Meet Conference Scholar
Tracy Broccolino
Biography
Tracy Broccolino is a senior reading content specialist for Handwriting Without Tears in Cabin John, Md.
^ Return to top
In Her Own Words: A Leadership Reflection
What has led to your development as a leader?
A strong woman and my first teaching experience have had the most influence on me as a leader. The moment I set foot in the "worst-rated" school in Baltimore City as a first-year teacher, I knew that giving children literacy would empower them to improve their lives. I was raised by a woman who broke ground in her industry by becoming one of the first women in the nation to own an automobile dealership. Almost daily, I was told I could do anything I made up my mind to do and that I was here to love God and make life better for other people. As a reading specialist, teaching and writing curriculum that empowers teachers to help children become autonomous is my way of fulfilling my purpose here.
Early in my teaching career, I observed that reading leads children to independence and success. The children who came to me hungry and illiterate everyday in that inner-city school felt that they had no future, believing they wouldn't live to see age 18. Yet, the ones who could read had a light in their eyes when they read words, and then stories, and understood. That light, and my mom's words, have had the greatest influence on me as a leader.
^ Return to top
What leadership article has inspired you?
^ Return to top
Scholars Quick Links
^ Return to top