4 minute read
Meet Ira Dawson, Trinity’s new Upper Elementary Division Head
By Nicole Fash, Director of Marketing and Communications
Born and raised in College Park, Georgia, Ira Dawson, Trinity’s new Upper Elementary Division Head, grew up in a fun household.
“My mom was the manager, promoter, sound-technician, and PR rep for our family,” he says. “She made sure we were in the right place at the right time. My father tried very hard to make sure he modeled what a good work ethic looked like.”
Ira took that work ethic to heart and earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Hampton University in Virginia, a Master of Education in Secondary Education with a concentration in Mathematics from Georgia State University, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Private School Leadership from Kennesaw State University. Over his 18-year career in education, he has spent time at both independent and public schools as a teacher and an administrator. He began his professional journey teaching algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus at Garinger High School in Charlotte, North Carolina.
“After leaving Hampton, I wanted to utilize my mathematics background and love for helping others,” says Ira. “Education was a natural fi t. In what other fi eld can you help others achieve their goals, but also learn more about yourself?” Following his experience at Garinger High, Ira worked at The Walker School, where he taught math for seven years. Over the next decade, he spent time as the academic facilitator at Harding University High School in Charlotte, North Carolina, and dean (principal) of the academy at Atlanta Youth Academy. He joined Trinity from Walker, where he served as head of middle school after holding numerous leadership positions there, including assistant director of admissions, director of diversity, and dean of students. During his fi rst year at Trinity, Ira looks forward to learning more about the School and connecting with the students, faculty and staff , and families. “Trinity has such a rich history, and I am excited about learning about how it has risen to where it is today and what makes it so successful,” says Ira. “Trinity’s reputation precedes itself, and I have not been surprised at the consistent pursuit for excellence. My priorities are to provide an exceptional educational experience for our students and become acclimated to the Trinity culture.” As part of that exceptional experience, Ira believes that the ideal environment for Upper Elementary students supports curiosity and creativity while formally supporting students in exceeding expectations. His educational philosophy is based on the principles that authentic learning occurs when the accomplishment of learning is the end goal, and that transformational leadership creates a culture that nurtures healthy mindsets. For him, a collaborative educational environment in which transformational leaders and learners work toward a common mission and vision fosters trust and openness and allows for genuine and authentic relationships. “As Winnie the Pooh said, ‘You’re braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think,’” says Ira. “We want our students to feel valued and embraced as they stretch and challenge themselves. When children feel seen, heard, validated, and respected, their desire to engage and willingness to take on risk during the learning process increases dramatically. “Students tend to connect with teachers who model intellectual curiosity and encourage the same from them,” he continues. “I work hard to build meaningful connections with students by being present constantly and providing consistent support for them.” Ira’s article, “How Did I Get This Way? How Bad Is the Damage? How Do I Fix It?” was published in the Journal of Urban Mathematics Education in 2009, and he has led numerous professional development workshops on mathematics; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and leadership. He and his wife, Erica Johnson, PhD, have three children ranging in age from two to 14 years old: Cameron Dawson, David Dawson, and Ariyana Johnson. Ira loves to cook and enjoys coaching sports and working in the yard.
Ira gives Sixth Grader Ellie an elbow bump while filming the virtual Trinity Together Time in which the Sixth Grade Leadership Class announced this school year’s theme of “unique.”
Fun Facts about Ira Dawson
Favorite food: Pancakes and Chinese food
Favorite band: Earth, Wind, and Fire Favorite movie: Coming to America Favorite TV show: Game of Thrones
Favorite book: Any Boxcar Children book Favorite children’s book: Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss Favorite game: Any sport and Hungry Hungry Hippos Secret talent: He can fall asleep anywhere, at any time. Favorite elementary teacher: “My Third-Grade teacher, who provided me opportunities to be a leader in class and explore my passions.” Favorite elementary subject: Math Favorite school lunch: Pizza
On his bucket list: Live on the beach
Ira and Second Graders Carter and John Wyatt play Get the Pig to His Pen, a word study game about open versus closed syllables.
