
Dr. Derek Harris & Dr. Rodney J. Emilien, Sr.
School Leaders
At KIPP Liberation, we are a team and family. We strive to keep the learning environment student-centered and encouraging. We accomplish this by maintaining strong relationships with our students, families, and community. We build rigorous, engaging lessons that grow our scholars intellectually and socially so that they may become the best version of themselves.
Dr. Derek Harris
My name is Dr. Derek Harris. I am a native New Yorker (GO YANKEES) who has moved down to Houston three years ago. I have 15-years of experience in education. I have my Bachelor of Arts degree in child development, a Master’s degree in educational leadership, and my Ph.D. in curriculum and instruction. My experience ranges from teaching grades three through five, to serving as an elementary assistant principal in both Harlem and Houston (at KIPP Peace) to now having served as a school leader at KIPP Liberation. I am a father, family man, an avid sports fan, and I love to read (I equate reading to breathing). I am big into fitness (basketball, Muy Thai, running, and weightlifting) and health, I typically work out six to seven times a week. I am excited to continue to serve the students, families, and community of the greater Third Ward area!
Dr. Rodney J. Emilien, Sr.
My name is Dr. Rodney J. Emilien, Sr. I was born and raised in the great city of New Orleans, home of the mighty New Orleans Saints! Education has been my passion for the past 24 years. I have had the opportunity to teach in various settings in several states: Missouri, Alabama, Louisiana, and Texas for the last 19 years. Believing in the mission and vision of KIPP Texas, I have been a member of the KIPP Texas Team & Family for the past 12 years; 11 of those years at KIPP Liberation. Hence, given the opportunity to lead Liberation alongside Dr. Harris is a dream come true. Next to my family and wife of 20 years, Liberation is near and dear to my heart. I am honored to work with the community and families of Liberation, helping them reach their highest potential.