Hoover City Schools is proud to announce that two district leaders have been named assistant superintendents for the school system. Dr. Chris Robbins has been named Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, and Dr. Desiree Smith has been named Assistant Superintendent of Administration.

In these roles, both leaders will assist the Superintendent in advancing the district’s vision, mission, and strategic goals. They will provide leadership and oversight in planning, developing, implementing, and evaluating instructional and administrative priorities ranging from academic programs and student achievement to district policies, personnel practices, and the student code of conduct.

These leadership roles were created as part of a restructuring of the district’s organizational chart to provide more focused oversight and strategic direction across the core areas of instruction and administration. The addition of an Assistant Superintendent of Instruction and an Assistant Superintendent of Administration allows the district to better support schools, enhance student learning experiences, and strengthen operational effectiveness.

As Assistant Superintendent of Instruction, Dr. Chris Robbins will oversee and provide leadership in the areas of curriculum and instruction, technology, exceptional education, federal programs, student assessment, and instructional support. With 27 years of experience in Hoover City Schools, he most recently served as the district’s Chief Learning Officer. In that role, he partnered with principals, teachers, and departments to align academic programs with state standards and district goals, all with a focus on supporting and measuring student success.

Dr. Robbins began his career as a science teacher at Berry Middle School. Later, he served as assistant principal at Bumpus Middle School and Brock’s Gap Intermediate School before returning to Berry as the school’s principal. Dr. Robbins has received appointments to a variety of advisory and professional learning communities at the local, state, and university levels. He is a Certified Instructional Leader and a graduate of the University of Alabama’s Superintendents Academy. His leadership has also earned state and university recognition and honors, including the Alabama Educational Theatre Association’s Administrator of the Year and Outstanding Alumni Awards from both the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Samford University Schools of Education. 

In his new role, he will provide leadership and oversight in planning, implementing, and evaluating curriculum, instruction, and technology, and serve as the key advisor to the Superintendent on instructional matters, including policy, planning, procedures, and organizational effectiveness.

“It continues to be an honor to serve the students and staff of Hoover City Schools,” said Dr. Robbins. “As a former teacher, assistant principal, and principal in this district, I have seen first-hand the high expectations we have for ourselves in everything we do. We are a district filled with individuals who are committed to excellence in education, and I look forward to helping strengthen that commitment by supporting our teachers and empowering our students.”

Dr. Robbins holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Samford University and earned his master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

As Assistant Superintendent of Administration, Dr. Desiree Smith will lead administrative services and oversee operations and procedures to ensure they are aligned with state standards, district priorities, and best practices. 

With more than 30 years of experience in education, she brings a strong background in human resources, instructional leadership, and organizational development. Most recently, she served as the district’s Chief Talent Officer, overseeing system-wide efforts in recruiting, hiring, and employee development.

Dr. Smith began her career as a mathematics teacher and has also served as a high school administrator, curriculum and technology coordinator, and university instructor. In her new role, Dr. Smith will provide leadership and oversight in developing and implementing district policies, student services, and personnel practices. She will also serve as a key advisor to the Superintendent on matters related to planning, compliance, professional development, and organizational effectiveness. 

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue working with our dedicated staff and school leaders to support the growth and success of both students and employees,” said Dr. Smith. “It’s a privilege to serve in a district that values our employees and is always striving to grow.”

Dr. Smith earned her bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Montevallo, her master’s and administration certificate from UAB, and both her educational specialist and doctorate degrees from Samford University.

“Dr. Robbins and Dr. Smith are respected and experienced leaders who bring deep knowledge of our schools and a strong commitment to student success,” said Dr. Kevin Maddox, Superintendent of Hoover City Schools. “Their continued leadership will strengthen both our instructional and operational teams as we continue building momentum across the district.”

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Chris Robbins and Dr. Desiree Smith on their new leadership roles.