KACS Administration
Dr. Claudia Lyles, CEO
Dr. Lyles is an experienced educator with an Ed.D. in Educational Administration from Temple University. She is certified as a special education teacher, school psychologist, elementary principal, and superintendent. Each of her degrees was earned from Temple University. Dr. Lyles has worked as a Principal/Central Office Administrator in three suburban Philadelphia districts. Dr. Lyles co-directed the Delaware Valley Minority Student Achievement Consortium at the University of Pennsylvania and served as an adjunct professor at St. Joseph’s University. As an independent consultant, she mentored teacher and principals and provided professional development on topics including the achievement gap and cultural competence. Dr. Lyles was appointed CEO of Keystone Academy Charter School in August 2013 and began the process of building the Board, leading the charter renewal process, implementing fiscal controls, balancing the relationship between the board and CEO, enhancing Board training, and initiating the purchase and construction of the new building.
Dr. Kathryn Makar, CAO
Dr. Makar is an experienced educator with a PhD. in Educational Psychology from Temple University and a Master’s in Education from Bloomsburg University. Dr. Makar also carries a Principal (K-12) Certification from Temple University. Dr. Makar has been employed as an Elementary Teacher, Computer Technology Teacher, Principal of a Philadelphia Charter School, Director of Technology, and Principal of Keystone Academy. After ten years as Principal of Keystone Academy, Dr. Makar began serving as the Chief Academic Officer (CAO). Dr. Makar was first employed at Keystone Academy Charter School in 2011 and since then, she has been instrumental in refining the curriculum and overseeing its implementation to ensure that the school continues to meet academic success. Her intimate understanding of curriculum allows her to effectively supervise instruction and to make purposeful recommendations so the teachers may improve pedagogy.
Mr. Michael Browning, Principal
Mr. Michael Browning is an experienced educator with a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Holy Family University. He holds a Principal (K-12) certification. Mr. Browning has been employed as a Classroom Teacher and Instructional Coach for Mathematics and Data. Mr. Browning began employment at Keystone Academy Charter School in 2012, and in that time has developed a strong understanding of Keystone’s mission and vision for the future. He has experience with instructional coaching, professional development implementation, social-emotional learning, student assistance services, and data analysis. Mr. Browning began his service as Vice Principal of Keystone Academy in 2022 and as Principal in 2023.
Dr. Natasha Cox, Vice Principal
Dr. Natasha Cox is an experienced educator with more than 20 years of service in education, 10 of which were served in the Philadelphia school district. She aims to work with educators and schools to find effective and sustainable ways to transform their practices. Dr. Cox has earned a B.A. in Elementary Education, M.S. degree in Education Administration (K-12 Principal certified), Ed.S. degree in Curriculum and Instruction, specializing in special education, and an Ed.D. degree in Curriculum and Instruction. Her experience includes a broad range of competencies and roles as teacher, coach, principal/vice principal, professional development facilitator, and special education liaison in various educational organizations in the U.S. and abroad. Dr. Cox joined the KACS team in 2022 as a Vice Principal for grades K-4 and is looking forward to serving KACS stakeholders in this supportive role.
Ms. Karen Stanton, Vice Principal
Ms. Karen Stanton joined the KACS team in 2025 and serves as Vice Principal , bringing over 18 years of experience in K–8 education as a teacher and instructional leader. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Temple University and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Lincoln University. She is also certified as a K-8 educator and a K–12 Principal in the state of Pennsylvania. Prior to becoming Vice Principal, Ms. Stanton spent over 10 years as a classroom teacher in upper elementary grades, where she developed a strong foundation in curriculum design, data-driven instruction, and differentiated learning. She later served as an Instructional Coach and Principal, supporting teachers with instructional best practices, mentoring staff, and promoting positive student behavior and school culture, and assuring that the school systems were in compliance. As Vice Principal, Ms. Stanton is committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging learning environment where all students feel supported academically and socially. Her vision for student success is grounded in high expectations, strong relationships, and consistent support, ensuring that every child develops the skills, confidence, and character needed to succeed in school and beyond. She believes that meaningful collaboration among educators, families, and students is key to helping learners reach their full potential.