In this newly established executive role, Dr. Pruiett will oversee the Educate Texas programs focused on improving K-12 and higher education student outcomes. She will also be the liaison between Educate Texas and CFT’s shared support services, encompassing HR, Communications, Finance, and Analytics.
Dr. Pruiett joined CFT’s Educate Texas in 2008 and has since held roles of increasing responsibility, leading the statewide College and Career Readiness School Models (CCRSM) initiative and overseeing the Dallas Southern Sector district-wide portfolio. She was promoted to CFT’s executive leadership team in 2022 and leads CFT’s efforts to advance equity in alignment with CFT’s vision of a thriving community for all.
Originally from Tennessee, Dr. Pruiett holds a Bachelor of Science from Lane College and an Ed.D. from Union University. Her dedication to the success of all Texas students is evident in her extensive work developing technical assistance for over 300 campuses. This includes innovative education models such as Early College High Schools (ECHS), Pathways in Technology Early College High School (P-TECH), and Texas-STEM Academies.
“I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact this work has on first-generation, underrepresented, and low-income students, leading to significant outcomes that prepare students to compete in a global society,” said Dr. Pruiett. “I am thrilled to collaborate closely with the Educate Texas staff and partners in this new capacity to deliver impactful programs that empower students to realize their dreams and contribute to a thriving Texas.”
Before joining CFT, Dr. Pruiett held various positions across the K-16 education spectrum. Her roles have included teacher, mentor educator, science specialist, vice principal, principal, and district director. She has played a key role in strategic planning for school districts, community colleges, and four-year institutions, and has mentored over 40 assistant principals, 25 principals, 30 district leaders, and numerous other educators throughout her career.
“Reo is a proven expert in the public education system with over 30 years of experience championing students and teachers and an inclusive team builder,” said Wayne White, President and CEO of Communities Foundation of Texas. “This new leadership position will uniquely leverage Reo’s qualifications and experience to strengthen Educate Texas programming and further amplify our impact on student and teacher outcomes while advancing community engagement. Dr. Pruiett will continue to oversee CFT’s efforts to advance community equity.”
In her new role, Dr. Pruiett will work in partnership with John Fitzpatrick as he transitions from the Executive Director position later this year and as the organization searches for its new leader. During this transition period, both roles will continue to report directly to White. “We have developed unique capabilities within Educate Texas that have positively impacted Texas students, yet there is still much work to be done,” White stated. “The creation of the Chief Programs and Engagement Officer role is a key step toward realigning the capable teams at Educate Texas and CFT to advance this important work.”