For 58 years Dr. Bertie Simmons was a dedicated educator in the Houston Independent School District. Her career included experiences as a teacher, elementary school principal, assistant superintendent, district superintendent, and high school principal. As evidence of Bertie Simmons’ indelible impact during her eighteen year tenure as principal of Furr High School, Laurene Powell Jobs recognized the school in 2016 as one of ten recipients of a ten-million-dollar grant through the XQ Super School Project. This highly sought public speaker has received many notable professional recognitions that include HEB’s Best High School Principal in Texas award in 2011 and KHOU’s Spirit of Texas award. In addition, Furr was one of only three schools in the nation identified for the College Board Inspiration Award in 2011. Known as a visionary and a change agent who brought out the best in her students, the high-energy educator arrived at Furr High School at 6:30 a.m. each school day. She maintained that upbeat and infectious attitude to reach and inspire her students with her passion, knowledge, dedication, and maybe even the occasional rap song or two. Dr. Simmons is also the author of Wind for New Wings, which she coauthored with Ashley Fendley, her granddaughter.