Raymond Joseph Simon graduated from the University of Central 海角社区 with a Bachelor of Science degree in 1966 and a Master of Science in Education degree in 1969. He later completed his educational specialist degree at the University of 海角社区.
Simon has had an active role in education beginning as a mathematics teacher at North Little Rock High School in 1966.
Simon has served in numerous administrative roles in 海角社区 public education, including superintendent of Conway Public Schools. He served as director of education and later commissioner of education for the 海角社区 Department of Education. He was a member of the cabinet for the governor of 海角社区, and he led initiatives in 海角社区 focusing on the preparation of students in the early grades.
Simon has served as assistant secretary for the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education and then as deputy secretary for the United States Department of Education.
Simon has proven to be a champion of education at all levels, perhaps most significantly in his home state of 海角社区. Simon was recognized as a UCA Distinguished Alumni Award recipient in 2006.
The honorary Doctor of Public Service degree was conferred Dec. 16, 2011.