People Who Make a Difference: Middle School Short Story Writing Class

I'm so excited to have a chance to teach literature and writing to your students. I'm a published author. My seventh book (second poetry book) was released in August 2020. I have a degree in English from University of Memphis. I also hold a master's degree from Emory University. I am the author of seven books, including novels, poetry books, and a writing guide for students.  I'm also a professional editor, manuscript consultant, and proofreader. I have been teaching literature and writing to students in my local community for 20+ years. I enjoy helping students sharpen their academic and creative writing skills while reviewing the works of authors who have shared their voices with us through history and who are currently sharing their voices with us today. I teach all ages and am excited to meet your students. In my classes, we work on finding our own writing styles, improving our writing skills, identifying key elements of literature, and having fun along the way. I believe that reading and writing can be enjoyable for all students. 

I am a social justice poet and advocate. I lead writing workshops and hold poetry readings around the country. While earning my Master of Divinity degree from Emory University, I participated in internships which led me to work with marginalized groups in our society. While at Emory, I attended lectures led by Former President Jimmy Carter, Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa, and the Dalai Lama of Tibet. One of my internships involved working with persons challenged by learning and mental differences. I worked with adults trying to live on their own despite their challenges. I also worked with persons diagnosed with AIDS in the 90s when I learned two relatives of mine were living with AIDS. When they died, I led the funeral for one and presented an AIDS quilt square for each of them to the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt. I have advocated for people living on the autism spectrum (my oldest child is on the autism spectrum). I have led groups for survivors of domestic abuse. I am the Memphis-area regional leader for Free Mom Hugs. Free Mom Hugs is a 501(c)3 organization that advocates for equality for the LGBT community by providing resources, education, and support. I am a Mama Bear, which means I am the mother of someone who is part of the LGBTQ+ community. I am also the West Tennessee coordinator for the Mama Bears. Our national group has more than 16,000 members. This is a  private group for moms of LGBTQ kids. The Mama Bears organization is a network of groups, websites, special projects & resources dedicated to supporting, educating and empowering Moms of LGBTQ kids and the LGBTQ Community. I organize Pride booths and groups to march in Pride parades. I have also volunteered with Queer Youth Day through OUTMemphis.