The Educator

E v e r y o n e D e s e r v e s t o S h i n e : F i n d i n g a n d s h i n i n g y o u r l i g h t u n a p o l o g e t i c a l l y .

Marcus Boyd

Autism Activist/Educator Music creator and more...

FOUNDER and CEO

Teresa B. Howell

https://tbproductions.org

EDITOR

Teresa B. Howell

CREATIVE

Teresa B. Howell

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Teresa B. Howell

Queenie Clem

LaKesa Dennison

Andrea U. Petifer

LaTonya MeChelle

Denise M. Walker

ADVERTISING & PROMOTION

TB Productions Media Group

TeresaBProductions+ads@gmail.com

COPYRIGHTS

The Heat Seekers Magazine is owned by Teresa B. Howell and Teresa B. Productions. The magazine, its staff and writers, has made sure that content is accurate on the date of publication. The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s)’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in good faith.

All rights reserved. Nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without express written permission.

Letter from the Founder and CEO

In 2005, I decided to leave my fortune 500 job in accounting and take a leap of faith into the classroom. I had once worked in an elementary school in 1998 as a bookkeeper and it was there that the principal pushed me into the field. He said: “The children with disabilities gravitate towards you. Maybe you should consider becoming a special education teacher?” So I went back to school and sought out the dream. I listened, I conquered, I accomplished. Unfortunately, that principal(Harvey Sadoff) died a few years after speaking into my life. But I made it happen and I will be always grateful for “the push” he gave me.

As I rose to the top in education from an ordinary special education teacher to National Board Certification, to School Administrator, to Sped Director, there was still something missing. In my early years of life, I wanted to be a singer, a writer, a poet…and in 2014, the floodgates of creativity opened. Before I knew it, I had become an educator with extraordinary gifts that were being displayed outside of the classroom. From there, the concept of this magazine began.

As the Founder and CEO of this publication, my goal is to spotlight educators who are also gifted outside of the classroom. I want to show the world that not only can they teach the children of tomorrow, but they can balance other gifts and remain in the air, flying high. I am proud to be an educator as I have touched the lives of thousands of students. But I am also proud of being a writer, singer, talk show host, playwright, magazine CEO, and mother of 2.

I am an educator…with extraordinary talents. So help me celebrate the others within this publication that have extraordinary talents too.

Teresa B. Howell

Founder and CEO, The Educator Magazine

Educator

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Putting Practice Into Perspective

Vol. 6

By Andrea U. Petifer Follow me on Twitter @AndreaPetiferED

Andrea Petifer is a tenured educational leader highly skilled in curriculum development, cross-functional collaboration, and consulting. Adept at instructing elementary-aged through collegiate level students, she is applauded for her ability to implement change management plans with care and creativity. Andrea is a past teacher of the year, district level assistant principal of the year, and union president

Each month this column will explore lessons I’ve learned throughout my almost twenty year journey of teaching and learning. My aim is to share tangible takeaways that are real and relevant, that spark reflective practice, and ready you to enact change.

Start Strong

A few weeks ago my husband and I were watching the track and field world championships. Both of us as former athletes paid special attention to how each of the competitors started their event. No matter the type of race, on the field or on the track, there was a specificity in intentionality of each participant. Outwardly it was easy to observe the preciseness in positioning of their body-measured steps, alignment and angling of shoulders, shifting of breathing techniques, placement of their hands and feet, all of which prepared them to start strong.

Just like the athletes, as school and teacher leaders, we must purpose ourselves in having a strong start to each new school year

Begin by asking yourself:

What does a strong start look like?

What does a strong start feel like?

What does a strong start sound like?

These three simple questions will not only support interpersonal growth, but it can also lead you in discovering trends in perspectives and priorities across populations. Think about the similarities and differences you will find among your professional learning community members, students, support staff, and families. What will such results reveal about the culture and climate of your school community?

I encourage you to incorporate this simple three step strategy in your faculty meeting, at your open house, and with your students on day one. I’ve included a few findings I’ve gleaned over the years below. I promise this fifteen minute activity will help you start strong!

