Latanya Simmons

As Program Director, Latanya (Tanya) Simmons leads the Neubauer Fellowship in Educational Leadership and Senior Fellow (alumni) programming. Tanya is a 2019 Neubauer Fellow and Performance Partners Coach.

Tanya is 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.

Throughout her 20-year career, Latanya has had the honor and privilege of serving in both district and charter schools in New York, Newark, Trenton, and Philadelphia. She began her career as a third grade teacher and moved on to be a School Counselor, Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Prior to joining our team, Latanya led and served as the principal at Mastery Charter Harrity Elementary School in Southwest Philadelphia for 5 years. Under her leadership, Harrity’s kindergarten through second grade reading proficiency increased by 35%. Harrity was recognized by the School District of Philadelphia for two tiers of growth on the School Progress Report. In 2018-19, all student groups exceeded the standard demonstrating growth for English Language Arts (ELA) and Math as measured by the Pennsylvania Value-Added Assessment System (PVAAS).

Latanya holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and Africana Studies from Rutgers University, a Master of Science in Teaching from Pace University, a Master of Arts in Counselor Education, and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from The College of New Jersey.  Latanya grew up in South Jersey and is deeply committed to community service and activism.  She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and has a passion for traveling all over the world.