Christan E. Shelton
Instructional Coach
Riverview Gardens School District
St. Louis
Gateway Institute of Technology
Saint Louis University, BS, Business Administration (magna cum laude);
Howard University School of Law, Juris Doctor (cum laude);
University of Missouri St. Louis – Masters in Secondary Education (summa cum laude)
You had a successful and decorated career as a lawyer before transitioning to education in 2011. What compelled you to become an educator?
In 2010, I realized that I had a different calling on my life and that I was the happiest when I was helping other people. I first thought that I would transition and become a public defender, so I could help those in need of a quality defense attorney. Upon further reflection, I realized that I would rather help children change the trajectory for their lives, so they do not end in up in the criminal justice system. I also wanted to help our youth see that there are other viable options for their lives. I wanted to help them see what’s possible, to give them hope, and to help them dream big.
Why did you choose to serve with Teach for America?
I joined Teach for America because I believe in their core values, the organization’s commitment to communities that represent people who look like me, and the positive impact that I have seen in educational spaces. I continue to believe in and fight for Wendy Kopp’s (TFA Founder) idea that, “one day, all children in this nation will have the opportunity to attain an excellent education.” I chose this organization so I could help provide children with a quality education, but also so that I could help fight systemic issues that have prevented this from becoming a realization for ALL children.
What is your educational philosophy?
I believe that all children are capable of learning no matter their race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, address, or current academic level. The key to educating children is rooted in building strong and authentic relationships with them and truly discovering who they are as people. This includes uncovering their dreams and learning their fears, among other things. I believe in setting high expectations for students and supporting them as they strive to achieve those expectations. In order to effectively educate children we must take a holistic approach. We must educate the whole child, including, but not limited to, intellectually, emotionally, socially, physically, artistically, creatively, and spiritually. As an educator, I also believe in courageously and relentlessly fighting for my students, even when I am fighting alone, because ALL students deserve a quality education.
Describe a moment or experience as an educator that makes you especially proud.
I was especially proud of my last group of 8th graders that I worked with before transitioning to my role as an instructional coach. I was fortunate enough to loop with my students and serve as their math teacher for all three years of their middle school experience. My students worked exceptionally hard. They attended a summer school program that I designed especially for them to avoid summer loss as they transitioned into their 8th grade Algebra I class with me. They collectively attended tutoring sessions that I hosted weekly. As a result of all of their hard work and dedication, 100% of my Algebra I students scored advanced or proficient on the End of Course Exam for Algebra I and 95% of my 8th grade math students scored advanced or proficient on the Missouri State Assessment. Not only was I proud of my students for their test scores, but even more importantly for the amazing individuals that I saw them become over the course of our three years together. My students are not only extremely smart, but they are GREAT people with bright futures ahead of them!