Follow me on Twitter @AndreaPetiferED

Adult Learning Styles: Unlocking the Full Potential of Adult Learners

by LaKesa Dennison

Learning is a lifelong journey, and as adults, we encounter countless opportunities to expand our knowledge and skills. However, not all adults learn in the same way or with the same preferences. Understanding the different learning styles of adults can significantly enhance the effectiveness of instruction and create more engaging and productive learning experiences.

One of the most well-known models of adult learning styles is the VARK model, which stands for Visual, Auditory, Reading/Writing, and Kinesthetic Let's explore each of these learning styles and how they can be catered to:

Visual Learners:

Visual learners rely on visual aids, such as graphs, diagrams, or images, to understand and retain information. They benefit from seeing things in action and prefer visual presentations or demonstrations during the learning process. To cater to visual learners, educators can incorporate visual aids into their teaching materials, use videos or animations, and encourage visual note taking or mind mapping.

Auditory Learners:

Auditory learners absorb information best through listening They prefer lectures, discussions, and oral explanations To engage auditory learners, instructors can incorporate group discussions, encourage questions and active listening, use podcasts or audio-based resources, and provide verbal feedback and guidance.

Reading/Writing Learners:

Reading/writing learners thrive when given the opportunity to read and write information. They prefer written texts, note-taking, and reflective writing exercises. For these learners, educators can provide handouts or reading materials, encourage note taking or journaling, and assign written tasks or reflections

Kinesthetic Learners:

Kinesthetic learners learn best through hands-on experiences, physical movements, and practical applications They prefer activities that allow them to actively engage with the material, such as experiments, simulations, or role-playing exercises. To cater to kinesthetic learners, instructors can incorporate hands-on activities, interactive exercises, real-life examples, and encourage physical involvement.

It is important to note that most individuals have a combination of learning styles, with one or two preferences being more dominant Therefore, it is advisable to employ a variety of instructional strategies and incorporate multiple learning styles within a single lesson or course to cater to the diverse needs of adult learners

In addition to these learning styles, adult learners also have unique characteristics and motivations that influence their learning preferences Self-directed learning, where adults take responsibility for their own learning process, is prevalent among adult learners. They appreciate a learner-centered approach that allows them to set goals, make choices, and actively participate in their own learning.

Furthermore, relevance and practicality are key factors that drive adult learners They want to apply what they learn in real-life situations and see the immediate value in the knowledge or skills being taught Connecting new information to their existing knowledge and experiences can greatly enhance their engagement and retention

To conclude, understanding adult learning styles is essential in creating meaningful and effective learning experiences. By acknowledging and catering to visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinesthetic preferences, instructors can create diverse and engaging instructional materials. Additionally, considering adults' selfdirected learning tendencies and their desire for relevance and practicality will make the learning experience more enjoyable and fruitful.

Education is not limited to a specific age group, and as adult learners, we deserve learning experiences that empower us, inspire us, and help us reach our full potential By embracing and adapting to our unique learning styles, we can unlock the true power of adult education and continue to grow and excel throughout our lives

Encourage them Beyond Skills and Lessons!

By Denise M. Walker

Author, educator, podcaster, speaker, writing coach, and copy editor Owner of Armor of Hope Writing & Publishing Services, LLC

As an educator, we have been trained to focus so much on the standards and the teaching of specific skills However, in these current times, there are many young people struggling emotionally. The motivation is at an all-time low. Many of them are discouraged, which may cause them to make some self-destructive decisions. Many of our students are even fending for themselves outside of the school building. Therefore, as we continue with the academics, we must also help to encourage them.

You can begin the process by teaching them to think of ways their current day is better than the previous day or even the week before. This teaches them to be optimistic. Help them to find them beauty among the thorns in their lives. One way to do this is by allowing them to complete some “Today is a Better Day” prompts.

Yes, I understand their current day may not be so great, but when we teach them to look for some hope in their situation. This could become a life skill. It may take some time to get them to buy into the mindset shift, but it will be worth it in the long run.

