Frances Gipson

Frances Marie Gipson is a clinical professor of education in the School of Educational Studies at Claremont Graduate University, and also serves as director of the Urban Leadership program. Most recently, Gipson served as the Chief Academic Officer for the Los Angeles Unified School District. Prior to her role as CAO, she was the LAUSD Local District East Superintendent serving over 100+ schools across the northeast and southeast Los Angeles regional communities. Gipson has also served learners as the administrator of instruction in LAUSD Local District 5 (LD5), and also as former director of Professional Development & Partnerships at UCLA’s Center X. During Gipson’s tenure at LD5, the district was recognized for student achievement growth models, English learner reclassification, highest district attendance rates, lowest suspension rates, greatest numbers of National Board Certification participants, and even organized the first East LA Arts Festival.A highly regarded educator, she has published and designed quality curriculum at the district, state, national, and international levels. Gipson believes that “living in the system” and “disturbing the system” are both critical to agency and advocacy for youth, and ensure that our communities are at the center of all decisions. She is inspired to coach, mentor, and support the next generation of urban leaders who will promote flourishing urban school systems.