Founders / School Leaders

Karla K. Branch, M.S., Mathematics Education

Ms. Branch possesses a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from the University of California, Berkeley (Winter, 1991), and a Master of Science in Mathematics Education from California State University, East Bay (Spring, 2007).  Her initial professional experience was as an accountant and financial analyst for Morrison & Foerster LLP, and Wells Fargo & Co., respectively.  In 2002, Ms. Branch took and passed the CBSET and began a new career teaching economics and government at Hayward High School in the Hayward Unified School District.  Upon successful completion of the Project Pipeline teacher-credentialing program, Ms. Branch sought permanent employment as a mathematics teacher in the Antioch Unified School District.  She immediately began a course of study in mathematics curriculum and educational practices for which she received her M.S.  The focus of her studies during this two-year program was on the achievement gap that exists for African American males in mathematics.  Not only did this educational endeavor enhance her knowledge of mathematics curriculum, content, and best practices for instruction, but it also illuminated the need for systemic changes in the way we educate diverse male populations.

In addition to her degrees held, Ms. Branch also holds a professional clear single-subject teaching credential in Mathematics and Business.  Her professional affiliations include the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), the California Alliance of African American Educators (CAAAE), and the NAACP, East County Chapter.  Her studies, professional affiliations, and passion for education led her to co-found R.A.A.M.P. Charter Academy of Math and Science, where she hopes to continue to affect positive change in the lives of diverse youth.