
A Team Player On and Off the Court
From basketball arenas around the globe to the quieter halls of the High Road School of the Quad Cities, Alvin Sims has always been a team player. A former professional basketball star, Sims now channels his passion and discipline into helping students thrive as a behavioral specialist.
Raised in Kentucky, Sims’ journey to working with students has been anything but ordinary. A standout basketball player, he attended the University of Louisville on a sports scholarship, earning a degree in communications while excelling on and off the court.
Sims’ pro basketball career spanned 12 years, including time with the NBA’s Phoenix Suns and Utah Jazz, as well as playing for leagues in Greece, Italy, France, and the Middle East.
His global experience provided Sims with a deep appreciation for understanding and respecting different cultures, a perspective he brings to his work with his “team” of students.
“Being overseas taught me to adapt to new environments and connect with people from all backgrounds,” he said. “I try to bring that same understanding to the students I work with every day.”
Making an Impact at High Road School
Sims’ role at High Road involves much more than managing classrooms and ensuring safety. As a certified Crisis Prevention Intervention (CPI) trainer, he teaches staff de-escalation techniques and strategies to create a supportive learning environment.
His commitment to education and youth extends beyond the school day – he has coached basketball, volleyball, and track, and mentored underprivileged youth, fostering growth both on and off the court.
For Sims, the most rewarding part of his career is the impact he has on students’ lives.
“It’s not just a job; it’s about helping students flourish, cope, and recover,” he said. “Seeing them succeed and knowing I’ve made a difference is what keeps me going.”
One of his proudest moments was hearing from a former student who overcame challenges to earn an associate’s degree, crediting him as an inspiration.
“Building relationships with kids is forever,” Sims said. “You don’t always realize the impact you have until years later.”
Looking Ahead: A Future in Education Leadership
Looking ahead, he plans to continue growing in his role, exploring opportunities in administration while staying deeply connected to the work he loves. With a passion for mentoring and a drive to help students succeed, he exemplifies dedication, resilience, and the power of education.