Nicolas Retana

Madera, California-based Nicolas Retana founded Ezequiel Tafoya Alvarado Academy Charter Schools in 2005 and oversees the organization as its executive director. Recognized for its success, the school caters to students in kindergarten through 8th grade and was granted a five-year renewal. Previously, Nicolas Retana gained experience in education administration as an associate superintendent of the Compton Unified School District, where he managed the curriculum and finances for all of the cluster schools. He also led multiple schools as a principal, vice principal, or assistant principal, including San Marcos High School and John Jay High School, both in Texas. Dr. Retana began his career as a Spanish teacher at West Mesa High School in New Mexico.

After receiving his BA in secondary education and MA in educational administration from the University of New Mexico, Nicolas Retana studied for his PhD in educational administration at The University of Texas at Austin. In addition to his work with schools, he also served as the president and CEO of Professional Resources Network, LLC, an educational and management consulting firm.