Neubauer Fellows Community

Latanya Simmons

Program Director
Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders
2019 Neubauer Fellow
Sector
Nonprofit
Education
M.S. Teaching, Pace University
M.A. Counselor Education, M.A. Educational Leadership, The College of New Jersey
B.A. Economics & Africana Studies, Rutgers University
"I serve because every child deserves an excellent education regardless of their socio-economic background. It is my life’s work to support students’ passion for learning, to ensure access to greater opportunities, and to develop their awareness of positive racial identity, social justice matters, and the importance of community activism."

Latanya leads the Neubauer Fellowship and Senior Fellow (alumni) programming at the Philadelphia Academy of School Leaders. Latanya previously served as the principal of Mastery Charter Harrity Elementary School. Under her leadership, Harrity’s kindergarten through second grade reading proficiency increased by 18%. Harrity was also recognized by the School District of Philadelphia for two tiers of growth on the School Progress Report (SPR). In 2018-19 all student groups exceeded the standard demonstrating growth for English Language Arts (ELA) & Math as measured by the Pennsylvania Value-Added Assessment System (PVAAS), and in the 2021-2022 school year, Elevate215 named Harrity a Top 36 K-8 school.

Latanya has over 17 years of experience as an educator and leader whose purpose is to ensure that all students have access to excellent schools and equitable opportunities to pursue their dreams. She believes whole-heartedly in developing the whole child and is deeply invested in social emotional learning, trauma-informed practices, and initiatives that affirm, empower, and promote the identity of all students.

Latanya grew up in South Jersey and has a passion for traveling all over the world.

Fellow Listing