By Jo Matthis / AAPS
Cheyenne Taylor is an 8th Grade ELA teacher at Clague Middle School. She began her education d at Logan Elementary in kindergarten, went on to Clague, did a spell at Roberto Clemente, and then attended Huron High School, from which she graduated a year early in 2010.
Cheyenne Taylor, what unique perspective do you bring to your role, having been both a student and educator in the same district?
One unique perspective I bring to the role is understanding what the community expectation is for students and reinforcing those values in the classroom.
Were there any challenges you faced as a student that you now work to address as an AAPS teacher?
Absolutely! I would first like to say, as a staff member I am proud of the work that AAPS is doing around equity, so that all students regardless of race, background, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status have access to all opportunities, and feel a part of the community as a whole. As a student of color who lived in a low-income neighborhood, I did not always feel understood or even welcomed in certain spaces. Unfortunately, this was a common feeling among students from my neighborhood. My first job in the classroom is to make my students feel welcome and safe. My second job is delivering instruction.
Sixth grade at Clague
Can you name a memorable teacher from your time as a student who influenced your career path?
I was not a perfect student and struggled with managing my ADHD. In 4th grade, I received an in-school suspension, that was to be served with Ms. Bonita Boyce—a no-nonsense educator who nurtured me endlessly. The following year I was blessed to be in her 5th grade class. To know Ms. Boyce was to know what it was like to be cared for and loved fully by someone outside of your family. She passed away unexpectedly in 2007.
Additionally, I would be remiss if I did not mention Joe Dulin, who saved my life and so many more in our community. I know for a fact, I would not be a teacher, let alone a high school graduate without the work he and the staff at Roberto Clemente put in for our success. I work daily to carry on their legacies.
Can you recall a pivotal time as a student that reinforced your connection to AAPS?
The school-wide fundraising efforts that we did at Clague for Hurricane Katrina relief. They made me feel like a part of a global community. I learned that people, no matter what age, could make a difference.
What was your favorite subject or class as a high school student?
Art and English.
Did you enjoy high school?
Like most teens, high school had its highs and lows. Overall I feel relatively neutral about high school. Every day wasn’t roses however looking back, I am thankful for the experiences. It all helped build me into the educator I am today.
How do students’ social dynamics and peer relationships today compare to your experiences?
I think that the peer relationships among students are relatively similar to when I was a student. I believe the difference is, that although everyone experiences the trials of life, each generation has more tools and resources to navigate tough situations.
Do you have any advice for high school students looking ahead to graduation and beyond?
Find what is of interest to you. Think sensibly. Take a chance on yourself.
What was your favorite school tradition or event when you were a student, and does it still exist today?
Fun Nights at Clague. They were such a big deal! Yes, they still exist and are a fun way to connect with the students outside of the classroom.
What was your favorite grade and why?
Tenth grade! I was on the track team during high school, and in my 10th grade year, I scored in the top 3 at almost EVERY meet as a shot putter. I brought home a ton of medals that year!
Do you feel a special kinship with the AAPS staff who attended school here?
Honestly, I do. There is something special about being both a product and a producer within the district. We are multigenerational proof that AAPS works!
Fun Fact: Emma Hamstra and I were both on the TV show MTV MADE as AAPS high schoolers, and we both teach in the district now.
