The Educator Magazine- Volume 7

JUDGE JOE BROWN

FOUNDER and CEO

Teresa B. Howell

https://tbproductions.org

EDITOR CREATIVE

Teresa B. Howell

Teresa B. Howell

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Teresa B. Howell

Queenie Clem

LaKesa Dennison

Andrea U. Petifer

LaTonya MeChelle

Denise M. Walker

ADVERTISING & PROMOTION

TB Productions Media Group

TeresaBProductions+ads@gmail.com

COPYRIGHTS

The Heat Seekers Magazine is owned by Teresa B Howell and Teresa B Productions The magazine, its staff and writers, has made sure that content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s)’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in good faith.

All rights reserved. Nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without express written permission.

Letter from the Founder and CEO

In 2005, I decided to leave my fortune 500 job in accounting and take a leap of faith into the classroom. I had once worked in an elementary school in 1998 as a bookkeeper and it was there that the principal pushed me into the field. He said: “The children with disabilities gravitate towards you Maybe you should consider becoming a special education teacher?” So I went back to school and sought out the dream. I listened, I conquered, I accomplished. Unfortunately, that principal(Harvey Sadoff) died a few years after speaking into my life. But I made it happen and I will be always grateful for “the push” he gave me.

As I rose to the top in education from an ordinary special education teacher to National Board Certification, to School Administrator, to Sped Director, there was still something missing. In my early years of life, I wanted to be a singer, a writer, a poet…and in 2014, the floodgates of creativity opened Before I knew it, I had become an educator with extraordinary gifts that were being displayed outside of the classroom. From there, the concept of this magazine began.

As the Founder and CEO of this publication, my goal is to spotlight educators who are also gifted outside of the classroom I want to show the world that not only can they teach the children of tomorrow, but they can balance other gifts and remain in the air, flying high. I am proud to be an educator as I have touched the lives of thousands of students. But I am also proud of being a writer, singer, talk show host, playwright, magazine CEO, and mother of 2

I am an educator…with extraordinary talents. So help me celebrate the others within this publication that have extraordinary talents too.

Teresa B. Howell Founder and CEO, The Educator Magazine

LaKesa Dennison

Denise

Walker

Adult Learning: Knowing Your Audience

By: LaKesa Dennison

Adult Learning: Knowing Your Audience

by LaKesa Dennison

When it comes to adult learning, understanding your audience is key to delivering effective and engaging educational experiences Whether you are a teacher, trainer, or instructional designer, tailoring your approach to meet the needs of your learners can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of the material being taught. In this article, we will explore the importance of knowing your audience in adult learning and how you can use this knowledge to create meaningful and impactful learning experiences.

Why is it important to know your audience in adult learning?

Understanding the background, experiences, learning styles, and preferences of your audience is crucial in adult learning for several reasons. Firstly, it allows you to customize your teaching methods to align with the needs and expectations of your learners. By knowing your audience, you can adapt your language, examples, and delivery methods to ensure that the material resonates with them on a personal level.

How can you identify the needs of your audience?

There are several strategies you can use to identify the needs of your audience in adult learning. One effective method is to conduct a thorough needs assessment before designing your learning materials. This could involve surveys, interviews, or focus groups to gather insights into the backgrounds, experiences, and learning preferences of your learners Additionally, observing your audience in action can provide valuable information on how they interact with the material and where they may be struggling

Tailoring your approach to meet the needs of your audience

Once you have identified the needs of your audience, it is essential to tailor your approach to meet those needs effectively This could involve using a variety of teaching methods, such as visual aids, hands-on activities, group discussions, or multimedia presentations, to cater to different learning styles Additionally, providing opportunities for feedback and reflection can help learners to engage with the material more deeply and retain information better

The benefits of knowing your audience in adult learning

By taking the time to understand your audience in adult learning, you can create a more engaging and personalized learning experience that resonates with your learners. This, in turn, can lead to improved knowledge retention, higher engagement levels, and better overall outcomes for your students. Additionally, knowing your audience can help you to build stronger relationships with your learners and create a more positive and supportive learning environment.

