Dr. Jo Ann Simmons, has served as Superintendent of The University of Texas at Tyler Innovation Academy, a T-STEM designated charter school, since October 2014. The University of Texas at Tyler Innovation Academy is an open enrollment STEM charter school located in East Texas. The charter serves around 800 students on three separate campuses. Dr. Simmons has worked in public education for the past 20 years. Prior to joining the Innovation Academy, she served as principal at James S. Hogg Middle School in Tyler Independent School District and assistant principal at A.T. Stewart Middle School in Tyler Independent School District.

Superintendent Simmons began her career as a reading teacher and volleyball, basketball and track coach at Hubbard Middle School in Tyler Independent School District. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education from The University of Texas at Tyler, a master’s degree in educational leadership from The University of Texas at Tyler and her doctorate in educational leadership from Stephen F. Austin State University. She has served as an adjunct professor at Texas A&M Commerce and The University of Texas at Tyler. She also serves as a Professional Service Provider (PSP) for low performing school, as identified by Texas Education Agency. In addition, serving in her new role as Charter School Superintendent Mentor.

Dr. Simmons is passionate about preparing students to enter the global workforce through the integration of technology, real-world applications, and rigorous instruction.