Dear St. Elizabeth's Community,

Happy February and Happy Black History Month! I wanted to take a moment to share my experience as a Black educator. Growing up and working in predominantly white schools, I often felt that being Black and proud was only acceptable when I was with my family or the safety of my own home. My parents did an excellent job teaching me about African American history and what it means to navigate life as a Black woman in America, particularly in white-dominated spaces, but I was truly not prepared for what I experienced as a Black educator.

I chose to attend an HBCU (Historically Black College & University) because my mother graduated from one, and I was inspired by shows like The Cosby Show and A Different World. After graduating from college, I was recruited by a school district in North Carolina to teach the following school year. Due to a hiring freeze I didn't have to go through an official interview process, I was simply placed at a school. When I met the principal for the first time, she remarked, "I didn't know what race you were judging by your name, but once I saw the college you attended on your resume I knew you were Black." This encounter set the tone for my experiences as a Black educator. If I questioned or spoke out against racial inequalities in schools, I was ignored or labeled as an “angry Black woman.”

Despite the challenges, I made a conscious decision to hold my head high and strive to be the best educator I could be, not only for myself but also as an example for my daughter, sons and all the students I taught, especially students of color. During my first year of teaching, I was a semi-finalist for the Diane Kent Parker-First Teacher of the Year award, and in my fifth year, I was nominated for the Teacher of the Year award.

Throughout my journey, I longed to be recognized for my abilities as a Black educator, but I struggled with openly embracing my identity as a Black woman. I refrained from proudly sharing that I attended an HBCU, avoided wearing clothing that celebrated my identity, and even went as far as removing my long, beautiful locs.

I share this story to express how working at St. E's and becoming part of this community has been a transformative experience for me. For the first time, I feel comfortable celebrating and embracing my Blackness openly. You'll often see me proudly sporting my Grambling State University gear and wearing shirts that support Black artists or celebrate Black girl magic.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I eagerly anticipate hearing each of your journeys in education while trying to honor and maintain your identity.