In conclusion, knowing your audience is essential in adult learning to create meaningful and impactful educational experiences. By understanding the backgrounds, experiences, and preferences of your learners, you can tailor your approach to meet their needs effectively and create a more engaging and personalized learning experience. Ultimately, by taking the time to know your audience, you can create a more effective and successful learning environment for all involved.

Meta Description: Discover the importance of knowing your audience in adult learning and how it can enhance educational experiences. Tailor your approach for maximum impact!

Educators must Utilize Selfcare

By Denise M. Walker

Author,

educator, podcaster, speaker, writing coach, and copy editor. Owner of Armor of Hope Writing & Publishing Services, LLC

As an educator of 20-plus years, a wife, mother, and entrepreneur, I have learned many things by trial and error. Many years ago, I would take home papers to grade and lesson plans to complete over the weekend. By the time Monday morning rolled around again, I was often exhausted. This went on for some time until I realized I needed to leave my schoolwork at school. Now that I have been in the role of teacherpreneur for almost eight years, I find it even more imperative to implement self-care.

I define self-care as not getting to the point of burning out, having time to spend with your family, taking up a hobby, and even getting away from time to time. As teachers, we are asked to do a hundred different things in the run of a day. Sometimes, we are asked to do a hundred more before we even finish completing what we already have tasked before us Therefore, we have to make time that we set apart for us and our loved ones and for ourselves

One of the ways I implement self-care is by picking one day a week to stay later at school It is only about an hour to an hour and a half later, but it makes all the difference in the world At the end of the week, on Friday, I remain at school to complete and turn in my lesson plans for the following week, input any grades, or finish any paperwork that is due Once I have completed these, I lock my school computer in the closet and make my way home to enjoy my weekend. In addition, I am able to handle any additional work for my editing and book coaching business over the weekend. This has helped reduce my stress levels extensively.

Another way I enforce self-care is by getting away with my family for vacation or even a nice breakfast, lunch, or dinner on the weekend. In addition, I am a Christian fiction writer. I spend time creating fun and powerful stories of overcoming by the power of Christ. Fiction Writing is another way to release stress. When I’m writing, I get lost in the storyline and what the characters’ world is like. I also plan when I will write my fiction, which is during my breaks from school most of the time. This helps me to not be overwhelmed with deadlines and to move through the many things needing to be completed at school.

Another form of self-care for me is when I’m praying, worshipping, and Bible journaling. This is one of the most peaceful times in my day. I don’t draw or paint when I journal I analyze what I’m reading and often reflect on it in creative ways like writing prayers, affirmations, creating acronyms, and more I sometimes spend time just praying and singing songs of worship to God in a quiet place This brings great peace to my heart and helps me to give my worries to the Lord Since I’ve been Bible journaling, God has given me the creativity to create and publish even more tools and resources for others to use during their studies I now host a Bible journaling Zoom meetup with my resources twice a month What a blessing

A few more ways I implement self-care is through reading and podcasting One of my favorite ways to get into a good story is by listening to audiobooks I listen to them as I am driving home from work, while I cook, and during bedtime. I have a Scribd subscription, which is an app that has tons of audiobooks, eBooks, and even podcasts. My favorite genres to read are Christian fiction, YA fiction, and Christian nonfiction. Some of my favorite podcasts to listen to are those on Christian apologetics and those that share writing tips.

Overall, as teachers, we have to find a way to implement self-care in this ever-changing educational landscape. Your self-care may not look like mine, but you have to include it in your life because no one’s going to do it for you. Don’t get to the place of burnout. If you plan to remain in education, you have no choice but to find balance. Self-care is essential.

Let’s Connect:

Connect with me on Instagram @authordenisemwalker, @armorofhopewriting, and @hopeway. Connect with me on Facebook @authordenisemwalker, @armorofhopewritingandpublishingservices, and @thehopeway

Connect with me on TikTok @thehopewayw authordenise

Email: contact@denisemalker com

From Dance Teacher to CEO

Morgan“FlowerChild”Jones

Teresa B : What pushed you to become an entrepreneur and open your own business?

