Chief of Staff

About Elisa M. Botello

Elisa M. Botello has served as Chief of Staff for Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS) since July 2021. In this capacity, she is a trusted senior advisor to the Superintendent and a key member of the Superintendent’s Executive Leadership Team, providing strategic leadership, operational oversight, and executive coordination in support of the division’s mission.

Prior to joining PWCS, Botello most recently served as Director of Special Projects for Chicago Public Schools (CPS), where she supported the Chief Education Officer—a role previously held by current PWCS Superintendent of Schools, Dr. LaTanya D. McDade. In that role, Botello was responsible for supporting daily executive operations, strengthening continuous improvement structures, and advancing mid- to long-term strategic planning and execution to ensure the delivery of high-quality educational programming for students.

During her more than 16-year tenure with CPS, Botello held a range of senior leadership roles with increasing responsibility. Her experience spans new school development and start-ups, school monitoring and renewal, accountability, and direct support to the Chicago Board of Education, giving her a deep understanding of governance, large-scale school systems, and complex organizational change.

As Chief of Staff for PWCS, Botello prioritizes and facilitates the resolution of critical, divisionwide issues on behalf of the Superintendent, ensuring alignment between strategy, operations, and decision-making. She plays a central role in ensuring the Superintendent’s engagement in key organizational initiatives and serves as a primary liaison to the School Board, county leadership, and external agencies and partners. Through this work, she helps drive the successful implementation of strategic initiatives that advance student achievement and organizational excellence.

Botello earned a Bachelor of Art and Design degree in Photography from the University of Illinois at Chicago and is currently enrolled at The George Washington University, where she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Policy. Her leadership is grounded in collaboration, strategic thinking, and a strong commitment to public education.

Departments

• Strategic Planning and Continuous Improvement

Assistant

Dawn Kaess
Executive Administrative Assistant
703-791-8712