Dr. Jo Ann Simmons
Superintendent
UT Tyler University Academy

Dr. Jo Ann Simmons has served as Superintendent of The University of Texas at Tyler University Academy since October 2014.  The University of Texas at Tyler University Academy is an open enrollment STEM charter school located in East Texas.  The charter serves around 835 students on three separate campuses.  Dr. Simmons has worked in public education for the past 22 years.  Prior to joining the University 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 has served as a Professional Service Provider (PSP) for low performing schools, as identified by Texas Education Agency.  In addition, serving in her new role as Charter School Superintendent Mentor.  This role allows her to support charters who are struggling or just opening.      Dr. Simmons is passionate about preparing students to enter the global workforce through the integration of technology, real-world applications, and rigorous instruction.