You could also build a classroom climate where your students come up with ways to help make other people’s days better. Write a note and leave it on their desk when someone seems discouraged Write positive affirmations and give them to a friend

Another strategy to encourage your students more is by helping them with ways to overcome obstacles They must be equipped with ways to stand and not crumble during hard times. They must understand that life comes with troubles. They can’t be avoided. However, there are some things they can do to help them through it One strategy you can use is to allow them to journal ways to overcome their troubles For example, if they have lost someone close to them or don’t have s parent in their lives, we can teach them to use their words and say what they feel instead of fighting or being a disruption in class. They can ask for help. For example, they could say they need to speak to a counselor and open up. The counselor could teach them strategies to help them deal with the obstacles. We must teach them that this is not a sign of weakness. It is actually a sign of strength.

They could also journal their emotions. Journaling is a great way to get students to think through their struggles. I journal through scriptures, which has helped me for many years.

By implementing these strategies in your classrooms, this could empower them soar beyond their situations. Being on the front line with our students, we understand there is more to teaching than the academics. We are assisting with developing productive citizens, so let’s equip them with the tools to become well rounded individuals.

Let’s educate and empower the next generation! They are our future

Denise M Walker is a wife, mother, minister, bestselling author, educator, podcaster, copy editor, and workshop host She is the founder of Hope-in-Christ Ministries, LLC and the owner of Armor of Hope Writing & Publishing Services.

RoeBraddy

Roe Braddy: Beyond the Chalkboard

by Ms. Queenie Clem

Roe Braddy is a retired educator with thirty-four years of teaching experience. She is certified in Special Education, middle school Math, and English She has a Masters in Curriculum Design and Assessment. She has also worked as an itinerant and a vocational job coach. After retiring she began writing. She is the published author of ten books, three of which are children’s books. She is also a playwright. Roe has written and produced three live stage productions for local community theatre She also directs She has also written and directed several productions for her church’s drama ministry.

Queenie: Can you provide a brief overview of your background as a special education teacher in high school, and what led you to pursue a career in education?

Roe: When I first began my career as a secondary teacher I worked for a federally funded program. I was a vocational job coach. I worked with students helping them sharpen the skills they needed for future employment I was also a direct liaison to their employers and various support agencies. I have always enjoyed working with secondary students.

Queenie: How did you make the transition from teaching to becoming an author and ghostwriter, and how has your experience in special education influenced your writing in the realm of history?

Roe: I have always been a writer from a very early age. When I was in high school and college, I won several writing competitions I have published some of my short stories in various literary magazines. After retiring from the school district, I had more time to start to focus on my writing. I had written a book that I knew would make a great play. I started writing the play and the book at the same time. Once I published the book, I produced the play. The play sold out for three shows and the book one an Emma Award for Best Suspense Romance So, I continued to write

Queenie: Having worked in special education, what unique challenges did you encounter, and how did those experiences shape your perspective as a writer?

Roe: I worked with many students who had experienced trauma in their lives It made me realize that finding a way to express your hurts positively is important. It gave me a way to share their stories in a good light.

Queenie: In what ways do you believe your writing contributes to historical education, especially for those who may not have had a strong interest in the subject before?

Roe: I have always loved history, especially black history My parents lived in the South during the era of Jim Crow. I spent most of my childhood going back down south and helping my father’s family with the small farm they owned As a result of this experience, I learned to love the history of this period that my family shared with me. These stories have had the most influence on my writing. My favorite genre is historical romance

Queenie: Having worked in special education, what unique challenges did you encounter, and how did those experiences shape your perspective as a writer?

Roe: I have worked with several students who have had some very traumatic events occur in their lives. As their teacher, I became very attached to my students. As a result of working with this population of students, I decided that I wanted to tell their story. I wrote a book about a group of students who were attending a middle school and enrolled in a special education class. The book was based on my experience as a special education teacher. Of course, the names and locations were changed

Queenie: Reflecting on your career as a special education math teacher, how do you believe your teaching methods and approaches have made a lasting impact on the students you've worked with? Has this influence shaped the themes or messages in your writing?

Roe: Yes, I believe that I have had a major impact on my students. There are several that still contact me Being an educator has always made me feel as though I am responsible for speaking up regarding what is happening with our youth today. I have spoken to school boards, served on school curriculum committees, and utilized my voice as a writer to write poetry about what is happening in our communities with our youth.

Queenie: Are there specific historical figures or characters that you find particularly compelling, and have you featured them prominently in your writing? How do you bring historical personalities to life on the page?

