Kimberly Grayson (she/her)

Kimberly Grayson is a dedicated educator whose life’s mission embodies the belief that every day is an opportunity to empower and uplift others. With an unwavering commitment to instilling self-confidence, fostering success, and championing professional collaboration and effective leadership, she has left an indelible mark on the world of education.

From a young age, Kimberly’s parents instilled in her the importance of academic excellence. They nurtured her thirst for knowledge, encouraging her to delve into textbooks beyond her years and consistently raising the bar. Their high expectations, unwavering support, and relentless encouragement fueled her self-belief and conviction that she could achieve anything with determination.

For nine years, Kimberly Grayson proudly served as the principal of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Early College. Her journey in education began with her high school graduation as a junior in 1993, immediately transitioning into college courses. In 1997, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Newman University and embarked on her teaching career the following August as a 4th-grade teacher at Ingalls Edison School. Throughout her career, she has taught at various grade levels, including 4th and 5th grade at the elementary level and 6th and 8th grade at the middle school level. Additionally, she has shared her expertise as an adjunct faculty member, teaching courses in teacher and leader preparation programs at the university level.

Kimberly’s impact extends beyond the classroom. She has served as a curriculum coordinator for Edison Schools, providing literacy professional development to educators across the nation. In 2003, she took on the role of Educational Consultant for Edison Alliance in Charleston, South Carolina, where she worked with schools to enhance literacy, student achievement, and school culture. Returning to Wichita, Kansas, she began her journey as a school leader, first as Dean of Instruction at Curtis Middle School and then as Assistant Principal of Seltzer Elementary. Remarkably, Kimberly swiftly transitioned to lead her own elementary school after just one year as an Assistant Principal. Her impressive leadership journey spans 15 years, with a total of 28 years dedicated to the field of education.

Kimberly is not only an accomplished educator and leader but also a passionate activist, author, advocate for Black history and tireless advocate for youth empowerment. Her unwavering belief in the importance of recognizing and celebrating the rich heritage of Black culture and achievement has been a driving force in her work. Her multifaceted career encompasses a rich tapestry of experiences dedicated to uplifting and amplifying the voices of young individuals.

During her leadership at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Early College, Kimberly passionately integrated Black history into her educational endeavors, ensuring that it was an integral part of the curriculum. She understood that acknowledging and learning from Black history was essential for fostering inclusivity, diversity, and understanding in our society. Kimberly is unafraid to tackle pressing social issues head-on. Her commitment to positive change has seen her engage in various advocacy initiatives, channeling her energy and expertise toward building a better world for the next generation and her belief in the limitless potential of young minds.

Today, Kimberly Grayson continues her impactful work as an Implementation Coordinator/Assistant Researcher for the Youth Violence Prevention Program at CU Boulder, where she tirelessly contributes to creating safer and more nurturing environments for our youth. Her lifelong dedication to education, self-confidence, and the pursuit of excellence remains an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of knowing her.