Kristopher Lewis Sr. remains committed to making a difference in his home state of Louisiana. Recognizing the potential to positively influence the next generation, Kristopher joined Teach For America as a Greater Baton Rouge corps member in 2018. Having already been in the workforce, Kristopher brought to the classroom professional experience that served him well in leading change for the betterment of his students. During his time with TFA, Kristopher met his lifelong partner and wife, Zacchea, also a corps member, who shares his passion for uplifting others. Today, Kristopher continues to make an impact, now from a nonprofit perspective, in his beloved home state.
- Grade and Subject Taught: Elementary special education, all subjects
- Current Job/Sector: Executive Director, nonprofit
- Major/Alma Mater: Political Science, Dillard University
- Identifies as: African American Male
How did your corps experience play a role in shaping your career trajectory?
I currently serve as the executive director at Rebuilding Together Baton Rouge, a local chapter of a national nonprofit dedicated to offering essential home repairs at no cost to financially disadvantaged elderly homeowners. Through my experience with Teach For America, I gained valuable skills in management, organization, and fundraising, enhancing my ability to contribute to the organization's mission. My true passion lies in public service. I am committed to leaving a lasting legacy as a change agent who empowers communities and fosters positive transformation.
What lifelong personal friendship did you gain during the corps?
I first met my wife, Zacchea Lewis, during pre-service while teaching summer school prior to embarking on my initial year of teaching. I was immediately captivated by a woman who had relocated from Kentucky to dedicate herself to serving the children of my home state in Louisiana. Even as I transitioned out of the classroom, Zacchea remained unwavering in her commitment to providing an equitable education to the children in the rural town of New Roads, Louisiana.
Fast forward five years, and she continues to thrive in her placement school, earning accolades such as Teacher of the Year. Presently, she imparts her expertise to fellow educators as a teacher coach. However, the most profound impact Zacchea has had on my life was through the birth of our son, Kristopher Jr. Parenthood has solidified my dedication to leaving behind an improved world that fosters a better future for my children and our community.
Share with us some of the biggest highs and lows during your time teaching.
As a special education teacher, witnessing my students not reaching their full potential brought me considerable concern. A significant triumph occurred when I suggested testing accommodations for a particular student named Travis. The provision of having the test read aloud and answers recorded not only enabled him to overcome challenges related to reading and writing fluency, it also allowed him to demonstrate his comprehension skills and provide accurate responses to a writing prompt.
These accommodations played a pivotal role in empowering Travis to exceed all set goals and, more importantly, regain confidence in his academic abilities. For the first time in a considerable period, Travis felt assured and accomplished in his school performance.
What experience do you treasure the most in working toward educational equity?
Among my most cherished experiences in the pursuit of educational equity is my role as the chair for the South Louisiana Coalition for Educational Equality (SLCEE), an organization that advocates for educational equity by mobilizing a diverse array of stakeholders, including parents, students, teachers, and community members. Together, we shed light on prevailing issues within Louisiana's educational system and collaboratively brainstorm solutions.
Through SLCEE's initiatives, stakeholders were empowered to become advocates for themselves, actively participating in lobbying efforts for legislative bills at the state level. This engagement not only raised awareness about critical educational issues, it also fostered a proactive approach to effecting positive change within the Louisiana education landscape.