Takeisha Brown, Ed.S.

Principal, Wendell Phillips Elementary School

Takeisha Brown serves as Principal at Wendell Phillips Elementary School in Kansas City Public Schools. She works diligently to support staff in all capacities in order to raise student achievement, even coaching teachers and modeling lessons when needed.  She intentionally builds relationships with students and partnerships with civic and business organizations to help meet the needs of students, educators and families, alike.  To support struggling 5^th and 6^th grade girls who had poor attendance, subpar grades, and challenging behavior, Takeisha created Brown Girl Sister Friends, a mentoring program that promoted positive relationships amongst all girls.

Takeisha earned her Ed.S. from the University of Missouri-Columbia and is currently working on her iPhD at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She is an active member of the National Association for Multicultural Education and works persistently at being a culturally responsive practitioner and leader.

Who is a Black hero or heroine that has motivated you in your career? / Who are you celebrating this Black History Month?

A black heroine that has motivated me in my career is Marva Collins.  Marva was displeased with her children’s education so, she decided to start her own school. Marva Collins was a solution to the problem!  She believed that all students could learn given the necessary support to excel!

How has the history of Black and African American people in Kansas City impacted the work that you do?

I have been blessed to serve under five dynamic African American women leaders, Dr. Philomina Harshaw, Dr. Rhonda Key, Dr. Jessie Kirksey, Mrs. Claire Thorton-Poke, and Mrs. Deloris Brown. These women saw my greatness, taught me to lead with integrity, in addition to teaching me how to be a reflective practitioner.   These women held high standards, inspected what they expected, and believed in going above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that there was a healthy balance between staff and students’ needs.  Because of what they modeled, I ensure that students’ needs are always at the forefront of my mind.  I am intentional about ensuring that staff members are mentally, emotionally, and physically well because if they are not, they will not be able to meet the needs of our students.

What is the most essential work that must be done to ensure equity for Black (Brown) students in Kansas City?

The most essential work that must be done to ensure equity for black and brown students is to recruit, hire, and develop teachers who look like them.  Students must see positive images of people who look like them and are doing the work.

What is a cause or organization that you would encourage KC citizens to research this black history month?

I would encourage KC citizens to research Dr. Trinity Davis, non-profit organization, Teachers Like Me.