Leaving Johns Hopkins

(photo of gospel singer Jonathan McReynolds/quote from his song “Movin On”)

I wanted to take this time to share with my followers that December 31st was my last day serving as Director of High Quality Curriculum and Instruction at the Johns Hopkins Institute for Education Policy. For almost 2 years, I had the opportunity to do consulting, research and curriculum review for major school districts and other educational organizations. I am so grateful for the experience and I have learned so much. I have grown as an educator and a researcher and it made my passion for classical education even stronger. Through the research I participated in, I came to see even more that to address the educational concerns of diverse communities, we have to go back to something that is tried and true. In fact, EVERYONE would benefit from a classically inspired education, because of how it trains the mind to think critically, by engaging with the great human questions that have transcended time, race and culture. It is the education of the free person and a great equalizer. I share this without ignoring how racism often plagues classical schools and universities (classics, liberal arts, humanities, etc.), but because of the research I was able to do at the IEP, my passion for a more culturally affirming classical education has grown exponentially. I am more convinced now than ever that my work in classical education is essential and I will never stop this work.

Some may be wondering where I will be next. Currently, I am not quite sure although there are several possibilities I am considering. For now, I am continuing my work at the school that I founded (The Living Water School), resting, writing (fingers crossed for a new book coming…) and praying about what my next “assignment” will be. I always believe that our careers are just assignments for making a change in the world and I feel confident that whatever door God opens for me will be a great place to continue my work.  Sadly, the conference I was planning (Diverse Voices Embracing the Classical Tradition) will be cancelled at this time, but once I finalize where I will be, I hope to organize an event where those of us who desire more diversity in classical spaces can come together. 

It’s been an impactful almost 2 years and one that answered a prayer of mine to do more educational research, learn more about America’s education system and to grow as a leader in academia. I know that what I gained here has given me all that I need for the next assignment. I look forward to sharing more about my journey forward in the coming months.

In closing, this song has been my anthem this holiday season after hearing it on an airport shuttle bus while traveling for work (finishing a project of the Institute before my last day). It was so timely. The video shows the lyrics so you can see how powerful the message is. If you find yourself going through a life or career transition, I hope this song encourages you.

Classically Onward, Anika