ALBANY — Yvette Simmons, the principal at Sherwood Acres Elementary School, will transition to serve as the district’s Director of the Exceptional Students Program following a vote by the Dougherty County Board of Education and the recommendation of Superintendent Kenneth Dyer Monday evening.
Simmons, who was recommended to the board by Superintendent Kenneth Dyer, has served as principal at Sherwood Acres since 2016.
She started her career as a special education teacher and says she’s excited to support those students and their families at the district level.
“I’m so excited for this opportunity to get back to my roots in special education,” Simmons said. “I’ve always had a deep love for children and families with special needs and I’m grateful for this opportunity.”
Before serving as a principal and assistant principal, Simmons served as both a lead teacher for ESP students and as ESP Coordinator.
Superintendent Kenneth Dyer said that her love for students and her experience with being an advocate for them and their families, made her the ideal candidate for the position.
“With her strong background in special education, proven leadership skills and a commitment to excellence, I'm confident that Mrs. Simmons is a great fit to serve as the leader of the DCSS Exceptional Students Program” Dyer said. “One of the top challenges in education is ensuring that all of our students have access to a high-quality educational experience. With her deep love for students and her roots in special education, Mrs. Simmons is the right person to advocate for and serve our Exceptional Students Program students and their families.”
Simmons will start in her new position following the end of the 2024-2025 school year. Current Sherwood Assistant Principal Amanda Holmes has been promoted by the BOE to serve as principal at Sherwood for the 2025-2026 school year.