Jadah Dowdy’s experience with LEARN began at a young age. As a scholar at LEARN Romano Butler, she witnessed the network’s core values and sense of community firsthand. Whether she was participating in extracurricular activities like basketball or cultivating her critical thinking skills during her lessons, Jadah remembers her time as a LEARN scholar as one where she felt challenged, seen, and respected by her teachers.
Mrs. Dowdy now proudly serves as a Math Teacher at LEARN Romano Butler, where her unique experience helps her connect with students to encourage their academic and social-emotional growth. Giving back to her community in meaningful ways has always been a goal for Mrs. Dowdy, and she has gone above and beyond in this pursuit; in addition to her teaching role, she now oversees the LEARN Alumni Summer Internship Program.
We recently sat down with Mrs. Dowdy to talk about her unique journey with LEARN and hear what advice she has for this year’s cohort of summer interns!
Meet Jadah Dowdy: Teacher at LEARN Romano Butler and Summer Internship Program Manager
Tell us a little bit about your experience as a student with LEARN.
My experience as a LEARN student was a well-rounded one. There were always fun events and programming for me as a student. I participated in extracurricular activities like basketball and fun electives. At LEARN, I felt seen and heard by my teachers. While the work was challenging, my teachers always made sure I understood concepts which helped me in high school and college! LEARN was and is a middle school like no other.
What was most impactful about your time as a LEARN scholar?
The most impactful experience during my time at LEARN was honestly my teachers. I had some of my favorite teachers and counselors like Ms. Huck, Ms. Weis and Ms. Woods. I still remember their lessons even today. We had the freedom to learn by doing instead of just rote memorization and “sitting and getting”. My teachers really helped me to cultivate my critical thinking skills. I learned that education doesn’t have to be boring, but it can be exciting and fun!
Why did you choose to become a teacher at LEARN?
One of my goals in life is to be able to give back. LEARN poured so much into me and my family. Also, because I am an alumna, I feel that I will be able to connect even more with my kiddos. It is truly an honor to be able to come back to my alma mater!
What makes LEARN a great place to work?
One of the great things about LEARN is that they truly hear their employees. The administration doesn’t just make big decisions, without presenting it to the team. I love that I have the opportunity to grow within this organization. I know that they care about me developing and improving my craft. This does make it easier to come in each day. Finally, they go above and beyond to ensure their teachers feel and see their appreciation.
You recently decided to also lead the LEARN Summer Internship Program. What inspired you to take that on?
My sister and I helped start the summer internship program. We chose to volunteer one summer and Mr. White thought this would be a great opportunity to continue as a summer internship program. I wanted to work as the manager this year because this program helped to give me professional experiences. I was also able to build a network which is important when moving into the professional world. The summer internship is something I believe in and want to be able to support the vision.
What is one piece of advice you would give to this year’s cohort of interns?
Take the time to soak up as much information and knowledge as possible. This program is a jewel and has helped me in high school, college and even in my current role. The experiences that you will gain here will help set you up for your future.
Thank you, Jadah!