Fisher earned her master's and doctorate degrees from Rutgers University in New Jersey. She was originally a candidate for the top job when it went to former Superintendent Rudolph Gordon. He was so impressed with Fisher that he offered her a position in his administration. Fisher left Montgomery County Maryland where she was an associate superintendent and principal to become Dr. Gordon's top administrator. She is the first woman to hold the position of chief of staff. She held that job through the administration of Dr. Bill Harner. When Harner resigned, Fisher became the interim chief. In May 2004, Fisher took the top spot for good.

Fisher's experience as a teacher has focus her on the well being of our children and the quality of their classroom experience. She has dedicated herself to improving teacher quality, keeping classroom sizes small and making sure the district keeps parents involved and active in the education process.

Fisher, as superintendent, is probably the most important public servant in the Upstate. As our economy continues to shift toward high-tech industry and employers continue to demand more skill, education will increasingly determine who succeeds and who fails. Fisher understands these stakes, and she is working to make sure that all children have a chance to go as far as their abilities can take them. During this Black History Month, WJMZ salutes Dr. Penny Fisher, who is giving our young people a chance to succeed.