What schools, organizations, communities or groups do you belong to? How does belonging to these communities influence your perspective on public education?
I’m new-ish to Denver, having moved here from New York, but spent 15 years as a special education teacher in Chicagoland. Being a teacher will always be an integral part of who I am and the perspective I take on public education. In my current role as a talent acquisition specialist for Denver Public Schools, supporting all school-based hiring for 22 of our amazing elementary schools! I have a unique opportunity to play a small role in putting the best teachers in our schools while paying very close attention to the needs of each building.
Why is education important to you?
High-quality education can be the greatest equalizer. That means every child in a Denver Public Schools classroom is entitled to a high-quality education in a safe space where they can show up as their true, authentic selves. Creating that environment,paired with the best teachers will ensure a bright future for every child who enters our buildings. I want our children to find joy in learning.
What is the No. 1 issue that you care about in Denver’s public education?
As a TA Specialist, the issue I care most about and have a small piece of control over is ensuring the staff in our school buildings mirror the student population. Taking that a step further, all teachers must understand the nuances and importance of culturally responsive pedagogy and how to tailor their instruction so that all students feel connected to the material.
How has this issue personally impacted you and/or the people in your life?
In 2017, my previous school district partnered with an organization that led a training called Beyond Diversity. At our debrief, one of the APs in my district asked me if my kids knew where I was while I was out (they did not). He encouraged me to talk to them about the training, and one of my fifth-graders asked, “What took them so long to do this?” It stopped me dead in my tracks. It reinforced the importance of CRP, and the deep inner work that I had to do, and still do, to center the needs of children, who sometimes do not reflect my own identity. Although I’m no longer in the classroom, I redirect my efforts to how we thoughtfully and intentionally staff schools.
Why have you chosen to work with Denver Families for Public Schools, and what has been your favorite part about being involved with Denver Families?
As a relatively newbie to Denver, this was the best way to understand how the school system works. I spent 13 years teaching in Evanston, Illinois, and that’s all I knew. It’s important to hear the voices of community members and fellow educators. Learning how to best advocate for our children’s best interests is equally important and fascinating. We have such an important job as a school system, and I want to get this right for them!
What impact do you hope to make on public education in Denver? What outcomes do you hope to see from your advocacy?
I want the best and brightest teachers to work for Denver Public Schools and ensure we retain our talent. I could talk about teaching, education and staffing endlessly, and I hope that my passion for public education, specifically Denver Public Schools, permeates beyond my circle connected to education. I want to encourage those tentative about getting involved to use their voice and advocate for what they care about. I also want to encourage our students to use their voices and advocate for their needs.
Would you be able to walk me through a day in your shoes as the talent acquisition specialist? What motivates you to continue your work as a talent acquisition specialist?
Currently, we are in the midst of our busy season, which means we are working on processing 100s of hires before the start of the school year. I don’t have many unfilled positions left between my 22 schools, so I’m focused on filling what remains because every child NEEDS a qualified teacher in the classroom for their first day of school. When I’m not sourcing talent for our schools, I follow up with candidates to ensure that we have all the necessary qualifications to process them into their new roles. Recently, I was appointed interim schools team lead, so in between all the work I’m doing for my schools, I’m meeting with my team and working together to help fill their vacancies. What motivates me? The kids. I live and breathe students first. They are why I returned to public education and my most important motivator.
What advice do you have for others (parents, teachers, students, community members) who want to be more involved in public education?
It’s never too late to get involved. You don’t have to have experience as a teacher to have a seat at the table. Despite my 15 years of teaching experience, I’m still learning new things at every session. We may all have different starting points, but if your motivation is to positively impact our public schools, then you’re ready to advocate for our kids and schools!
What makes Denver Families special/unique to the Denver community?
Finding Denver Families for Public Schools has been the most exciting and engaging work I’ve done in quite a long time. Creating a space where the community becomes the powerbrokers is incredible. I’ve never heard of another organization doing this work and scaling their work to grow their community of advocates. It’s been an incredible learning experience and something that should be replicated in districts across the country.
What are your top three words that you would use to describe Denver Families?
Powerful, Important, Transformational
What is your favorite childhood book? How does that same message translate into your position within Denver Families/education?
“Oh, the Places You Will Go” by Dr. Seuss.