Dr. Payno-Simmons (formally Ruth Riddle) is a national speaker, trainer, lead consultant and founder of RPS Educational Impact. Dr. Payno-Simmons is committed to issues of excellence and equity in education and understands the role that race and culture plays in the success of students of color, particularly African American and Latino students. Her primary objective is to improve educational opportunities for all students. Dr. Payno-Simmons' leadership experiences and responsibilities over the last decade has included coordination of K-12 educational programs, instruction, curriculum, staff professional development at all levels, school improvement, district accreditation, and evaluation of systems, assessment and processes. 

Dr. Payno-Simmons provides consulting, training and coaching that support schools and other educational entities with the knowledge and skills needed to create culturally sustaining systems that promote equitable practices aimed at increasing academic access and opportunities and decreasing disproportionate exclusionary practices for all students especially those who have been systemically and historically marginalized. Through her work, Dr. Payno-Simmons help educators recognize institutionally oppressive and supportive practices that shape school climate and the identities of students they serve.