Regina Tillman is dedicated to equity and inclusivity for students in both her roles as principal of Tamarisk Elementary School and as a professor at Antelope Valley College.
Tillman dedicated to a high-quality education for all
August 5, 2024
Name: Regina Tillman
Award: Professor of Education of the Year
Title: Professor at Antelope Valley College and principal at Tamarisk Elementary School, Palmdale USD
ACSA highlights: Member since 2008; served as an ACSA Leadership Coach.
Tamarisk Elementary School in Palmdale Unified School District was set for restructuring before Regina Tillman came on board as principal. She led the “Tamarisk Renaissance Turnaround Model,” an effort that revitalized the school’s education program, improving academics, student behavior and social/emotional competencies.
Tillman has also created instructional programs that facilitate student learning and staff development, ensuring that educators have the necessary technology and skill to implement them. As a community college professor teaching both in-person and online classes at Antelope Valley College, Tillman worked to bring online tools and strategies to the modern classroom.
Tillman’s colleagues note her dedication to equity and inclusivity and say she is a key part of brainstorming solutions to challenging problems within the school community. In Tillman’s classrooms, she provides extra support to students with disabilities and any other student who needs it, giving them extended time on tests, one-on-one sessions and extensive notes.
“Her teaching methods, often incorporating real-world examples and interactive activities, have been instrumental in cultivating a stimulating and enriching educational experience,” wrote Donna Campbell, assistant superintendent of special education and student services. “Dr. Tillman has shown a deep understanding of the diverse needs of students and has gone above and beyond to create a classroom atmosphere that encourages collaboration, respect and individual curiosity.”
What’s your favorite book or quote on leadership?
“Ultimately, success involves transforming ‘the culture of learning’ and related changes in ‘the culture of equity’ (i.e., being attuned to the hidden barriers that privilege some while disadvantaging others). Learning and equity together feed well-being.” — Michael Fullan
What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Never let someone define who you are; show them who you are by writing your own story.
What’s your best strategy for work-life balance?
Remember self-care is important; you cannot run on empty and get your job done. You are not being selfish when you spend time and resources on yourself.
What are some life hacks that you would recommend for a new administrator?
Relationships! Relationships! Relationships! To build a positive school culture, you have to create an environment where people are happy and excited to walk through doors and stand with you cultivating a positive school environment.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
That I am actually very quiet and reserved.
What made you want to become a school administrator?
I had this burning desire within me to build a school community that addressed the barriers to resources and opportunities that many marginalized communities face daily. I was one of those kids and I want to create an environment that stood on diversity, inclusion and equity.
What’s the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are?
One of my challenges was having to balance so much at one time in my life, being a mom, wife, daughter, sister and educator. I was never afforded the privilege of having time to myself, so I had to learn to balance all these things early on and still pursue my goals and dreams.
What are you most proud of accomplishing?
I am proud of my ability to guide and encourage other women to pursue their hopes, desires and dreams. We as women have to be more active in our communities and create safe spaces for women so we can form a collective voice about our concerns and about the struggles we face — without having to justify our emotions and feelings as women. When we work on raising awareness to our causes, we will have an impact on change in our communities.
How has ACSA supported you in your career/current position?
I have been an ACSA member for over 17 years and ACSA has been a support in my growth as an educational leader; women in leadership, and as a coach to new administrators though professional development, networking, community engagement, resources, and advocacy, mentorship and professional recognition. These many opportunities have all been geared towards developing me as a leader and a person who others emulate to become. Through their ongoing support, ACSA has been a guiding light on my path to a successful career by illuminating opportunities for growth, creating professional connections, forging long-lasting friendships and advocating for polices that create positive changes for students and those that serve them. Their support is immeasurable and has been nothing but a true blessing in my life.
Regina Tillman’s colleagues note her dedication to equity and inclusivity and say she is a key part of brainstorming solutions to challenging problems