Interim Chief Executive Officer

Nicholas Bijou is a proud New Orleans native—born and raised in the city he continues to serve. He is a relational leader at heart, committed to people, grounded in community, and driven by the belief that lasting school success is built through trust, clarity, and strong relationships.

Nicholas began his career in education in 2013 as a classroom teacher. Since then, he has advanced through a range of impactful roles, including Instructional Coach and service within the Einstein Charter Schools CMO. He previously served as the CMO Administrative Officer and now leads the organization as Interim Chief Executive Officer. His leadership reflects both lived experience and a deep understanding of what schools need to thrive.

Nicholas is also a lifelong learner. He is currently pursuing a PhD at Louisiana State University, approaching every step of the journey as “a student first.” His research focuses on teacher retention, with particular attention to how school leadership styles influence faculty and staff retention. He often shares a guiding belief that has shaped his own path: “If they can do it, you can do it.” This refrain comes from one of his former elementary principals—one of the first educators to truly believe in him—and it continues to inspire the way he motivates others today.

As Interim CEO, Nicholas is leading Einstein Charter Schools through a pivotal moment of transition and renewal. With the merger of Village de l’Est and Einstein Middle into Sherwood Forest and the closure of Sarah T. Reed High School, he is focused on making this a flagship growth year—one defined by stability, a clear reset, and bold forward movement. His vision anchors Einstein in people first: ensuring every employee, student, and family feels seen, heard, supported, and valued. He emphasizes healthy communication at every level, rooted in listening with care and without judgment.

Nicholas is guiding the unified campus toward a shared identity and stronger future.  He believes Einstein must grow in every form: stronger academics, healthier enrollment, deeper personal development, and the emotional intelligence that sustains excellent teaching and leadership. Under his leadership, classrooms will be places where students think, question, collaborate, and create—because Einstein is not developing test-takers or robots, but innovators and leaders prepared for the 21st century.

Nicholas earned his Master of Arts in Teaching Biology from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana. He completed his undergraduate studies at Xavier University of Louisiana, earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology.