Simona Simpson-Thomas
Position: Superintendent, CEO
Email: ssthomas@hc.school
Bio:  Simona is a passionate advocate for racial and educational equity with 20 years of experience in the education profession. Prior to her current role, Simona was the CEO and Founder of Freedom Dreams, where she collaborated with various stakeholders to drive equity and provide resources for all students to thrive. Simona also served as the Director of Multiple Pathways at the Providence School Department, where she expanded access to dual enrollment, college and career programs, and work-based learning opportunities. As a result of her efforts, she was named the 2020 New England Secondary School Consortium Champion for Rhode Island by Great Schools Partnership.

Simona holds a Master of Arts in Teaching from Brown University and a Bachelor of Arts in History from Howard University.

Jessica Blanco-Busam, EdD
Position: Assistant Superintendent
Email: jblanco@hc.school
Bio: Dr. Blanco has been working with students and their families as an educator at Highlander Charter School since 2004. She taught 4th and 5th grade until 2015, when she became the principal at the Warren Campus. In 2021, she became the Director of Teaching and Learning for the district. As an administrator, she believes in empowering staff and students as learners to meet the mission, vision, and values of Highlander.  

Originally from Hartford, CT, Jessica moved to Rhode Island in 1999 to attend Brown University where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Education, her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, and her Masters of Arts degree in Teaching. In 2017, she received her Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Johnson and Wales University. 

Jennifer Ducat, EdD
Position: High School Principal
Email: jducat@hc.school
Bio: Dr. Ducat (affectionately known by staff & students as Dr. J) is a seasoned & dedicated educational leader whose career spans more than two decades in both K-12 & state education systems. Former roles include serving as a Grants Project Specialist, Educational Facilitator & Consultant as well as Principal, Vice Principal, Director, Coach, & High School Teacher, with each of these opportunities reflecting her commitment to restorative, inclusive, & student-centered leadership. Her Bachelor’s is in English, Master’s is in cross-cultural education, and her Doctorate is in Educational & Global Leadership.

At the heart of Dr. Ducat’s philosophy is the belief that education begins with trust, cultural intelligence, & relationships. She views every learning space as a community where students & educators alike can be seen, heard, & valued. Guided by restorative practices & culturally responsive pedagogy, she strives to create environments where all voices are uplifted & respected. Her leadership style is relational & reflective, emphasizing collaboration, transparency, & the continuous growth of both staff & students.

Angela Goulart
Position: Middle School Principal
Email: agoulart@hc.school
Bio:  Angela began her career in education as Science Teacher at Calcutt Middle School in Central Falls. She came to Highlander Charter School in 2015 to continue teaching middle school science. Mrs Goulart’s role shifted to the Dean of Culture and Students in 2021, and she accepted the role of Assistant Principal at the Warren Campus in the summer of 2022. 

Angela has lived most of her life in Rhode Island. She completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in education at the University of Rhode Island, and earned a Master Degree in Bilingual Education and Cross Cultural Studies from Brown University. Mrs Goulart completed the Principal Residency Network program in 2022 and is currently enrolled in the Educational Leadership Doctoral Program at Johnson and Wales University.

Jane Roseberry
Position: Elementary School Principal
Email: jroseberry@hc.school
Bio: Jane has been working at Highlander Charter School since the year 2000, its first year in operation.  She started as a kindergarten and first grade teacher.  In the year, 2004, she moved to the administrative team.  While she misses the classroom, she loves working within the greater school community and the opportunity to work every child and family. Jane attended University of Rhode Island and received her Bachelors in Early Childhood Education in 2000.  In 2009, she received a M.Ed in Special Education from Lesley University. Jane’s goal is to provide a safe and stimulating environment to provide students with the skills they need to become productive global citizens.