Casey’s passion for educational equity and real-world learning developed when she was a student. The learning experiences that most influenced her career and leadership skills include serving as editor of an award-winning high school newspaper and designing and pursuing education policy/research/practice internships throughout her time at Pomona College, where she studied education policy.
Casey began teaching as a special educator at a middle school in East Point, Georgia, through Teach For America. She then served as Director of Student Support Services at an all-girls charter school just north of Atlanta and then one on the Lower East Side. After leaving the classroom, Casey joined Schools That Can, a nonprofit focused on reimagining education through real-world learning, where, as Chief Operating Officer, she spearheaded significant organizational, programmatic, and revenue growth.
Now as the NYS Director for Big Picture Learning, she supports and coordinates schools, partners, and initiatives across the state, all with the goal of expanding student centered real-world learning for New York's youth, particularly those furthest from opportunity.
Casey lives in Brooklyn with her husband, two young kids, and cats. When she's not trying to solve complex systemic problems, she is usually having a dance party with her kids or doing something active (volleyball, swimming, running, yoga).
Casey Lamb
Director, New York State