Superintendent's Office

Dr. Hightower is the District’s Chief Treasure Hunter

As an adult and a treasure hunter, she is committed to search for all the talents, skills, and intelligence that exists in all children and youth. She believes all children are capable of success—No Exceptions! 

2023 Arizona School Administrator’s Superintendent of the Year

Dr. Hightower was named Arizona Superintendent of the Year. Humbled by this honor, she credits the entire Tolleson ESD education team for the amazing accomplishments and culture of the district. In addition, she has been honored with the following:

  • Arizona School Administrator’s School Superintendent of the Year Award for mid-size school districts in Arizona 2019
  • National Latinx Superintendent of the Year 2019 – Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents
  • Cox Communications Hispanic Heritage Awardee 2019
  • Jobs for Arizona Graduates – JAG's National Educational Leadership Award 2015
  • Winner of the Jane Romatzke Out-of-School Time Leader Award in 2014

Our “Yes We Can” Superintendent

Dr. Hightower is our “Yes We Can” superintendent. Whether it is funding for preschool, after-school programs, or striving for higher academic success, she knows it can be done. As a result, through partnerships and grants, funding is identified to successfully meet the needs of students and families. Under her leadership, we persevere to identify the funding needed for programs focused on social-emotional development, physical well-being, and academic growth. Recent data shows district students are exceeding the growth percentage for specific grade levels when compared to state average growth. The district letter grade is a “B”—above average.

Bilingual, Bicultural, and Committed to all our Treasures

Born in Mexico, Dr. Hightower came to the United States in seventh grade and began her journey to learn English and become highly educated. She strives to ensure every treasure in our district receives the same great education she did so they, too, can achieve their dreams.

Both a Proud Sun Devil & Proud Wildcat Alumnus

Having acquired her undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona and her master’s and doctorate degrees from Arizona State University, she is proud to be an alumnus of both universities. She works closely with Northern Arizona University, Arizona State University, the University of Arizona, our community colleges, and serves on the Board of Trustees for Grand Canyon University. She builds bridges and makes connections to better serve the students, families, staff, and teachers of our district.

Here to Serve Our Community

Dr. Hightower loves to learn from and work with the community. She hosts parent advisory and business and community groups and works with leaders across the city, state, and country to stay informed, engaged, and represent our Tolleson ESD students, families, staff, teachers, and the entire community. She exemplifies “working across the aisle” to represent and lead our education community.

Her door is always open to hear from you!