Go out in the world and do good.
Many moons ago, my time was spent keeping up with what everyone else was doing, personally and professionally. Before aligning my personal values to the roles I serve, it seemed like I was living a life that others expected me to. All I’ve ever wanted is to live a life well lived. I recognized fairly early that we only get one shot at this. I had to transition to an authentic life that catered to my life’s purpose and desires through the art of setting boundaries and only accepting tasks that serve my family well. Now I seek simplicity and tranquility through honoring my life’s purpose. This is accomplished simply by going out in the world to do good.
When an opportunity was presented to teach multicultural literature and physical education electives at my high school alma-mater, it felt like an honor and an opportunity to do good at a place that instilled some of my personal values early on. My knowledge is a culmination of experiences from Columbus State, Walden, Valdosta State, and most recently Harvard University. In 2017, I was named inaugural teacher of the year for Rainey McCullers School of the Arts then awarded Top 3 Teacher of the Year for the Muscogee County School District. Recently, I was selected as a 2024 Harvard Fellow and endorsed through Harvard’s School of Education through Project Zero. Teaching with curiosity, collaboration, and transparency is a priority. Students are actively participating in their learning and demonstrating their knowledge through Vertical Learning and Project Based Learning. Students feel valued, understood, and respected as they navigate through their personal learning experience. Linking my personal beliefs and values of living authentically is reciprocated to my students in the same respect.
Health, fitness, and athletics has been a passion and talent of mine for many years. I have over eight years experience as a high school, all-star, and collegiate competitive cheerleader winning CheerSport, UCA Nationals, and Summit runner-up. I currently serve as the competition and sideline cheerleading coach at my high school alma-mater. Serving in the same program that profoundly impacted me as a teenager has been both an honor and a privilege. Being a coach has been fulfilling and has taught me lessons about unwavering support, unconditional love, and true grit and determination. Outside of the high school setting, I am a certified yoga instructor with a mindful meditation endorsement. I teach yoga multiple times a week at a local studio. As a yoga apprentice, I practiced for over six years prior to obtaining my certifications. I have trained under My Vinyasa Practice, Novo Fitness Studio, and renowned Iyengar instructor Patricia Walden in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Yoga is a natural extension of my belief in maintaining a holistic approach to life, promoting physical and mental wellness in tandem. Yoga has centered my mindset and has challenged me to remain authentic.
Achieving professional accolades, goals, and accomplishments is not possible without the love and support from my family and our commitment to our values and beliefs. I married my high school sweetheart and together we have two daughters. We built our dream house with extended family on a 30-acre compound in the county with an apiary, creek, and barn. We believe in limited technology, free-range nature play, and intentional relationships.
I am a wife, mom, teacher, coach, and yoga instructor. Those roles are sacred and harmonious. I am a strong advocate for setting boundaries and staying true to oneself. In a world that often demands more than we can give, I believe that maintaining personal limits is crucial for personal well-being and authenticity. The roles I serve in my life are successful because I choose peace and will continue to honor the journey I’ve been called on.
