Milestones

My road in life took a while to figure out.
Always liked kids but didn't like school. Liked to read, but wasn't very disciplined.
Worked in family Oriental Rug business.
Went to college for 3 years, got married, and dropped out.
Had 4 kids within 6 years. Opened a daycare / preschool to stay with my own kids.
Went back to school, began to teach English in suburbs. Moved to teach in Chicago for at-risk kids.
Experimented with instruction. Found incredible success. Continued education.
Founded an urban small school with Gates money. Incredibly successful.
Took a district lead role in a charter alternative school system.

Education

High School
Bachelor
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Graduate
Education, General
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis

Career

Curriculum & Instruction Lead

I assist alternative school principals and teachers in developing strong schools.

Career Roadmap

Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Politics
Teaching / Mentoring

Day to Day

I do research, attend district meetings, consultancy meetings, preparing and providing professional development.

Advice for Getting Started

Here's the first step for college students

Begin as a teacher and understand that ALL students can learn at high levels. Be prepared for hard work and long hours.

Recommended Education

My career is not related to what I studied. I'd recommend this path instead:

Hurdles

The Noise I Shed

From Friends:

"Gosh, you are busy."

Challenges I Overcame

First-Generation College Student