Danequa Fielder
Danequa (Dani) Fielder is an educator and instructional leader with a dynamic background in both teaching and business. Currently serving as a first-grade teacher at Third Future Schools, Dani focuses on K–2 literacy and intervention, striving for ambitious student growth in high-need communities. Her classroom philosophy emphasizes student-led learning, accountability, and equitable access to strong instruction, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed regardless of background. Dani began her career in education as a literacy specialist with Democracy Prep Public Schools, where she worked with kindergarten through fourth-grade students during the COVID-era, honing her skills in intervention and instructional coaching. She later taught second grade at South Baton Rouge Charter Academy, integrating her expertise in strategic communication and customer relationship management from her previous business experience in sales and marketing. This unique blend of education and professional experience allows her to bring innovative, data-informed strategies to her classrooms. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in English and a Master’s in Strategic Communication from Southeastern Louisiana University, Dani combines strong communication skills with a commitment to student success. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated the ability to foster growth, both academically and personally, in her students while navigating the challenges of high-need educational settings. Her work is driven by measurable impact, mentoring, and a deep dedication to creating engaging, inclusive learning environments.
• Digital Advertising
• Content Marketing
• Inbound Marketing
• Social Media Marketing
• Southeastern Louisiana University- B.A.
• Southeastern Louisiana University- Master's
• Future Educators of America
• No Place for Hate
• Sigma Gamma Rho Incorporated
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience built early, exposure gained later, and the willingness to bridge both worlds. Growing up in an underserved school system taught me determination, adaptability, and how to advocate for myself. Transitioning into a well-resourced district gave me access to tools, expectations, and opportunities that helped sharpen my potential. What made the difference was learning how to absorb those resources while staying rooted in where I started—and believing I belonged in those spaces.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I ever received was to learn the system without letting it change who I am. As a first-generation college student who moved from an underserved school system into a well-resourced one, I was taught to observe, ask questions, and take advantage of every opportunity—but never to abandon my voice or values. Now as an educator, that advice guides how I show up for students and how I navigate institutions that don’t always reflect their lived experiences.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to learn how the system works but never shrink yourself to fit it. Coming from an underserved school system into a well-resourced one taught me that access matters—but so does voice. Ask questions early, seek mentors who see your potential, and take advantage of every resource available to you. Most importantly, remember that your lived experience is not a weakness; it’s an asset that will make you a more empathetic, effective educator.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
In 2026, education sits at a crossroads of technology, equity, and humanity. We’re asking big questions about how AI and immersive tools can enhance learning without replacing the relational essence of teaching. At the same time, we’re confronting real workforce challenges — teacher burnout, shortages, and wellbeing — while also widening opportunities to cultivate human-centered skills and coherent pathways from school into life and career. My work now is shaped by both the promise of innovation and the responsibility to make sure those opportunities reach every student, not just some.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are equity, integrity, and community. Growing up in an underserved school system taught me the impact of being seen and supported, while transitioning into a well-resourced district showed me how access can change outcomes. As an educator, I lead with empathy and accountability—believing deeply in fairness, high expectations, and the power of relationships. In my personal life, I value authenticity, growth, and giving back, because success only feels meaningful when it’s shared