Morgan FlowerChild: So in the entertainment world when I was about 18, I faced a lot of rejection in the industry And so facing rejection being a plus size woman and not being trained, a lot of people rejected me I knew I was talented and I had raw talent with a lot of passion So I said, what I would like to be is the change Let me be who isn't, supply and demand I trained raw talent plus size women and made sure that they got the attention that they should get having raw talent and actually being talented. They're just going for looks in the industry. So I started creating opportunities for real talented people including myself and it turned into a business.

Teresa B.: Okay, and how long ago was that when you started doing that?

Morgan FlowerChild: I freelanced in 2001 all the way to 2019 until the pandemic. I freelanced with no paperwork, just under the table. Then I went and I Incorporated by starting my nonprofit. so I have an incorporation and a nonprofit in 2020, the pandemic forced me to do that. I had to run my business school full-time. At that time the school system was virtual. I was at home. I was like this is weird to be creative and be stuck in the house. So I started my business online. I had clients online and gave dance lessons.. It was really different.

Teresa B : Wow, so once the pandemic was over, how was business for you?

Morgan FlowerChild: When the pandemic was over it was so shocking because it's like venues opened up doors, opened up and theaters, and directors were calling me to choreograph People were also calling me to direct different Productions It was like I got overbooked real fast I also had clients that still wanted to take acting lessons online I started advertising my business as an online business as well as in person Everything happened for a reason

Teresa B :So as a female entrepreneur, there are several other female entrepreneurs out there. That seek help. Do you do guidance or counseling for other African American women or all women?

Morgan FlowerChild: Yeah. My incorporation is pretty much my creative Services where I go out and I provide creative Direction producing writing. Choreography for different companies but my nonprofit organization is actually a mentorship program. So I Mentor young adults adolescents college students anyone leaving college or all ages. Really I Mentor anyone going to the entertainment industry that wants to know the back end of the paperwork, getting their feet wet, and needing resources. So yeah mentoring is a huge part of my nonprofit. That's the main thing that we do with the nonprofit is making sure that especially young black women going into the industry will not degrade themselves and actually use their creativity to get to the next level So mentorship is big for me

Teresa B : You are originally from North Carolina, is that correct?

Morgan FlowerChild: I was born in Yonkers, New York and raised in White Plains, New York I went to A&T for college and I stayed there after meeting my ex-husband And so the Greensboro Community I had to literally find my artistic tribe in Greensboro after I graduated college and I built my business in Greensboro never went back home for New York Resources When divorced,I took a chance and went to Atlanta

Teresa B : Because you work with all ages, right? With the variation of different age groups, is that difficult for you?

Morgan FlowerChild: It's very difficult for me because I run into issues where parents want me to work with their young child and the child is not passionate about the Arts they want their child to be a dancer So I want you to make her love it and I'm like, I can't make your child love anything They don't love it so it's a challenge because they see me working with older kids and older kids already know what they want to do. But what I do is a consultation with Children First and I say do you like this do you want to do this? I talk to the Children totally different than adults and then with children. They don't learn as fast as adults. So when I do a children's production, I give up myself about two to three months to prepare for the children's Productions and adult Productions. It takes about a month and a half to prepare a good play. So it's very different. I have to be a lot more patient with children.

Teresa B.: And moving from Greensboro to Atlanta. how did you go about obtaining your audience?

Morgan FlowerChild: When in North Carolina, I took about I want to say a thousand dollars and I was watching social media push and I said, okay, I can promote on social media and I don't have to promote in the city that I'm in So I did a whole bunch of promotional material and I put about 800 of that thousand dollars behind pushing my dance videos and a lot of them went viral And people were booking me while I was in North Carolina It came down to me auditioning for “Beauty Shop” with Shelly Garrett, the National Historical legendary production I auditioned as a dancer and he hired me as a choreographer and lead actress I met so many people I was on stage with Tony Terry,Jackie Christie, Shirley Jones of the Jones girls, Kim Whitley and then he hired 12 of my dancers from Greensboro to go on the road We put out some videos of us in the show and people were like, my God, who are these plus size women? Because he had plus size dancers in beauty shop. And so people were like, who's this Flowerchild Productions? And I just saw my name circulating. I started sitting down in meetings and people would say, we already know who you are and I'm like how I don't talk about myself like that. but I know promoting myself really worked before I even got to the city.

