Kendra Simms is pursuing a doctoral degree in school improvement at The University of Texas at Tyler. With over a decade of experience as an educator, Simms has focused on addressing systemic barriers in education by designing innovative, data-driven solutions that empower both students and teachers. Simms has worked with the Houston Independent School District, where she led multidisciplinary teams to develop individualized education plans and presented a capstone project on improving special education compliance and teacher training. Her initiatives include creating the "nuts and bolts" carpentry summer camp for students with dyslexia and post-pandemic play therapy groups to support the emotional well-being of young learners. As a Graduate Archer Fellow, Simms plans to expand her expertise in policy advocacy and leadership while completing her dissertation-in-practice, a strategic model for transforming school departments. Her career interests include consulting, policy reform, and creating sustainable educational solutions to address equity and teacher retention.