03/30/2026
We are saddened to share the passing of Dr. Theophlous Aaron (T.A.) Sims, the proud namesake of our school and the longest-serving school board trustee in the history of Fort Worth ISD. Over a career spanning more than 35 years on the Board of Trustees, he became a central figure in shaping the district's educational landscape.
He was a graduate of Texas Southern University’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences. In 1984, he earned his Doctor of Pharmacy Certification from the National Association of Retail Druggists.
Dr. Sims and his wife, Dr. Nancy W. Sims, owned and operated Sims Pharmacy and Sims Enterprises Inc. He established the Sims Professional Center on Berry Street to support and elevate African American entrepreneurship in Fort Worth.
He was first elected in August 1983, he represented District 4 until his resignation in July 2019.He made history as the first Black American elected President of the FWISD Board. Throughout his tenure, he also served as Vice-President and Secretary. Dr. Sims originated the FWISD Scholar Athlete Award program in 1984, which he often cited as one of his proudest achievements. He also conceptualized the Visual Performing Arts Academy at I.M. Terrell High School. In 1989, the district honored his service by naming T.A. Sims Elementary School after him.
In 1984, President Ronald Reagan appointed him to the National Institute of Health Sickle Cell Anemia Advisory Board. He was recognized as a "Living Legend" by the Dr. Marion J. Brooks Foundation in 2006 for his vocational excellence and service to Tarrant County. Known for his unwavering commitment to students, he championed vocational programs and increased community involvement in local schools.
Dr. Sims dedicated decades of service to public education, advocating for equity, excellence, and opportunity for every student. His leadership helped shape policies, expand access, and strengthen our schools and community. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he impacted and in the very foundation of our campus.
We honor his commitment, his vision, and his unwavering belief in the power of education. Dr. T. A. Sims will be deeply missed, but his influence will continue to inspire future generations for years to come.
Dr. Sims served on the Fort Worth ISD board of trustees from 1983 until his resignation in 2019.