Today we’d like to introduce you to Jeffrey Foster.
Hi Jeffrey, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I came from a family of educators dating all the way back to my great great Grandmother who was the Leader of all the Black schools in Charlotte North Carolina. Growing up, I watched my grandmother be the best school and music teacher I knew. She would never tell me what to do when I grow up but she always told me I would be a great teacher. As I went through undergraduate studies, I changed my major way too many times. During my senior year, I decided that I wanted to make an impact on historically marginalized students and become a teacher. I entered a graduate program that allowed me to get my teaching license and Masters in Elementary education. I started my teaching career as an Elementary teacher within the same school district my family members taught and led in. I then took an opportunity as a Technology facilitator and Diversity coordinator at a Charter School. Afterward, I got the opportunity to become a Principal and then a turnaround Head of School at a different charter school.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
During my career, I definitely had imposter syndrome at every level. I also have experienced discrimination for being a young leader and being a Black man in America. Pursuing a Doctorate in Urban Education has opened up my eyes to see the greatness I have inside of me and has reminded that I come from greatness. Being a Teacher and being an Administrator is a tough job but very rewarding. Working in a Title, I school as a turnaround Leader is very hard and stressful. There are good days and bad days. My students and staff inspire me each day. I look forward to interacting with students every day and the dedication of my staff is remarkable.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am the Executive Director/Head of School at a K-12 Charter School
If you had to, what characteristic of yours would you give the most credit to?
Culturally Responsive On fire for Change
Passion
Drive
Emotional Intelligence
Highly Motivated
Audaciousness
Growth Mindset
Altruism
Flexibility
Contact Info:
- Twitter: @fosterclass
