Donna Papanikolau

I attribute my success to determination, passion and a deep love for learning and humanity. There have been so many women in all fields who have forged the path despite obstacles. Their stories are highly visible and awesome. For me though, it is the everyday women who have given me a dose of courage and wisdom, It has taught me true success comes from your heart, a belief in accomplishment and with support possibility is endless.

Honestly, since this is such a niche field I am not sure I ever had advice, but lots of encouragement. The advice came in the form of round table discussions and conclusions. Such as: remember the students are just small little humans, working with heartbreak and trauma means education is the only out, there is always a way to reach a struggling student, always, people will do their best if that is what is expected. These are as powerful as advice.

Be prepared and engaged this job is highly demanding as well as rewarding, ask for support, we all need mentorship regardless of experience or age and seek alternative points of view because you never know. I once used the concept of a football depth chart to map out student strengths and seating so I had a visual and flexibility!

The biggest challenges are: funding, consistency, advocacy and education. There's a lack of understanding for a student who is marginalized in any way and the resources it requires for success. These challenges are overwhelming because education is ultimately about life opportunities and the ability to have choices. Student teacher education also has to adapt, this is a very different world than when I began my career.

The opportunities are vast, especially with technology as a tool. The landscape of schools is changing, this new wave allows anyone who goes into this field to design the future for students. Whether this is through policy, remote, curriculum writing, teaching or administration. These are multiple pathways to make an impact and improve educational outcomes.

The values most important to me are integrity, humor, intelligence in any form. (because there are so many different forms of intelligence), I never underestimate the power of appreciation, and thankfulness as well.