Reka Barton 2011
“I want to change the world. And for every student that I teach to read, to be a caring individual, and to enjoy life, I feel as if I succeeded.” These are the words of Reka Barton, currently a kindergarten teacher at the Community Academy Public Charter School in Washington, D.C.
As recipient of the Edith Wimbish Powell Memorial Trust Scholarship, Reka used her award to attend the University of Virginia. Through the Curry School of Education’s dual degree program, Reka was able to simultaneously earn a B.A. in psychology and an M.A. in teaching. She also earned a minor in Spanish.
While at T.C., Reka was enrolled in the Academy of Finance and served as President of the Future Business Leaders of America. Teaching was not something she ever considered pursuing. Obtaining her masters in teaching, she thought at the time, would simply be a step to make her more marketable. By the end of the first week of her introductory class to the education program, however, she knew she had found her calling.
One of Reka’s favorite quotes comes from President Barack Obama, who observed: “Our kids can’t all aspire to be the next LeBron or Lil’ Wayne. I want them aspiring to be scientists and engineers, doctors and teachers.”
Through her own accomplishments, Reka is an inspiration for the next generation.
T.C. Williams Class of 2004
B.A., Psychology, University of Virginia, 2010
M.A., Teaching, University of Virginia, 2010
