Connie Espinoza Springfield
Connie Espinoza-Springfield, Ed.S. is a seasoned educational leader with nearly three decades of experience in public education. She currently serves as an Associate Principal at Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in Kansas, where she leads with integrity, purpose, and a deep commitment to student development. Over the years, Connie has held a variety of leadership roles—including principal, vice principal, and teacher—where she has demonstrated her strengths in school operations, curriculum implementation, personnel management, and student support.
Connie is recognized for her ability to foster meaningful relationships with students, staff, and the broader community. Her leadership is rooted in a passion for equity in education, with a focus on empowering underrepresented student populations. As a Latina educator, she actively participates in community-based initiatives that elevate Latino voices and address the unmet needs of students of color. Her work has earned her recognition, including the Community Champion Award from the Kansas Governor’s Hispanic and Latino American Affairs Commission.
Beyond the school environment, Connie is an advocate for leadership development, mentorship, and civic engagement. She has contributed to multiple organizations such as the Kansas City Hispanic Chamber’s BizFest and Comida events, and served as a speaker and panelist on topics of educational leadership and cultural representation. With a background in both teaching and administration, and an educational specialist degree in leadership, Connie continues to inspire the next generation of educators and students alike.
• Certification of Achievement in completion of the C.E.R.T. Training Program
• FBI Citizens Academy Fall 2017
• The University of Kansas
• University of Missouri-Kansas City
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being placed in roles and environments that continuously challenge me to grow. Each experience has pushed me to adapt, lead with purpose, and find innovative solutions—all of which have shaped me into the educator and leader I am today.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the education field is to embrace both failure and success—they are equally valuable in shaping your journey. Learn from every experience, and no matter where you are in your career, always carry yourself with confidence and pride. Your voice and presence matter in every room you enter.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in education today is helping parents understand how technology is integrated into modern schooling. As digital tools continue to evolve and become central to student learning, there’s a growing need to bridge the gap between traditional educational experiences and today's tech-driven classrooms. This also presents an opportunity—to engage families more effectively by providing education and support around these tools, ultimately creating stronger partnerships between home and school.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
One of the values I hold most important—both professionally and personally—is taking pride in everything I do. Whether it’s leading a team, supporting students, or navigating daily challenges, I believe in showing up with purpose, giving my best effort, and maintaining a strong sense of integrity. That pride in my work drives me to continuously grow and contribute meaningfully to those around me.