Women’s History Month: Dr. LeKecia Hyman’s Life Story Work, Life Stories Inspires New Generation
Photo courtesy of Dr. LaKecia Hyman
BY CLYDE HUGHES | AC JosepH Media
ATLANTIC CITY – When Dr. LaKecia Hyman speaks to students in the Atlantic City School District—particularly young Black girls—her story of growing up in the challenging neighborhoods in Pleasantville to rising to one of the most influential positions in the district resonates deeply.
Born to a teenage mother and raised in a family that struggled during her early years, Hyman’s determination led her to excel academically, earn multiple education degrees, and rise professionally from teacher to principal and now assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction.
“I spend a lot of time at Atlantic City High School and meet with groups of young ladies, especially those who tend to get in trouble,” Hyman said. “I share my humble story of how my mother was 16 years old when she had me. We didn’t have a lot, and sometimes making it real to our students helps them relax.
“I say, ‘Listen, I am you. I was there. You can make it too. I’m a living model for that.’ I’m never afraid to share my story. The young ladies pay attention because they don’t just see where you are today—they don’t realize where you come from. In sharing my testimony, I think it’s been a powerful example of how to shape their young mindsets.”
Atlantic City Superintendent La’Quetta Small calls Hyman her “right hand.” The mission of the curriculum department is to ensure that all students have access to a guaranteed and viable curriculum based on the current New Jersey Student Learning Standards. The department provides support in planning and delivering the daily instruction that occurs in every classroom.
Hyman, has always been a trendsetter, from being the first Black homecoming queen at Holy Spirit High School, she is only the second African American woman ever to hold the assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction position in Atlantic City. It remains rare for a woman to hold such a post in New Jersey.
Her commitment to professional growth led her to pursue advanced degrees at Rowan University, where she earned her doctorate and deepened her expertise in curriculum, instruction, and educational leadership.
She is also a member of the Jack and Jill of America, Inc., National Organization of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., and the New Jersey Association of School Administrators.
“I always continued my education because I needed to prove that I knew what I was doing—that I understood the pedagogy behind education, that I knew what it took, how children learn, how to support staff, how to train staff, how to go from pedagogy or theory to practice,” Hyman said.
“I keep myself well abreast of the latest trends in education, being well?versed in educational improvements. I earned my spot as an upper?level administrator, and I’ve worked hard to get there.”
Hyman served in numerous capacities—teacher, literacy coach, assistant principal, and principal—before becoming assistant superintendent.
“I had my feet in every aspect of education,” she said. “Incrementally, I followed the steps and I learned. I continued my education because I felt like I needed to know exactly what I was doing before I got into these roles, so that I could compete with my male counterparts, step into these roles, and be respected.
“You have to know what you’re doing and be able to share that knowledge, background, and understanding. I think I was able to prove myself and step into my own stilettos next to my male counterparts and, if not be the smartest person in the room, at least be able to compete and stand my ground.”
Hyman calls Atlantic City home and has no plans to leave anytime soon.
“I know the community I’m from, and these are my children, my parents, and my connections,” Hyman said. “I just wanted to give back to where I came from—because it gave back to me. I never wanted to forget where I came from.”
She said she is thankful to Superintendent Small for giving her the opportunity to serve the district in her current role.
“I respect her so much, and she’s like a sister to me,” Hyman said of Small, the first Black female superintendent in the history of Atlantic City schools. “She believed in me and gave me a chance. She pulled me right in with her, and her confidence in me means a lot.
“That’s why I work and go so hard for our district—because I want to show her that taking a chance on me is one of the best decisions she could have ever made.”
Hyman’s long?term focus is clear: to elevate academic outcomes while ensuring that every student—regardless of background, language, or circumstance—has access to the tools and opportunities needed to succeed.
Her leadership continues to shape Atlantic City’s instructional landscape, guiding the district toward stronger systems, more consistent teaching practices, and a culture that celebrates learning.
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