Her Story
About Caroline
She is an education leader, school founder, and mathematics teacher with more than 20 years of experience directing Advance Learning Academy in St. Marys, Georgia. She has a total of 39 years of teaching experience. She oversees fiscal and facilities management, teacher training, HR, professional development, and academic programs. Her background includes teaching mathematics from remedial levels through calculus, developing honors and gifted math programs, and founding Advance Learning Academy as a private school and tutoring center. She also holds advanced education leadership credentials from Georgia Southern University. Her degrees include: BS Mathematics from Valdosta State University, BA Secondary Mathematics from Valdosta State University, MAT Secondary Mathematics from Jacksonville University, EdS - Education Leadership from Georgia Southern University.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Caroline
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my supportive family while growing up and now. Perseverance and determination have been personality traits that have helped me achieve success. I also had amazing teachers in high school. They recognized and helped me reach my potential. I wanted to be like them. I have also learned to not focus on what others think of me. Instead, I recognize I am a child of the one true God and he sustains me.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is hard to pinpoint. I have had many influential people lead me through the years. I would say overall, "don't quit" is the best advice.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering the world of education to not take anything personally. You will encounter some rough students and peers alike. Some people will be jealous while others are just mean spirited. Rise above them all! Look for those who will genuinely let you be YOU. Do not try to be a friend to children, be a leader to children. Be someone others can come to for support.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in the education field right now is the lack of good parenting skills. Social Media has taken the minds and time of too many parents. Students don't comprehend there are and should be consequences for inappropriate actions. Artificial Intelligence has made cheating very easy. Students don't think for themselves anymore.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me at work and in my personal life are honesty and integrity. Without those, you cannot be a leader.
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