Meet Ms. Dionne Cooley | Computer Science Teacher | KIPP DC Promise Academy
We want to recognize Ms. Dionne Cooley as KIPP DC’s March Staff Spotlight! She joined the family in 2019 as a computer science teacher at KIPP DC Promise Academy. Ms. Cooley, a St. Louis, Missouri native, obtained her bachelor’s degree in business marketing from Tennessee State University and her master’s degree in education and teaching from Lindenwood University. After obtaining her bachelor’s degree, she recognized that education was her calling. We recently connected with her to gain insight into her journey at KIPP DC.
What inspired you to work in education?
“Coming from a family of educators, my aunt referred me as a substitute teacher – which ultimately changed my life. Coming from business marketing into teaching was quite an adjustment, but I fell in love with it! I was embraced by young minds curious to learn to create a more just world for all. I returned to school for my master’s in education and teaching. After getting my master’s, I relocated to Chicago to teach computer science while earning a computer science and programming certification.”
How have you grown during your time at KIPP DC?
“During my tenure, I worked as a Lead Coach with FIRST Lego League, where I coached KIPP’s Explore Lego League coaches across the United States. It was an honor to lead and collaborate with other robotic teams across the KIPP regions. In computer science, I’ve grown in leadership. It’s been an incredible opportunity to share my knowledge across the country, ensuring that every school has new innovative ways to learn computer science.”
If you could take your students on a field trip anywhere in the world, where would you take them?
“I would take them to the motherland – Africa. Beautiful beaches can be found throughout the continent, particularly in South Africa and Senegal. It is important that our students experience Africa in a different light and recognize the greatness it holds.”
Ms. Cooley is a phenomenal educator who continues to make a profound difference within our school community. We look forward to her many positive contributions to our students’ education.
