Women’s History Month Q&As: Vicki Felton

Name: Vicki Felton

Years at the school: 18

Field: Special Education

What are some of the most exciting experiences you’ve ever had?

“Some of my most exciting experiences have been when I’m travelling. I love travel and wish that I was able to do more. Visiting places like Hong Kong, South Africa, and the Caribbean are just a few of my favorites.”

Do you have any women you look up to?

“My grandmother was a strong, independent, resilient woman. I can only hope to be half as strong as she was.”

How do you strive to be a mentor to other women?

“As a teacher, it’s important that I’m able to be a role model and mentor. I try to do this by unapologetically being my authentic self in all circumstances and situations. I have learned that I do not need to, nor should I, dim my light in order to make others feel more comfortable around me.”

What would high school you think of you now?

“High school me would be proud of where I am right now. As a senior in high school, I decided to become a teacher, and I’ve met that goal. In the last 18 years, I’ve been able to teach, mentor, and hopefully inspire young people to be the best version of themselves as possible.”

What obstacles have you had to overcome as a woman?

“Any obstacles is an opportunity to do my best and to be my best. With being a woman, especially a woman of color, there have been many obstacles to overcome. My journey through life looks different than most of the other female teachers in this building. That, in and of itself, is an obstacle that I have to overcome on a daily basis, but it is worth doing if it means I’ve opened the doors for other women that look like me.”