Michael is the Chief Learning Officer for the School District of Philadelphia, where he leads efforts to ensure strong leadership across all schools and supports professional development for educators. Formerly Deputy Chief of Leadership Development, he created and implemented initiatives such as the Leadership Coaching Program to equip school and district leaders for success. Previously, as principal of Penn Alexander School, Michael drove significant academic gains—boosting equity and achievement across student groups. Under his leadership, the school earned the city's top School Progress Report score in 2018–2019 and was recognized for its progress in equity. Notably, African American student reading proficiency rose by 27% over two years. An educator since 2007, Michael is also a founding board member of GLSEN Philadelphia, serves on the Writers Matter Program board, and teaches at the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education. A Philadelphia native, he holds multiple awards for equity, inclusion, and leadership development.