Meet Dr. Mora Pressley | Educational Leader & Consultant

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Mora Pressley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Mora, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business, AROM Educational Consulting, LLC, was a decision born out of a combination of professional experience, personal passion, and a deep desire to effect positive change in the education system.

As a Black woman, I have encountered various challenges and triumphs that have shaped my perspective and reinforced my commitment to advocacy and equity in education. As a special educator, I’ve seen firsthand the disparities and systemic issues that affect marginalized communities, particularly Black students. I realized that while I was making an impact in my classroom, there was a greater need to influence the broader educational landscape. I wanted to create a platform where I could support educators, schools, and districts in developing inclusive practices that promote equity and excellence for all students.

The idea of becoming a Educational Consultant was driven by my desire to share my expertise and provide tailored support to educational institutions. AROM Educational Consulting, LLC allows me to offer professional development, strategic planning, and capacity-building services to educators and administrators. I believe that by empowering educators with the right tools and knowledge, we can create environments where all students thrive.

Additionally, being a mother has profoundly influenced my approach to education and consulting. I understand the importance of advocating for every child’s right to quality education and the critical role that educators play in shaping their futures. My son’s experiences have further motivated me to push for systemic changes that ensure equity and access for all students, regardless of their background.

Furthermore, my recent role as the manager of the California Black Educator Initiative for the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards aligns with my mission to support and elevate Black educators. This initiative aims to recruit 900 Black educators across California to pursue National Board Certification, with a focus on enhancing their professional growth and ensuring their success in the field. My involvement in this initiative reinforces my commitment to creating pathways for Black educators to excel and lead.

In essence, starting AROM Educational Consulting, LLC was a strategic move to combine my professional skills, personal experiences, and passion for advocacy into a business that drives meaningful change in education. It is my way of contributing to a more equitable and just education system, one that values and uplifts every student and educator.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
AROM Educational Consulting, LLC is a passion-driven venture dedicated to promoting equity and excellence in education. As the Founder and Lead Consultant, I am committed to providing tailored professional development, strategic planning, and capacity-building services to educators and administrators. Our mission is to empower educational institutions to create inclusive environments where all students, especially those from marginalized communities, can thrive.

What Sets Us Apart: What sets AROM Educational Consulting, LLC apart is our deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by diverse student populations and our commitment to culturally responsive practices. Our approach is grounded in the belief that every student deserves an equitable education, and we work tirelessly to equip educators with the tools and knowledge they need to achieve this. Our services are customized to meet the specific needs of each client, ensuring impactful and sustainable change.

Proud Achievements: One of the achievements I am most proud of is our work in supporting educational organizations, schools, and districts to implement inclusive practices that address the needs of all students, particularly those in special education and from underrepresented backgrounds. We have successfully partnered with numerous educational institutions to develop and execute strategies that foster positive, supportive learning environments.

Journey and Challenges: The journey to where we are today has been filled with both triumphs and challenges. Starting and growing a business, especially in the field of education consulting, is no easy feat. Initially, gaining the trust of potential clients and establishing a reputation for excellence required perseverance and unwavering dedication. Overcoming these challenges involved building strong relationships with schools and districts, demonstrating the value of our services through impactful results, and continuously refining our approach based on feedback and evolving needs. It was essential to stay adaptable and resilient, particularly during times of uncertainty, such as the recent shifts in education due to the pandemic.

Lessons Learned: Throughout this journey, I have learned several key lessons: 1. The Power of Networking: Building a supportive network of educators, administrators, and fellow consultants has been invaluable. These connections have provided opportunities, insights, and collaborative partnerships that have enriched our work. 2. Continuous Learning: Staying informed about the latest research, trends, and best practices in education is crucial. This commitment to ongoing professional development ensures that we can offer the most effective and relevant solutions to our clients. 3. Embracing Feedback: Constructive feedback from clients and colleagues has been instrumental in refining our services and approaches. Being open to feedback and willing to make necessary adjustments has been a cornerstone of our growth.

Our Story and Vision: AROM Educational Consulting, LLC is more than just a business; it is a reflection of my personal journey and commitment to advocacy and equity in education. As a Black woman who intersects across multiple identities, I bring a unique perspective and passion to this work. Our brand stands for inclusivity, excellence, and the relentless pursuit of educational equity. I want the world to know that our story is one of resilience, dedication, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of education. We are here to make a difference, one school, one educator, and one student at a time. Our vision is to create a world where every student has access to the high-quality education they deserve, and every educator is empowered to make that vision a reality.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Welcome to Atlanta – Morning: Start the day with breakfast at West Egg Café,- Midday: Head to Piedmont Park for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. Afternoon: Visit the Atlanta Botanical Garden, adjacent to Piedmont Park, to explore stunning plant collections and seasonal exhibits. – Evening: Dinner at The Optimist, a popular seafood restaurant offering a chic ambiance and a menu full of fresh, sustainable seafood options. – Night: Finish the night with drinks at The Roof at Ponce City Market.

