Iris Witherspoon

Dr. Iris Witherspoon, a proud Puerto Rican native, has been at the helm of the Bronx High School for the Visual Arts since 2015. This Career and Technical Education (CTE) school, originally focused on graphic design and now expanding into media productions, is recognized as one of the first Magnet High Schools in the Bronx.

With over two decades of experience within the NYC Public Schools, Dr. Witherspoon has served in various capacities at both the school and district levels. She gained prominence as a member of the Lighthouse Collaborative for her significant contributions to literacy initiatives. Her leadership in the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) for adolescent literacy was recognized by the NYC Public Schools Literacy Collaborative. Dr. Witherspoon’s innovative “What I Need” (W.I.N.) Program, designed to enhance adolescent literacy, has garnered widespread acknowledgment across the city and now serves as a district-level model.

Dr. Witherspoon’s dedication to education extends beyond academics. She was honored with the SEL Star School Award by the Urban Assembly for her exceptional commitment to Social Emotional Learning (SEL), and her dedication to fostering both social-emotional and academic growth among students.

Outside of her professional achievements, Dr. Witherspoon is an avid athlete, having completed multiple marathons and triathlons over the past decade. She has also maintained a vegetarian diet for the same period. In her personal life, Dr. Witherspoon enjoys spending quality time with her family. She is happily married and has two children.