James Pasto

About James Pasto

I am a PreK–12 education executive with more than 15 years of experience leading schools, developing leaders, and building systems that improve outcomes for students and communities. My work sits at the intersection of instructional excellence, operational strategy, and equity-driven leadership.Over the course of my career, I have led leadership systems spanning 11 campuses, coached more than 80 school-based leaders, and directed strategic planning across a $20M+ operating portfolio. I specialize in scaling programs, strengthening special education services, and building data-driven frameworks that create measurable academic and organizational gains. Most recently, I improved IEP goal attainment by 20% and increased specialized program utilization by 50% by redesigning systems in partnership with districts.I believe sustainable improvement happens when strong vision meets disciplined execution. Whether I am coaching principals, leading school turnaround efforts, aligning PBIS and MTSS systems, or designing regional strategy, I focus on clarity, accountability, and long-term capacity building.I am certified as a Texas Superintendent, Principal, and Special Education educator, and I remain deeply committed to developing leaders who can transform schools at scale.

Experience

1. Regional Director

   Specialized Education Services, Inc.

   Jul 2024 — Present · Austin, TX, US

   I lead regional operations for specialized education programs across three campuses, partnering with more than 15 district teams and multiple state service centers. I oversee a team of 25 professionals serving students with intensive academic and behavioral needs, ensuring high-quality instruction and regulatory compliance.Key accomplishments:Improved IEP goal attainment by 20%Increased program utilization by 50%Designed scalable systems for student identification, placement, and transition planningStrengthened operational performance across attendance and outcome benchmarks

Education

• Syracuse University

  BA, History and Education

  1999 — 2003

• Loyola Marymount University

  Admin, School Leadership

  2008 — 2010

• Loyola Marymount University

  EdD, Educational Leadership

  2011 — 2014

• State University of New York Cortland

  MS, History Education

  2004 — 2006

Skills

• Higher Education
• Teacher Training
• Staff Development
• Curriculum Development
• Tutoring
• Public Speaking
• Instructional Design
• Program Development
• Educational Leadership
• Classroom
• Lesson Planning
• Curriculum Design
• Teaching
• Community Outreach
• Educational Technology