Roma Groves -Waters is an Oakland, California native with family roots in Louisiana. Her educational career began at Golden Gate Elementary School in Oakland Unified School District. Mrs. Groves - Waters has been an educator for over 27 years. She began her teaching career at Roosevelt Middle School in Oakland for 9 years. Then she was a Teacher on Special Assignment for the High School Network working on state and federal compliance for principals. She worked at Garfield Elementary School for 3 years as the Assistant Principal before being promoted to Principal of Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary. Mrs. Groves - Waters is a community advocate for children's rights. She has been an instrumental part of the West Oakland community for the parents and students. Her 14 years of principal leadership at MLK has given many students, parents, staff, and community members opportunities for academic success. Mrs. Groves - Waters is an innovative leader of education that has transformed schools to greatness. In her spare time she enjoys traveling, cooking, and entertaining family alongside her husband.