Natasha Patterson

Natasha Patterson is an Institute for Success Planning Community of Practice Associate at EdRedesign and a Doctor of Education Leadership (Ed.L.D.) candidate at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

A seasoned education leader, Natasha previously served as Deputy Chief of Schools for Chicago Public Schools, where she led strategy, professional learning, and principal development across a portfolio of 27 schools. Her career spans school, district, and state systems—always with a focus on advancing equity and transforming outcomes for young people.

She has held a range of leadership roles including Managing Director of Education Systems, where she oversaw the Illinois Governor’s Cabinet on Children and Youth, Principal of a K–8 charter school in Chicago, and Assistant Principal of a high school also in Chicago.  

Natasha earned a B.A. in Communication from Florida State University, an M.A. in Mass Communication from the University of Florida, and an Ed.M. in School Leadership from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Her journey began in the Ninth Ward of New Orleans, teaching second grade—an experience that continues to ground her leadership in purpose, place, and possibility.