JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – August 3, 2026 – The First Coast YMCA today announced the appointment of Simaran Bakshi as Chief Executive Officer of YMCA Tiger Academy and Cordell Manns, M.Ed. as Principal of YMCA Tiger Academy, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter focused on strengthening academic achievement for scholars.
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| Simaran Bakshi CEO |
Cordell Manns Principal |
The announcement comes as YMCA Tiger Academy celebrates a significant milestone, earning an official “B” school grade. This grade reflects record academic gains and the dedication of the school’s students, teachers, staff and families.
“At Tiger Academy, our mission is to provide every student with a high-quality education that prepares them for long-term success,” said Ted Baker, Chair of the Board of Directors for YMCA Tiger Academy. “We are thrilled to welcome Simaran Bakshi and Cordell Manns as they lead Tiger Academy into an exciting new chapter. Their experience, passion and commitment to student achievement make them the right leaders to build on our recent academic progress and create a culture where every child has the opportunity to thrive.”
Bakshi brings more than 24 years of transformational education leadership experience to the role, having successfully led school turnarounds, launched high-performing campuses and overseen district-level operations.
“I am honored and grateful to serve as CEO of YMCA Tiger Academy,” said Simaran Bakshi, CEO of YMCA Tiger Academy. “YMCA Tiger Academy has a proud history, a powerful mission and tremendous potential. I look forward to working alongside our students, families, educators and community partners as we build on our recent success and create even greater opportunities for every child.”
Joining Bakshi is veteran educator Cordell Manns, M.Ed., who will serve as Principal. Previously, Manns served as Principal of IDEA Public Schools for four years and 10 years with Charter Schools USA. Together, the leadership team will guide Tiger Academy’s continued academic growth while fostering a culture centered on excellence, accountability and student achievement.
“Our scholars have already demonstrated what is possible through their hard work and determination,” said Cordell Manns, M.Ed., Principal of YMCA Tiger Academy. “Our goal is to create an environment where every student can thrive academically, socially and emotionally, and where families have confidence that their children are receiving an exceptional education.”
Founded in 2009, YMCA Tiger Academy is a free public charter school serving Pre-K through fifth-grade students. The school offers a learner-centered environment focused on rigorous academics, character development, personal and social responsibility and strong family engagement.
Enrollment for YMCA Tiger Academy is currently open, to learn more on how to get a scholar registered, visit: https://fcymca.org/locations/tiger-academy/
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About the First Coast Y
For nearly 120 years, the YMCA of Florida’s First Coast has been providing men, women and children of all ages, and from all walks of life, opportunities to build stronger bonds, live healthy and become more engaged with their communities. Learn more: fcymca.org.
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