-
Dr. Robert Whitman, Educational Transformation Officer
Dr. Robert Whitman has been an educator in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) for over 20 years. During his career at LAUSD, he has served as a teacher, dean of students, assistant principal, principal, central office administrator, Community of Schools Administrator, and Educational Transformation Officer. Through each of these experiences, he has acquired expertise in several areas of education (e.g., curriculum and instruction, special education, college readiness, school leadership, and education reform) that have enabled him to advocate strongly for underserved student populations. Throughout his career, Dr. Whitman has maintained a philosophy of “leaving it better than he found it,” an attitude that inspires him to embrace challenges and take pride in his work. As a product of public schools, he remains steadfast in his belief that all students can learn and has firsthand experience—as a student and educator—that responsive public schools empower students to recognize their immeasurable potential. Dr. Whitman recognizes the continuous nature of school reform and upholds a reflective attitude that enables him to remain committed to educating all students.
-
Dr. Travis Brandy, Senior Director
Dr. Travis D. Brandy is a life-long educator, who has spent the last 20 years working in public education, having served communities across Los Angeles. Dr. Brandy began his career as a mathematics special education teacher at Washington Preparatory High School before serving as an administrator in the Division of Special Education. Since, he has been a High School Assistant Principal, served as both middle and high school Principal, Director of Secondary Instruction, Administrator of the Hollywood Community of Schools, and is now excited to take on this new role as the Senior Director of the Black Student Achievement Plan.
-
Norma Spencer, Administrator
Norma Spencer is the Administrator for Black Student Achievement with the Los Angeles Unified School District. With over twenty-six years of experience in education, Norma has served in many roles, including teacher, assistant principal of Special Education, principal, and Community of Schools Administrator. Her goal is to create an environment where every student loves to learn. She is committed to changing the narrative for the most underserved student population and ensuring their voices are heard.
Ms. Spencer currently supports over 195 schools in the LAUSD as the Administrator of the Black Student Achievement Program. In her current role, she aims to increase student support services with a high level of care and support, to ensure that every Black student receives a quality education. At the focal point of her leadership philosophy is the calling to support educator growth and identify leaders who will continue the work that impacts student academic achievement.
