Shara Hegde serves as CEO for Alpha Public Schools, a TK-12 network of charter schools in East San Jose, CA, focused on preparing first generation students for college and career. In this role, she provides leadership and strategic direction for the network. She plays a key role in furthering educational equity efforts at the local and state level, serving as a member of the California Charter Schools Association board of directors and playing an active role in the Charter Community of Silicon Valley Advocacy Group. She was recognized for her leadership, being named California Charter School Leader of the Year in 2023.

Before assuming the role of CEO, she served as Alpha’s Chief Schools Officer, directing the academic program and providing coaching and management to several senior leaders. Under her leadership, Alpha’s schools made significant academic progress while growing in enrollment. Prior to joining Alpha, Shara served as Founder and Executive Director of Cornerstone Academy, a K-8 charter school that is now part of the Alpha network of schools. Since opening in 2010, Cornerstone has been amongst the highest performing schools in San Jose, and was named a California Distinguished School in 2014 and 2018, as well as a 2023 School to Watch by the California Department of Education.

Shara received her bachelor’s degree in history from Brown University and has her master’s degree in education policy, organizations, and leadership studies from Stanford University. She also has a master’s degree in instructional leadership from the Reach Institute for School Leadership.