We are delighted to feature an outstanding educator in our neighborhood magazine this month, April Roberts. Celebrating their 16th year in education, with the past five years at LHHS in RISD, April has truly left an indelible mark on the students and faculty she's worked with.

Having started as an English 2 & 4 teacher, April transitioned to become the Instructional Coach in 2021, showcasing a commitment to continuous growth and learning. Her journey in education has taken her through Grand Prairie ISD, where she taught English 3, served as a RLA specialist in Teaching & Learning at the district level, and also took on responsibilities as a campus administrator.

When asked about her teaching/leading style, April emphasizes creating an environment where students and teachers feel welcome to take risks, ask questions, and build meaningful relationships. Her approach to leadership is rooted in servant leadership, where she actively engages in the hard work alongside others. The belief that everyone can be challenged and learn something new every day is at the core of April's philosophy, and she encourages her students and colleagues to embrace growth.

"The kids!" exclaims April when asked about her favorite part of teaching. Her passion for education extends beyond the curriculum – it's about fostering growth in students. Whether the growth is substantial or subtle, April finds joy in witnessing students realize their capabilities and take ownership of their learning journey.

In terms of role models, April looks up to a significant figure – her mother, who served as an 8th-grade English teacher and later held roles as a campus principal, district curriculum director, and instructional coach. April shares that her dedication and passion for education, even after retirement, have been a driving force in shaping her own teaching philosophy.

Outside the school, April is a proud LH resident, married with two kids attending WRE. Her family is always on the move, attending various practices, games, and activities. Despite a busy schedule, April loves to travel, read, and explore the outdoors with her children. Target is her go-to for all things, and when it comes to weekend outings, Taco Joint and Shadys top the list.

We are grateful to have April pouring so much dedication and passion into LHHS, shaping the educational experience for our community's future leaders. Let's applaud this remarkable educator for her unwavering commitment to fostering growth and making a lasting impact on the lives of our students!