From North Philly to Systemic Change: Dr. Alphonso Evans’ Journey of Transformational Leadership
From North Philly to Systemic Change: Dr. Alphonso Evans’ Journey of Transformational Leadership
Dr. Alphonso Evans, Sr., School District of Philadelphia Assistant Superintendent of School Performance and a 2024 Neubauer Fellow (Cohort 8), is redefining what it means to lead with purpose in Philadelphia’s public schools. With roots in North Philadelphia and a career that spans classrooms, charter networks, and central office leadership, Dr. Evans brings a deeply personal and community-centered approach to educational equity.
Raised by his grandparents, Dr. Evans’ early life was shaped by sacrifice and resilience. “My grandparents didn’t have all the resources, but they did innovative things—like paying the smartest kids in the neighborhood to tutor me,” he recalls. That foundation of community investment and high expectations laid the groundwork for a career driven by a belief in the potential of every child, especially Black and Brown students too often overlooked by the system.
Evans’ leadership journey began in the classroom, where he quickly rose from student teacher to instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal—all before the age of 30. “I always find joy in spaces where others see challenges,” he says, reflecting on his time leading Allen M. Stearne Elementary School through a series of hardships. His leadership philosophy is grounded in authenticity, humility, and a relentless focus on student outcomes. “Leadership is not about doing it all yourself—it’s about empowering others to maximize their experiences and opportunities.”
Now, as Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Evans oversees 15 schools and continues to advocate fiercely for equity. “When I say I’m focused on children, it doesn’t mean I’m anti-adult—it means I must do what is best for children.” For example, he challenges deficit narratives about Black boys, pointing out that even in high-performing schools, they remain at the bottom of achievement metrics. “We have to revisit that. If everyone isn’t achieving, we’re not succeeding.” Evans’ commitment to community extends beyond his professional role. Through his fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., he organizes annual HBCU tours, exposing students to college campuses and civil rights history. “Some students get admitted on the spot. Others realize college is for them after all. It’s about opening doors.”
His work is deeply personal. “I wrote a children’s book called Tell Them They’re Great, I Dare You, inspired by the village that raised me. Later, I wrote Taking a Risk: Meet Your Father, about my journey to find my absentee dad. While my dad had already passed by the time I tracked him down, what I really found in the search was healing.” That healing informs his leadership. “You can’t help others if you haven’t helped yourself. You have to acknowledge your own pain to support children through theirs.”
The Neubauer Fellowship has been a catalyst for Dr. Evans, offering access to national thought leaders and a network of like-minded professionals. “It’s like bringing national conferences to Philadelphia. You’re learning from business leaders, superintendents, and innovators. It’s priceless.” The Fellowship has helped him refine his vision and validate his impact. “It’s one thing to be told you’re doing a good job. It’s another to be shown how to scale that work.”
Dr. Evans believes in building a legacy of leadership. “I’m known for producing principals and leaders because I don’t want to hold anyone back. I was given opportunities early on, and I want to do the same for others.” His leadership is rooted in the belief that the greatness to create lasting change exists in every community. “Growing up, my community told me I was great. Despite the challenges, there were good people who worked, helped each other, and stayed together. As educators, we have to remind our children that even in struggle, there is greatness.”
As he continues to lead at scale, Dr. Evans remains grounded in his mission: to ensure every child is seen, heard, and given the opportunity to thrive. “Leadership is lonely, but it’s worth it. A leader must do the work that no one else is willing to do, to get the results no one else will get, because at the end of the day, it’s about the children.”