SCOTTDALE, GA – June 24, 2026 – Scottdale Early Learning Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Leah Skinner as its new chief executive officer, marking a new chapter in the organization’s service to children and families throughout DeKalb County. A respected education leader and nonprofit executive with 25 years of experience, Skinner brings expertise in educational leadership, strategic planning, fundraising, community engagement and organizational development.
Skinner joins Scottdale Early Learning after serving as executive director of Peace Preparatory Academy in Atlanta, where she led strategic initiatives that strengthened organizational sustainability, expanded community partnerships and advanced educational opportunities for children and families. Throughout her career, she has worked to ensure that students from underserved communities have access to high-quality educational experiences that prepare them for lifelong success.
Before joining Peace Preparatory Academy, Skinner served as president and head of school of The SEED School of Miami, a public charter boarding school serving at-risk youth, and as head of school of the Boyce L. Ansley School in Atlanta, a tuition-free private school serving children experiencing homelessness. In those leadership roles, she oversaw multimillion-dollar budgets, managed complex educational operations, cultivated philanthropic partnerships and secured millions of dollars in charitable support to advance student achievement and organizational growth.
“Dr. Skinner’s passion for education equity, proven leadership experience and deep commitment to children and families make her the ideal person to lead Scottdale Early Learning into its next chapter,” said Scottdale Early Learning Board Chair Monishae O’Neill. “Her track record of building strong organizations, fostering meaningful partnerships and achieving measurable results will help advance our mission and strengthen our impact throughout the community.”
Skinner earned a bachelor’s degree in English from California State University, Los Angeles; a master’s degree in education from Pepperdine University; a master’s degree in educational administration from National University; a master’s degree in educational administration from National University; and a doctorate in educational administration from Argosy University. She also holds certificates in grant writing from the University of Georgia; diversity, equity and inclusion from Cornell University; and CEO Leadership from the University of Miami.
Throughout her career, Skinner has been recognized for her ability to build collaborative relationships among educators, families, community leaders, donors and other stakeholders. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in servant leadership, educational excellence and the belief that every child deserves access to opportunities that allow them to reach their full potential.
“I am honored and humbled to join Scottdale Early Learning as its next chief executive officer,” Skinner said. “The organization’s commitment to providing high-quality early childhood education aligns deeply with my personal and professional values. Early learning plays a critical role in a child’s development, and I look forward to partnering with our talented staff, dedicated families, board of directors and community supporters to expand opportunities for children and strengthen our impact throughout DeKalb County and beyond.”
As CEO, Skinner will lead the organization’s strategic vision, operations, fundraising, community partnerships and long-term growth initiatives while advancing Scottdale Early Learning’s commitment to educational excellence and family empowerment. She will officially assume the role on July 6, 2026.
About Scottdale Early Learning
Scottdale Early Learning is a nonprofit, nationally accredited early childhood education organization serving children ages 6 weeks to 5 years and their families across DeKalb County, Georgia. Since 1977, the organization has been committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to high-quality early learning experiences that support healthy development and school readiness.
Through its NAEYC-accredited programs, family engagement initiatives and community-based services, Scottdale Early Learning fosters the intellectual, creative, social, emotional, and physical development of young learners while addressing barriers faced by low- to moderate-income families.
Serving hundreds of children and families each year, Scottdale Early Learning is a trusted leader in early childhood education in metro Atlanta. The organization works in partnership with families, educators, and community stakeholders to help children enter kindergarten ready to learn and thrive. Learn more at www.scottdale.org.
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