Roe: If you write anything that has to do with history, you must be willing to do the research When I write a historical romance story, I research the period so that the facts that I put in my story are accurate It is part of the worldbuilding that you must do to create a story that your readers will want to fall in love with and continue to read

Queenie: In what ways do you believe your writing contributes to historical education, especially for those who may not have had a strong interest in the subject before?

Roe: I love to tell stories. My family tells me that I am a family storyteller. Oral storytelling is how stories live on. If I leave nothing else to my children after I am gone, they will know about where they have come from and how the people of the past have influenced the lives that they are living. I believe that history is something that must be shared. It’s the legacy that will only continue to live on if passed on.

Queenie: Can you share a particularly memorable or favorite project you've worked on, either as an author or ghostwriter and why it stands out to you?

Roe: My favorite project has always been my first play. I wrote and produced it in 2018. It sold out for three shows. This experience fueled my love for the theatre. Writing a book and writing a play are two different experiences. I love it when I can take one of my stories and bring it to the stage. This is empowering. Watching an actor take your words and lift them off the page is an incredible feeling.

Queenie: Can you describe your writing process when working on books or ghostwriting projects? How do you approach capturing the essence of your experiences and the stories you tell?

Roe: I am a pantser, which means that I must do an outline for the story before I start writing I need to know everything about the characters and the setting I literary talk to the characters to get them to tell me what they want to happen in the story When I can hear them talking to me clearly, then I know where the story is going

Queenie: As a former teacher, do you find that your teaching experiences have shaped the way you approach historical topics in your writing? How do you bring history to life for your readers?

Roe: As a history buff my experiences influenced my students. For several years I was the only educator of color in my high school. My students would ask me why I would tell them that historically there have not been as many black teachers in the field They continued to ask why our stories don’t appear in the history books When I worked with my students on history projects, I would tell them stories about the African Americans who had made contributions to American history. I loved it when they continued to seek me out for these stories. When I taught English, I allowed my students to read the works of African American Renaissance writers. Years later many of my students came back to tell me that it was those stories that helped them to grow in their love of reading Q

Queenie: What advice do you have for educators considering a career shift into writing, especially those with a focus on history, and what key lessons have you learned along the way?

Roe: If you are an educator, you must already be a strong communicator. Continue to sharpen those skills by taking as many courses as you can in creative writing. Buy craft books and read the genre in which you want to write That’s one of the best things that you can do READ, READ, and READ some more! Then write and write some more. Don’t worry about what it sounds like, just get it out of your head. The refining process comes later. Be willing to take criticism and know that there is an audience for your story. The key is to stay persistent long enough to find it.

Queenie: How can clients reach out to you?

Roe: roewrites4u@gmail.com or RBCleanPageEditing@gmail.com IG roetheliterary

Facebook: RoeBraddyProductions

Favorites:

Color - red

Restaurant: Wat vegan restaurant?

Scripture - Habakkuk 2:2 “The Lord answered me and said: “Write the vision and make it plain on tablets, that he may run who reads it.”

Drink - peach iced tea

Snack while writing - dried cranberries and pistachios

The Activist that has Activated Change for Autism

Interview by The Educator

When and why did you decide to become an Autism Activist?

It was six years ago, and I was living in east point Georgia, and I was a just a funny fat guy living his best life. I wanted one of my best friends to take me to Walmart so I can get some stuff and that day was like a normal day nothing special about it. My bestie is driving and she asked me a question she wanted to know how I do I feel about god allowing me to be verbal when so many years I was nonverbal. I told her it was a blessing and I praise God for giving me the chance to be verbal and have a voice. So then she asked me was I willing to go to her church and share my testimony of what god has done for me and at first I was like nooo and my bestie said yes how can you be ashamed of where you came from and look where god has brought you from. For me going to her church was the best choice I have ever made. I told my testimony and the way that people embraced me and asked me questions and gave me encouraging words, I knew then that this was never about me but all the trials and tribulations

How do you balance music and Advocacy for Autism?

