and increased graduation rates through innovative, relationship-driven approaches.
A Career Defined by Growth and Purpose
After leading San Bernardino, Kiriakos transitioned into network-wide leadership roles focused on instructional design, program development, and organizational improvement. She later worked with a human resources firm specializing in diversity, equity, and inclusion, gaining deeper insight into how culture and representation shape thriving teams and learning environments.
When she returned to OFY, she brought with her a broadened vision—one that balances academic rigor with belonging, and operational excellence with empathy. That vision now guides her leadership as Superintendent, where she continues to champion equity, opportunity, and authentic connection.
Representation That Matters
As a first-generation college graduate from San Bernardino, Kiriakos knows firsthand what it means to build pathways where few existed before.
Superintendent Ileana Kiriakos alongside Principal Richard Aguilar during Options for Youth San Bernardino’s Moreno Valley 10 Year Anniversary Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
“Being the first Latina, first-generation Superintendent isn’t just about me,” she shares. “It’s about showing students that they belong in every space where decisions are made. If they can see me here, they can see themselves here too.”
Her leadership is rooted in her own story—one defined by resilience, faith in students’ potential, and a belief that education should meet learners where they are.
A Vision for Schools Made for You
Under Kiriakos’ leadership, OFY continues its mission to provide an education model that adapts to the needs, goals, and realities of its students.
“I want parents and students who feel different to know that being different can be a gift — and that there are many paths forward,” she says. “Even if we’re not the perfect fit, what matters most is that every student finds a way to earn their diploma and reach their goals. That’s why schools like ours are so important.”
Her student-centered approach reflects OFY’s values of connection, compassion, and purpose—values that guide everything from curriculum to community partnerships.
Options for Youth Founder Joan Hall, Superintendent Ileana Kiriakos, and Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Charles Pak — leaders committed to reimagining education
About Options For Youth
Options For Youth (OFY) is a tuition-free, accredited public charter school offering a flexible, personalized learning model for students in grades 9–12. With small class sizes, one-on-one teacher support, and career-focused opportunities, OFY empowers students to graduate and prepare for college, vocational training, or the workforce.
To learn more about OFY’s programs, visit ofy.org.
