The 2019-2020 school year was certainly one to remember. For our community, it was a year of overcoming immense unforeseen challenges, modeling resilience and grit for students across the country, and leaning on one another for support in the midst of it all. Despite the difficulties, the 2019-2020 school year filled us with renewed energy and vision for our mission: to connect systemically under-resourced communities with inspiring and knowledgable DreamSpeakers that can help students see what they can be. 

Check out our recently released 2019-2020 Progress Report or read highlights on our blog!

DreamWakers has the privilege of working with a community of dedicated DreamEducators across the U.S. We are consistently reminded of their adaptability, passion, and resilience that supports students down the path of success. In a new feature, our Educator Spotlight, we are excited to highlight through Q&A the fabulous work of Mrs. Brittany Keesecker, a mathematics educator at Pittsburgh Science and Technology Academy. 

Q: Why did you choose to be an educator?
My dad was an educator and basketball coach at the school district I attended. I was his biggest fan, at every game, front and center. The sense of "family" and authentic relationships that were built through school and basketball was what really inspired me to become an educator. 

Q: What has been the most fulfilling experience in your career thus far?
Watching my students grow, both academically and emotionally. Watching them become more compassionate, collaborative, curious, and positive throughout our time together is something that makes my heart happy. 

Q: If you could have a flashchat with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?
I would love to have a flashchat with the late Kobe Bryant. His work ethic, drive, and perseverance were so empowering as I was growing up. I would love an opportunity to hear his perspective on ALL things (especially now that I am an adult), and use the "Mamba Mentality" to continue growing!

Q: What is your dream for the future?

In addition to these exciting flashchat offerings, whether your school is fully virtual, hybrid, or back in the physical building, we are always here to match you with an exceptional speaker for a flashchat relevant to what your class is studying. Just let us know what you're looking for on the flashchat request form!

Believing kids can't be what they can't see, DreamWakers works to close the opportunity gap for students in under-resourced schools by providing them with the unique opportunity to meet professionals from diverse backgrounds, identities, and perspectives beyond their city limits. Through interactive virtual sessions via video chat, DreamWakers connects classrooms across the U.S. with dynamic role models in a wide array of professional sectors, shedding light on the real-world applicability of course lessons, while inspiring the next generation of leaders to envision and prepare for their own future.