Meet Ashley Phillips
Royal Oak Schools is excited to welcome Ashley Phillips as the new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator. A Detroit native, Phillips brings a wealth of educational experience, holding Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Music Education from Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia.
With 17 years of teaching experience, Phillips has impacted students across various levels, from Pre-Kindergarten through College. Her journey includes roles as a Supplemental Instructor for Wayne State University, a Music Educator for Norfolk Public Schools, and most recently, an educator and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Teacher Leader for Berkley Schools.
Beyond her extensive classroom experience, Phillips has engaged in comprehensive Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion training with notable leaders such as Dr. Jay Marks, Dr. Bryant Marks, and Dr. Adolph Brown, III.
"Royal Oak Schools remains committed to providing a safe and supportive learning community. With the hiring of Ms. Phillips as our new DEI Coordinator, I am very excited to welcome her as a new leader to the district to help move these efforts forward for all district members. Her passion and knowledge will be a great addition to our team," said Superintendent Fitzpatrick.
Phillips is passionate about being a voice for all children on and off the stage. Her belief in ensuring everyone feels seen, heard, and valued aligns with her leadership approach. With a focus on empathy, audience analysis, and effective communication, Phillips is dedicated to contributing to Royal Oak Schools' ongoing journey as a community of excellence.
"I am elated to join this amazing 'community of excellence' as the new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator. I am excited to build relationships with everyone in Royal Oak's dynamic and exceptional community. I am committed to helping drive the district's DEI efforts and initiatives forward.
She emphasizes the importance of positive relationship-building as the cornerstone of success for everyone involved. She looks forward to collaborating with students, staff, and the community to propel this work forward. She says that her goals, along with building relationships, are to promote the importance of maintaining inclusive learning spaces, continue providing meaningful DEI-related resources, and provide staff with engaging and thought-provoking professional development opportunities.
In addition to working in education, Ashley is a 'Music and Sports' mom who loves supporting her 12-year-old daughter at her Orchestra performances, Black Belt Training classes, and U.S. Figure Skating Club activities. They enjoy listening to music, attending plays and musicals, and watching movies together when they are not busy attending classes, testing, competing, and performing.