Raina Simmons

Background

About Raina Simmons

With over 9 years of progressive experience in elementary and middle school education systems, I am a visionary and goal-driven school principal at Achievement First, a network of high-performing public charter schools. I am currently pursuing my EdD in Educational Leadership, with a focus on advancing equity and excellence in education. As the instructional and organizational head of the school, I am responsible for creating and implementing the vision for student success, inspiring others to follow it, and carrying it out through efficient and effective planning, leadership, and management. I lead a team of 40+ educators, whom I coach, guide, and support through weekly classroom observations, data analysis, and action planning. I also manage parent and community relationships, while maintaining high levels of parent satisfaction. I am passionate about developing instructional curriculum, academic programming, and cultural development that reflect the diverse cultural, learning, and linguistic backgrounds of our students. I have a proven track record of leading adults and students to achieve ambitious academic outcomes through high-quality professional development, rigorous college preparatory instruction, and practices that honor diversity, equity, and inclusiveness.