Dr. David Patterson

The California Charter Schools Association recognized Dr. David Patterson of Rocklin Academy in Rocklin, CA as the recipient of the Hart Vision Award for Charter School Leader of the Year in 2012. He was given this honor for his leadership in the charter school movement since its inception 20 years ago.

Dr. Patterson first worked at the California Department of Education until he founded Rocklin Academy in 2000. He now serves as executive director of Rocklin Academy and its three schools: Rocklin Academy Turnstone, which opened in 2000; Rocklin Academy Meyers Street, which opened in 2007; and Western Sierra Collegiate Academy, which opened in 2009.

Prior to opening the Rocklin Academies, Dr. Patterson was the former Director of Governmental Relations for the California Network of Educational Charters, which would eventually become the California Charter Schools Association, and he has also served as an elected school board member in Del Paso Heights and Rocklin.

His love for quality education is unmatched, and he is a fearless leader, incredibly involved, and passionate about mentoring other charter leaders. He is known for empowering the people around him, making them feel part of the movement. Dr. Patterson’s leadership has provided the opportunity to help start and lead the changes that are needed in public education in California and throughout the nation. His core belief that all children deserve a quality education provides the motivation for everything Dr. Patterson has achieved and will accomplish in the future.