“Growing up, I didn’t have teachers that sounded like me, or were into the things I was into, or dressed like me,” shared Le Quan Graham, a dedicated second-grade teacher at KIPP DC Promise Academy. “I know how important it is to be relevant to the students that you’re teaching. They know I’m from the same community, listen to the same music, wear the same sneakers–I think that is needed when teaching and connecting with students.”
Mr. Graham’s path to teaching wasn’t straightforward. After graduating from Clark Atlanta University with a radio, TV/Film production degree, he realized he wanted to do something more. “When I was back home in Brooklyn, I realized I didn’t want to just sit in an office all day,” he shared. A work-study program working with fourth graders ignited his passion for teaching. “I started thinking about what I really wanted to do and thought about the impact I had on those students. It made me think, ‘I should try this teaching thing.” That’s when he was inspired to return and achieve a second degree.
With 13 years in education, eight of those at KIPP DC Promise Academy, Mr. Graham is committed to fostering an environment where his students can grow academically and embrace their authentic selves. In his own words, “Second grade is my favorite because they’re right on the edge of still being impressionable, but they’re still babies. It’s that growth year, and I love helping them as their minds grow.”
What drew Mr. Graham to KIPP DC was its commitment to urban education. Having worked in similar settings in Harlem, and knew the impact he could have. “They really want you to just focus on teaching. They give you the things you need so you can focus on what really matters the most, presenting the best lesson you can and focusing on the students.”
His students’ sharing of their unique interests continually inspires him and deepens his connection to the classroom. “I have girls who’ve formed their own cheer team, boys into sports, and a lot of students passionate about food. These little moments show how much they’ve invested in our community.”
For Mr. Graham, fostering a sense of belonging is key. “I tell new teachers: it’s not about having the best lesson plan. It’s about building community. Every morning, we talk about our ‘Mindset Matters’ chart. Students pick a mindset for the day, like ‘Mistakes help me learn,’ and we reinforce it throughout the day.”
His classroom also operates on a set of student-created “rights.” “We started with 10, and now we’re up to 11 since they added one of their own. They have the right to be here, to be loved, and to think. Every day, I point out when they’re using these rights. It’s about making them feel seen and heard.”
“It’s so personal to me to show my students that they don’t have to be basketball players, actors, or singers to make an impact in their community,” shares Mr. Graham.
He reminds his students daily: “You can do anything you want to make a change in your community. You don’t have to follow a set path to make an impact.” It’s a message he lives out, proving that even small, everyday actions can create a brighter future for all.
Oh, and his favorite part of the job? The relationships. “What brings me joy is when students come back to visit, even years later. It’s no longer just a teacher-student relationship—it’s a bond. That’s legacy right there.”
See Mr. Graham’s class in action! View photos from our visit
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