Indy Standard

Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) has announced the transition of Daria Parham from her position as principal at Frederick Douglass School 19 to Executive Director of Schools. The transition is slated to take effect on July 1, 2025, pending approval by the Board of School Commissioners.

In her upcoming role, Parham will guide school principals and advance initiatives aimed at improving districtwide student achievement. Parham stated, “It has been a privilege serving our students, and I look forward to continuing this important work from a new perspective. I’m excited to support our school leaders and communities as we work together to create lasting academic success.”

With 20 years in education, Parham is recognized for her leadership, having received accolades such as the 2023 IPS Principal of the Year, the 2022 Black Excellence in Education Award, and the 2023 Community MVP Award from the Darius Shaquille Leonard Maniac Foundation.

Lela Simmons, the district’s chief learning officer, remarked, “Daria’s experience as a teacher and principal has prepared her to lead by focusing on the whole child and consistently driving improved academic outcomes for all students. We at IPS are lucky to have such an outstanding professional to put in this position.”

IPS plans to find a new principal for Frederick Douglass School 19. A community survey and virtual meeting on Wednesday, April 30, will be conducted to gather input from families, staff, and community members.