Her Story
About Tyra
Tyra Smith-Bell, Ed.S., is an accomplished educator, school principal, author, and adjunct professor with more than 26 years of experience in education. She currently serves as a School Principal with Detroit Public Schools Community District, where she provides instructional and organizational leadership while promoting student equity, inclusiveness, and academic achievement. Throughout her career, she has also served as an assistant principal, instructional specialist, teacher, Technology Readiness Infrastructure Grant (TRIG) Coach, and Success for All Reading Facilitator. Her expertise includes educational policy research, equitable leadership, restorative justice, instructional leadership, data analysis, and turnaround leadership practices. As a culturally responsive leader, Tyra focuses on strengthening instructional practices, supporting educators, developing effective teams, and creating positive school climates. Her work incorporates classroom observations, coaching cycles, professional development, assessment data analysis, and evidence-based instructional strategies to improve student outcomes. She has been recognized for her leadership as the 2022–2023 DPS Foundation Principal of the Year and for helping achieve a significant reduction in chronic absenteeism at her school. She has also contributed to higher education as an Adjunct Professor of English at Wayne County Community College District, where she provided college-level instruction tailored to diverse student needs. Tyra holds an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Oakland University and has pursued advanced study in educational leadership and administration. She is also a published author of Unapologetically Heard, reflecting her commitment to advocacy and using her voice to make a meaningful impact. A member of the RAND American School Leader Panel, she remains dedicated to scholar advocacy, educational equity, and community service. Her professional philosophy centers on openness, honesty, transparency, and leading with compassion, while her personal mission is to be a strong voice and advocate for scholars and the communities she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tyra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to staying focused, goal-oriented, and driven. I am self-motivated and determined, and I continuously challenge myself to grow, improve, and achieve the goals I set by becoming better than I was the day before.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to lead with love and heart. I believe that approaching my work with compassion, empathy, and genuine care helps me build meaningful relationships and make a positive impact.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Prepare for the unknown, stay connected to your “why,” and remain flexible as opportunities and challenges arise. Most importantly, lead with purpose and look for ways to serve and positively impact your community.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is navigating situations involving disrespectful students and parents who may side with students before fully understanding the circumstances. At the same time, education offers meaningful opportunities for career growth, from student teaching to principal leadership and potentially advancing to assistant superintendent, central office leadership and superintendentship roles.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are openness, honesty, and transparency. I believe in communicating openly, being truthful, and building trust through transparency in both my professional and personal relationships.
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