From Stepping to Leading: A Teacher's Journey

As a photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing countless moments and stories through my lens. But sometimes, life takes an unexpected turn, and you find yourself at the intersection of nostalgia and gratitude. This is exactly where my story begins.

A few weeks ago, I had the honor of photographing someone who played a pivotal role in my life – my seventh-grade teacher and step team coach, Mrs. Jade Deberry (formerly known as Ms. Keith). Fast forward several years, and she is now the assistant principal at Enloe Magnet High School. The experience was a poignant reminder of the profound impact great teachers can have on our lives.

**From the Stepping Stones to Leadership**

Ms. Keith was not just a teacher but also our step team coach. She had a reputation for being one of the most dedicated and compassionate educators in the school. Her classroom and the step team practice sessions were not just spaces for learning math or mastering step moves; they were places where young minds and bodies were nurtured, dreams were encouraged, and students felt valued.

**A Teacher, Mentor, and Life-Changer**

The connection between a teacher and their students can last a lifetime. Ms. Keith believed in the potential of every student, not just in academics, but in all aspects of life. Her unwavering support and encouragement inspired many of us to push our limits and strive for excellence. She wasn't just imparting knowledge; she was instilling confidence, self-belief, and a thirst for learning, both in the classroom and on the step team stage.

**The Impact of Great Teachers**

Ms. Keith's story is a powerful example of how teachers can influence the lives of their students in various ways. The impact of great teachers is immeasurable. They are not just educators; they are life-coaches, motivators, and sometimes, even our second parents. These exceptional educators are the unsung heroes of our society, quietly shaping the future.

As a photographer, my lens often captures the extraordinary moments in people's lives. But photographing Ms. Keith in her new role as an assistant principal was a unique privilege. It was a moment of coming full circle, a reunion with someone who had played a profound role in shaping my path.

**The Teacher's Legacy**

Mrs. Keith's journey from the classroom and the step team stage to the principal's office is a testament to the lasting influence of great teachers. The impact they create goes beyond the walls of their classrooms. Students carry the lessons they've learned into their lives, their careers, and their communities. Great teachers are catalysts for positive change, one student at a time.

Mrs. Jade Deberry, you've had a remarkable influence on my life, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to tell this story through my lens. Your journey from teacher and step team coach to assistant principal is a beautiful testament to the power of education, the lasting impact of great teachers, and the incredible journeys that life can take us on.

This experience reminded me of the profound influence that teachers have on the lives of their students and is a reminder to express our gratitude and appreciation to those who've made a difference in our educational journeys. As I continue to document stories through my photography, I'm humbled to be part of this one, where the teacher and step team coach becomes the principal, and the student becomes the storyteller. It's a beautiful circle of inspiration.

So, to all the Ms. Keiths of the world – thank you. Thank you for your tireless dedication, your belief in our potential, and for inspiring us to become better versions of ourselves. Your influence stretches far beyond the classroom and the step team stage, and it's a legacy that lives on in the lives of your students.