How long have you worked in DPS?

I have worked for DPS for 11 years

Tell us a bit about your background and what brought you to DPS:

My background in education started as a substitute teacher in Atlanta Public Schools. From that initial experience, I became an educator, researcher,  author, and a content expert in Culturally Responsive Education, specifically Warm Demander Teachers. I came to DPS to share my experiences and research in culturally responsive education.

What do you like most about your job?

I love the racial and educational equity work I do as a part of the Culture, Equity and Leadership Team. I believe we are doing work that supports the improved professional experience of team members and most importantly, the educational experiences of all students and families. I appreciate all the bodies of work we do in CELT and I appreciate being a part of a dynamic and impactful team.

What resources have you used to succeed?

Collaboration is a superpower! The work that created amazing transformations with the Gifted and Talented Team is a result of a preexisting condition of trust and a commitment to engage in equity training. This led to the collaboration that is being recognized by the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC) for the Professional Learning Network Award.

What are you most proud of in your work?

The relationships I have developed with people in multiple teams and schools in DPS and the many people I have met through DPS Management, DPS Skills, and DPS Aspire. I’m proud to be a leader in the work that is being recognized by the NAGC Professional Learning Network Award.

Why do you think it’s important to have a focus on equity?

We have a collective opportunity and responsibility to ensure that all students in DPS have the experience to grow, learn, develop and share their talents. We must create the conditions that fully support BIPOC (Black, Indegenous, People of Color), LGBTQ students, students who are neurologically and physically diverse in being welcomed by their school communities to become their healthiest, happiest, and most brilliant selves.

What are your hopes and dreams for our kids?

For us to learn from and to respect the brilliance and creativity of students from historically marginalized communities and for all students to love learning in DPS.

What would be your call to others in DPS? What would you like to see?

Let’s commit to disrupting systems, structures, policies, and practices that create harm to team members of DPS and our beloved students.