Looking back, Terry-Martin also remembers her favorite teacher, Mrs. Lane, and the impact she had on her life. Mrs. Lane’s classroom was all about giving students a chance to lead. They got to run a class store, take charge of lessons, and even pick the songs for their holiday performance. “She made us feel special and gave us a voice,” recalls Terry-Martin. “I knew I wanted to be a teacher before I met her, but after having her, I knew I would empower my students and equip them with the skills to thrive and be great humans.”
Terry-Martin’s journey in education includes eight years as a teacher, four years as a dean, and over a decade as principal. She’s helped Detroit Merit Academy reach major milestones including two Grand Valley State University charter renewals, a “School of Excellence” title, and several “Beating the Odds” awards. She’s quick to point out that none of this would have been possible without the amazing teamwork between staff, students, and families.
For Terry-Martin, education is about unlocking each student’s potential, helping them find happiness and success. “We have scholars who come back when they are in high school and college and share success stories. This is my favorite part, hands down. It makes me proud to be a part of something so big and important,” she shares.
She also believes family involvement plays a huge role in student success. “Parents don’t have to attend every event, but showing interest, talking with your child about school, and supporting our mission of high expectations, effort, and a caring community makes a world of difference.”
She ties all of this together with the school’s Moral Focus virtues, of which perseverance is her favorite. “I believe that we can accomplish almost anything with hard work and a relentless determination to get there. I believe this virtue sets people apart from others and builds leaders.”
Outside of school, Terry-Martin loves to bake, especially during the holidays when she makes more than 2,000 cookies. She enjoys sharing nearly 25 varieties with friends and family, from decorated sugar cookies to chocolate peanut butter balls. “I try to make miniature versions so people can sample more and not feel too guilty,” she explains.
She also loves spending time outdoors, doing everything from reading to relishing in the beauty of waterfalls. Her personal motto, “Good is not good enough when better is expected,” is something she works to instill in her students every day.
A University of Michigan graduate with a master’s degree in educational leadership from Grand Valley State University, Terry-Martin’s wish for every student is simple, “I want them to compete confidently with their peers, love learning, and become tomorrow’s leaders.
Quick Facts:
- Favorite Candy: Swedish Fish
- Favorite Holiday: Christmas
- Favorite Season: Summer
- And she’s a big fan of heavy metal music festivals!
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About Detroit Merit Charter Academy
Detroit Merit Charter Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Detroit, Michigan, serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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