Well that’s a really good question I don’t know I just look at both of them like I’m breathing it’s hard for me to separate the two because its normal it’s like putting on some pants and a shirt it’s like watching tom chase jerry or having some rice and gravy it just go together now balancing both can be tricky at times because both of them require a lot of time and energy and you have to invest blood sweat and tears to make both happen so music will always be my first love because it was my communication before my communication and it taught me so many things and I see life in such a different way my passion for being an autism activist comes from a personal story that I have with autism and the experiences god allow me to go through put me in a place of learning and understanding and what I want from being an activist to see laws and rights changed that will benefit the autism and special needs communities when god blessed me to have musical gifts then allowed me to speak and become verbal when I was nonverbal I knew in my heart I was training to become what I am today with both of these I give 100 precent of dedication to them this life for me,

How long have you been in the profession as Activist?

I have been in this field and this profession for 6 years now and it must be the best years of my life. Yes, it has its challenges, and it can be stressful at times, but the biggest reward is knowing the people you are helping, the laws and rights you are fighting for and giving you a voice.

Why were you interested in talking in front of millions concerning Autism?

For the past six years one of my goals and dreams has been to be able to have my voice heard across the masses and be able to touch at least one person. I believe the world should know and hear more stories when it comes to autism, the struggles that people who have autism are dealing with, the world has so many different cultures and religions and by bringing the beauty of it we get to learn and gain wisdom on things that’s different from us. Autism is no different. I believe change cannot happen unless the issue or topic stays in your face and you are actively moving towards a solution. But we must do more than talk about autism, we must put into action the change that we want to see so this is deeper than me talking in front of millions of people.

Give a scenario of your best and worst experience while being an Activist?

This journey I have been on has not been easy, there have been times when it has become too much, and I wanted to quit Constantly getting talked about or having my name drugged in the mud or dealing with slander and lies people trying to tear down my brand for their personal glory. I have seen a lot of good come from this journey stuff like smiles on people’s faces when they get to meet you or talk to you the wisdom and knowledge you get to give you sharing your story is helping someone else out you get to travel and see new things you get to be on radio and tv and do magazine interviews that’s just a small part of rewarding being an autism activist really is. It is life changing what I have seen and experienced. I

What other hobbies do you have outside of being an Activist?

I love music and music has been my wife for over 30 years now I never cheated, I never played with music, music saved my life when I was lost and abused and had nothing but music so for sure music is in my top ten things that I love to do I love making beats I love creating sounds and melodies and finding samples that are rare and hardly anyone has used before creating the right beat pattern and drum pattern for the beat. So, when you put those headphones on and get lost in a beet it is like closing your eyes and being able to see heaven. Another thing I like to do is watch black documentaries and docu series so I can learn about the greats and legends before I see their stories so I can understand my own just seeing their struggles and what they had to go through but how God allowed them to see the other side is so inspiring. I love video games I’m nasty when it comes to playing assassin creed and gta and street fighter and any racing game I’m a whole problem I’m a Xbox one head but I got a Nintendo switch and a custom psa 4 also I love to cook I mean I’m a big guy and food is my safe place For me I love butter rice and gravy soul food and Chinese food and any buffet lol I have my own brand it’s called fat man dishes its where I am making soul food and different types of dishes and I call it fat man dishes, I love Dave n busters traveling festivals and concerts and comedy shows and movies and beaches and parks and trying new things I love to bowl, shoot pool, play laser tag, watch cartoons and go to the music studio.

POETRY Beauty is Pain

I am Gorgeous

Each morning I beat my face with makeup

To cover the beatings I’ve had to face Hiding my abuse is how I maintain

Beauty is Pain

I am Beautiful

I wear concealer to cover my bruise

It’s not meant to be deceitful or a ruse

My makeup never runs, but my scares leaves stains

Beauty is Pain

I am Confident

No one hears my crying

My heart aches and is slowly dying

The face you see is filled with worry and strain

Beauty is Pain

I Believe in myself

But I have doubts

Everyday is a struggle to control my freakouts

The damage on my face has me going insane

Beauty is Pain

My Lips are popping

The color I wear is red

It represents the blood I’ve shed Punches have left my lips swollen and needing to drain Beauty is pain

I love my Eyeshadow

Because it hides my black eye

I use it as a disguise

The hurt is always there and never wanes

Beauty is Pain

I am Strong

Despite the beating I’ve endured

Going through torment and tortured

My beauty is my strength

Peace comes at great length

I will always value it and never treat it with disdain

Because I know my Beauty is my Pain

C. Dewayne Hinnant

EDUCATORSPOTLIGHT

JESSYHARVEY

Special Education from the classroom and beyond!

