Hey there!
I'm Danielle
For as long as I can remember, I’ve had big dreams. Dreams of changing the world. I wasn't sure how I was going to do that or in what way but I’ve always felt called to do big things. I started as an aspiring journalist thinking I could change the world with the written word, somehow stumbled into fashion journalism, and for the better part of my adult life, have been teaching English primarily to high school juniors and seniors.
For the longest time teaching was by far my biggest passion–but it had nothing to do with English. The content didn’t matter to me nearly as much as the connection with the students. I’m not talking about being the “cool teacher” or hearing all the gossip. No, what I found addicting was the culture I created year after year. The community that was fostered with each class and how I had an opportunity to facilitate conversations, help students walk through uncomfortable moments, challenge them to think outside the box, and encourage them to challenge each other and stand strong in their convictions for 42 minutes every day. No, it had nothing to do with reading and writing and everything to do with adding to the human experience.
Now don’t get me wrong, me saying my passion had nothing to do with the content does not mean I didn’t love literature and writing or that my class was easy. Quite the opposite actually. My courses were notoriously some of the most challenging in the building. They had the reputation of being the hardest yet students loved it. Why? Because of the community. Because even though they were still in school and even though they were being challenged, those 42 minutes each day gave them an opportunity to grow into themselves. To be part of something more than just a classroom. How do I know this? They’ve told me. Not just one, tons and tons of students have let me know how much they loved the culture of my classroom. It’s one of my proudest achievements.
Sitting with other faculty members hearing about issues they were having with some of my best students befuddled me. Were we talking about the same student? Why were they willing to not only behave but take leadership positions and excel in my room? What made it different? I’ve put a lot of thought into this and the reality is it’s the community I created. I’m not a better teacher, I don’t know more, I’m certainly not cooler or hip. I just have created a space for students to feel safe and be who they are. Most of that stems from my ability to be who I am and allow them to see my humanness.
I love teaching. And now, 12 years into the education profession I’ve realized what my “big thing” is. I’m ready to provide the tools teachers need to have this same experience. As much as I miss my high school students, I see how providing tools for teachers allows me the opportunity to impact even more students. Because it’s no longer about the twenty something kids in each of my classes–it’s about helping teachers across districts and states become the best versions of themselves and create the community everyone is searching for. You all deserve this kind of community–-this is why we all went into teaching. To make a difference. The difference lies in connection, I promise you.
I’m glad you made your way to me and I sincerely hope you find what you’re looking for here. And if you don’t, I hope you reach out and let me know what it is you need and allow me to help you find it!
Danielle