Micheal Bray

About Micheal Bray

Micheal Bray operates at the intersection of public education, governance, and policy, supporting mission-driven organizations as they navigate complex authorization environments, public accountability, and long-term institutional sustainability.Based in California, Micheal serves as Director of External Affairs with Rocketship Public Schools, where his work centers on charter authorization strategy, district and county relationships, and board-level engagement across diverse political and regulatory contexts. He is frequently engaged in moments that require disciplined preparation, trust-building, and sound judgment—particularly where decisions involve multiple governing bodies, high public visibility, and long-term consequences for communities and institutions.Prior to relocating to the West Coast, Micheal held external affairs leadership roles in the Southeast, supporting school networks and nonprofit organizations through renewal, district collaboration, and growth in politically and ideologically distinct environments. This cross-regional experience—working in both red- and blue-state education systems—has shaped a pragmatic, policy-literate approach grounded in adaptability, credibility, and respect for local context.Micheal’s professional foundation spans instructional leadership, organizational operations, strategic project management, and fund development, informing a systems-level perspective on leadership and execution. His work often bridges boards, superintendents, funders, school leaders, and community stakeholders, with an emphasis on alignment, stewardship, and outcomes that endure beyond any single decision or cycle.He remains committed to strengthening institutions that serve students and families and maintains his profile as a reflection of his current professional posture: grounded in experience, shaped by responsibility, and attentive to opportunities where mission, complexity, and timing align. His work reflects a deep respect for public process and governance, with a professional focus on stewarding institutions through moments that shape long-term direction and public trust.

Experience

1. Director of External Affairs

   Rocketship Public Schools

   Jun 2024 — Present · San Jose, CA, US

   The Director of External Affairs at Rocketship Public Schools leads strategic initiatives to enhance the organization\'s visibility and influence. Key responsibilities include:Strategic Leadership: Developing and executing external affairs strategies to support Rocketship\'s mission and goals.Community Engagement: Building and maintaining relationships with community leaders, policymakers, and key stakeholders to foster support for our educational programs.Public Relations: Managing media relations and external communications to ensure a consistent and positive public image.Advocacy and Policy: Advocating for educational policies and practices that benefit our students and families, and representing Rocketship in policy discussions and public forums.Partnership Development: Establishing partnerships with organizations and institutions that align with our mission to expand our impact and resources.Event Coordination: Planning and executing events that promote community engagement and highlight the achievements of our students and schools.Project Management: Overseeing projects from conception to completion, ensuring that all initiatives are delivered on time, within scope, and within budget.By leveraging communication skills, a strategic mindset, and a passion for educational equity, the Director of External affairs aims to make a lasting impact on the lives of students and the broader community.

Education

• Virginia Tech

  Bachelor of Science - BS, Business Management: Entrepreneurship, Innovation, & Technology