Kelisa Wing is a prominent figure in the field of education, especially in the areas of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She is the chief of DEI for the U.S. Department of Defense’s school district, the Department of Defense Education Activity (DoDEA). She is also an award-winning author, speaker, and consultant who has written and contributed to several books on topics such as discipline reform, student engagement, and racial justice. In this article, we will explore her background, achievements, and vision for the future of education.
Early Life and Military Service
Kelisa Wing was born and raised in the United States. She joined the U.S. Army after graduating from high school and served for six years, attaining the rank of Staff Sergeant. She was honorably discharged from the military and decided to pursue a career in education. She credits her faith in God as the key to her success.
Education and Career
Kelisa Wing holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Maryland University College (UMUC), a Master of Arts in Secondary Education, and an Educational Specialist degree with a concentration in Curriculum, Instruction, and Educational Leadership from the University of Phoenix. She has been in education for 17 years, working in various roles such as teacher, assistant principal, professional development specialist, and chief of assessments. She is currently the chief of DEI for DoDEA, where she oversees the implementation of DEI initiatives across the school district that serves military-connected children around the world.
Awards and Recognition
Kelisa Wing has received numerous awards and recognition for her work in education. She is the 2017 State Teacher of the Year for the state of Georgia, a 2016 Association of Supervision, Curriculum, and Development (ASCD) Emerging Leader, and the 2017 UMUC Edward Parnell Outstanding Alumnus of the Year. She is also a member of several prestigious organizations and committees, such as the Education Civil Rights Alliance (ECRA) Steering Committee, the Leading Educator Ambassadors for Equity (LEAE) with ECRA, the National Network of State Teachers of the Year (NNSTOY), and the ASCD Global Advisory Council. She speaks both nationally and internationally about various topics related to education, such as discipline reform, equity, student engagement, and global competence.
Books and Publications
Kelisa Wing is the author and co-author of several books and publications that address the challenges and opportunities in education. Some of her notable works are:
- Conversations (2006): A collection of poems that reflect her personal and professional experiences.
- Weeds & Seeds: How To Stay Positive in the Midst of Life’s Storms (2017): A book that offers practical advice and strategies for overcoming adversity and cultivating positivity.
- Promises and Possibilities: Dismantling the School to Prison Pipeline (2018): A book that explores the root causes and solutions for the disproportionate discipline and incarceration of students of color.
- Becoming a Globally Competent Teacher (2019): A book that provides a framework and resources for developing the skills and knowledge necessary for teaching in a diverse and interconnected world.
- If I Could: Lessons for Navigating an Unjust World (2020): A book that features stories and lessons from 13 educators who have faced and overcome injustice and discrimination in their lives and careers.
- The Racial Justice in America Series (2021-2023): A series of books that examine the history, excellence, and achievement of various racial and ethnic groups in America.
- My Itty Bitty Bio: Ruby Bridges (2021): A biography of Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to integrate an all-white elementary school in New Orleans in 1960.
- My Itty Bitty Bio: Mary Fields (2021): A biography of Mary Fields, also known as Stagecoach Mary, the first African American woman to work as a mail carrier in the United States in the late 1800s.
Vision and Mission
Kelisa Wing’s vision and mission is to create a more equitable and inclusive education system that empowers and inspires all students to reach their full potential. She believes that education is a human right and a social justice issue, and that educators have a moral obligation to advocate for and serve all students, especially those who are marginalized and oppressed. She also believes that education is a powerful tool for transforming the world and creating positive change. She strives to be a role model, a mentor, and a leader for the next generation of educators and learners.
Conclusion
Kelisa Wing is a remarkable educator, author, and leader who has dedicated her life and career to improving the quality and equity of education for all students. She has a wealth of experience, knowledge, and skills that she shares with others through her books, publications, speeches, and consultations. She is a passionate and visionary advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in education and beyond. She is a source of inspiration and hope for many people who aspire to make a difference in the world.