Education & Empathy: A Heartfelt Journey with Tommi Sue Cox

Tommi Sue Cox

Summary:

Join host Andy Bennetts with his special guest Tommi Sue Cox for a lighthearted and reflective conversation about their experiences in education and leadership. They discussed their backgrounds, challenges, and successes in Title I schools, emphasizing the need for qualified teachers and resources for students in high-poverty areas. They also highlighted the importance of diversity and arts education in public schools, sharing personal anecdotes and insights. The conversation touched on the transformative power of early arts education and the impact of programs like Book Trust in promoting reading habits and empowerment among students. The old friends also discussed the impact of technology on learning.

This episode serves as a warm and friendly exchange between two educators with a shared passion for promoting education and supporting students in need. They shared personal stories and insights, highlighting the challenges and successes of their professional journeys. The conversation underscored the importance of compassion, empathy, and a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals from diverse backgrounds in the education system.

Bio:

Tommi Sue Cox holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education from Evangel University and a Master's degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University. She has served as a public school educator for 33 years. Tommi Sue has worked in Title I schools throughout her career. She retired in 2023 after serving for 21 years as Principal at Laurel Elementary School of Arts and Technology which is a PreK - 5th grade neighborhood public school in Fort Collins, Colorado. She is an advocate for public education and believes in the value of students learning alongside peers with diverse backgrounds. Serving as a Poudre School District leader in Northern Colorado, Mrs. Cox has served on boards whose missions align with her core values of providing equitable educational experiences for all children. She has partnered with organizations such as the North Fort Collins Business Association, Matthew's House, Book Trust, and Project Smile and Vision. She is a founding board member of United Neighbors/Vecinos Unidos which supports affordable, sustainable housing and promotes a sense of community and ownership. She also currently serves on the Regional Advisory Board of Book Trust, a national early literacy 501(c)3 organization founded twenty years ago with the mission to provide all children equitable access to books of choice in order to promote reading motivation, engagement and a lifelong love of learning.

Links:

• https://booktrust.org/