Teresa B.: if you were to give someone advice that is trying to a newbie in the business, What would you say to them?

Morgan FlowerChild: Newbies in the business I would definitely say protect your work and protect your art because people are not creative these days and they want to take things from the creatives. Then you're left out here saying how did my idea get this and that and I'm like you talk too much but you got to copyright your stuff You got to protect your soul because people want you to do just about anything for an opportunity And I also think a lot of people want to go knock on everybody's doors to get opportunities But if you're a real creative, you will create your own opportunities because you're no different from Oprah or Tyler Perry You are a creative and all you need is the platform to create You cannot be afraid you got to literally wake up and say I am not scared and have that attitude all day

Teresa B : How many shows have you completed?

Morgan FlowerChild: My resume has to be up to five pages I'm out there and in at least right below a hundred I'm saying right at 100 Productions

Teresa B : As a strong African American woman what is dating like?

Morgan FlowerChild: Yeah, I'm a hopeless romantic So what happens is you meet beautiful people as an artist and when we are artists we see the beauty and people we love human interaction We love people so when we meet people we don't always see their flaws and those red flags, so A lot of time I think this day and age people hide their childhood traumas very well and you don't and a lot of times men that I like their intimidated the ones that I feel that are good for me. They tell me that you're too busy or you got a lot going on. I can't compete with you. my God, I don't want to compete with you. But a lot of times the men who have the traumas and stuff. I just have decided to immerse myself in the dream. The right one will come along. But I've had to pull back on just being a hopeless romantic. I'll be like no. Nope. Don't talk to him, red flag. lol

Teresa B.: if you had a piece of advice, What would you tell people out there about the industry?

Morgan FlowerChild: So I always tell artists and my acting clients, the number one thing to remember is to be authentic I think that authenticity is so important I say shop for an acting coach because a lot of people sign up but every acting coach is not good for every actor Because everybody's gonna give you something different I have told some actors, hey, I don't think I'm the person for you so call this person There are different acting coaches for different types of actors I will listen to them and I'll do a consultation if I feel like they need something else, I refer them to a person that might be best for them

Teresa B : that's good So, if someone wanted to hire you for services, how would they reach you?

Morgan FlowerChild: if someone's a hired me for services my management she gets all of my email for booking which is Francois management 21@gmail.com, or you can go to my website which is flowerchild life.com and go to the contact form.

ExclusiveInterview JUDGEJOEBROWN

A Positive Light to African American Men

Interview by The Educator

As a young black man attending law school, how did you stay grounded ?

There were no other options; there was work to do and duty, honor, obligation, responsibility, accountability, duty, courage, personal ethics, and morality dictated the necessary focus I suppose this was a consequence of the historic family focus on duties to the people that ran on both sides of the family

who was your greatest influence to finish school and push forward in your career?

No one in particular; I perceived what I was doing as a matter of duty and responsibility.

Who are the male figures along your journey that made a difference in your life?

Essentially, all of the Male authority figures that I encountered while growing up with the exception of a few creeps in high school were men who were dedicated to Masculinity. I would put my father at the top of that list. There was an expectation, accompanied by an uncompromised demand, that you would tend to your business and make something of yourself that had value to your community. I was thoroughly and properly indoctrinated to tend to manly duties by essentially all of the Men that I interacted with while growing up.

Being a judge, there are several cases dealing with black males that you have experienced. Did you help males in the community stay out of trouble ?

I compelled those I had control over to learn duty, honor, obligation, responsibility, accountability, morality, ethics, purpose, and cause and to be dedicated to the proposition that it was the duty of men to maintain public peace dignity in order. They did not need help; they had it within themselves to do what was necessary to be assets to their communities rather than liabilities. As a natural consequence of this more civic and Manly orientation, they stayed out of trouble.

Why would you consider yourself and educator?

