TASA’s “Inspiring Leaders” tagline is not just a reminder of TASA’s commitment to leadership development; it describes our members themselves — school leaders who inspire others as they work to prepare future-ready students. Meet Tiffany Spicer, one of those Inspiring Leaders.
Right along the Louisiana border lies Buna ISD, where Dr. Tiffany Spicer has led the district as superintendent since 2022. Previously, Spicer worked in Beeville ISD as chief of staff and assistant superintendent of learning and innovation. With an 18-year career in education, Spicer leads Buna ISD with a commitment to working closely with the board of trustees, district staff, and parents to provide students the best possible educational opportunities in a safe and supportive environment.
Sharon Mosley, assistant superintendent of finance in BISD, says Spicer is an inspiring leader who is passionate about equity and access for all students, ensuring they are prepared to reach their fullest potential.
“Words might inspire a few, but actions inspire many. Dr. Spicer has inspired me and others in our district with her tireless efforts to support every student and employee,” Mosley says. “She truly wants to understand all aspects of our small, rural school, and it is not uncommon to see her in the cafeteria serving meals or riding a bus route at 5 in the morning. The actions of Dr. Spicer speak much louder than words.”
Buna is known locally as a “small town with a big heart,” and Spicer says she’s seen that big heart firsthand. In December, she reached out to the local community to see if anyone would be willing to donate gifts to BISD staff — in the end, the district was able to give gifts to all employees, including cash, gift cards, appliances, and more. The district gave away one gift of $500, and the employee who received it used it to take students shopping so they could choose gifts to donate to children in need in the community.
“This is what makes the people, our staff especially, so special,” Spicer says. “I am honored to serve as they serve not only our students but others around us.”
As a first-time superintendent, Spicer blogs about her experiences, and shares that she maintains her focus by keeping her values and her priorities aligned.
“My faith is first, my family is second, my health is next, and then my career. It is that simple for me. This is how I keep my peace and stay ready for the daily grind. When these items are aligned and in order I am ready to take on any situation (no one day is ever the same).”
The superintendency can be a lonely job, and Spicer says having a support system is essential. For her, connecting with colleagues, as both a mentor and mentee, has helped her to grow in her career while allowing her to give back.
“I was once asked if I had the time to mentor one more person; my answer is always, ‘Yes!’ People have invested and believe in me, and I must do the same for others as well. These relationships and friendships I have developed over the years have become invaluable and life changing. As some of my mentors have stated, ‘Iron sharpens iron.’”
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