Data-driven. Passionate. Analytical. Innovative. That's you. That's the Modern Educator. You recognize that being an educator means using data and technology to see the unique story and experience of each child.
The Modern Educator series seeks to highlight the individuals who have dedicated their lives to improving education. You motivate us. You inspire us. We salute you.
Today, I'm sitting down with the lovely Frankie Blackmon from Sunflower County Consolidated School District. Frankie has been in education for 14 years and currently serves as the Director of Special Programs.
Robert Reeder: Frankie, you've been in education a long time. Did you always want to be an educator?
Frankie Blackmon: I believe education chose me to make a difference in the lives of young people.
RR: Was your experience in school growing up positive as well?
FB: Yes, I enjoyed school growing up.
RR: Where did you go to school?
FB: I graduated from Ethel High School located in Ethel, MS. I received my bachelor's and specialist's degrees from the University of Mississippi. I also received a master's degree from Mississippi Valley State University.
SS: That's impressive! Given all that experience, do you have thoughts about what could be improved in education today?
FB: Secondary Education- I would like to see a more narrow focus (course selections and assessments) on the path or career choice of the students.
RR: That sounds wise and very practical- I like that. Ok, how about some silly questions: Given a choice of anyone in the world, who would you like to have as a dinner guest?
FB: I would like to have Michelle Obama as a dinner guest.
RR: Ooh, good choice. Would you rather have the ability to fly or to be invisible?
FB: I'd rather have the ability to be invisible.
RR: Last question: What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
FB: The best piece of advice I've ever received was given to me by my deceased mother. My mother constantly advised me to be independent, work hard, and to do my best in all that I do.
RR: That really is good advice! Thank you for sharing, Frankie! You are a pleasure to talk to!
