White Plains High School is proud to welcome Ms. Ashlee Sims as a new addition to our athletics department. With a deep passion for sports and a strong commitment to her students, Ms. Sims is making an impact in every class she teaches-whether it’s aquatics for freshmen, fitness, or coaching field hockey. Her students describe her as “patient,” “attentive to her students’ needs” and “really understanding.” Even at the end of the day, she has a smile on her face and continues to bring enthusiasm to her teaching.
Although this is her first year at WPHS, Ms. Sims has already accumulated experience teaching in the Bronx. Athletics has played a considerable role in Ms. Sim’s life. She grew up in Yorktown and started playing basketball in elementary school continued through AAU and high school. Continuing to play during her high school years at Yorktown High, she also picked up field hockey freshman year and started track in her sophomore year. She also ran track in college for one semester.
Ms. Sims’s favorite sport is field hockey, both as a player and a fan. She also enjoys watching football, saying that when she imagines herself on the field, she feels the electric atmosphere of the game. “There’s always something going on,” she says. Sports have always provided Ms. Sims with an outlet, allowing her to excel and showcase another side of her. “Sports put me on the same playing field as everyone else,” she explains, noting how they helped her navigate challenges in school and life.
A quote that inspires her is the iconic Nike slogan: “Just Do It.” Ms. Sims believes that a positive attitude is what will help you to “just get out there and try.” She encourages her students to explore athletics as a way to discover their passions. “Experience and practice will always sharpen your skills,” she advices.
Ms. Sims said her favorite part of her job at White Plains is “getting to be around sports.” She loves being able to teach and she believes athletics allows students to engage in healthy activity, get out daily jitters, and receive a break from sitting and doing work at desks.
Her message to WPHS students is simple: “Step outside your comfort zone, because once you do, a lot more doors open up.” We are grateful to Ms. Sims for keeping her students healthy mentally and physically and cannot wait for many more amazing years with her!
