We had the good fortune of connecting with Courtney Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Courtney, what’s the most important lesson your business/career has taught you?
Being an instructor of young children has had many thought-provoking and eye-opening moments! However, I would say the most important lesson I’ve learned is that everyone needs the opportunity to have a voice. I’ve taught many different types of students, from the loud and rambunctious, to the wallflowers and the shyest of the shy. And the common denominator is always that no matter HOW they express their point of view, ALL of my students have SOMETHING to say. Some individuals live their entire lives without anyone hearing them, even as children. They can grow up to be adults that struggle to find their voice and identity as well. For these reasons, I learned that no matter what, give students the chance to show you what they’re made of. Allow them to express themselves. Don’t be afraid of correction. You may be surprised at what their brains can produce.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
For the past 16 years, I’ve been an instructor in school systems in both Florida and Georgia. For some, the title of “teacher” doesn’t come with many bells and whistles, or even hints of positivity in general. It seems there is a stigma placed on many educators around the country; in fact the media is plagued with negative connotations of who we are as people and as a profession. However, a majority of us as a whole work intensely and tirelessly for the betterment of our students and their families, sacrificing nights, weekends, and time with significant others and our own loved ones. The craziest part, though? We wouldn’t trade it for anything. Literacy has always been one of the most important parts of my world. The ability to read and write allowed me to escape reality when needed, opened my imagination, and allowed me to express myself when I couldn’t formulate the right things to say as a young child. For the past 16 years, I have been invested in ensuring that all children, no matter what their background or ability may be, will not only be able to strengthen their minds, but be exposed to as many avenues of their own reality and potential as humanly possible. I don’t think it’s understood how important the ability to communicate with others may be. There is no other feeling of joy for me than when I am able to let the training wheels go…when I’m able to witness a student finding themselves and their voice. My work is fulfilled when a student can create their own moments of confidence, success, determination, and self discovery, through writing and literacy. Being an educator, especially in our current climate, can be challenging and overwhelming, not to mention exhausting. It’s imperative to make sure that your students are aware of the opportunities that they have, even when battling against forces beyond their control. You must assist them in developing security and confidence, and be understanding of the loads that they carry with them to class every day. Some of my students put on brave faces daily, through physical, emotional, and mental turmoil. No matter who walks into my classroom, when they leave after 180 days, I want them to walk out knowing that somebody cares for them, to their core. I want them to understand that life is a constant learning curve, one that continually moves, changes, and grows, and that as their instructor, I realize their worth and importance to our future society. To some, the impact of a teacher may be small. However, what keeps me going is that my work will forever be something that makes a difference in someone’s life. Seeing my students come and go, move on to have lives and families of their own, and witnessing their accomplishments (and sometimes their failures) allows me the fuel to continue my life’s work.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My closest friends know that I live and breathe all things creative! I love anything that stimulates my mind and tantalizes my vision. One of the first stops would definitely be the High Museum of Art, near downtown Atlanta. They have so many different exhibits throughout the year, and it’s a feast for the eyes every trip. In fact, most of the museums in the area are phenomenal—the National Center for Human Rights, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and even the Trap House Museum (created by rapper/activist T.I.). In addition, the Georgia Aquarium, as well as the planetarium in the Fernbank Science Center is a must. The visuals are amazing! Food? There are so many options in the city. One of my favorite places to go, however, is either the Ponce City Market, or the Marietta Square Market. You are guaranteed to find food, drinks, and a good time. The rooftop on Ponce can be magical for an outing with friends, or a date with someone special. I would also have to make sure that we can pick up a “Stephanie Special” at the Crab Pot, on Old National Highway, and a slice of the best red velvet cake I’ve EVER tasted (and I’m a baker myself), from Sammy Cheezecake on Washington Road! The drinks at Old Lady Gang in East Point (particularly the Sneaky Georgia Peach) are also spot-on! The people closest to me also know that I am not someone that goes out often, as far as the nightlife. I am most happy and content having a kick back/game night with people I love. However, we can sneak out for a quick trip to Suite Lounge or the Gold Room if we have the urge to get dressed up and dance a little!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
As an English instructor, my love of all things literacy runs deep, and I owe that to the influence of my grandmother, Vera Taylor. She’s the one who taught me my first words at age two, who encouraged me to read full sentences by three, and allowed me to first start assisting others in their own literary journeys by the age of five. In fact, she still runs an at-home daycare after 30 years. Witnessing so many young children learn phonetic awareness and build confidence in their own abilities made me want to have the same impact on a student’s life. In addition, there’s no way I would have such an investment in education without the love of children…and I undoubtedly owe my mother Rosalyn Harris a shoutout. From as far as I can remember she has lived and breathed anything that involves the advocacy of children. My deep involvement and concern for the well-being of students (and the youth in general) comes from witnessing her tireless efforts to make sure her title as community “mama” was thoroughly fulfilled. Countless children have benefited from her love and compassion. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the influence of these two women.

Instagram: @courtneylove811
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-taylor-1b078376
Twitter: @taylormyteacher
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Courtneylove8765

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