2026 ACSA Women in School Leadership Forum

Dr. MacKinney has been an educator since 1993, working her way up from instructional assistant to assistant superintendent. During her time as a high school social studies teacher, she developed California’s first high school level Women’s Studies course.  She is a fierce advocate for young people and is deeply committed to supporting leadership development and empowering others.  She has a demonstrated history of advocating for equity and creating safe spaces for all learners including students of color, multilingual learners, and at-promise youth. She completed her undergraduate degree in History at Long Beach State where she was the school’s mascot, a member of Delta Delta Delta fraternity, and an appointed Commissioner for the Associated Students Inc. After earning her teaching credential, she went on to earn her Masters in Educational Administration from California State University, San Bernardino, before completing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Southern California. Her dissertation focused on the power of technology to transform the teaching and learning process. Kimberly was recognized by the San Bernardino County School Boards Association with the Education Medal of Honor for Educational Excellence, AASA’s Educational Leadership Scholarship, ACSA Region 12 Central Office Administrator of the Year, and ACSA’s State Administrator of the Year for Curriculum and Instruction because of her dedication to serving students, families, and the community. Kimberly’s passion for service extends into the community. She is an active member of the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 472, the country's first online unit. She has served as unit Secretary, Vice-President, and Community Service Chair, helping to organize activities that supported Military Children and Women Veterans. Kimberly began volunteering with ALA California Girls State in 2009 and assumed the role of Chief Counselor in 2019. Appointed by her City Councilmember, she served on the City of Riverside’s City Charter Review Committee from 2018-2020. In 2019, she became the lead for ACSA’s San Bernardino County Women’s Leadership Network, helping aspiring school leaders grow and develop their talents. Kimberly was part of the CALSA WLN Planning Team from 2019-2025. She is also active with the Pancreatic Cancer Network and serves as a Purple Stride Team Captain each year. Kimberly lives in Riverside, California with her partner Daniel and their goldendoodles Sanders and Taters. When not volunteering in her community, she enjoys going to concerts, cooking, golfing, reading, and gathering with friends.