As an educator, we have step increases so this question doesn't apply to me.
How Women Found the Courage to Ask for a Raise and Advocate for Their Worth
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My identity is rooted in purpose, not praise. I won't let others' opinions drown out my Creator's voice and that's why I keep moving forward, even without applause.
Dr. Julia Gaines · In Her Own Words
From How She Did It
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Her Story
About Dr. Julia
Dr. Julia Gaines is a dedicated and servant educational leader with extensive experience in administration, instructional leadership, and student/teacher development. Currently serving as Assistant Principal at East Lake Academy (ELA), she is committed to creating supportive learning environments that foster both academic success and life skills. A passionate advocate for education, she integrates her skills as a leader, mentor, and writer to guide students and staff toward achieving their highest potential.
Over the course of her career, Dr. Gaines has held a variety of leadership roles, including more than a decade as Assistant Principal at Chattanooga School for the Arts and Sciences (CSAS) and where she also served as Interim Principal. Her work is distinguished by her expertise in educational leadership, coaching, and mentoring, as well as her ability to inspire and empower those around her. She also contributes to the field through research, including her doctoral study, The Impact of the Lexile Framework on Standardized Literacy Proficiency Scores, which reflects her dedication to advancing literacy and instructional practices.
Dr. Gaines earned her Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Administrative Leadership for Teaching and Learning from Walden University, along with an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Instructional Leadership from Tennessee Technological University. She also Known for her integrity, professionalism, and commitment to excellence, she continues to make a meaningful impact in Chattanooga and beyond through her leadership and service in education.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dr. Julia
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my desire to set high expectations and create peaceful, supportive environments where every child has the opportunity to succeed. I believe that when students feel valued and safe, they can thrive both academically and personally. My motto is: If I can help one child along the way, then my living won’t be in vain. If we build relationships, then learning will transpire. Looking ahead, I am also interested in expanding my impact by teaching at the college level or consulting, where I can help prepare and inspire the next generation of educators.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received was: Sometimes the Lord will move you when you can't move yourself. Keep your head up and never let them see you cry. Always remain professional.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering education is to find mentorship and seek out leaders who will guide, support, and challenge you to grow. Just as important, discover your passion and pursue it wholeheartedly. When you align your work with what truly inspires you, the challenges become opportunities, and your impact becomes far greater than you imagined.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge in the field of education is to keep educators. With all the demands and changes, educators are leaving daily. We must continue to encourage and uplift them to keep them.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life center on making a meaningful impact in the lives of others. I find purpose in helping students and colleagues reach their goals, whether it’s supporting a student who went on to graduate from Howard University and is now pursuing a doctorate at UCLA, or mentoring an assistant principal in her district and through social media. My daily prayer practice and singing quartet gospel also grounds me, and it even led to the opportunity to help a Ukrainian teacher’s family escape conflict and begin a new life in the United States. For me, true success is measured by how we lift others up and open doors for their future.
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