Empower Nina's "LAST RIDE" to Educational Excellence

The "LAST RIDE"

Hello, my name is Nina Kawanna Strong. I am a passionate and enthusiastic educator who absolutely loves what I do and who I do it for; our children and their families, our community, our school, and every stakeholder committed to student success. I currently teach 3rd grade in a school district whose motto is “to inspire and equip all students to achieve unlimited potential.” I’m proud to say that I live that mission every single day.

My students face many challenges that are often out of their control, but I strive to show them that their circumstances do not define them yet, it’s the choices they make and their actions. I’ve earned an associate degree in General Studies, both a bachelor’s and master’s in Elementary Education, an Ed.S. in Teacher Leadership, and hold a Reading Endorsement. I’ve worked hard to get this far, and now I’m aiming for the highest level of academic achievement: a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Instruction and Curriculum.

This is what I call my “Last Ride.” My purpose for pursuing this degree is to enhance my ability to support curriculum development, adopt innovative instructional practices, and collaborate with fellow educators to improve student outcomes. I want to use my experiences and education to create meaningful and effective learning environments that meet the needs of every child. I know and understand how positive encouragement and guidance can impact students and motivate them to be their best selves.

I was raised in a small town in Georgia by a strong single mother who did everything she could to provide for me and my sisters. My childhood was filled with the simple joys that were deeply-rooted in family values. My siblings and I spent much time with my grandparents and loved every moment. They were kind, giving, hard-working, and self-motivated people who taught us many of life’s enjoyments. We planted gardens, picked fruits and vegetables, went fishing, helped cook delicious meals, and attended church every Sunday, and to the surprise of my sisters and I, we were living our best lives! Despite facing poverty and limited opportunities, I pushed through adversity. I became a mother at fifteen and was retained in 3rd grade but, I never gave up.

Teachers played a life-changing role in my journey, and their belief in me laid the foundation for my career in education. I became the first in my family to earn a college degree, and today, my daughter has followed in those same footsteps by earning her doctorate while raising two children of her own. She is one of my greatest inspiration and motivation as I continue this exciting adventure.

Though I originally planned to become a pediatric nurse, my work with children made it clear that teaching was my true calling. Each day, I walk into the classroom knowing I have the chance to make a difference. I strive to make learning relevant and exciting. My students challenge and inspire me daily, and I treat them as I would my own family.

I am asking for your support now because I’ve reached a roadblock. I’ve maxed out my financial aid, and currently have five more payments left before qualifying for Public Service Loan Forgiveness. If I can bridge this gap until January, I’ll be eligible to reapply for assistance and stay on track to complete my doctorate and continue my work in transforming education, educational practices and support, and student achievement.

If you find it in your heart to give, I would be incredibly grateful. Even a small donation of $5 can help. If you’d like to give more, it is deeply appreciated. Please share my story and help me reach the finish line of this life-changing journey.

I accept cash, Cash App, Apple Pay, Venmo, or other forms of payment. Please reach out if you need more information or if you'd like to connect. I would love to personally thank every donor but, if you prefer to remain anonymous, I understand and I still thank you from the bottom of my heart.

With love, gratitude, and humbleness

Nina Kawanna Strong

#TheLastRide #EdDFuture #SupportNinaStrong