Empowering Minds, Illuminating Paths: A Conversation with Lesia Davidson, Literacy Coach
In this interview, Lesia shares the profound joy she finds in witnessing the transformative moment when students grasp the intricacies of reading. We explore her roots as an immigrant from Guyana, Lesia reflects on the challenges her family faced and how those experiences fueled her determination to excel in education.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?:
I'm a literacy coach. I'm a teachers teacher. When in a classroom a lot of what I teach is activated through learning centers that are created based on a student's needs. And that's in all subject areas. I love witnessing the moment when my students comprehend reading, including letters, sounds, and letter patterns.
How would you say your upbringing and cultural background contributed to your career aspirations?:
I am an immigrant from Guyana, South America, and a Caribbean woman. I grew up in New York and have been living in the U.S. for over 50 years. As a child, anyone who knew me would have thought I grew up in Guyana because we lived like Guyanese at home. Our food, dialect, and family values were all Guyanese. However, my parents faced discrimination at work, and as a black person growing up in the 70s, it was difficult. As a Caribbean child, I faced discrimination from both black and white people. I realized that my parents came to the United States for a better life for our family, so I worked hard to get an education and be the best person possible.
What is the phrase, sentence, or conversation that stopped you in your tracks and changed your outlook in life?:
The average prison inmate reads at a 4th-grade reading level. That's the equivalent of a 9-year-old. Our goal as teachers is to ensure students by the end of 3rd grade are proficient readers.
If you had the choice to go back to your past or fast forward to your future, which one would you choose? Why?:
If it's not broken don't fix it. Use what works and tweak when necessary.
If you were to meet 10 year old you, what would you say to them?:
You are awesome. The path you are on, stay focused, and be the light in your tunnel so when you get to the other side you have already experienced the light and you will continue to shine on the other side.
What is something you’re willing to start all over again?:
I don't believe that there's anything in my life I would like to start over again. The way I see it wherever I am in life, I take the lessons learned and build on it. I'm going to start from where I am and build on that, making the necessary adjustments. The bottom is relative.
How do you stay connected to your culture, heritage, and community?:
Family is important to me. We find every time we can to meet up. I mean cousins, as well as my immediate family. On Thanksgiving day we can have 30 - 50 people or sometimes more at my cousin's house. At Christmas, another cousin has at least the same count of people as our annual Christmas sleepover. It's amazing. We have games, cultural dishes, songs, and bonding however, we choose.
What would 18-year-old you say about where you are at in life now?:
You were born to be a change agent. You continued in your path and here you are helping others to be their best self, almost 40 years later. Wow, where does time go?
What accomplishment are you most proud of, both in your personal and professional life?:
I get excited when family, friends, and colleagues ask for my expertise and refer others to me for guidance.
Drink 🫖
What is Lesia’s go-to drink?
I enjoy the hibiscus drink (sorrel). It is known to promote better health and well-being. My goal is to always maintain my body by feeding it the necessary nutrients that ensure I am always operating at my very best.
Listening To 🎧
What is Lesia listening to at the moment?
I appreciate the motivational text. I began re-reading a few goodies; Don't Sweat the Small Stuff, The 12-Week Year (That's a new one), How to Win Friends and Influence People also Think and Grow Rich the Black Choice. It's always good to revisit what has worked. And of course my educational text and listening to the Science of Reading article.
Your Truth 🗣️
What is a Lesia’s truth?
I do what I do because I refuse to let discrimination define my narrative. Growing up as a Guyanese woman, I faced challenges from both black and white communities. These experiences fueled a passion within me to break down barriers and pave the way for inclusivity. I am determined to be a positive force for change, challenging stereotypes and advocating for a more equitable society.
My journey has taught me the power of resilience and the importance of standing up for what is right. By pursuing my goals, I aim to inspire others who may have faced similar struggles, showing them that they, too, can overcome adversity and achieve their dreams.
Who inspires me?
My greatest inspiration comes from my family. In the face of discrimination, they provided unwavering support, instilling in me the values of strength, perseverance, and love. Witnessing their sacrifices and determination has been a constant reminder that I am not alone in my journey.
Additionally, I find inspiration in individuals who have dedicated their lives to social justice and equality. Leaders like Shirley Chisolm, Dr. Martin Luther Kings, Frederick Douglas, Harriet Tubman were the role models I read about in the 70's. They have shown me the transformative power of activism and the impact one person can have on the world.
Where am I going?
I am committed to creating a more inclusive and compassionate world. My experiences have fueled a desire to be an advocate for change, and I see myself working towards dismantling systemic barriers that perpetuate discrimination. Whether through education, activism, or community engagement, I want to contribute to a society where everyone is valued for their unique contributions, regardless of their background.
My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting legacy for future generations, one that reflects a world where diversity is celebrated and equality is not just an ideal but a reality. I aim to be a beacon of hope for those facing discrimination, proving that with determination and a strong support system, it is possible to rise above adversity and make a meaningful impact.
Your Plug 🔌
What is Lesia plugging today?
I am launching a course to help families with basic reading skills. This project is for families who value education and to access that education they want to ensure their children and family members learn how to read. I have created a course that teaches the simple way to learn how to read. My next goal is to create socially responsive text where students can see themselves in the books they read.
More about Lesia Davidson
I am an experienced educator with over 20 years of teaching under my belt. I am a certified teacher in general education and special education, and I also specialize as a literacy coach. Reading, in my opinion, is the foundation for all disciplines. It is through reading that one's imagination and understanding of the world is expanded, both physically and mentally. My training in LETRS has helped me coach teachers in the art of reading. To make reading fun and engaging, I use learning centers and motivate my students to develop a love for reading. I also encourage them to read outside of the school environment.
I believe reading is simple, not easy. I teach the simple way of reading. Learn with me, hone your skills, and take your reading to another level.