Uplifting Education: One Black Administrator’s Path to Lasting Change

Tiffany Smith-Simmons, a proud alumna of Howard University, has long envisioned a diverse educational landscape within Sacramento City Unified. As the director of talent management, she collaborated with Alan Rowe from United College Action Network Inc. (UCAN) to actively recruit teachers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Over two years, she visited 17 campuses, attracting 16 to 18 educators despite financial constraints. Offering practical support, she created resource guides for essentials like hair care and healthcare, aided in relocation, and even prepared meals for newcomers. Simmons, who grew up in Sacramento and became principal of Mark Hopkins Elementary in 2011, emphasizes the vital role Black educators play in enhancing student success. With a commitment to “other mothering,” she believes in nurturing educators beyond curriculum. Advocating for the establishment of affinity groups, she is dedicated to assisting Black teachers and administrators in navigating challenges. “Supporting our youth is paramount; they are our future,” she asserts, reinforcing her mission to cultivate a supportive educational community.