Heather Kurtz

Heather Kurtz is the DCPS Becoming Manager at District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS), where she focuses on neurodevelopment, trauma-responsive practices, and redefining what school can be. A Jewish, White cis-gendered woman and passionate educator, Heather is committed to creating safe, inclusive, and connected school communities.

Her journey in education began as a DC Teaching Fellow, teaching first grade at Cleveland Elementary, where she discovered her passion for elementary education and dual language learning. She went on to serve at DC Bilingual Public Charter School as a second-grade teacher, math instructional coach, and assistant principal—growing as a leader through hard work, collaboration, and reflection.

After the pandemic, Heather recognized that the greatest challenge facing students and teachers was a sense of safety and connection—an insight that guides her work today.