Hidden Figure: Nakia White
Crystal: How would your students describe you?
Nakia: My students would say that I’m firm, but fair.
Crystal: Why did you choose a career in education?
Nakia: There were so many teachers who believed in me throughout my academic career. I just knew that I could provide that type of encouragement and love to my own students.
Crystal: Your students praise you as a mentor. How does mentorship impact students in and out of the classroom?
Nakia: As a mentor, I pray that my students will remember the nuggets of wisdom I give to them when faced with a challenging situation or obstacle.
Crystal: What is the greatest need in the education system?
Nakia: It is time that politicians volunteer to teach classes. They impact so much of what is done in our buildings, it is time to witness the struggle.
Crystal: What is the greatest misconception?
Nakia: The biggest misconception about education is that teachers are lucky to have summers off. A lot of us work summer programs; attend professional development opportunities; complete graduate school courses; and spend time locating resources to use during the upcoming school year.
Crystal: As a Social Studies teacher, how do you address your student’s questions and concerns regarding social issues?
Nakia: When addressing social issues with my students, I like to provide them with all of the perspectives. Teachers never want to isolate students. It is beneficial to know what they believe and why.
Crystal: Who was your favorite teacher? What impact did they have on your life?
Nakia: I do not have a favorite teacher because they all impacted my life tremendously. I didn’t realize that I was what you would call an at-risk youth until I became an educator. All of my teachers in Charleston County School District left an imprint on my life.
Crystal: What have you learned from your students?
Nakia: I have learned that all students need good teachers. Sometimes educators wonder if they will impact their clientele. Believe me, YOU WILL.