​THE LEONA GROUP ARIZONA EXECUTIVE TEAM 

​The essence of Leona Group is the cumulative passion, dedication and expertise of its people. Every Leona team member is an integral part of the continued success of its students. Founded by Dr. Bill Coats, a national leader in education reform, Leona continues to change the landscape of public education. These faces and more than 2,000 others work collectively to bring Leona's mission and vision to life and improve the nation’s education landscape.

Dr. William Coats

​Chief Executive Officer 

​William (Bill) Coats, Ph.D., has worked to improve public education throughout his career as a school superintendent, university professor, foundation director and now chief executive officer of The Leona Group, L.L.C.  During his tenure as superintendents of public school districts across the nation, Dr. Coats worked within the system to allow parents freedom and choice within the schools, empower teachers and staff, and promote the idea that all children can learn.   Dr. Coats holds a master’s degree in educational psychology and a doctorate in research design and data analysis in education from the University of Michigan.

In 2017, Dr. Coats was awarded the 'Founders Award' from AZBigMedia, honoring him as an innovative leader who positively changed the face of an entire industry in Arizona.  It was an exciting recognition of the work Dr. Coats has led in our state over the past 20 years.​

MICHELE KAYE

​Chief Operating Officer 

Michele Kaye began her career with The Leona Group in January 2000 as an English teacher at Maya High School in Phoenix, Arizona. Ms. Kaye has since held progressive positions within the organization including assistant school leader, curriculum coach and director of Leona’s Quality Schools Initiative (QSI). 

Ms. Kaye holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Arizona State University and a Master of Arts in educational leadership from Northern Arizona University.  She also currently serves on the Arizona State Board of Education.

​MARY BERG

Vice President of Academic Support Services

Mary Berg began her career at The Leona Group  in 1999 at Summit High School as a math teacher, assistant principal and curriculum coach until moving to TLG corporate to work with the  Director of QSI.  Mary currently coordinates the Academic Support Services team to ensure that all of its efforts are support-driven and focused on the academic success of our schools. 

Mary holds a Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management, a post baccalaureate in secondary mathematics education and a Masters degree in physical therapy.  

​PATRICK LAWRENCE

​Chief Financial Officer

Patrick Lawrence graduated from Adrian College in Adrian, Michigan with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in accounting with an emphasis on business administration. Lawrence worked at a large insurance company in Michigan for five years before joining The Leona Group in 1997. Mr. Lawrence serves in the capacity of chief financial officer and is currently based out of the Arizona corporate office. 

TERI KNICK

Vice President of Human Resources

A native of Phoenix, Teri Knick graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Arts in elementary education. After teaching elementary school for five years, Ms. Knick entered the business world where she received training and education in human resources. She was the human resources director for LETCO, Inc., KSAZ-TV Channel 10, and was regional human resources manager for Blood Systems, Inc. before joining The Leona Group in 2002. Ms. Knick has held Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification from the HR Certification Institute of The Society for Human Resource Management since 1999. ​

MARCUS ENGLUND

Vice President of School and Leadership Development 

Marcus Englund has held several position since he started working at The Leona Group in 1999.  Mr. Englund has held the following positions during his time at TLG, Teacher, Athletic Director, Assistant Principal, Principal, Regional Vice President, and currently works as Vice President of School & Leadership Development.  Mr. Englund earned a Bachelor's degree in History Education from Huron University and Masters degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University.  In his spare time, Mr. Englund enjoys offroading, outdoor activities, and watching sporting events with his family.  

MICHELLE THOMAS

General Counsel

Michelle Thomas has an impressive background and comes from a family of educators.  She has a B.S. from the University of Michigan,  M.B.A. from Eastern Michigan University and a J.D. from Wayne State Law School.  She is passionate about her work and committed to making a difference. 

RACHAEL PARKS

Director of Technology

Rachael Parks leads the technology team for The Leona Group. Ms. Parks’ team has expertise in translating board and academy desires into workable technology solutions, ensuring maximum value for every technology dollar expended. Schools are able to take advantage of  TLG’s pre-negotiated volume purchasing prices including Internet connectivity, hardware and software.

The technology team’s on-staff specialists assist with connectivity projects including data and telephone cabling, minor electrical, construction project data infrastructure oversight and phone system installation and updates. Rachael joined the organization in 1999.