HMMS Leadership

Dr. Ashford Collins,
Hickman Mills Middle School Principal

Ashford Collins, Ed.D., joins HMC-1 with a remarkable career defined by strategic leadership and a profound understanding of how school climate impacts achievement. Most recently serving as Principal at Eisenhower Middle School in Kansas City, Kansas, Collins improved the school’s Panorama survey results for student-teacher relationships, reducing office referrals by 66% while increasing positive referrals by 300%. His focus on “Responsibility Centered Discipline” and restorative practices created an environment where instruction could flourish. Crucially, Eisenhower Middle School saw meaningful academic growth in Fastbridge reading and math scores under his stewardship.

Collins is a “rookie of the year” award winner who understands the power of data-driven decision-making. His previous experience includes serving as an Assistant Principal in the Blue Valley School District, where he led Response to Intervention (RTI) processes and culturally responsive practices. He began his career in education as a middle school ELA teacher, where he co-chaired the Building Leadership Team and led the implementation of a school-wide literacy program.