Day 2: History and Culture – Morning: Breakfast at Flying Biscuit Café, famous for its biscuits and hearty Southern breakfasts. – Midday: Spend the day at the Atlanta History Center, exploring its extensive exhibits on Southern history, the Civil War, and more. – Afternoon: Visit the Swan House within the Atlanta History Center grounds, a beautifully preserved mansion with guided tours available. – Evening: Dinner at South City Kitchen in Midtown, offering classic Southern cuisine with a modern twist. – Night: Check out a live show at the Fox Theatre.

Day 3: Civil Rights and Legacy – Morning: Breakfast at Home Grown GA, a quirky, homey spot serving up Southern comfort food. – Midday: Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, including his childhood home, church, and the King Center. – Afternoon: Take a walk through the Sweet Auburn Historic District to learn more about Atlanta’s civil rights history. – Evening: Dinner at Busy Bee Café, a historic restaurant famous for its soul food and ties to the civil rights movement. – Night: Enjoy some live jazz at Churchill Grounds

Day 4: Art and Innovation – Morning: Breakfast at Highland Bakery, known for its excellent coffee and pastries. – Midday: Spend the day at the High Museum of Art, exploring its impressive collections ranging from classic to contemporary art. – Afternoon: Visit the Atlanta Contemporary Art Center to see cutting-edge works by local and international artists. – Evening: Dinner at Two Urban Licks, offering a vibrant atmosphere and innovative American cuisine. – Night: Head to Little Trouble for cocktails in a trendy, neon-lit setting.

Day 5: Family Fun – Morning: Breakfast at Buttermilk Kitchen, a favorite for its farm-to-table breakfast dishes. – Midday: Visit the Georgia Aquarium, one of the largest aquariums in the world, with impressive marine life exhibits. – Afternoon: Head to the World of Coca-Cola to learn about the history of this iconic brand and sample drinks from around the world. – Evening: Dinner at Mary Mac’s Tea Room, an Atlanta institution serving classic Southern comfort food. – Night: Enjoy a fun evening at SkyView Atlanta, the giant Ferris wheel offering beautiful views of the city at night.

Day 6: Outdoor Adventures – Morning: Breakfast at Ria’s Bluebird, known for its amazing pancakes and relaxed vibe. – Midday: Hike up Stone Mountain and enjoy the stunning views from the top. If hiking isn’t preferred, take the Summit Skyride to the top. – Afternoon: Explore Stone Mountain Park, with attractions like the historic square, scenic railroad, and the covered bridge. – Evening: Dinner at JCT Kitchen & Bar, featuring modern Southern cuisine in a stylish setting. – Night: Unwind with drinks at Krog Street Market, a lively food hall with various bars and eateries.

Day 7: Shopping and Relaxation – Morning: Brunch at Sun in My Belly, offering creative dishes in a charming atmosphere. – Midday: Spend the day shopping at Ponce City Market and Atlantic Station, where you’ll find a mix of boutique shops, major retailers, and unique dining options. – Afternoon: Visit the BeltLine, a popular multi-use trail, and explore its many shops, art installations, and green spaces. – Evening: Dinner at Aria, a fine dining restaurant known for its elegant atmosphere and exquisite cuisine. – Night: End the trip with a relaxing evening at The Painted Pin, a stylish bowling alley and bar offering games and live music.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! My journey to where I am today is undeniably shaped by the support, mentorship, and encouragement of many incredible individuals and organizations.

First and foremost, I want to dedicate my shout-out to my family. My parents instilled in me the values of hard work, resilience, and the importance of education. Their unwavering support has been the foundation of my success. Additionally, my son has been a constant source of inspiration and motivation. His presence in my life reminds me daily of the importance of advocating for equitable education.

I also owe a great deal of gratitude to my mentors and colleagues in the education field. Specifically, I’d like to recognize the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Their commitment to advancing the quality of teaching through professional certification has been instrumental in my professional development. The California Black Educator Initiative, which I now manage, is a testament to their vision of empowering Black educators.

Moreover, the support of my clients and partners at AROM Educational Consulting, LLC has been invaluable. Their collaboration and dedication to our mission of promoting equity in education have been crucial to our achievements. I am particularly thankful for the educators and administrators we work with, who continuously inspire me with their commitment to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments.

On a broader scale, I am grateful to the numerous authors and thought leaders in education whose works have profoundly influenced my approach and philosophy. Books like “We Want To Do More Than Survive: Abolitionist Teaching and the Pursuit of Educational Freedom” by Dr. Bettina Love and “Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain” by Zaretta Hammond have provided me with the insights and frameworks needed to advocate for and implement effective educational practices.

Finally, I want to acknowledge the broader community of educators, special educators, and advocates. Their collective efforts and relentless pursuit of equity and justice in education have paved the way. Their work has shown me the power of community and the impact of collective action. In summary, my journey is a tapestry woven from the threads of countless mentors, colleagues, family members, and thought leaders. Their contributions have been integral to my story, and I am deeply thankful for their support and guidance.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mora-pressley-phd

Image Credits
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