New Role for a Team Member // Heather Compagner, Teaching Fellow

Hi there! My name is Heather Compagner (previously known as Ms. Heather or Ms. Barnes to the DAA family). I've introduced myself on here before (almost two years ago!!), but last time I was in a very different role.

In May of 2013, I stumbled across what was the beginnings of the DAA website. I devoured every statement and hope for DAA, and have never been so excited about the purpose of a school -- I knew I had to be a part of it. While simultaneously wishing I was able to apply as a founding teacher, I emailed a quick little blip about myself explaining why I wanted to volunteer, not expecting to hear anything back. Before I knew it, I was having coffee with the lovely founder, Kyle, who invited me in to the DAA family with open arms. Over the past two and a half years, I have had an ever-changing role at DAA which I truly could not be more grateful for. I have called families, been a part of recruitment and fundraising events, I have both assisted and subbed for teachers, I have unloaded and reloaded boxes and boxes of generous donations, been in charge of after-school care, set-up and torn-down the library, made endless amount of spreadsheets to keep track of the constant happenings of a school day -- I think you get the picture. But I am beyond thrilled that this year I have a more permanent position in the DAA family as a teaching fellow, working in the second grade crew alongside teacher extraordinaire, Mrs. McMillan! 

I have stepped in more schools than I can count throughout my Elementary Education program at the University of Michigan, and I can say without a doubt, this bunch of students are unlike any I have ever met. They are kind and compassionate, and work extremely hard at everything the staff throws at them. They never give up, stay focused on their hopes and dreams, and are down-right hilarious. Though this school is doing extraordinary things in the city of Detroit, and the staff is 110% dedicated to excellence, it is the students that constantly remind me why this work is so worth it. I am so looking forward to this inspiring year of learning!