Founder, Principal, Executive Director
Mrs. Brown does it all at our school: from founder to principal to community advocate, she seems to work tirelessly to make Empower an incredible place to learn and grow.
We asked Mrs. Brown a few questions about her path to education and what she loves most about her role at Empower. You might be surprised to know that in addition to being a native San Diegan, she holds a personal Crossfit deadlift record of 225 pounds! Wow!
When did you know you wanted to be an educator?
I knew I wanted to be an educator ever since I was in elementary school. I loved learning, and I wanted a job where I could help others. I used to line up my stuffed animals in front of a chalkboard! So I ended up doing my homework twice in fifth and sixth grade, once on the chalkboard, and again to copy it down onto the worksheet!
Who was your favorite teacher and why?
My favorite teacher was Ms. Hogan in third grade. I loved everything about her class and remember she read Charlotte’s Web to us. She chose me to be in the Spelling Bee (which I bombed after the third word!) but it meant so much that she believed in me.
What makes Empower a special place to teach, learn and grow?
Definitely the people. Each team member brings such joy and their unique talents to make our school the incredible place it is to teach, learn, and grow. Our students are also so sweet, caring, and thoughtful – they have quite a bit of charm. Empower parents lift up the work we do with their support, trust, and patience – all of these qualities together make this a truly special place.
How does Empower’s mission and vision align with your personal values?
As the founder of this school, the mission and vision of Empower represent my belief system about education. School should be a caring place, where multiculturalism and multilingualism are valued. With my background in Child Development, I knew we also had to include a holistic component – the whole child and overall wellness is just as important as the academics.
What do you love most about your role?
I love that everyday I never know what the day will bring. It keeps me on my feet and excited. I’m not the type of principal who walks around wearing a suit, because I know I need to be ready to grab the mop when needed or join in for recess. I show up everyday ready to serve where I’m needed (and don’t get me wrong, the days I can get the desk work done are great too!).
What else would you like us to know about YOU?
I’m a native San Diegan!!! Born and raised. I love our beautiful city. I am married to an amazing man who is a children’s book illustrator. We have a 16 year old dog (min pin) named Bruce and hope to grow our family with a human baby in the near future. I used to do CrossFit and my deadlift record was 225 pounds!
About Empower Language Academy
Empower Language Academy innovates in immersive dual language learning, fitness and technology to create global citizens. Our holistic approach to Spanish immersion empowers a generation of creative thinkers and effective communicators to lead healthy and fit lifestyles. Our tuition-free public charter school serving grades K-6 is a caring community; providing students from all backgrounds with an educational experience that honors multilingualism, critical thinking, and fitness. Join us in convenient Linda Vista. Enrolling now!