Dr. Shonda Ambers-Phillips

New educator breakfast!

Officially wrapped up my first Admin Council at CPS and it was a perfect way to kick things off connecting with colleagues, preparing for an exciting school year and getting back into the rhythm of serving students and families.

And, apparently, I came ready to win because I took home best dressed for the theme. I think they gave me some grace or maybe the schools took it over the top.

Here’s to a great school year!

I made it in time to vote! Every election matters, and eligible voter has the opportunity to make their voice heard.

What an exciting day at Eagle Bluffs Elementary School. It was wonderful to be in the midst of families, staff, community partners and district leaders. This is an exciting place to learn and grow! Here’s to a great school year.

There’s something about creating space to connect, share experiences, support one another and continue advancing educational equity and excellence.

A special thanks to Vails Brothers for hosting us and Jeremy Mapp for the invitation. I also have to shoutout the owner, my Soror, for the warm hospitality and welcoming atmosphere.

They say great minds think alike, apparently dress alike too! 😂😂

Today’s office suprise: Noelle and I showed up twinning without planning it. Same colors, similar style and lots of smiles.

Here’s to teamwork, shared purpose and accidental color coordination.

Friday was my first day of a three-year journey! I have been accepted into the Missouri Special Education Leadership Certification Program through the Missouri Pathway for Aspiring Leaders in Special Education (MoPAL)!

MoPAL is a leadership development program sponsored by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Designed for certified school administrators, the program provides advanced professional learning through online coursework, cohort experiences, coaching, and mentoring focused on strengthening leadership in special education.

Over the next three years, I will engage in learning centered on:
• Special education law and compliance
• Continuous improvement practices
• Special education finance
• High-impact instructional practices
• Data-informed decision making
• Effective teaching and learning
• Family and community engagement

The program culminates in a capstone project supported by individualized coaching, allowing participants to apply their learning to improve outcomes for students with disabilities.

I am grateful for this opportunity to continue growing as a leader and to deepen my capacity to ensure every student has access to an equitable, inclusive, and high-quality educational experience.

A heartfelt thank you to my MoPAL consultant, Laura Olmstead., for your guidance and support as I begin this exciting journey. I look forward to learning alongside an incredible cohort of educational leaders across Missouri.

There's something special about sharing a meal with leaders who are deeply committed to students and community.

Today I had the pleasure of a working lunch or Chat and Chew with Dr. Eryca Neville, the esteemed Principal of Douglass High School and Director of Alternative Education. Our conversation centered on students, opportunity, and the work ahead to ensure every young person has access to the support and resources they need to thrive.

Dr. Neville is a fierce advocate for students, deeply rooted in the community, and a true champion for educational equity. I left our conversation inspired by her leadership, passion, and unwavering commitment to creating pathways for student success.

As an added bonus, we discovered we both enjoy sushi, which made for the perfect setting to collaborate!

A sincere thank you to Sake Japanese Bistro for your warm hospitality and for providing such a welcoming atmosphere for meaningful conversation. Great food, great company, and even greater purpose.

My 21 year son is looking for a job in the St. Louis region if anyone has leads please let me know. He is majoring in Nursing, would love something in a health related field. He is also a STL City Futures Soccer Coach and played competitive soccer and basketball and very into fitness.

Thank you for any leads you can offer.

I am deeply honored to start my new position as Chief Equity Officer at Columbia Public Schools on July 1. I am excited to work alongside our students, families, educators, and community partners.

Together, we will ensure every student has the resources and support they need to thrive.

Every student, every day!