Projects
A collection of work that highlights dedication to advancing physical literacy and equitable development in children. Each project showcases the research and initiatives aimed at supporting educators and improving learning experiences for Black children and children from underserved communities.
Teacher perceptions of the importance of physical literacy and physical activity for Black children in PreK
A picture of me and my students playing on our monkey dome jungle gym at Thomas Center for Learning and Physical Literacy Development.
Dissertation Abstract
This phenomenological study explores how Pre-K teachers and administrators promote physical literacy and physical activity among Black children ages 3 to 5. Physical literacy refers to the development of skills, confidence, and knowledge that support lifelong engagement in physical activity. Black children in underserved communities are disproportionately affected by health challenges associated with low levels of physical activity, along with other systemic factors. Although existing research highlights the importance of early physical activity, there is limited literature examining educators’ perceptions of physical literacy for Black children. This study addresses that gap by investigating what Pre-K teachers believe and understand about the importance of physical activity, as well as the practices and resources they use to promote it in their classrooms. Data will be collected through surveys, interviews, and classroom materials across three early childhood sites, including approximately 10 teachers and 3 administrators working in Pre-K learning environments.
The Green Treat ™ edible children's garden and outdoor playspace
Project Leader
A school-community gardening nonprofit initiative I started in 2023 to provide access to healthy foods and a safe, clean, green outdoor play space for children and youth who don't attend Thomas Center. With this initiative, our goal is to grow with five classrooms every school year starting with schools and child care programs throughout Philly. We hope to address food insecurity by teaching children to grow food that they can then make meals with on their own. Our mission is to travel school-to-school to teach kids how to prepare meals using green foods and enjoy playing in nature. We share recipes to make yummy green smoothies, wraps and salads. We are raising money for our playground and community garden so kids learn how to care for a garden. When we are not with students in person at their schools, we donate educational stickers & posters to raise awareness about the Green Treat. Our school tour is set to launch in the 2026-2027 school year.
A picture taken while on a hike at Wissahickon Trail.
Language Lighthouse
Project Leader
I started teaching English to speakers of other languages in 2019 at my church with a small group and later expanded the class to the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Greater Olney branch, offered free to the community. As demand grew, Language Lighthouse became a registered nonprofit supporting newcomers and refugees with English learning and access to essential services including healthcare, education, interpretation, employment, child care, and public assistance programs. Participants were recruited through word of mouth, flyers, and listings on the library website and Cityspan directory. We served as a COMPASS community partner, and referral partner with Beds for Kids, One Warm Coat, Cuties Diaper Program and Philadelphia Furniture Bank. Our last cohort completed their English class the summer of 2025. We are looking for volunteers and board members to help support our cause.
Pictures of Cohort 3 at Rehoboth Gospel Assembly Church and Cohort 4 at the Free Library of Philadelphia.