Interview by Latonya MeChelle

Tell us about yourself.

My name is Apostle Jessie Harvey, I am a well-seasoned and outgoing Queen. I love people and I love, love. I have been in Education for Fifteen years and taught at all levels. I am currently Teaching the SPED severe and profound class. As a devoted mother, experienced teacher, prolific songwriter, accomplished author, dedicated Apostle, loyal friend, and caring individual, I embody a multifaceted and inspiring persona

Q: What inspired you to become a specialized education teacher, particularly for students with severe and profound disabilities? education teacher, particularly for students with severe and profound disabilities?

Before accepting this job opportunity as a specialized education teacher, I was an emotional support specialist. I worked with some of the most severe students in the district. I signed up for the summer ASPIRE Camp, which was catered to students with autism. I loved it There was one particular student who was very difficult to handle, and I volunteered to work with him I felt that with God, the skills I had learned, and hard work, together we could see change. He became my one-on-one student, and we saw a change. I was then highly recommended for the severe and profound class by my principal. I accepted the position because the summer camp inspired me, and I had profound compassion and a desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing unique challenges. My decision reflects a deep commitment to inclusivity, empathy, and the belief that learning Is growth.

Q: Are there any upcoming projects or works that you're particularly excited about, either in your role as a teacher or as a creative artist?

As a teacher, I am allowing my students to be creative and draw their life stories, and I will assist in putting their pictures into words and publishing their very first personal book. I will create authors at an early age. As a creative artist, I have completed my very first children's book entitled "WHO AM I'? It's must-read. I just released a world song entitled "CONQUER"! You can get it on Band camp now. I am in the finality of my poetry book entitled "THE DIFFERENT SHADES OF MY HEART"! I am extremely excited about what's transpiring in my life, in my students' lives, and in the world

Q: Have you ever drawn inspiration for your creative work from your experiences in the classroom or with your students, and if so, how has that manifested in your art?

Being an educator often involves continuous learning and an inspiration to share that knowledge with my students and peers. This can feed into the creative process, leading to new ideas, perspectives, a commitment to lifelong learning, and promising, inspiring art that will feed a nation. Collaboration and Community: As an educator, I collaborate with students, colleagues, and the community on creative projects and thoughts, fostering a sense of community and sharing creativity that will impact change. Overall, the intersection of being an educator and a creative artist offers a unique blend of inspiration, experiences, and opportunities for growth in both professional realms. Finding ways to integrate these roles can result in a more holistic and fulfilling creative journey that I intend for the world to see.

Q: What do you hope to communicate through your songs and writing, and how do you navigate the balance between self-expression and connecting with your audience?

I hope to communicate a sense of realness, unapologetically self-reflection, hope, love, and togetherness that we have allowed to wither. In these times everyone is going through life situations and is looking for some type of hope and restoration. I just believe God carries me through so I can assist others to get through. People can feel when you are authentic, and the connection is real. Individuals are searching for realness and that's why I believe MY audience connects with me.

Q. What can we do as a community, church, and educational system as a whole to improve and bridge the gap between poverty and low-income families?

Provide free or affordable educational programs for children and adults, focusing on skills that can enhance employment opportunities. Collaborate with local businesses to offer job training programs and aid in job placement for community members. Organize outreach initiatives, such as food drives, clothing donations, & healthcare services, to address immediate needs. Offer counseling and family support services to address emotional and social challenges that may hinder academic and economic progress. Establish mentorship programs connecting individuals from the community with experienced mentors who can guide them in various aspects of life, including education & career. Our parents can't read either so they can't assist our students.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to teachers who would like to pursue their other goals and dreams?

Be real with yourself and don't ever give up on yourself. You are important, you matter and it's never too late to pursue your dreams and aspirations. God has not given us the spirit of fear but of power, love, and self-control. We control our destiny. You take the first step and allow God to direct you to the rest of the rest.

Social media: http://tiktok.com/@jmillionharv

Photographer Credit: Byron Walker