Every Win Matters
At KIPP DC Inspire Academy, Ms. Hill brings energy, warmth, and a deep love for learning into her classroom every day. A South Carolina native, Ms. Hill came to Washington DC to study sociology at Howard University. After working at summer camps and enrichment programs through college, she applied to join KIPP DC’s Capital Teaching Residency (CTR) program. “I like that it wasn’t me just having my head in the book the whole time, it was hands-on. I was learning how to interact with kids and how to teach them. I felt along the way that the CTR program was like having training wheels that eventually came off. We were immersed in the classroom.” Ms. HIll credits much of her growth to the mentorship she’s received. Now in her 3rd year at KIPP DC, she also serves as a grade-level chair, collaborating closely with other educators and helping guide instructional practice.
As a first grade teacher, Ms. Hill finds joy in watching her students grow academically and personally. “Being a first grade teacher is specifically rewarding,” she shares. “Seeing them come on the first day of first grade and then leaving reading whole books… it’s so rewarding seeing their growth from the beginning of the school year.” She recalls one student from her CTR residency year who “would barely speak” at the beginning of the year because he didn’t understand reading. By the end of the year, “he was full on reading,” and just as importantly, “seeing him come out of his shell as a human being” made a lasting impact on her. It is within these moments that Ms. Hill is reminded that academic growth and confidence go hand in hand.
Ms. Hill’s class is energetic and eager to learn. She is intentional about making sure her students build a love for learning. Students keep their books in personalized baggies they decorate themselves. In her classroom, it’s common for students to ask, unprompted, to read their books. Rather than seeing reading as something they have to do, she has built a culture where they are excited to do so. As Ms. Hill puts it, “I’m celebrating everything. I’m celebrating every single thing, every little win.” That mindset helps her prepare students to believe in themselves every step of the way. Beyond academics, students feel comfortable making mistakes and taking risks, knowing they are in a classroom where they feel encouraged.
Through ongoing reflection, Ms. Hill details how she’s learned to value progress over perfection and trust the process of growth, for both herself and students. Looking ahead, she plans to continue working with students to not only develop strong reading skills, but an overall love for it. For her, working at KIPP DC is both challenging and deeply rewarding. When asked what she would say to those considering joining KIPP DC, Ms. Hill is clear that while the work can be demanding, the daily joy of interacting with students who love being at school is what keeps her coming back every day.
See photos from our visit to Ms. Hill’s classroom.
