A PATH OF PURPOSE: Finding a calling in Blue Valley

When Akema Brown first walked the halls of Blue Valley in 2008, it wasn’t in the role she holds today — it was as a custodian. She started in this role with hopes of finding a job that allowed flexibility for her family. As it often goes in life, what Brown found was more than a job; it was the beginning of a journey.

Brown quickly noticed the supportive, positive environment Blue Valley fostered. She felt a strong sense of community and belonging where everyone’s role was valued.

“Being a custodian in the school environment just kind of made me want to be in the classroom,” Brown said.

Growing up with the idea of following her mother’s footsteps into nursing, Brown once thought her calling would be in healthcare. After a “bring your child to work” day, she realized nursing wasn’t quite for her. Instead, Brown discovered a desire to work with children and serve her community in a way that felt natural and fulfilling.

Laying the foundation

As Brown took on more responsibilities, including becoming a lead custodian, her communication, organization and relationship-building skills only strengthened. She became someone who could set clear expectations and work collaboratively with both staff and students.

“It was about laying out expectations from day one, being clear-cut… which really set me up for my [future role],” Brown said.

Supported by a network of colleagues who recognized her dedication, Brown found encouragement at every step. From now Superintendent Dr. Tonya Merrigan and the entire Blue Valley North team to the staff at Hilltop Learning Center, each person she encountered encouraged her to believe in her abilities.

Her journey was not without its challenges, but Brown’s hard work helped her overcome them. With each new responsibility, her commitment to learning and growing guided her path forward.

Brown never thought she’d become a teacher, but Blue Valley opened a door and the possibility of a new future with it.

Stepping into the classroom

Today, Brown works as a lead special education teacher at Mission Trail Elementary, finding fulfillment in a role where she makes a meaningful impact each day. For her, teaching special education felt like a natural fit, combining her empathy and passion to support and inspire her students.

“It’s the personality for me,” Brown said. “When a child communicates — even if it’s by yelling — it means they’re telling me what they want and that makes my day.”

Working with students who may be nonverbal or face unique challenges, she finds joy in every small milestone.

“I want the best for your child,” Brown said. “These kids are very smart… their parents are very involved, it’s amazing.”

One of the things Brown values most about her journey is the unwavering support from her Blue Valley family, especially her principal Debbie Bond.

“She encourages you, she checks on you, she wants to make sure you’re good,” Brown said.

Brown said that no matter the situation, there’s always a helping hand and a team ready to step in.

To those considering following in her footsteps, Brown offers heartfelt advice: “There’s always time and it’s very rewarding… so aim for it, aim high.”

As she looks toward the future, Brown’s goal is clear. She wants her students to know that Blue Valley staff is here to support them.

“I just want them to know that they're loved, they're cared for and they're safe,” Brown said.