Though Marquita Broady today calls herself a “career teacher,” she initially worked in several other fields, including as a flight attendant, before finding her way to the classroom. Now 13 years into her career with D.C. Public Schools, she says, “I can’t see myself doing anything else.” Working with such young children, Mrs. Broady focuses on building students’ self-confidence as learners. “I create a supportive atmosphere where all success is celebrated,” she explains. “I know that we all learn differently and grow at different paces.” She gives students multiple opportunities to feel successful every day. Mrs. Broady teaches far beyond the required kindergarten content because she believes her students are capable of more, and most students leave her classroom having mastered many standards at the first and second grade levels.

Mrs. Broady explains that her goal is to set her students up for long-term academic success. During her six years at Stanton Elementary School and seven years at Nalle, Mrs. Broady has found true fulfillment and joy in her role. “I can be as crazy or loud as I want,” she explains. “I can sing at 15 different octaves and dance to get my point across, and the students love it. Every day, I am embraced by loving, caring students who look up to me. This is the most fulfilling job out there.”