Memphis-area students have an advocate in Michael

Thank you all for supporting the New Leaders Giving Tuesday Campaign! Your contribution supports Michael, a principal in the Memphis, Tennessee area. Michael primarily attributes his dedication to becoming a school leader to the influence of his own high school principal, although growing up with an educator as a mother did play a part. Growing up in an urban environment, Michael experienced firsthand the factors that can interfere with healthy social development and a high-quality education. Now, he wants to be the kind of school leader who not only ensures that every student is excelling academically, but also celebrates and encourages them along the way.

Prior to joining New Leaders, Michael worked as a special educator and baseball coach for six years, teaching seventh and eighth grade math, science and language arts. Under his instruction, eighth grade writing scores for students with disabilities averaged over 80 percent proficient and all inclusion classes exceeded average growth. Last year, Michael also served as an instructional facilitator and briefly as an interim assistant principal.

Michael chose to pursue school leadership so he can make sure that every student has an effective teacher for every classroom. He recently completed the Emerging Leaders Program and is excited to continue learning and developing a network of support that leads transformational change in Memphis.

Thank you all for supporting Michael and New Leaders.