Whether you are leading civilians or troops, the leadership process demands and requires that you educate your followers and those that you are responsible for leading In reality, a judge with criminal court jurisdiction can often function as a village chieftain; the chieftain has a primary responsibility to lead effectively. In that light, he must teach if he is to lead.

What excited you the most about practicing law ?

The close encounters with human nature. Otherwise, the practice of law was hard work: most of it was quite similar to writing term-papers and continuously studying for final exams. Since I did a lot of homicide cases, I suppose my day-today life looked like something out of a TV law and order series. The Civil Rights stuff was mostly done out of a sense of duty and purpose. That was more frustrating than exciting because of the disappointment that came from the lackluster enthusiasm that the people you were helping had for being helped. A Man has to do what he hast to do but too many do not understand Manhood

Were there any programs that you were a part of, to assist AfricanAmerican males ?

For a long time, my purpose, as expressed by my motto has been: “Protecting Womanhood and Childhood While Promoting Manhood.” In that respect the corollary to the first two obligations being that Men provided the protection, it was a requirement that Males be shown how to behave as Men. Since our society is as it is, this meant that the message that I had was for ALL Men irrespective of race or ethnicity. Manhood is a mutually reinforcing and sustaining condition that intersects all Male threads of Humanity. A 10 year long analysis of the results of the campaign that I conducted show that the statewide recidivism rate of 80% for criminal court defendants had been reduced to 18% in my Court (with that number dropping as I retired). I am reminded of the campaigns success by the continuous stream of people that I interacted with who regularly approach me to offer their thanks for what I did for them and allowing them to see the light of Masculine Duty and Purpose.

If you could do it all again, what would you do differently ?

Essentially, there is not much that I would do differently I would pretty much do things the same way that I did the first time around. When it came to personal matters, admittedly, there are a few women that I would have passed on and/or avoided (LoL !).

How did you break into television ?

By performance and recruitment: I had many cases and trials that I was involved in (as lawyer and Judge) that got a lot of publicity and television coverage As well, some of my sentencing innovations received a lot of national and international attention The attorney work ranged from routine homicide trials to getting the Arkansas Supreme Court to unanimously overturn the conviction of a young black kid who was sentenced to death for a triple homicide while in junior high school. Amongst other issues that I raised in this particular case was the one that the child had been tried by an all white jury in a rural county of Arkansas. This was a pro-bono case and I essentially did not get paid. As a judge, one of my more notorious cases was that of James Earl Ray and his alleged involvement with the death of Martin Luther King. (Ray did not shoot King: the FBI provided the weapon, ammunition, and the hit team. The execution was carried out from the fire station not the flop house nor the bushes )

What advice would you give to African-American Males (i e Black Men) of today?

“Quit whining for no purpose and prepare for dying for a purpose ” You can’t be a real Man worth Anything unless You are willing to die for Something.

What would you like to see happen differently in the court system?

More grounded professionals: Being learned and experienced in the practice and application of law and wise in the ways of the world More engaged, laymen: The people need to be willing to serve on juries; be better read; know their laws and constitution; and have the personal courage to stand up for what is right. I would also like to see people who vote more wisely prompted by astute analysis, information, logic, reason, rationality, and objectivity (This voting aspect would perhaps produce a better court system whether that was concerned with the immediate officers of the court, or those who might be in a position to appoint them)

Tell us about a memorable moment on your show?

You tell me ! You were watching; I was there working … Not much of it compared to the adventure of growing up in Los Angeles … though success had its exciting peripheral benefits … . JoeB

Photo credits to CBS and the Judge Joe Brown Team.

The Unsung Heroes That Shapes This World

In a world where greatness often goes unnoticed, there's a group of unsung heroes who deserve our utmost admiration and appreciation - teachers. These dedicated individuals play a monumental role in shaping the minds and hearts of our future generations, yet their importance is all too frequently overlooked.

It's a heavy burden to bear when teachers, who are entrusted with molding young minds and fostering a love for learning, are not compensated as they should be. It's disheartening to think that these passionate educators often have to dip into their own pockets to purchase supplies and essentials for their classrooms, ensuring that their students have what they need to succeed.

