What is your name, what role do you play in education, how long have you been in education?
AJ Walls recently received a promotion to Instructional Coach. Prior to that, AJ was a Lead Teacher seven years. AJ has been in the education field for a total of eight years. AJ has a passion for working with children with challenging behaviors.
Why do you think education is important?
It is the key; it is the antidote to ignorance. Education is the way that we set ourselves free. Learning not to make the same mistakes that we have made in the past is a part of becoming a critical thinker. I chose to work with preschool age kids because I want to give them an opportunity to love education, especially as it relates to their first encounters of learning and engaging critically. I make sure that they enjoy their experiences and that I provide them with the tools to continue to be successful. It is important for children to see people that look like me teaching and holding a position that requires education.
What do you love most about your role in education?
Being the “safe person” for children with challenging behaviors. Allowing them to see that not everyone is judgmental and that moving forward I can help them turn it around and build the necessary skills needed. I love being able to model for my peers and fellow teachers that kids can be successful under the right conditions. It is ultimately up to professionals like us to help set those conditions for children to be successful.
What is the best advice you have received about impacting the education sector?
Stay true to myself. As black people in America, we often feel forced to assimilate in order to be successful. It is important for me to embrace the way I learned and use those tools to connect with my students. I choose to play music and use language that reflects my culture. It is essential to stay true to who I am and what I value versus feeling like I have to be someone else.
What advice would you give the younger generation about their education?
Take every opportunity you can to educate yourself about any topic that you can. The more knowledge you have, the more power you have to affect change. This also leads to growth and being able to create more opportunities for yourself. Never miss an opportunity to learn, grow, and experience. You will never regret it!
Interview By Milton Whipple
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Self Submission
I recently started a new position supporting teachers in developing classroom management and curriculum implementation. Prior I have been the lead teacher in an effective needs room. I work with challenging behaviors and children who are a safety concern in the traditional classroom.
