Ms. Clark brings a whole lot of energy to LVA. She’s a teacher, a DJ, and the advisor for the Black Culture Club, ASL Club, and Basketball Club. Whether she’s blasting music in her classroom or hyping up a pep rally, she’s always creating space for students to feel seen and heard. But there’s a deeper story behind all of that about learning, growing, and figuring out how to stay true to herself.
Back in college, Ms. Clark took a class called “Poetry for the People”, and it completely changed her outlook. “I became a small group facilitator,” she said. “It helped me learn how to teach and express myself through poetry.” That class showed her how powerful words can be and set her on the path to becoming the kind of teacher who connects with students through creativity and self-expression.
She also found a love for music, something that’s still a huge part of her life. What’s cool is that she didn’t go to school for it. She actually taught herself how to create, mix, edit, and master music. “That’s something I’m really proud of,” she said. It’s clear that Ms. Clark isn’t afraid to take on a challenge and figure things out on her own.
Still, she’ll tell you herself she’s learned some lessons the hard way. One of the biggest? “When to keep my mouth shut,” she said, laughing. “God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason we’re supposed to listen twice as much as we talk.” She explained how speaking up too quickly used to get her into arguments that could’ve been avoided. Over time, she’s learned that sometimes listening is the strongest move you can make.
Another turning point in her life was when she stopped trying to live for other people, especially her parents. Growing up, she was the youngest of three and felt like she was always trying to meet their expectations. “I could never do things the way they wanted,” she said. “But when I stopped trying to please them and started doing what made me happy, that’s when I got stronger.” It was a major shift, and it helped her become more confident in who she is.
Now, Ms. Clark is working on finding more time for herself and focusing on what makes her happy. She loves giving back to students and sharing her passions, but she’s also making space for rest and self-care. When asked what she could talk about for hours, she smiled and said, “Music and the Lord.”
Ms. Clark’s story is a reminder that finding your voice doesn’t happen overnight; it takes time, reflection, and the courage to be yourself.
