Leadership

Deyvis R. Salazar is the founder and CEO of Houston Classical Charter School, which was established in 2019. In opening the school to scholars in 2020, Deyvis sought to meet the need for great schools in low-income areas where academic success is scarce and expectations are low. As a free public charter school, Houston Classical offers opportunities for choice, especially for those with few resources. Deyvis and his founding partners strongly believe that scholars of all backgrounds deserve a quality education where children are encouraged, challenged, and valued. Houston Classical Charter School was built on a classical model, as he feels this approach focuses on strong academic foundations, aims to develop character, and fosters critical thinking. Deyvis hopes that by bringing more choice to the education system through a classical approach, we can mold great thinkers and citizens. 

Prior to founding Houston Classical, Deyvis co-founded a successful charter school in New York City, The Neighborhood Charter School of Harlem, in 2012. The school was the most successful independent charter school in the State of New York, as evidenced by the English Language Arts and Mathematics exam. 

Outside of the School, Deyvis spends his time with his wife and three young children. He enjoys reading, debating, running (when possible), and discovering wines. 

Deyvis R. Salazar, Founder

A teacher holding a tablet is interacting with students in a classroom. A student is raising their hand.

Madelyn Marrs, Chief Strategy Officer

Madelyn Marrs is a graduate of Texas A&M University–College Station and earned her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of St. Thomas in 2022.

After discovering her passion for education, Madelyn joined Teach For America as a 2016 Houston Corps Member. She spent the next 5 years helping scholars reach their fullest potential before joining the Houston Classical team as Principal. She served as Principal for 4+ years and now serves as Chief Strategy Officer, supporting the strategic development and growth of the Houston Classical network.

Madelyn is passionate about creating learning environments that are joyful, meaningful, and engaging, while ensuring every scholar has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.

Amanda Ybarsabal, Chief of Schools

Amanda Ybarsabal is the Chief of Schools at Houston Classical Charter School, bringing more than 20 years of experience in education and school leadership.

Amanda began her career as a middle and high school social studies teacher before transitioning into school leadership. She served as a High School Principal for 10 years with YES Prep and KIPP Texas, where she led school communities and supported the academic and personal growth of scholars. She later served as a leader on the Academics team for KIPP Texas, supporting secondary schools across the network.

Madelyn Lyon

School Principal

Nallely Quiroz

Assistant Principal

Lizbett Benitez

Director of Enrollment & Community Engagement

Eduardo Lopez

Director of Campus Operations

Ramsha Mushtaq

Middle School Principal Fellow

LaMary Curry

Director of Special Populations

Governing Board

  • Adrienne Amin

    Chairwoman Emeritus

  • Chirag Amin

    Board Member

  • Hugh Guill

    Board Member

  • Patrick Keller

    Board Member

  • Dr. Julie Kuo

    Secretary

  • Leo Linbeck IV

    Board Member

  • Morgan Lunt

    Board Member

  • Di Wang

    Board Member

  • Johnathan Yazdani

    Chairman

Advisory Council

  • Vanessa Ames

    Advisory Council

  • Veronica Griffin

    Advisory Council

  • Jessica Leeke

    Chair

  • Frances Lummis

    Advisory Council

  • Rahul Moodgal

    Advisory Council

  • Buckley Morlot

    Advisory Council

  • Colleen Nichols

    Advisory Council

  • Kathryn D. Thomas-Salazar

    Advisory Council

  • Anna Soloway

    Advisory Council