Our Team's Record of Success
1
Community
Our founders brought together a growing coalition of parents, educators, businesses, and nonprofits. They share a vision for diverse, inclusive, and comprehensive schools that promote student excellence by changing the systems that perpetuate underperformance.
2
Experience
The Caat is led by educators and charter school leaders with decades of experience in high performing charter schools. They are experts at creating a culture of excellence, developing great teachers, and managing the business of running a high-quality charter school.
3
Leading Change
Caat's founders are Kern County natives committed to closing the opportunity gap. Families know and trust them. We know that families and educators in our community are hungry for change. We are working with families to give more children access to an education that meets their needs.
Meet Joanna Kendrick
Founder, CAO
Joanna, a Bakersfield native deeply rooted in California's Central Valley, is raising her two daughters in her hometown. As the first in her family to graduate from college, she holds degrees from UC Irvine and Loyola Marymount, and is pursuing a doctoral degree at USC. Joanna has dedicated her career to improving opportunities for underserved students, leading charter schools and educational non-profits. She played a pivotal role in founding The Central Academy of Arts and Technology (Caat), Bakersfield's first independent public charter school. With a commitment to educational excellence and inclusivity, Joanna strives to prepare all Caat students for college, regardless of background.
Meet Zaena Araneta
Founding Principal
With sixteen years of diverse educational experience, Zaena is set to become the founding Principal of Central Academy of Arts and Technology. Her journey includes roles like Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, middle school principal, teacher, and special education teacher. As a Bakersfield native, she's committed to student success. Holding degrees from Point Loma University and drawing inspiration from renowned institutions like Harvard and Columbia University, she prioritizes teacher and student needs. Under Zaena's leadership, the Central Academy of Arts and Technology is poised for educational excellence, focusing on student growth and success.