Project Description
Dr. Sharnette Sims
Principal, York High School
Chicago, Illinois
Fellow
Dr. Sharnette Sims embodies the core belief that the success of every student matters. Her entire career has been spent in service, support, and advocacy for improving the educational experiences of inner-city marginalized youth.
Sharnette began her career with Chicago Public Schools as a Learning Behavior Specialist. After serving in that role for seven years, she accepted her first formal leadership position in 2007, and ultimately became the Principal at York Alternative High School in 2012.
Sharnette earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Science in Special Education from Chicago State University. She later resumed her studies at Loyola University where she earned a doctoral degree in Administration and Supervision in 2008. Her dissertation titled, “Leadership Against All Odds...” focused on understanding and improving the educational experiences and outcomes for students who were assigned to alternative schools through an expulsion process.
Being a principal in a non-traditional environment has inspired Dr. Sims to disrupt the status quo and strive to make York High School a national model for alternative education. Sharnette is a champion for equity, social justice, academic excellence, and professional learning. She has worked relentlessly building on the assets of her entire school community, setting high expectations for teaching and learning, and improving outcomes for students who are educated in an alternative school.
Kimberly Bradley
Assistant Principal, Consuella B. York High School
Chicago, Illinois
ALLY
Kimberly Bradley has been committed to educating, empowering and supporting underserved students throughout the city of Chicago over the past 16 years.
Kimberly earned a Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education from Illinois State University. After relocating to Chicago, she changed her career path and began her teaching career with Chicago Public Schools as a Learning Behavior Specialist in 2004. While serving in this role, Kimberly earned a Master of Arts in both Special Education and Educational Leadership and Organizational Change from Roosevelt University.
Kimberly’s tenure includes co-teaching, direct instruction, case management, and leadership. These experiences in her tenure prepared her for serving in a more influential capacity outside of the classroom. In 2018, Kimberly accepted her first official leadership position. She is currently Assistant Principal at Consuella B. York High School.
Ms. Bradley has an extensive background in working with diverse learners in non-traditional settings. She has a wide range of skills and experience that lend well to her current role. Kimberly works to support both students and staff in her role and ensures continuous improvement within the school, including student growth, teacher development, and social-emotional wellness for all.