And let's not forget about the teachers who work tirelessly in schools where hunger and neglect are harsh realities for many children. Despite facing these daunting challenges, these teachers go above and beyond, providing not just education but also care, support, and sometimes even the basic necessities that some children lack at home.

We must shine a light on these remarkable educators who persevere through adversity, who refuse to let their love of teaching be dimmed by the hardships they face. They are the ones who show up day in and day out, dedicated to the noble mission of ensuring that no child is left behind.

So, here's to the teachers on all levels - from preschool to college - who embody unwavering dedication and passion for their profession. The next time you encounter a teacher, take a moment to express your gratitude and show them the love and respect they truly deserve, just as you would a veteran or any other hero.

Consider making a difference in their lives by adding your favorite teacher to your monthly donation list or offering a small token of appreciation, whether it's a gift card to a beloved coffee shop, store, or restaurant. Even more impactful than material gifts is instilling in your child the importance of treating their teachers with kindness, respect, and gratitude at all times.

To all the incredible teachers out there reading this, please know that your hard work, dedication, and passion do not go unnoticed. You are valued, appreciated, and loved more than you can possibly imagine. Thank you for all that you do - you are the unsung heroes who shape the future with love, dedication, and unwavering commitment.

MeChelle Latonyamechelle.com

EDUCATORSPOTLIGHT

ShavoyaeBrown

Admin. Dean of the Month: Shavoyae Brown Admin. Dean of the Month: Shavoyae Brown Admin. of the Month: Brown

Nurturing Minds, Fostering Growth Nurturing Minds, Fostering Growth

Nurturing Minds, Fostering Growth

Shavoyae Brown’s mission in life is to see others reach their full potential. For several years, Brown has used his English degree to help students find their voices in his classroom, with hopes that it continues to allow them to be a light to all they encounter for years to come At his core, Brown takes pride in being a faithful servant. He is a native of Hartwell, Ga. He attended Emmanuel University on a full athletic scholarship - Basketball. Brown has a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Supervision from Anderson University.

Can you share a little about your education journey?

At a young age, I always knew I wanted to be a teacher. Frankly, it was because I never had a teacher who resembled me - black male During my middle school years, I struggled emotionally, and it was hard for me to use my voice to communicate my struggles with being an effective learner. It wasn’t until I had a conversation with my 4th grade teacher (she was my neighbor), that I discovered that I am capable of doing great things. During that defining moment, I chose the path of education. I have taught several years of middle school and high school, and now I serve as the Dean of Students.

Can you describe your role as the Dean of Students at Woodmont High School? What are your primary responsibilities and areas of focus?

As the Dean, I am responsible for building and maintaining positive relationships that cultivate and elevate the learning environment for all students. My responsibilities are centered around student success - making sure they get to school on time, and prepared for class each day, and I make sure they adhere to our school’s mission and vision statements. In addition to that, I serve as a mentor to all students who are transitioning back to our school from the alternative school system.

How did your experience as a high school English teacher shape your approach to education and student interaction as the Dean of Students?

Because I am a fan of helping students develop a deeper understanding of their purpose, my experience as an English teacher has allowed me to connect with my students on levels that require scholars to reason and think before making decisions. Now as the Dean, when students walk into my office, they are well aware of my expectations, so to some degree, we can have meaningful conversations that point them back on the path of purpose.

What inspired you to transition from being an English teacher to taking on the role of Dean of Students?

I have always been intrigued by school leadership and administration, and I thoroughly enjoy working with both students and teachers. This was an amazing opportunity and blessing that has allowed me to grow professionally while still nurturing the minds of my scholars and working in a leadership role to help other teachers be their best, too.

Can you share some of the challenges you faced in the classroom and how those experiences prepared you for your current position?

Teaching is a challenging profession because not all students learn the same way. This challenge has allowed me to meet my students exactly where they are without lowering my expectations. During these challenging times, I was able to see the fruits of my labor, because my students consistently overcame adversity and obstacles. This prepared me for my role as the Dean because when communicating with all students, I now have tools and resources that allow me to monitor and adjust based on the individual student.

As Dean of Students, what initiatives have you implemented to foster a positive and inclusive school culture?

