At which Meeting Street School do you teach?
Meeting Street – Burns
When and why did you decide to be a teacher?
I decided to apply for teaching positions my senior year in college after going to a few recruitment fairs with the Black Student Union. I really wanted to help kids achieve their potential.
Where did you go to school?
College of Charleston – Undergrad; Cambridge College – Master’s
Where did you do your student teaching and what did you take away from that experience?
I did not student teach (majored in Spanish/minor in African American Studies)
How did you decide which school you would teach at after graduating?
Partly due to the recruitment fair; but also because I asked to go to the school with the most need.
Which school(s) did you teach at before coming to Meeting Street Schools?
Bayside Middle School (Virginia); Ashley Ridge High School (Summerville); River Oaks Middle (North Charleston)
How did you find out about Meeting Street Schools?
A mutual friend introduced me to Meeting Street.
What was your first impression/experience at Meeting Street Schools?
My first impression was that Meeting Street is doing the work of education that all schools should be doing. All schools should follow their model.
What makes Meeting Street Schools different, and/or why did you decide to work for Meeting Street Schools, and what keeps you here?
Meeting Street is different because of their mission to provide a quality education for all students regardless of their zip code. The kids keep me here. They make this hard and meaningful work worth it!
What is your current position at Meeting Street Schools? Describe the journey from first starting at MSS to where you are now.
I currently serve as the Academic Dean for grades 2 – 4. I previously worked in traditional public schools for 21 years before starting at MSS. It was like starting at year 1. The “Meeting Street Way” is different than most traditional public schools. While it took some time to adjust to the coaching/leadership style, I am so happy I was able to join this community. I am learning how to be a better leader, coach, and educator by being a part of Meeting Street Schools.
What career goals are you still working towards?
I would like to continue to hone my craft as an academic dean before I look into any other position. Eventually, I would like to found a new Meeting Street campus/school.
