System-Level Transformation: How Greenville County Schools and San Antonio ISD Are Improving Student Achievement

About the Presenters

Dr. Susan Stevens serves as the Associate Superintendent of Academics for Greenville County Schools, where she leads districtwide instructional strategy, curriculum development, and academic innovation. With a deep commitment to advancing equitable access to high-quality learning, she oversees initiatives that strengthen teaching and learning across all grade levels. Dr. Stevens brings extensive experience in school leadership, instructional improvement, and systems-level change. Her work centers on fostering collaborative partnerships, supporting educators, and ensuring that every student is prepared for success in college, career, and life. Renowned for her strategic approach and student-centered vision, she continues to champion opportunities that elevate academic excellence throughout the district.

Justin Watwood is an accomplished educational leader and current Principal at Edgar Allan Poe STEM Dual Language Middle School in San Antonio ISD. With over a decade of experience in instructional leadership, curriculum implementation, and school improvement, Justin has held key roles including Director of School Leadership and Partnership Services and Manager of Curriculum Implementation. He has successfully led initiatives that improved instructional effectiveness, strengthened teacher coaching systems, and advanced campus performance goals. Justin holds a master’s in educational leadership from the University of North Texas and a bachelor’s in economics from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Certified as a Principal (EC–12) and Science Teacher (Grades 8–12), he is passionate about fostering collaborative school cultures, leveraging data-driven strategies, and ensuring equitable access to high-quality education for all students.

Dawn Hooker, Ph.D., is a school administrator at Alexander Elementary School in Greenville County Schools, bringing more than 23 years of experience in public education. Her career began in the classroom, where she taught grades two, three, and seven, building a foundation rooted in strong instructional practice and meaningful student relationships. Throughout her career, she has served in a variety of roles that deepened her understanding of teaching and learning. Her leadership pathway includes serving as an instructional coach (K4–5), Title I facilitator (K4–5), and assistant principal (K4–5). She spent six years as an elementary assistant principal in both Pickens and Greenville Counties before becoming a principal in Greenville County Schools, where she is now entering her 11th year in this role.

Dr. Hooker earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from North Greenville University in 2002. She went on to receive two Master of Arts degrees from Clemson University—in Elementary Education (2004) and Reading (2007). She achieved National Board Certification in 2007 and later completed her Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Administration at the University of South Carolina in 2013. Recognized for her ability to lead meaningful school improvement, Dr. Hooker has consistently transformed school performance—from unsatisfactory to excellent—through a focus on instructional quality, data-driven decision making, and strong relationships. Her school was awarded the most growth in Greenville County in 2025, along with awarding her the Jeff McCoy Innovative Leadership Award.

Santa Lopez, Principal of Davy Crockett Academy, was born and raised in Pearsall, Texas, where she graduated from Pearsall High School. She earned her bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Texas at San Antonio in 2004 and began her teaching career at Highland Hills Elementary. Over the course of 10 years, Santa taught kindergarten, second, and fourth grades, demonstrating a deep commitment to student growth and learning. In 2014, she earned a master’s degree in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio, further equipping her to support school communities. Two years later, in 2016, Santa was promoted to Assistant Principal at Highland Park Elementary, where she served for three years.

In 2019, she became Principal at Hillcrest Elementary, leading the school to academic success with dedication for six years. Most recently, in 2025, Santa was appointed principal at Crockett Academy. She holds high expectations for ALL students, firmly believing that every child can grow and succeed. Her leadership philosophy centers on building strong, meaningful relationships with each student, fostering an environment where learning thrives.

Dr. Shawn Bird currently serves as Deputy Superintendent of Teaching, Learning, and Leadership in the San Antonio ISD. He grew up in Houston and has served in public education for over two decades, all in large urban school districts. He began his career as a high school English teacher and has also held the position of secondary literacy coach, assistant principal, and principal. After moving to California, he worked in the Los Angeles Unified School District as a Principal Supervisor and in Pasadena Unified School District as the Chief Academic Officer. Dr. Bird has also served as Chief of Schools in the School District of Philadelphia and as the Deputy Superintendent of Instruction and School Communities at Portland Public Schools. Dr. Bird earned three degrees from the University of Houston: a Bachelor of Arts in English with a minor in Spanish, a Master of Education in Secondary Education, and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction.

About the Moderator

Jeff McCoy currently serves as the Chief Education Officer for the Education Research & Development Institute (ERDI), where he leads national engagement with district leaders to shape innovative K-12 solutions and provide thought partnerships for school district leaders. Prior to joining ERDI, Jeff spent over two decades with Greenville County Schools in South Carolina, one of the largest districts in the Southeast, serving as Associate Superintendent for Academics from 2015-2025. His leadership was instrumental in launching the district’s K-12 Literacy Framework, Virtual School, AI Implementation, and transformation frameworks.

Jeff has been nationally recognized for his impact, including being named one of District Administration’s Top 100 Most Influential Education Leaders and receiving the 1EdTech Leadership Award and RTM All Stars Award. He is a frequent national presenter on topics such as artificial intelligence in education, instructional transformation, instructional innovation, and educational equity. Jeff also serves on multiple national and regional boards focused on advancing education policy and practice.