I have implemented the “Dean’s List,” and “Dining with the Dean.” These two initiatives are designed to honor students and their success as well-rounded students. Specifically, “Dining with Dean” allows students to converse with me on a level that demonstrates active listening skills from me, which allows me to gain a stronger understanding of how to influence students and their educational career paths. They love food! They love to be honored.

How do you balance disciplinary responsibilities with creating a supportive and encouraging environment for students?

I keep it simple. When students enter my office because of behavior issues, they generally have an idea of their infractions. Because of my strong abilities to nurture and build positive relationships, we can have conversations that promote a growth mindset in hopes that collectively we can change the behavior.

n your opinion, what are the key qualities that make a successful high school English teacher, and how do those align with the qualities needed for a Dean of Students?

1. Have a love for learning and teaching 2. Be willing to adapt to change 3. Build relationships that are non-threatening. 4. Keep expectations clear and high 5. You must love to see scholars reach their full potential

How has your background in English education influenced your approach to communication and conflict resolution with both students and parents?

As a basketball player and coach, I know all too well the importance of communication. With my background in English, both avenues give me access to monitor and adjust when solving problems for both students and parents

Can you share a memorable success story from your time as a high school English teacher that had a lasting impact on your career?

I taught a challenging student who basically refused to do any academic work, and sadly, his mother also supported him as he refused to work in my classroom. My content area was a course where students had to take a standardized test. This test, to some degree, defined my abilities to teach,my students’ abilities to demonstrate evidence of learning under my care, so the pressure was always tense and high. I was extremely concerned that this particular student would fail, and I was extremely wrong. Not only did he pass, but he made “B.” I was so shocked that I looked at his score twice to make sure I didn’t overlook anything. When he entered my classroom, and I shared with him his score, he said to me, “Mr. Brown, I know it was hard to tell, but I have always appreciated you and your expectations of me even when I didn’t meet them. You always told me to be my best, and I wanted to give my best on this test for you.” This still brings tears to my eyes, because it is a reminder that all students can learn, especially when they have teachers who serve as consistent champions and advocates for their learning and well-being

What strategies do you use to stay informed about the individual needs and concerns of students throughout the school?

I am intentional about getting to know students and meeting them exactly where they are. This creates a trusting relationship, and I have seen first-hand how eager students are to rise to the occasion to do what is right.

How do you collaborate with other faculty members to address academic and behavioral challenges and promote a cohesive school community?

Through various and MEANINGFUL professional developments and authentic conversations that are aligned with our school’s mission, “Every Student, Every Day.

How do you approach the implementation of disciplinary policies to ensure fairness and consistency among students?

I stay consistent with our school and district’s policies and procedures I make sure to communicate expectations clearly to both students and their families

In your experience, what are some effective methods for fostering a positive and respectful relationship between students and school staff?

Making sure the culture and climate of the school promotes order and safety, and then using that framework to create spaces for everyone to thrive through various forms of education.

How has your perspective on education evolved since your time as a teacher, and how does it influence your decisionmaking as a Dean of Students?

Yes! I am a huge fan of being a lifelong learner, and I promote this same mindset to both my colleagues and students, too. It has influenced my decision-making as the Dean because I am able to gain different perspectives as I deal with varying situations that require attention to detail while also communicating clearly

As both an educator and administrator, how do you balance the need for enforcing rules and maintaining a supportive, nurturing environment for students?

Consistency is the key! The environment is a direct reflection of our policies and procedures, and because it is communicated daily, there is a high level of expectations centered around order and opportunities. We all know the roles within the institution, and we adhere to what is expected of us.

What role do you believe extracurricular activities play in supporting the overall development and well-being of high school students?

It builds character It gives opportunities for students to learn and grow with individuals who may not always have the same morals and values. Ultimately, it creates an environment of acceptance and tolerance even when situations may not always go according to plan.

My Favorite Things:

Color - Blue

Food - HOMEMADE mac and cheese!! (do not give me anything in a box)

Restaurant - Longhorns

Drink - Sprite

Scripture - Romans 5: 1-2 “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God ”