Lasting Relationships, Lasting Impact
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Name: Palesa Beckles
Role: Reading Specialist
Grade(s) Taught: K-8
Number of Years with Horizons: 10 years
Fun(ny) Fact: I know it’s crazy, but my favorite school trips were spending 5 days and 4 nights hiking and camping on the Appalachian trail.
What is the best part of your role?
The best part of being the Reading Specialist, is experiencing first-hand the growth and development of the students as they transition from one grade to the next. Working in small groups, or one to one, enables me to develop meaningful relationships with my students, which allows me to plan developmentally appropriate lessons to meet their personal needs.
What is your favorite memory of Horizons Newark?
One of my favorite memories of Horizons Newark is picking up a student from her classroom for a session and while walking her to my room she gently stretched out her hand and placed it into mine. As I looked down at her she had the biggest smile and said, “I love reading with you and when I grow up I want to be a teacher just like you.” This reminded me that what we do matters and the seeds we are planting daily are growing strong roots.
What is the biggest thing you have learned through your involvement at Horizons Newark?
The biggest thing I have learned through my involvement at Horizons Newark is that every child can learn once provided the right environment and opportunity. I’ve also learned that our students thrive when they are affirmed. They want to know that you care about them personally and you believe in them.
In your opinion, what is the lasting impact of Horizons Newark for all involved?
The lasting impact of Horizons Newark for all involved is the culture of strong relationships. Knowing that someone cares for and about you. While we celebrate the academic progress and successes of our students as we strive to bridge the educational gap, we are very intentional about making sure they learn who they are and what they are capable of. The development of a sense of purpose and belonging will have a lasting impact.
What are you looking forward to most for this upcoming summer?
I’m looking forward to seeing our students, listening to their stories and laughter and working [with them] even if the physical interaction is limited. I’m looking forward to having us all together again as a community.