WHAT’S AN ACCOMPLISHMENT THAT YOU ARE PROUDEST OF?

Hmm. This is tough! As a mother, I am most proud of my son, who recently graduated from college and is now beginning his life as an adult. It is exciting to see your child become a person with values and goals.

In my career and life’s work, I have a hard time resting on laurels; there is so much work still to be done in the world of advocating for and educating children. There are many bright moments in my years as director at Anansi, and a couple exceptional milestones.

We took 14 years to develop the school we are today, serving kindergarten through eighth-grade children, building the beautiful and unique campus that we offer our students and families. It was challenging to find the funding to accomplish this. I’m proud that we have been able to develop a campus that supports our vision by giving children a place that feels safe and welcoming, and consistently offers them opportunities to try their best and feel valued.

In addition, we went through a rigorous vetting process to be awarded the status of an international Ashoka Changemaker School. The educational model of Anansi Charter School has been studied through the Ashoka Network and been presented at an international conference for its work in the development of emotional intelligence.

Finally, in 2018 Anansi Charter School was one of three New Mexico Public Schools awarded a National Blue Ribbon for our work in closing the achievement gap for “at-risk” students.

Visualize and focus upon what you hope to accomplish rather than the obstacles or fears that might get in the way. Take time to reflect, see mistakes or missteps as opportunities to learn and grow and use your next opportunities to improve upon your efforts.