MEET THE TEAM — KEMISHIA SIMPSON, M.Ed., OLD COORS CAMPUS SCHOOL LEADER, GRADES K–4

New to our school this year, this team member leads the K–4 team at our Old Coors campus. She has served as a principal, education inspector, external assessor, and classroom teacher, and she brings that whole-system perspective to daily coaching, culture building, and family partnership. Her favorite grade to teach has been First Grade because of its joy, growth, and curiosity, and that spirit guides her leadership. Meet Ms. Simpson, in her own words…

MAS: Welcome! Let’s start at the beginning… Where did you grow up, and how did that shape you?

MS. SIMPSON: I grew up in a small rural community in Jamaica where resources were limited, but love and community spirit were abundant. From a young age, I saw how education could open doors and transform lives. (At age 13, I hosted summer school classes for my peers on my family’s open-air porch!) My parents and teachers instilled hard work, faith, and resilience. Those experiences taught me never to take opportunity for granted and to reach back to lift others up.

MAS: What drew you to MAS Charter School?

MS. SIMPSON: MAS’s commitment to equity and academic excellence, and the belief that every child can achieve greatness whatever their background, align with my values. I am excited to build relationships with students, staff, and families and to help create a joyful environment where every child feels seen, heard, and empowered.

MAS: Give us a snapshot of your professional path, including where your roles were based.

MS. SIMPSON: I served as principal of Aberdeen High School in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, and worked with the National Education Inspectorate in Jamaica as a contract inspector, inspecting public primary and secondary institutions. I was also an external assessor at Knox Community College in Manchester, Jamaica, assessing student teachers during their final practicum. These roles gave me a holistic understanding of how schools function and how children learn best.

MAS: What is your educational background?

MS. SIMPSON: I earned a master’s in educational administration from the University of the West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica. I completed a bachelor’s in primary education with a focus on special education and a Diploma in Teaching Secondary Education, majoring in social studies and religious education, at the Catholic College of Mandeville in Jamica. I also earned a diploma in secondary education from Church Teachers’ College in Mandeville, Jamaica.

MAS: Which grades or subjects have been your favorites to teach, and why?

MS. SIMPSON: My favorite class to teach was First Grade because it is full of joy, growth, and transformation. Students bring a high level of curiosity that makes teaching and learning a great experience.

MAS: From your perspective, what do students need most from the adults in their school community?

MS. SIMPSON: They need adults who believe in them without hesitation. Students need consistency, care, and champions who will advocate for their success every day. Children thrive when they feel safe and supported, and when their unique gifts are nurtured through encouragement.

MAS: That’s awesome! What are your top priorities for the 2025–2026 school year?

MS. SIMPSON: I will focus on academic excellence through instructional leadership and a data-driven approach. I will develop and retain staff by building a high-performing team grounded in a culture of feedback. I will cultivate a positive school culture through a shared vision. I will pursue operational excellence by ensuring charter goals are met and by holding team members accountable. I aim to be a visible, strategic leader as we work to shift the culture positively.

MAS: Based on what you’ve experienced so far, what do you want people to know about MAS?

MS. SIMPSON: MAS has a team of diverse and dedicated individuals who use data to drive student success. We are committed to closing achievement gaps through high-quality education.

MAS: What is something fun or surprising about you?

MS. SIMPSON: I love cooking traditional Jamaican dishes and find joy in sharing a good meal and a good laugh with others.

MAS: Last question... Since you're new to the area and don't know the local restaurant scene yet, what is your favorite meal to prepare at home?

MS. SIMPSON: Escovitch fish and bammy. For those who don't know, it's a Jamaican classic… fried fish topped with a tangy pickled-vegetable sauce, paired with bammy, a traditional cassava flatbread