Michael Reed Palmer began his teaching career in Flint, Michigan after completing his bachelor’s degree at Western Michigan University. Relocating to Dallas he began a stellar career as an elementary school teacher, assistant principal, and principal, and completed his master’s degree and administrative certification at East Texas State University. An active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity and also active in NABSE serving as the local affiliate president. His leadership led J. J. Rhoads Elementary Learning Center to become an Exemplary Rated Campus and a NABSE National Demonstration School Site which resulted in he and his school being in constant demand to provide workshops on developing and maintaining schools of excellence at the local, state and national levels.